Field Test · Studio Gear Review
Audeze LCD-GX
A technical evaluation of Audeze’s premium open-back headphones for gaming and studio use
Audeze
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Spec Sheet
- Professional studio headphones
- Planar magnetostatic drivers for improved dynamics and frequency transmission
- Made from high-quality materials
- Flexible headband
- Lightweight magnesium housing
- Detachable cables
- Detachable microphone with pop filter for noise reduction
- Mute control for microphone input
- Open design
- Artificial leather ear cushions
- Circumaural
- Frequency range: 10 Hz – 50,000 Hz
- Total harmonic distortion (THD): < 0.1 % @ 100 dB
- Impdeance: 20 Ohm
- Max. sound pressure level: 130 dB SPL
- Including travel case, GX cable with microphone (3.5 mm TRRS connector), LCD series standard cable without microphone (6.35 mm jack plug), splitter (3.5 mm TRRS to two 3.5 mm TRS connectors for audio and microphone) and 6.3 mm adapter
- Weight (without cable): 493 g
Studio Log
| Available since | January 2020 |
|---|---|
| Item number | 480449 |
| Sales Unit | 1 piece(s) |
| Design | Over-Ear |
| System | Open |
| Impedance | 20 Ohms |
| Frequency range headphones | 10 Hz – 50000 Hz |
| Weight | 493 g |
| Replaceable Cable | Yes |
| Frequency range min. | 10 Hz |
| Frequency range max. | 50000 Hz |
| Sensitivity | 130 dB |
| Type Of Connector | TRRS |
| Adapter | Yes |
| Replacable Cable | Yes |
| Marrone/Argento | Black/Red |
Demo Footage
Field Photography
QC Pass — Field Test
Customer Review Summary
Introduction to the Audeze LCD-GX
The Audeze LCD-GX, launched in January 2020 and priced at £855, is a pair of professional open-back headphones designed with planar magnetostatic drivers. Targeted primarily at gamers, these over-ear headphones promise both high fidelity audio and comfort, featuring a lightweight magnesium housing and a flexible headband. With a frequency response range from 10 Hz to 50,000 Hz and a sensitivity rating of 130 dB, the LCD-GX aims to deliver clarity and depth in sound across extended listening sessions.
Sound Quality and Performance
The LCD-GX headphones utilise planar magnetostatic drivers which significantly improve dynamics and frequency transmission. Users consistently highlight a warm and harmonious tonality, with a pronounced soundstage that surpasses other models such as the Sennheiser HD660s. This expansiveness in soundstage offers an immersive auditory experience, particularly beneficial in gaming and critical listening environments.
Compared to some counterparts, the LCD-GX reveals a pleasing balance between warmth and detail, making it suitable for music playback. The total harmonic distortion remains below 0.1% at 100 dB, suggesting that these headphones maintain integrity under higher volume levels without unwanted distortion. This characteristic strengthens their appeal for users who demand clear and accurate sound reproduction.
Frequency Response and Sound Signature
- Frequency Range: 10 Hz to 50,000 Hz allows for deep bass extension and crisp highs
- Impedance: 20 Ohms, compatible with a broad range of consumer and professional audio devices
- Sound Pressure Level: Up to 130 dB SPL for loud and dynamic sound output
The open design combined with circumaural ear cushions ensures a natural sound experience, though it does lead to some sound leakage, which may affect shared environments.
Comfort and Build Quality
The LCD-GX weighs 493 grams without cables, aided by the magnesium frame to keep them relatively light for over-ear headphones with such extensive engineering. However, comfort issues have been reported by some users. The flexible headband’s design features a leather strip that some find too loose and long, causing discomfort and pressure at the top of the head after prolonged use. This has led users to modify the headband with additional padding to continue enjoying the sound without pain.
The ear cushions are made from artificial leather and are replaceable, though durability concerns have been noted. Over time, the leather has degraded on some units, with the outer layer peeling and the pads occasionally detaching due to the adhesive softening. This is a significant drawback for a product at this price point, raising questions about long-term reliability.
Accessories and Connectivity
- Detachable cables include both the standard 6.35 mm jack and a GX cable with an integrated microphone (3.5 mm TRRS)
- Mute control on the microphone enhances in-game communication without external adjustments
- An adapter (3.5 mm TRRS to dual 3.5 mm TRS for separate audio and mic inputs) is included for flexibility
- A dedicated travel case is provided, though some users find it bulky and unnecessary
Microphone and Communication
The detachable microphone is equipped with a pop filter and noise reduction features, aiming to provide clear communication during gaming sessions. However, users report that due to the open-back design, ambient game sounds such as explosions and gunfire can leak into the microphone, causing distractions for others in the vicinity. This necessitates the use of push-to-talk functions or noise gating software to manage unwanted background noise effectively.
Conclusion
The Audeze LCD-GX delivers an impressive soundstage and warm, detailed audio that appeals both to discerning gamers and music listeners. Its open-back, planar magnetic design ensures natural sound reproduction with a level of clarity that justifies its position in the upper price bracket. Nevertheless, the headphones exhibit practical weaknesses in comfort, build longevity, and microphone isolation.
While the armoured magnesium build offers strength and lightness, the headband design and materials chosen for the ear cushions have resulted in discomfort and premature wear. The included accessories cover all necessary bases, but the carrying case and some cables may not meet every user’s expectations for a premium product.
For users seeking a high-fidelity gaming headphone with excellent audio reproduction, the LCD-GX is an attractive option, provided they are prepared to address comfort issues. The quality of sound remains the highlight, though durability and microphone performance restrict wider recommendations. Continuous usage beyond one year may require maintenance or replacement of parts due to wear.
