Field Test · Studio Gear Review
Avantone Planar the II Creme
Detailed technical analysis of Avantone’s open, magnetostatic planar headphones
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Spec Sheet
- Magnetostatic
- Open construction
- Circumaural
- 21 Micron PET diaphragm
- Transducer size: 70 x 95 mm
- Frequency range: 30 – 30,000 Hz
- Max. sound pressure level: > 130 dB
- Impedance: 32 Ohm
- Sensitivity: 104 dB/mW
- Interchangeable ear pads
- Inputs on both sides
- Weight: 510 g
- Colour: Cream
- Incl. 1.5 m connection cable with 3.5 mm stereo jack, adapter plug 3.5 mm to 6.3 mm jack and carrying bag
Studio Log
| Available since | October 2023 |
|---|---|
| Item number | 578473 |
| Sales Unit | 1 piece(s) |
| Design | Over-Ear |
| System | Open |
| Impedance | 32 Ohms |
| Frequency range | 30 Hz – 30000 Hz |
| Adapter | Yes |
| Replacable Cable | Yes |
| Marrone/Argento | Creme |
| Sensitivity | 104 dB |
| Type Of Connector | Mini Jack |
| Weight | 510 g |
Demo Footage
Field Photography
QC Pass — Field Test
Customer Review Summary
Avantone Planar the II Creme: Overview and Context
Released in October 2023, the Avantone Planar the II Creme is a magnetostatic, open-back headphone designed for studio professionals seeking an accurate and neutral sound signature. Priced at £381, it positions itself competitively within the premium monitoring segment, offering features that appeal to demanding audio engineers and audiophiles.
Design and Build Quality
The Planar the II makes an immediate impression with its robust and substantial construction. The headband, crafted from spring steel, ensures a firm yet flexible fit that naturally adapts to various head shapes without the need for intricate adjustment mechanisms. This contrasts with many studio headphones that rely on ratcheted sliders, and here the simplicity proves effective. The weight, approximately 510 grams, is distributed by a notably wide, leather-covered head strap measuring around 8 centimetres at its broadest. This design choice mitigates pressure points and enhances comfort during extended sessions.
The earcups are circumaural and generously sized (transducers measure 70 x 95 mm), housing 21-micron PET diaphragms at the core of the planar magnetic drivers. The outer shell is finished in a distinctive cream colour with aluminium backplates that are perforated and painted to complement the aesthetic. The metal construction is evident in all components, excluding plastic entirely, which contributes to a premium feel and notable durability.
Interchangeable ear pads, attached via Velcro, are a thoughtful touch for maintenance and hygiene, featuring soft, plush material about 2 centimetres thick. The open design prevents the vacuum sensation typical of closed headphones, allowing air to circulate freely and reduce ear fatigue.
Connectivity and Accessories
Avantone provides a 1.5-metre cable terminating in a 3.5mm stereo mini jack, with connectors available on both sides of the headphones to accommodate personal preference in cable routing. Additionally, a 3.5mm to 6.3mm adapter is included to ensure compatibility with a wide range of audio equipment from portable devices to professional amplifiers. The package also features a sturdy fabric carrying bag with internal compartments for the cable and headphones, secured with press studs and internal Velcro fastenings for protection during transport or storage.
Sound Characteristics and Performance
With 32-ohm impedance and a sensitivity rating of 104 dB/mW, the Planar the II performs well across a variety of source devices, including smartphones, laptops, hi-fi amplifiers, and CD players. The headphones deliver a remarkably neutral sound reproduction. They do not artificially enhance or diminish any frequency range, faithfully relaying the input audio content regardless of the recording quality.
The frequency response spans a wide 30 Hz to 30,000 Hz, covering deep bass through extended highs with clarity. The planar magnetic driver technology ensures a uniformly flat response and low distortion. This results in a soundstage that some users describe as selectively deep rather than broad, positioning the listener between instruments rather than enveloped by them. This makes it easier to distinguish individual elements and subtle reverberations within complex mixes.
The headphone excels in resolving fine details, particularly noticeable in the decay of reverberation and precise spatial cues. Speech clarity is impeccable due to excellent articulation and separation, aiding both critical listening and content analysis. Across genres from electronic and rock to acoustic performances and spoken word, the Planar the II maintains a balanced, unforced presentation, suiting long-form listening without fatigue.
Comfort and Usability
The combination of the spring steel headband and wide, plush ear cushions affords a secure yet gentle grip that users report as comfortable even during hours of use. The open design allows airflow, which helps prevent heat build-up around the ears. Although the headphones are relatively heavy and large compared to some closed designs, their ergonomic fit and weight distribution alleviate strain.
It should be noted that the Planar the II is intended primarily for static listening environments. The steel headband’s slight flexibility and the airy earcups do not lend themselves optimally to active use or movement-intensive tasks. Instead, they excel in studio or stationary hi-fi setups, where accuracy and comfort during prolonged sessions are priorities.
Concluding Remarks
The Avantone Planar the II Creme occupies a well-defined niche among open, planar magnetic headphones. Its rigorous build quality, neutral and communicative sound, plus attention to comfort render it a solid choice for professional applications and discerning listeners. The supplier’s inclusion of thoughtful accessories supports practical usage and maintenance.
Improvements could include offering replacement ear pads through official channels to complement the user-friendly design already present. Overall, this headphone delivers exactly what is expected from a high-grade planar magnetic model, meeting the demands of studio professionals who value transparency and build resilience.
