Audeze
CRBN2 Electrostatic Headphone
Best electrostatic headphones for audiophiles seeking deep, tactile bass performance.
Introducing the CRBN2 Electrostatic Headphone, Audeze's most advanced headphone yet. It features second-generation carbon-nanotube electrostatic drivers and breakthrough SLAM technology for the most powerful and tactile bass response of any electrostatic headphone. Experience vividly holographic spatial imaging and lower distortion for exceptional detail presentation. Crafted with premium materials like magnesium, carbon fiber, and leather, the CRBN2 offers luxurious long-term comfort. Each unit is hand-assembled and tested in California, ensuring the utmost standards. This headphone requires an amplifier with a 580VDC bias electrostatic output, often referred to as "Stax Pro Bias."
$5095.75
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
74
/ 6142
#74 in Headphones
Price vs Category Average
+767%
Above average
Style
Over-ear, open-back
/ Over-ear, open-back
Who it's for
- Audiophiles seeking surgical precision and microscopic musical detail
- Listeners wanting electrostatic speed with authoritative bass impact
- Music lovers planning marathon listening sessions in total comfort
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious buyers seeking high-end performance without luxury pricing
- Minimalists wanting a simple, plug-and-play audio setup
- Commuters or office workers needing privacy and noise isolation
Performance breakdown
Bass Impact
SLAM technology delivers unprecedented low-end authority for an electrostatic design.
Spatial Imaging
Holographic soundstage placement provides pinpoint accuracy for complex musical arrangements.
Build Quality
Premium magnesium and carbon fiber construction balances durability with high-end aesthetics.
Comfort Ergonomics
Lightweight materials and refined leather ensure fatigue-free listening during extended sessions.
Signal Transparency
Carbon-nanotube drivers minimize distortion for an exceptionally clean and revealing output.
System Compatibility
Requires a dedicated 580VDC amplifier, limiting plug-and-play convenience for casual users.
Key Specs
Style
Over-ear, open-back
Weight
420 grams
Driver
2nd Generation Carbon Nanotube Electrostatic Driver
Bias Voltage
580VDC (Stax Pro Bias)
Materials
Magnesium, carbon fiber, premium leather, stainless steel, polymer acetate
Features
- SLAM technology for the most powerful bass of any electrostatic headphone
- Lower distortion improves spatial imaging and detail presentation
- Second-generation carbon nanotube electrostatic driver for accurate sound
- Premium materials ensure luxurious long-term comfort
- Hand-assembled and tested in California by electrostatic specialists
- Based on technology developed for MRI-compatible headphones
What customers say
The Audeze CRBN2 headphones offer exceptional sonic performance prized by serious listeners. A core strength is the natural, slightly warm timbre that significantly enhances vocal realism. Reviewers consistently praise the speed and detail retrieval inherent in the electrostatic design. This superior audio quality is matched by excellent comfort from the lightweight build, allowing for extended listening sessions. While the soundstage is expansive and precise, achieving this top tier audio experience requires a substantial investment and high caliber amplification.
Know before you buy
The CRBN2 requires a dedicated electrostatic amplifier with a 580VDC bias output, commonly known as 'Stax Pro Bias.' Standard headphone amplifiers or integrated receivers will not work with these headphones.
SLAM technology is designed to overcome the traditional weakness of electrostatic drivers: thin bass. It provides a more tactile, impactful low-end response that feels closer to high-end planar magnetic headphones while maintaining electrostatic clarity.
Yes, the CRBN2 is built with lightweight materials like magnesium and carbon fiber, weighing in at 420 grams. Combined with premium leather ear pads, the design is optimized for comfort during extended use.
This driver technology allows for extremely low mass and high rigidity, which results in lower distortion and improved transient response. This translates to a more holographic soundstage and better detail retrieval in your music.
No, the CRBN2 features an open-back design, which means sound will leak both in and out of the ear cups. They are best suited for quiet, dedicated listening environments.
Every unit is hand-assembled and rigorously tested by electrostatic specialists at Audeze’s facility in California.
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$5096