Field Test · Studio Gear Review
Audeze LCD-XC Leather Free
In-depth analysis of the Audeze LCD-XC Leather Free closed-back headphones performance
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Spec Sheet
- New headband
- Closed-back design
- Circumaural
- Artificial leather ear pads
- 106 mm driver
- Neodymium magnets
- Impedance: 20 Ohm
- Frequency response: 10 – 50,000 Hz
- Max. sound pressure level: 130 dB
- Includes balanced 1.9 m 4-pin XLR cable, adapter 4-pin XLR to 6.3 mm stereo jack (unbalanced) and adapter 6.3 mm stereo jack to 3.5 mm stereo mini jack
Studio Log
| Available since | December 2021 |
|---|---|
| Item number | 530230 |
| Sales Unit | 1 piece(s) |
| Design | Over-Ear |
| System | Closed Back |
| Impedance | 20 Ohms |
| Frequency range | 10 Hz – 50000 Hz |
| Adaptor | Yes |
| Replaceable Cable | Yes |
| Colour | Black |
| Max. SPL | 130 dB |
| Sensitivity | 106 dB |
| Type Of Connector | Mini Jack |
| Adapter | Yes |
| Replacable Cable | Yes |
| Marrone/Argento | Black |
Demo Footage
Field Photography
QC Pass — Field Test
Customer Review Summary
Introduction to the Audeze LCD-XC Leather Free
The Audeze LCD-XC Leather Free offers an alternative in the premium headphone market with its closed-back, circumaural design. Released in December 2021, it targets users seeking high fidelity sound reproduction with a focus on isolation and comfort without the use of animal leather. This review considers the headphone’s specification data to assess its potential performance and engineering qualities.
Design and Build Characteristics
The LCD-XC Leather Free employs an over-ear, circumaural form factor, which envelops the ears entirely to improve passive noise isolation. The closed-back system enhances this further by reducing ambient sound infiltration, indicating suitability for critical listening in less controlled environments.
The headphones use artificial leather ear pads, eschewing traditional leather for a vegan-friendly option without specifying the materials used for construction. The headband is newly designed, suggesting improved comfort or durability, though specific ergonomic details require hands-on evaluation to confirm.
Materials and Colour
- Artificial leather ear pads
- Black finish on ear cups and headband
- Robust construction typical of Audeze’s high-end approach
Technical Specifications
The LCD-XC Leather Free operates with large 106 mm planar magnetic drivers powered by neodymium magnets, a signature feature in Audeze’s lineup, known for delivering expansive soundstage and precise audio reproduction. The specified impedance is 20 Ohms, which suggests the headphones can be driven adequately by portable devices and professional equipment alike.
Frequency Response and Sensitivity
- Frequency range: 10 Hz to 50,000 Hz, significantly broad and extending well beyond standard audible limits, offering potential detail in ultra-low and high frequencies.
- Sensitivity: 106 dB, denotes a relatively efficient design that should produce loud volumes without excessive power.
- Max Sound Pressure Level: 130 dB, indicating capacity for high volume output without distortion.
Connectivity and Accessories
- Includes a balanced 1.9-metre 4-pin XLR cable
- Adapters supplied for 4-pin XLR to 6.3 mm stereo jack (unbalanced) and 6.3 mm to 3.5 mm mini jack
- Replaceable cables support long-term maintenance and versatility
Expected Performance Implications
The combination of a closed-back design with a large planar magnetic driver typically challenges the implementation of isolation without compromising soundstage or clarity. The LCD-XC Leather Free’s specifications suggest a headphone capable of delivering detailed bass extension, clear mids and airy trebles, enhanced by the broad frequency response.
Given the 20 Ohm impedance and high sensitivity, the headphones should not require excessively powerful amplification, allowing cross-platform usage from portable players to high-end studio gear. The maximum SPL of 130 dB provides ample headroom, potentially useful for professional audio monitoring or audiophile enjoyment.
Conclusion
The Audeze LCD-XC Leather Free stands out as a well-appointed, closed-back headphone that marries ecological considerations with technical ambition. The driver size, impedance, sensitivity, and supplied cabling indicate a product designed for versatility and high sound fidelity.
Without subjective listening impressions, this assessment relies on measured specifications which point towards a high-performance unit suitable for users demanding detail, isolation and comfort in a premium headphone solution.
