Dan Clark Audio
Dan Clark Audio Noire XO Open-Back Planar Headphones
Best open-back planar headphones for audiophiles seeking long-term listening comfort.
Experience refined audio with the Dan Clark Audio Noire XO, an open-back planar magnetic headphone that masterfully blends musicality with accuracy. Designed for discerning listeners, it integrates flagship AMTS technology for exceptional sound reproduction that closely follows the Harman target curve. Enjoy powerful bass and clear highs, all within a comfortable, lightweight design featuring Alcantara ear pads and a self-tensioning headband. This headphone sets a new standard for midrange performance, comfort, and value, making it an ideal choice for extended listening sessions.
$1104.99
Owner Satisfaction
4.6
/ 5
Category Rank
454
/ 6142
#454 in Headphones
Price vs Category Average
+88%
Above average
Type
Open-Back Planar Magnetic
/ Open-Back Planar Magnetic
Who it's for
- Audiophiles seeking precise resolution and airy soundscapes
- Listeners enjoying marathon music sessions without fatigue
- Music lovers preferring a natural, fatigue-free sound signature
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious buyers prioritizing value over high-end performance
- Commuters and office workers needing privacy and noise isolation
- Casual listeners wanting a simple plug-and-play setup
Performance breakdown
Treble Refinement
AMTS technology eliminates harsh peaks for a smooth, natural high-end response.
Bass Accuracy
Deep, punchy low-end that adheres strictly to the popular Harman curve.
Long-term Comfort
Lightweight frame and Alcantara pads make multi-hour listening sessions feel effortless.
Midrange Clarity
Vocals and instruments are rendered with exceptional separation and lifelike presence.
Build Versatility
Foldable design and swappable cables offer rare portability for planar headphones.
Driver Performance
Updated planar magnetic drivers deliver lightning-fast transients and impressive sonic detail.
Key Specs
Type
Open-Back Planar Magnetic
Design
Over-ear
Tuning System
Acoustic Metamaterial Tuning System (AMTS)
Driver
Updated NOIRE audio driver
Headband
Self-tensioning
Ear Pads
Alcantara synthetic suede surface
Connectivity
Wired
Model Number
XNX0-1 (OB)
Features
- Revolutionary Acoustic Metamaterial Tuning System (AMTS) for refined treble
- Upgraded planar magnetic driver for enhanced performance
- Powerful bass response that tracks the Harman target curve
- Comfortable, self-tensioning headband
- Premium Alcantara ear pads for reduced heat and moisture
- Multiple cable termination options for versatile connectivity
- Fatigue-free presentation that reveals new details in familiar recordings
- Folds for portability
What customers say
The Dan Clark Audio Noire XO headphones offer outstanding value through superior comfort and audio quality. Listeners consistently praise the lightweight build and ergonomic earcups, which provide supreme comfort for extended use. The sound profile is beautifully balanced, featuring controlled bass and smooth treble that suits many music styles. Reviewers note that the build quality and performance often match much pricier flagship headphones. This blend of lasting comfort and high caliber audio makes the Noire XO an excellent selection for dedicated listeners seeking enduring enjoyment.
Know before you buy
The AMTS is an inline device placed between the driver and the ear that acts as a waveguide and diffusion system. It effectively smooths out high-frequency peaks, resulting in a cleaner, more refined treble response that avoids harshness.
Yes, they are specifically designed for comfort. The lightweight construction, self-tensioning headband, and breathable Alcantara ear pads help minimize heat buildup and pressure, making them ideal for extended use.
These headphones are tuned to follow the Harman target curve, which provides a balanced sound profile with punchy, controlled bass and clear, detailed highs. They offer a fatigue-free listening experience that emphasizes musicality without sacrificing technical accuracy.
Yes, the Noire XO features a unique foldable design, which is rare for high-end open-back planar headphones. This makes them much easier to store or pack for travel compared to traditional, non-folding models.
While these headphones are designed to be efficient, they are planar magnetic drivers and will perform best with a dedicated headphone amplifier. Using a quality amp ensures you get the full dynamic range and bass control the drivers are capable of delivering.
Yes, open-back headphones allow sound to pass through the ear cups in both directions. They are best suited for private environments where sound leakage is not a concern, as they do not provide isolation from the outside world.
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