Field Test · Studio Gear Review
Audeze LCD-5s
In-depth technical evaluation of Audeze’s flagship LCD-5s headphones
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Spec Sheet
- Circumaural
- 90 mm driver
- Impedance: 30 Ohm
- Frequency range: 5 – 50,000 Hz
- Max. SPL: >130 dB
- Distortion factor (THD): <0,1 % @ 100 dB
- Neodymium magnets (N50)
- Nanoscale membrane and fluxor magnets
- FAZOR waveguide
- Parallel Uniforc voice coils
- SLAM driver technology for palpably physical bass reproduction and holographic spatial imaging
- Leather ear pads and headband
- Weight: 475 g
- Includes 2.5 m 4-pin XLR connection cable, 4-pin XLR to 6.3 mm jack adapter, 6.3 mm jack to 3.5 mm mini jack adapter and aluminium case
Studio Log
| Available since | March 2026 |
|---|---|
| Item number | 635720 |
| Sales Unit | 1 piece(s) |
| Design | Over-Ear |
| System | Open |
| Impedance | 30 Ohms |
| Frequency range | 5 Hz – 50000 Hz |
| Adapter | Yes |
| Replacable Cable | Yes |
| Marrone/Argento | Black/Copper |
| Sensitivity | 90 dB |
| Type Of Connector | XLR, Jack, Mini Jack |
| Weight | 475 g |
Demo Footage
Field Photography
QC Pass — Field Test
Customer Review Summary
Introduction to the Audeze LCD-5s
Released in March 2026, the Audeze LCD-5s represent the brand’s latest open-back, over-ear headphones designed for audiophiles seeking high precision sound reproduction. Retailing at £4,899, these headphones combine advanced driver technologies with premium materials. This technical analysis examines the key specifications and construction elements to understand what the LCD-5s offer in terms of performance and design.
Design and Comfort
The LCD-5s adopt a circumaural over-ear design, enclosing ears comfortably with soft leather ear pads and a matching leather headband. With a weight of 475 grams, the headphones sit in a moderate range, likely balancing durability and extended wear comfort. The colour scheme of black and copper lends a refined aesthetic, complementing its premium positioning.
Build Quality and Accessories
Included in the package are a set of cables and adapters: a 2.5 metre four-pin XLR cable, XLR to 6.3 mm jack adapter, and a 6.3 mm jack to 3.5 mm mini jack adapter, along with an aluminium case for secure storage. The cable is replaceable, which is a practical feature for longevity and customisation.
Technical Specifications
- Impedance: 30 Ohms
- Sensitivity: 90 dB
- Frequency Range: 5 Hz to 50,000 Hz
- Driver Size: 90 mm
- Maximum Sound Pressure Level: greater than 130 dB
- Total Harmonic Distortion (THD): less than 0.1% at 100 dB
The LCD-5s use a 90 mm planar magnetic driver configuration, which is substantial in size, promising detailed and expansive sound reproduction. Their open-back system facilitates natural soundstage and airiness but may sacrifice isolation in noisy environments.
Driver Technology
The headphones feature multiple proprietary design elements. The use of neodymium (N50) magnets combined with nanoscale membranes and fluxor magnets contributes to efficient magnetic flux, which is fundamental to the planar magnetic operation. The FAZOR waveguide technology is incorporated to reduce distortion at the driver edges, improving the clarity and imaging of sound sources.
A notable aspect is the use of Parallel Uniforc voice coils which aim to enhance linearity and reduce distortion further. The SLAM driver technology is designed to produce bass that is both physically palpable and spatially accurate, suggesting the headphones target audiophiles who appreciate impactful low-frequency detail without sacrificing resolution.
Connectivity and Compatibility
Equipped with multiple connector types, XLR, 6.3 mm jack, and 3.5 mm mini jack, the LCD-5s are versatile for use with professional audio setups and high-end consumer devices. The relatively low impedance rating of 30 Ohms allows these headphones to be driven by a range of sources without requiring excessive amplification power, although high-quality amplification would likely unlock their full potential.
Performance Potential
The wide frequency range from 5 Hz to 50,000 Hz extends well beyond the standard audible spectrum. This implies that the headphones are capable of reproducing super-low bass and extremely high treble frequencies, contributing to a more detailed and immersive listening experience.
The very low THD value, less than 0.1% at 100 dB, indicates minimal distortion under high-output conditions, important for maintaining clarity at loud volumes. The maximum SPL rated above 130 dB confirms the headphones can handle high signal levels without damage or sound degradation.
Conclusion
The Audeze LCD-5s are technically sophisticated headphones integrating several advanced features aimed at audiophiles and professionals demanding transparent and precise sound. Their open-back design with a large planar magnetic driver, combined with proprietary technologies such as FAZOR waveguides and SLAM driver mechanics, suggest a focus on accurate spatial imaging and impactful bass reproduction.
While the premium price tag of £4,899 places them at the top tier, the combination of build quality, driver innovation, and extensive frequency response indicates a product that justifies serious consideration by critical listeners and studio professionals. The LCD-5s are poised to deliver an impressive level of detail and natural soundstage reproduction, provided they are paired with appropriate amplification and used in suitable listening environments.
