Audeze unveils the LCD-5s, a new version of its flagship headphones

Audeze announces the LCD-5s , the latest evolution of its high-end planar-magnetic headphones. Presented as the direct successor to the LCD-5, this model introduces several technical and mechanical modifications, while retaining the overall architecture that has made the brand's flagship model so renowned.

The LCD-5s is aimed at both sound professionals and demanding audiophiles, with particular attention paid to bass reproduction, ergonomics and overall tonal coherence.

A direct successor to the LCD-5

Unlike a simple variation, the LCD-5s is presented by Audeze as an update of the LCD-5 , intended to take over from it in the range.

It retains the fundamentals of the LCD-5 while incorporating new acoustic and mechanical solutions. The original LCD-5 will gradually be phased out of the catalog in favor of this new version.

SLAM Technology: An Evolution of Bass

The main new feature of the LCD-5s is the integration of SLAM (Symmetric Linear Acoustic Modulator) technology.

This acoustic system aims to increase the impact and extension of the bass while maintaining strict control of the transducer. Audeze thus announces a more present and physical bass, without compromising the clarity of the midrange or the overall spectral balance.

Transducer and design revised

The LCD-5s uses a 90mm planar-magnetic transducer, based on a revised Parallel Uniforce nano-scale membrane.

The chassis has also been redesigned, using a blend of carbon, magnesium, and aluminum, while the geometry of the earcups and earpads has been modified. The stated objective is twofold: to improve comfort during long sessions and to reduce unwanted acoustic interactions.

Main technical characteristics

• 90 mm planar-magnetic transducer
• Advertised frequency response: 5 Hz – 50 kHz
• Impedance: approximately 30 ohms
• Sensitivity: ~90 dB / 1 mW
• Recommended power: greater than 500 mW
• Weight: approximately 475 g
• Cable supplied: 4-pin XLR OCC copper

Positioning within the Audeze range

The LCD-5s sits at the top of the LCD range, above monitoring-oriented models like the LCD-X.

It is aimed at reference use, both for mastering and for critical audiophile listening, with an emphasis on accuracy, dynamics and reproduction of the low end of the spectrum.

Availability and price

The Audeze LCD-5s is announced at a suggested retail price of around $4,500 , placing it in the ultra-high-end segment of the headphone market.

It is of course available in our shop: https://coolkidsaudio.com/products/audeze-lcd-5s

In summary

With the LCD-5s, Audeze evolves its flagship headphones by enhancing bass, optimizing comfort, and refining the transducer design. This update is intended as a new benchmark for sound professionals and audiophiles seeking uncompromising headphones.