Planar magnetic headphones

Since its launch in 2009, Audeze's LCD series has been the benchmark for planar magnetic headphone performance. First with the LCD-2, then in 2011 with the LCD-3 and in 2015 with the LCD-4. This fifth iteration further improves the drivers, ear pads and chassis, making it one of the best-performing and most comfortable headphones around.

Transparency, definition and speed

The LCD-5 is the new benchmark for fidelity. Its drivers feature Fluxor magnets, updated Fazor waveguides and the new Parallel Uniforce™ voice coils. These use parallel traces of varying width to keep impedance low and provide better voltage headroom by modulating current density in each trace. The optimised uniformity of force reduces distortion and improves control of diaphragm movement, resulting in greater resolution.

Clarity and stereo imaging

Audeze optimised every aspect of the LCD-5's acoustic chamber to achieve precise, clean stereo imaging. The new sculpted ear pads and acoustically transparent grille are designed to minimise reflections and resonances, while the Parallel Uniforce™ voice coil allows more space between the magnets for better frequency response and a more open soundstage. The LCD-5 also features new low-profile Fazor waveguides, designed to further reduce diffraction and interaction with the ear.

Elegant, comfortable design

Weighing just 420 grams, the LCD-5 offers hours of listening pleasure. Every component has been redesigned using materials such as magnesium, aluminium and acetate, which combine lightness and high rigidity. When you put on an LCD-5, your head and ears are wrapped in materials of exceptional quality. Premium soft leather and carbon fibre bring all these elements together in a refined, handcrafted whole, which Audeze assembles by hand in its California workshop.

Sculpted ear pads

The new sculpted ear pad architecture with an internal slant reduces unwanted resonances and internal reflections. Their ergonomic design follows the shape of the head and helps position the headphones naturally for optimal listening. Compared with standard models, these pads have a smaller contact area to minimise fatigue while ensuring a perfect seal, whatever your head shape.

Specifications

• Style: over-ear, open-back
• Driver type: planar magnetic
• Magnetic structure: Fluxor™ magnet array
• Phase management: Fazor™
• Magnet type: N50 neodymium
• Diaphragm type: Nano-Scale Parallel Uniforce™
• Driver size: 90 mm
• Maximum SPL: >130 dB
• Frequency response: 5 Hz - 50 kHz
• Total harmonic distortion (THD): <0.1% @ 100 dB SPL
• Sensitivity: 90 dB/1 mW (at drum reference point)
• Impedance: 14 ohms
• Maximum power handling: 5 W RMS
• Minimum recommended power: >100 mW
• Recommended power: >500 mW
• Weight: 420 g