Field Test · Studio Gear Review
Audeze LCD-XC
In-depth technical analysis of Audeze’s closed-back LCD-XC headphones
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Spec Sheet
- 2021 Model with new headband
- Closed-back design
- Circumaural
- Genuine leather ear pads
- 106 mm driver
- Neodymium magnets
- Impedance: 20 Ohm
- Frequency range: 5 – 50,000 Hz
- Max. sound pressure level: 130 dB
- Includes balanced 1.9 m 4-pin XLR cable, 4-pin XLR to 6.3 mm stereo jack adapter (unbalanced) and 6.3 mm stereo jack to 3.5 mm stereo mini jack adapter
Studio Log
| Available since | August 2018 |
|---|---|
| Item number | 444911 |
| 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 |
| Sensitivity | 106 dB |
| Max. SPL | 130 dB |
| Type Of Connector | Mini Jack |
| Adapter | Yes |
| Replacable Cable | Yes |
| Marrone/Argento | Black |
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QC Pass — Field Test
Customer Review Summary
Introduction to the Audeze LCD-XC
The Audeze LCD-XC, launched in August 2018 and updated in 2021 with a new headband, stands as a premium option in closed-back headphones. Priced at approximately £1,222, these headphones feature a circumaural design with large 106 mm planar magnetic drivers and offer a frequency response of 5 Hz to 50,000 Hz. The low impedance of 20 Ohms and 106 dB sensitivity indicate their compatibility with a wide range of audio sources, while their closed-back construction promises effective external noise isolation.
Design and Build Quality
Constructed with genuine leather ear pads and a robust steel headband with leather cushioning, the LCD-XC blends luxury with durability. Despite weighing towards the heavier end in the headphone category, Audeze has ensured the weight distribution is even, preventing discomfort during extended listening sessions. Users report comfortably wearing the headphones for up to five hours without undue fatigue, which is a noteworthy achievement given the materials and size.
Replacement of cables is made easy through detachable connections. Included accessories feature a balanced 1.9 m 4-pin XLR cable, as well as adapters converting to 6.3 mm and 3.5 mm jacks, offering flexibility in connection options.
Sound Quality and Performance
The LCD-XC excels in delivering a highly detailed, precise audio experience. The planar magnetic driver technology ensures rapid transient response and minimal distortion. The sound signature is described as natural and highly resolving with deep, controlled bass and clear highs.
- Bass: The bass is tight and articulate, though slightly leaner compared to open-back counterparts like the LCD-5.
- Midrange: Mid frequencies are transparent and balanced, offering a faithful reproduction without coloration.
- Highs: Some users note that the high-mids can initially sound sharp or piercing, especially in certain recordings or at higher volumes. This characteristic tends to diminish after a break-in period but can cause listening fatigue with poor quality sources.
The closed-back design provides excellent isolation, making the LCD-XC particularly suitable for use in noisy environments or professional settings such as mixing and mastering studios. This isolation, combined with natural soundstage characteristics, rarely compromises spatial perception despite the closed construction.
Comparisons and Use Cases
When compared to other dynamic and planar magnetic headphones in a similar price range (including brands like Beyerdynamic, Sennheiser and AKG), the LCD-XC holds its ground with superior detail retrieval and bass accuracy. It shows advantages against heavier closed-back options like the HEDDphone in terms of comfort, although the HEDDphone may outperform slightly in sound quality.
The headphones suit electronic and synth music well, where clarity and bass extension are critical. However, for pure music listening, some users prefer the open-back LCD-5 for its smoother treble and wider soundstage.
Practical Considerations and Drawbacks
The headphones’ weight is significant but managed well ergonomically; still, not everyone may find extended use comfortable. Some reports of mechanical issues, such as creaking ear cups or cable problems, have been made, with mixed responses from customer support.
High-volume listening may introduce ear fatigue due to pronounced high-mids for certain listeners, making careful volume management necessary. Additionally, the sensitivity to poor recordings means the headphones are unforgiving, emphasising flaws that lesser models might mask.
Conclusion
The Audeze LCD-XC is a closed-back planar magnetic headphone that delivers remarkable technical performance and build quality. Its strengths lie in accurate, detailed sound reproduction and effective isolation, making it well suited for professional audio work and discerning audiophiles. While the high-end price reflects its premium status, users should consider the sound signature and physical heft before purchase. For those prioritising isolation without sacrificing sonic fidelity, the LCD-XC is an excellent choice amongst closed-back models available today.
