Audeze LCD-5 Planar Magnetic Headphones
Best reference headphones for discerning audiophiles seeking uncompromising sonic precision.
Experience unparalleled audio fidelity with the Audeze LCD-5, a revolutionary planar magnetic headphone designed for the discerning listener. Weighing just 420g, it offers exceptional comfort for extended listening sessions. Featuring newly engineered planar drivers with Fluxor magnets and Parallel Uniforce™ voice coils, the LCD-5 delivers stunning resolution, minimal distortion, and an expansive frequency response from 5 Hz to 50 kHz. The sculpted earcup design and acoustically transparent mesh enhance imaging and create a clean, clear soundstage. Crafted from premium materials like magnesium, acetate, and carbon fiber, these headphones represent the pinnacle of Audeze's engineering and craftsmanship.
$3825.00
More LCD Options
Owner Satisfaction
4.5
/ 5
Category Rank
760
/ 5518
#760 in Headphones
Price vs Category Average
+551%
Above average
Style
Over-Ear, Open Back
/ Over-Ear, Open Back
Who it's for
- Audiophiles seeking absolute transparency and microscopic detail
- Listeners prioritizing long-term comfort during extended sessions
- Collectors valuing premium build quality and luxurious aesthetics
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious buyers seeking high-end performance without the luxury markup
- Minimalists wanting a simple setup without additional amplification
- Commuters or office workers needing noise isolation and privacy
Performance breakdown
Audio Resolution
Nanoscale drivers deliver surgical precision and unmatched transient speed.
Ergonomic Comfort
Significant weight reduction makes long listening sessions feel effortless.
Soundstage Imaging
Sculpted earcups create a wide, holographic sense of space.
Build Craftsmanship
Premium carbon fiber and magnesium ensure a rigid, high-end finish.
Distortion Control
Parallel Uniforce technology keeps audio clean even at high volumes.
Power Requirements
Demands a dedicated amplifier to reach its full sonic potential.
Key Specs
Style
Over-Ear, Open Back
Transducer Type
Planar Magnetic
Magnetic Structure
Fluxor™ Magnet Array
Phase Management
Fazor™
Magnet Type
Neodymium N50
Diaphragm Type
Nanoscale Parallel Uniforce™
Transducer Size
90mm
Max SPL
>130dB
Features
- Revolutionary planar magnetic drivers for exceptional clarity and speed
- Significantly lighter than previous models for enhanced comfort
- Sculpted earcup design improves mid-range response and imaging
- Advanced materials including magnesium, acetate, and carbon fiber for a rigid yet lightweight build
- Parallel Uniforce™ voice coils minimize distortion and improve sonic resolution
- Low-profile Fazor™ waveguides reduce acoustic diffraction
- Premium braided cable with a 4-pin XLR connector for balanced audio
- Includes a protective aluminum travel case
What customers say
Customers consistently praise the Audeze LCD 5 for its exceptional sound reproduction, describing an unparalleled clarity and detailed soundstage that elevates the listening experience. The meticulous craftsmanship and premium materials used in its construction also receive high marks, reinforcing its status as a top tier audiophile product. While the investment is significant, enthusiasts often view the sonic performance and robust build as a worthwhile indulgence for serious audio appreciation.
Know before you buy
The LCD-5 weighs 420g, which is significantly lighter than many of Audeze's earlier flagship models. This reduction is achieved through the use of premium materials like magnesium, acetate, and carbon fiber, making it much more comfortable for long listening sessions.
Yes, the LCD-5 has a sensitivity of 90 dB and an impedance of 14 ohms. While they can technically be driven by smaller devices, we recommend an amplifier capable of at least 500 mW to fully realize the driver's potential and maintain optimal sound quality.
The open-back design, combined with the sculpted earcups and Fazor waveguides, creates a highly expansive and precise soundstage. You can expect exceptional imaging and a very clean, transparent mid-range that feels natural and uncolored.
Yes, the LCD-5 is designed for high-resolution audio reproduction with extremely low distortion (THD <0.1%). Its flat frequency response and detailed imaging make it a reliable tool for critical listening and professional studio work.
The headphones come with a premium braided cable featuring a 4-pin XLR connector. This balanced configuration is designed to provide a cleaner signal path and minimize interference for high-end audio setups.
The Parallel Uniforce™ voice coils are designed to ensure the magnetic force is distributed evenly across the diaphragm. This technology minimizes distortion and improves resolution, resulting in a more accurate and coherent sound across the entire frequency range.
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$3825