By popular demand - The song mentioned @11:00 was *The Fighting Uruk-Hai - The Lord of the Rings Soundtrack (the Complete Recordings) - The full 11:32 version.
Hey, I have a rip of the Rarities Archive CD in FLAC if you're interested. It has alternate versions of the OST's by Howard Shore. You could only get the CD if you bought the book by Doug Adams about the scores, so its pretty rare.
Excellent review. Your description of the audeze-2c is perfectly in line with my impressions, but your in depth breakdown of the sound is way better than what I could have put into words. Keep up the good reviews.
Just so u know guys, 2C was Massdrop + Audeze collaboration. And at the time when everything was ready to be officially announced Audeze decide to sell it on its own... 599 was the massdrop exclusive price.
The emotion and words you used to describe these is the most accurate representation of what they actually are out of every review I’ve watched or read before and after I got mine, and they are not picky with what I’ve used to power them, it’s gonna take a hard day in hell for me to sell mine off. Being deadly serious, I have never had music sang to me better in my life. *oh and I swapped my pads for Dekoni velours, and they got rid of the whole hyperbaric chamber sealing effect while keeping the sound quality, and upping the comfort imo. I got mine used so it wasn’t hard to justify 🤣
Awesome review as always Josh! I've just ordered a pair of these so it's nice to see that you enjoyed them - hopefully I have a similar experience...may have to break out the whiskey too! Keep up the great work.
@@SurrealSaheel topping D70 + THX 887 connected via XLR cables, headphone cable custom made also XLR, additional audeze reveal plug in, it slightly enhance the sound
I'm glad to hear you really liked these cans. Just ordered them used and they'll be coming in Wednesday. Really excited to hear them. That brand roundup sounds like a fun idea.
I just got these in 2024 , absolutely Stellar headphones. I use them for entertainment and occasionally mixing, Just wonderful and would absolutely recommend.
I like to describe the LCD-2C as being a wonderfully vivid headphone. Compared to my Focal Elear they are much smoother with the same amount of detail. I actually chose the 2C over the regular LCD-2 because I liked the warmer tone and the bass has more depth to them as well. The Fazor does make the regular LCD-2 more resolving but that's it. As far as how they compare to the M1060 it's not even close imo, the LCD-2C is much better in both SQ and build quality. If your looking for a headphone in the under $1000 price range that's warm and smooth with a fantastic bass response the 2C should be on your short list.
I like that you're putting in more b roll, in a lot of previous videos it's a lot of talking head but not much of the product. Mixing in the talking head with either the product in your hands or the b roll makes for a more engaging experience. Nice job.
josh i just have to say i watched this review before owning LCD-2C's and now after and I 100% agree with your conclusions. The only bad thing I noticed was the imaging was a bit funky, sometimes things are hard left or right when on other headphones they're not so one sided. However, acoustic music and electronic seem to be some of my favorite with this set. God damn they are pleasant. Always have my HD650's for more of a balanced nature or when I'm producing music.
Joshua, this was exactly what I was looking for, to describe these headphones. I have owned them about 6 months now, and the way you describe the mid-range and vocals of this headphone is exactly what I was looking for to say, but couldn't find the words. They are such an enjoyable set of headphones, and if you enjoyed these, I hope on day you can give a listen to the ZMF Eikon. I heard at can jam this year and bought it less than 2 months later. I just think if you enjoyed the LCD2C's, that might be right up your alley. Just wanted to say I love you reviews, came over from Z Reviews, and i have just really enjoyed your approach to the review game.
Man this is was a really good review! Seems honest and upfront. I would like to see in your next reviews how some of these high end headphones like the LCD-2C and LCD-X compare to some other planar like the Fostex TRP-50 for games. Keep up the good work!!
Nice review josh ! School doesnt really give me time to watch (I am 7 videos behind). Just want to say that I am happy that your channel is still doing good :).
Pro tip for anyone interested in these. Audeze sells direct on Reverb.com. They accept offers and you can easily get $100+ off the $799 msrp. Full warranty, new production, free shipping.
I was looking to see a comparison to the budget LCD, the M1060 , especially they are both not fazored and i really like to see what a budget product stand on a comparison to the "original" product. And as always amazing video
I bought these headphones from the Audeze holiday sale, in my opinion this is his best review he's ever put out, spot on with the explanations. Before hearing the Lcd 2c I always thought nothing could ever sound better than my HD 650's, I was wrong these headphones absolutely blow me away. Having a good amp is almost essential in my opinion.
@@poopbusiness4924 it deserve amp with balanced connection to dac, XLR headphone cable also is a must to gain maximum power & control, with my setup they only miss larger sound stage with more air but thats the price of perfect bass and I'm fine with that, my Grado headphones are those who deliver air and spacious sound with clarity like no other
I loved the review and I like the elaboration on the sound of the headphone. One more thing though... I really really don't mean to be rude, I just wanted to point out that you used the word incredible/incredibly very often and it sorta stood out to me.
I have LCD2C, Arya, Clear, L300, some others and I guess that today's price of LCD2C is a bit exaggerated. My other remark is that LCD2C is very dependent on the DAC it's connected to. It may sound so low end with a good DAC that you really have to search the right set up for these headphones to get them at their best. Thanks for your review Josh 👍
Wow! Just got a pair today. These are the business! They live up to the hype. I don’t find the build to be heavy-chief complaint (like the days of the old Audeze). The weight is a good thing....in this case...these are durable with an industrial look yet comfy on the head.
I have the DT 1990 Pro with Dekoni Elite pads and they are very enjoyable, and the Dekoni pads give it a big boost in sub-bass which I love. However the LCD-2C being a planar headphone has clear advantages, and for that reason I favor it over the 1990. Namely, they get ridiculously loud with no driver distortion, and still maintain great dynamic range (albeit I'm using the Topping A90 amp which has great dynamic range so, YMMV). They are also much more fun to listen to with movies, because of the dynamic range and better sound at higher volume. Specifically, sub-bass doesn't cause the drivers to rattle and distort like on the 1990 Pro. The cons of the LCD-2C I would say are: Treble with some tracks can sound very metallic, or very sibilant Sub-bass is highly damped with a quick roll off The center image is vague/unfocused The headphones leak sound like crazy and do it very loudly, so the volume you hear is basically the volume everyone else hears The headphones are heavy and tend to slide around on your head if you sneeze, or while bending your head forward to eat or drink, etc. The pros are: Nice bass slam. Improvement to sub-bass and other frequencies with EQ'ing. Get super loud with no distortion and maintain good dynamic range. If you're a fan of playing music really loud, especially bass, these are excellent headphones. (They have a peak SPL of 130 dB!!)I believe I'm putting around 1600mW into them with my Topping A90 amp, but the LCD-2C has a peak power rating of 5000mW. They get plenty loud with my amp and DAC (SMSL SU-8), with an additional +10 dB from EQ. I have balanced cables on order and then I'll be able to feed them about 5000mW. So unlike other planar headphones, these are easier to drive.
I'd love to see more Audeze comparisons. I have the LCD-4, the LCD-X, and me M1060. I'd say the LCD-4 is as much of a jump from the LCD-X as the jump between the LCD-X and M1060. LCD-X are terrific headphones, but the LCD-4 have better soundstage than my personal pair of LCD-Xs (it was originally reported that the LCD-X had a big soundstage but in the most recent revision to this headphone i have heard the sound very narrow with better imaging and that is in line with my current LCD-X) and just does everything better. Would be interested in your LCD-3 to LCD-X comparison though to see if a LCD-3 may be worth it in the future. Lastly, I wouldn't push on the headphones while they are closed. Most Audeze headphones seal when the earpads are touching meaning when you press them together you are putting a vacuum like pressure on the LCD's ultra thin diaphragms. This is the most common cause of driver failure in the LCDs that I know of.
I think I would really enjoy these, “lounging” is my audio mode of choice. They do look huge in side-profile though, like a couple of saucepans strapped to your head. ⛺️#intents
Your review was very informative. Please use manufacturer's man when you talk about other headphones because I'm not familiar with with every model from every manufacturer. Thanks, really enjoy your reviews.
i just got these things a bit earlier than my amp to power them, so i have been running them on my darkvoice with a NOS sylvania brown base tube while waiting for my balanced jotunheim... i have a ZMF aeolus on my current setup and i wanted to chase a different sound by going solid state with the LCD2C and i have to say im impressed. i keep hearing OTL tube amps dont pair well with planars but this sounds pretty awesome. its more aggressive than the ZMF no doubt, but it sounds HUGE. cant wait for the jotunheim to show up, but for now i definitely dont regret picking them up..
Hi Josh, here’s a good question for you - if your option were to have the DT1990 pro and the LCD2C or just the LCD-X, which would you choose? I appreciate analytical and hearing all of the nuances of music, and love good sound staging at times, but also like to turn up the volume for enjoyment for some good punch, and vocals. I guess the real question is, do you think the LCD-X can serve as an all in one and cover all the bases that the DT1990 and the LCD2C can cover better than having both individually? Conversely, for the use case of listening to music for enjoyment, do you think the LCD-X is more enjoyable to listen to than the LCD2C as you’ve described in this video? Really appreciate your opinion on choice of those two options and feedback!
Amazing review!!!! I know a lcd 2C, 3 and X comparison video is coming and I can’t wait...but which one did you prefer among those? Which one would you recommend more?
Hey Joshua, thanks for this Review! I just can not decide between the 1990 Pro and LCD-2C. I have tried the 1990 pro and I like it very much but like you said its a very analytical headphone and its not very relaxed to listening but in the other hand I need a Headphone for checking my mixes without loosing too much details. I have seen that you also made a review about the Amiron. How would you describe the differences between the LCD-2C and the Amiron? Could it be that the Amiron is between the dt1990 and LCD-2C ...that means a good compromise between analytical and easy listening?
Would you ever try to reach out to Kennerton and do a review on the Thror for them? It's their top of the line Planar and nobody else has done one in english, I really value your opinion on Audio now and this would just make a whole lot of sense because we know you love being first :P Cheers dude!
For me Audeze LCD-2C is the best of the Audezes,but the strange thing is that Audeze LCD-1 is the most analog sounding headphone that i ever had heard,is like listen to vinyl all the time on a Audio-GD - NFB 11.28 TCXO amp.
I had my Hifiman XS come in with a buzzing left driver so I've been looking around for an alternative to Hifiman. I don't think I'm alone when I think that I shouldn't have to worry about quality control issues when spending $500 on a headphone. so that's naturally led me to the LCD-2C. I'm still thinking about my other options, but this one's definitely high on my list
Wow I finally found someone with the same problem! I returned my XS for repair and got a completely new one. Guess what, the new one has the same problem. They told me to not use it with heavy bass. But I really love the planar bass precision :(
Have had my pair of Audeze LCD2C for quite some time now. Even though I like them alot I still think this is a pair of 600$ headphones, 700$ max. I find them overpriced at 799$. They fact that you do not get a fazor array (although some people prefer fazorless Audezes), leather pads, wooden cups, nor the carrying case does not justify a price reduction of only 200$. You are not really killing the clone market with a pair of headphones costing 799$. Dekoni Velour pads make them slightly better.
I own both, Elex will give you a better more accurate soundstage and is a more focused pin point sound. Its kinda like the Elex takes a step back from the music and you're able to pick out little details in the music from the 3rd row back... the LCD2C is like youre in the front row and its walls of sound. Both are great to own.
First of all, I absolutely love your reviews. Secondly, I'm completely sold by the way you described these headphones and I wanna buy them, but I wonder, for the sole purpose of enjoying music, are they worth buying if I already have the 660s, what do you think?
This video is so old I’m sure no one will see this comment but I’m in the market and I fell in love with the design of these headphones and it’s right in my price range. Is it still a good option in 2021? I’m seeing mixed reviews everywhere. I plan to eq them as well as run them through a dac and amp. I currently have the 990 pro.
How are these for rock/metal? Generally really fast music? Something that wont make the double bass sound too flabby and blend into a wall of noise, rather keep up with them and keep it's accuracy. Also metal isn't very well mixed/produced a lot of the time, is this headphone unforgiving to more poorly produced music? Overall I love going for a more warmer sound, as any cans with slight high top end is a cheese greater when listening to metal, though you said the high end is a little chipped off which is promising. Don't get me wrong, I love all types of music. Especially when I grab new headphones I love to listen to very well produced music and just marvel at the performance, but at the end of the day i'm listening to metal 80% of the time. Thanks.
Great review indeed! Can u please shed some lights on comparison between LCD2C, LCD X and Stax L300/5100? I understand they're of different leagues but just curious.
I owned the LCD-2C, Sennheiser HD800, HD600, HD650, Beyer DT990, Beyer DT 880, DT990, Focal Clear, AKG K701, K702, Hifiman Sundara. And my favorite Headphone is still the Audio Technica R70X :X
What is your preferred music source? CDs? So your "workflow" I'm assuming is: CD player to integrated amp to headphones? I think it's important you (test) guys mention this. I mean, your own personal recipe to listen to music (so we can jump in the copycat wagon). None of what you (clearly and professionally) explain (thank you very much) makes any sense if us viewers/listeners are not coming from similar (audio/music) sources as yours. Other than that, thanks, great thorough review. Peace.
Would an atom dac/amp combo work for these? I understand that they have enough power to run them, but would a pair of headphones of this quality seriously benefit from a major amp/dac upgrade?
thanks for your vids ! i am looking for a nomad amplifier for my lcd 2 but i dont know which one to buy... Would you recommand the fiio Q3 with those headphones ? thanks !
Currently have some HiFiman Sundara's and been thinking of upgrading to some new cans and I've been eyeing these, I game a lot and the Sundaras have been great for that and for listening to music but I'm wondering what other cans you guys would recommend that may be a better choice than the LCD 2c's just want something that will make listening to music that much better while keeping the soundstage wide/great to be able to hear footsetps, etc.
I upgraded my sundaras to these, never looked back, they sounds huge like your in a theater with an artist. I eqd them to sound more neutral like the sundaras
I did found out something nuts on these, i got big beard and i use cap on my head alot. :D Now when i shaved my beard and took of the cap the sound got just bad, narrower soundstage and the bass lost its power. When i lift them just a bit to open up the seal of the pads create inside the cans the sound gets bigger and better and the bass is back, in a big way. These are totally new headphones when the seal is broken and the air gets in the driver from inside. I think this might be why some people enjoys these alot and some just hates them. Can someone test this and confirm this? Don't lift them over the grills but under or side of the pads to create airflow inside the cups.
@@JoshuaValour love it, got the full TLotR soundtrack but it's true, that one feels different as on how distant it feels, would need better headphones tho, my best ones at the moment are ath-m40x
Interesting, I purchased the LCD-2 in 2020 and use almost all schiit gear (yggdrassil, loki, asgard/vali) and returned them because they were too "dark" sounding even with my loki tone control's treble knob turned all the way up. Replaced with LCD-X which still sounded darker than most headphones, however, opened up nicely with the Loki. Recently purchased Drop 6XX which is such a light and easy headphone to listen to (need an amp due to 300ohm though); less detail and bass "impact" than LCD but very nice indeed.
You should do a review on the nectar bee headphones which are plantar! Not very known but they guy who makes them is a very cool guy! His name is Sajeev, I compare those to the LCD 2C I think you would really like them.
ive had my pair for about a week now. i was unable to get an amp and dac and have been running them from onboard audio of my (fairly high end) pc. im very new to this hobby but i would have loved to hear how they change with an external amp and dac. i know that amp sounds change from solid state to tubes etc. but do they become cleaner? it may just be my setup but i stream master tracks from tidal and i swear sometimes i can hear distortion in the high end. will a better setup fix this issue?
Hi Joshua, I really like your reviews they are very accurate. would you plz review the Hifiman Sundara, I am about to buy them and just wanted to know your thoughts on it.
@@mehradzarourian3429 I had the Sundara and returned it because it wasn't what I needed but it was an absolutely fantastic set of headphones. "Beautiful" is the translation from the Sanskrit word Sundara and that is so damn true. The sound was almost emotional
I ordered my lcd 2c at the end of last year for 800€ and they came in the economy travel case. Not sure if that’s just because of the store I used (Thomann) or if all lcd 2cs now get a case.
My opinions after testing. Good: Almost never fatiguing Great dynamics and decays A lot of detail and good separation* Bass can have great oomph at times Bad: Separation some times feels disjointed Lack energy/aggression for metal etc Overall too much airiness Vocals/mids can sound distant Low end usually punchy but lacking weight Low end lacks detail All in all I still preferred the HD650 for almost all test songs. Source: Chord Mojo.
![Wiz Khalifa - Khalifa's Home [Official Music Video]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/wnrLCTe0Nz4/mqdefault.jpg)
By popular demand - The song mentioned @11:00 was *The Fighting Uruk-Hai - The Lord of the Rings Soundtrack (the Complete Recordings)
- The full 11:32 version.
Hey, I have a rip of the Rarities Archive CD in FLAC if you're interested. It has alternate versions of the OST's by Howard Shore. You could only get the CD if you bought the book by Doug Adams about the scores, so its pretty rare.
@@kamikaze5537 I am definitely interested!!!
Seems like youtube removed private messaging so I'm not sure where to reach you.
thanks, I was wondering lol
@@Bluebair it's still available on Amazon for 70€
Excellent review.
Your description of the audeze-2c is perfectly in line with my impressions, but your in depth breakdown of the sound is way better than what I could have put into words.
Keep up the good reviews.
The Quality of this channel is stunning TBH! ! ! Keep up the good work!
Great review. Finally a youtube reviewer who knows what he is talking about. Just got the LCD 2C yesterday and I adore them.
Fun Fact: The LCD-2C was intended for a Massdrop collaboration but Audeze had decided to back out and sell the 2C for themselves instead.
Scott Lowell ha that's funny
Well that's awkward because wouldn't they have called it the "LCD-X"?
Mike O'Horny lol why's that?
@@rhodey2952 I heard about what you did, absolutely shameful. So cruel
Round Earth Shill please explain? Lol
I know this is an older video but this is by far the best and most accurate review of the LCD-2 Classic on RUclips!
Just so u know guys, 2C was Massdrop + Audeze collaboration. And at the time when everything was ready to be officially announced Audeze decide to sell it on its own... 599 was the massdrop exclusive price.
Audeze be like:
Pulled a quick one on ya massdrop
Wouldnt expect less from audeze, the company who stopped selling pads to people modding m1060's
why whould they not
Wow that sucks - I would have jumped on them at that price :(
@@Bluebair righrtfully imo
The emotion and words you used to describe these is the most accurate representation of what they actually are out of every review I’ve watched or read before and after I got mine, and they are not picky with what I’ve used to power them, it’s gonna take a hard day in hell for me to sell mine off. Being deadly serious, I have never had music sang to me better in my life. *oh and I swapped my pads for Dekoni velours, and they got rid of the whole hyperbaric chamber sealing effect while keeping the sound quality, and upping the comfort imo. I got mine used so it wasn’t hard to justify 🤣
Great review, dude. Your summing up was concise and really helpful.
Awesome review as always Josh! I've just ordered a pair of these so it's nice to see that you enjoyed them - hopefully I have a similar experience...may have to break out the whiskey too! Keep up the great work.
how did you find them mate? considering pulling the trigger.
Absolutely Beautiful, YES ! They are worth every penny I've invested in gear to make them sound glorious.
What gear have you used for these hp's?
@@SurrealSaheel topping D70 + THX 887 connected via XLR cables, headphone cable custom made also XLR, additional audeze reveal plug in, it slightly enhance the sound
Straight up 10/10, bought as soon as you recommended and i'd rate it... an 11... out of 10
I'm glad to hear you really liked these cans. Just ordered them used and they'll be coming in Wednesday. Really excited to hear them.
That brand roundup sounds like a fun idea.
I just got these in 2024 , absolutely Stellar headphones. I use them for entertainment and occasionally mixing, Just wonderful and would absolutely recommend.
I like to describe the LCD-2C as being a wonderfully vivid headphone. Compared to my Focal Elear they are much smoother with the same amount of detail. I actually chose the 2C over the regular LCD-2 because I liked the warmer tone and the bass has more depth to them as well. The Fazor does make the regular LCD-2 more resolving but that's it.
As far as how they compare to the M1060 it's not even close imo, the LCD-2C is much better in both SQ and build quality. If your looking for a headphone in the under $1000 price range that's warm and smooth with a fantastic bass response the 2C should be on your short list.
I like that you're putting in more b roll, in a lot of previous videos it's a lot of talking head but not much of the product. Mixing in the talking head with either the product in your hands or the b roll makes for a more engaging experience. Nice job.
josh i just have to say i watched this review before owning LCD-2C's and now after and I 100% agree with your conclusions. The only bad thing I noticed was the imaging was a bit funky, sometimes things are hard left or right when on other headphones they're not so one sided. However, acoustic music and electronic seem to be some of my favorite with this set. God damn they are pleasant. Always have my HD650's for more of a balanced nature or when I'm producing music.
Okay.
Just picked these up. After 3 hours I am already blown away.
how are they after 9 months if you still have them
@@MCSquidward amazing. Great headphones
They work super well with vinyl. The pops and clicks are very subtle compared to my speakers.
Non-fazor LCD-2.1 was my first step after HD650 and I totally know what you mean. Yes, enjoyable is the right word. Bass is a good one too. Nice work!
Ze Bubba I have HD650. So the LCD2c is a considerable step up?
Thank you, Joshua. I got these phones and absolutely love them. You really helped me with your review. Many thanks!
I couldn't hear the very quiet bass notes in the background from my HD6XX when watching this video. Now I can with the 2Cs XD
Really nice review, touches upon what I think about them. Also proves to me I need the Andromedas as a side :D
Joshua, this was exactly what I was looking for, to describe these headphones. I have owned them about 6 months now, and the way you describe the mid-range and vocals of this headphone is exactly what I was looking for to say, but couldn't find the words. They are such an enjoyable set of headphones, and if you enjoyed these, I hope on day you can give a listen to the ZMF Eikon. I heard at can jam this year and bought it less than 2 months later. I just think if you enjoyed the LCD2C's, that might be right up your alley. Just wanted to say I love you reviews, came over from Z Reviews, and i have just really enjoyed your approach to the review game.
I will be picking these ups if these are on sale during black friday.
Man this is was a really good review! Seems honest and upfront. I would like to see in your next reviews how some of these high end headphones like the LCD-2C and LCD-X compare to some other planar like the Fostex TRP-50 for games. Keep up the good work!!
Josh is the best headphone review guy out there, I like the others but they don't keep rolling the content out like he does.
Much improved review! Look forward to more!
Nice review josh !
School doesnt really give me time to watch (I am 7 videos behind).
Just want to say that I am happy that your channel is still doing good :).
YES, finaly. Been waiting for this one!
Great review Joshua. Now I can imagine how it sound. Thx!
Pro tip for anyone interested in these. Audeze sells direct on Reverb.com. They accept offers and you can easily get $100+ off the $799 msrp. Full warranty, new production, free shipping.
I was looking to see a comparison to the budget LCD, the M1060 , especially they are both not fazored and i really like to see what a budget product stand on a comparison to the "original" product.
And as always amazing video
Coming wednesday
Sorry - Coming friday now!
I bought these headphones from the Audeze holiday sale, in my opinion this is his best review he's ever put out, spot on with the explanations. Before hearing the Lcd 2c I always thought nothing could ever sound better than my HD 650's, I was wrong these headphones absolutely blow me away. Having a good amp is almost essential in my opinion.
what amp would you suggest to be paired with these?
@@poopbusiness4924 I have the jds labs El amp and still sounds so sweet and juicy
@@poopbusiness4924 it deserve amp with balanced connection to dac, XLR headphone cable also is a must to gain maximum power & control, with my setup they only miss larger sound stage with more air but thats the price of perfect bass and I'm fine with that, my Grado headphones are those who deliver air and spacious sound with clarity like no other
@Tweed Penguin its not a myth that balanced connection push more power to drivers, with that power driver has faster and more accurate response
Sounds like they’re “warm and enjoyable”....
I loved the review and I like the elaboration on the sound of the headphone.
One more thing though... I really really don't mean to be rude, I just wanted to point out that you used the word incredible/incredibly very often and it sorta stood out to me.
I have LCD2C, Arya, Clear, L300, some others and I guess that today's price of LCD2C is a bit exaggerated. My other remark is that LCD2C is very dependent on the DAC it's connected to. It may sound so low end with a good DAC that you really have to search the right set up for these headphones to get them at their best.
Thanks for your review Josh 👍
D70 + THX 887 👍 they always impress me how strong and well controlled sound can be. Got upgraded cable that also helps
Wow! Just got a pair today. These are the business! They live up to the hype. I don’t find the build to be heavy-chief complaint (like the days of the old Audeze). The weight is a good thing....in this case...these are durable with an industrial look yet comfy on the head.
I have the DT 1990 Pro with Dekoni Elite pads and they are very enjoyable, and the Dekoni pads give it a big boost in sub-bass which I love.
However the LCD-2C being a planar headphone has clear advantages, and for that reason I favor it over the 1990. Namely, they get ridiculously loud with no driver distortion, and still maintain great dynamic range (albeit I'm using the Topping A90 amp which has great dynamic range so, YMMV). They are also much more fun to listen to with movies, because of the dynamic range and better sound at higher volume. Specifically, sub-bass doesn't cause the drivers to rattle and distort like on the 1990 Pro.
The cons of the LCD-2C I would say are:
Treble with some tracks can sound very metallic, or very sibilant
Sub-bass is highly damped with a quick roll off
The center image is vague/unfocused
The headphones leak sound like crazy and do it very loudly, so the volume you hear is basically the volume everyone else hears
The headphones are heavy and tend to slide around on your head if you sneeze, or while bending your head forward to eat or drink, etc.
The pros are:
Nice bass slam. Improvement to sub-bass and other frequencies with EQ'ing.
Get super loud with no distortion and maintain good dynamic range.
If you're a fan of playing music really loud, especially bass, these are excellent headphones. (They have a peak SPL of 130 dB!!)I believe I'm putting around 1600mW into them with my Topping A90 amp, but the LCD-2C has a peak power rating of 5000mW. They get plenty loud with my amp and DAC (SMSL SU-8), with an additional +10 dB from EQ. I have balanced cables on order and then I'll be able to feed them about 5000mW. So unlike other planar headphones, these are easier to drive.
I'd love to see more Audeze comparisons. I have the LCD-4, the LCD-X, and me M1060. I'd say the LCD-4 is as much of a jump from the LCD-X as the jump between the LCD-X and M1060. LCD-X are terrific headphones, but the LCD-4 have better soundstage than my personal pair of LCD-Xs (it was originally reported that the LCD-X had a big soundstage but in the most recent revision to this headphone i have heard the sound very narrow with better imaging and that is in line with my current LCD-X) and just does everything better. Would be interested in your LCD-3 to LCD-X comparison though to see if a LCD-3 may be worth it in the future.
Lastly, I wouldn't push on the headphones while they are closed. Most Audeze headphones seal when the earpads are touching meaning when you press them together you are putting a vacuum like pressure on the LCD's ultra thin diaphragms. This is the most common cause of driver failure in the LCDs that I know of.
Li Yuki Which do you listen to the most the 4 or the X?
I think I would really enjoy these, “lounging” is my audio mode of choice. They do look huge in side-profile though, like a couple of saucepans strapped to your head.
⛺️#intents
Your review was very informative. Please use manufacturer's man when you talk about other headphones because I'm not familiar with with every model from every manufacturer. Thanks, really enjoy your reviews.
Soundtrack playing in background? Awesome reviews as always
I WAS WAITING FOR THIS THANKS JOSH
Hey Joshua!Thanks for the nice review!Do you use any eq with this headphone?
Given the choice between the LCD 2C and the DT1990, which one would you choose?
Fprtnite hamburger from fortnite
i just got these things a bit earlier than my amp to power them, so i have been running them on my darkvoice with a NOS sylvania brown base tube while waiting for my balanced jotunheim... i have a ZMF aeolus on my current setup and i wanted to chase a different sound by going solid state with the LCD2C and i have to say im impressed. i keep hearing OTL tube amps dont pair well with planars but this sounds pretty awesome. its more aggressive than the ZMF no doubt, but it sounds HUGE. cant wait for the jotunheim to show up, but for now i definitely dont regret picking them up..
Hi Josh, here’s a good question for you - if your option were to have the DT1990 pro and the LCD2C or just the LCD-X, which would you choose? I appreciate analytical and hearing all of the nuances of music, and love good sound staging at times, but also like to turn up the volume for enjoyment for some good punch, and vocals. I guess the real question is, do you think the LCD-X can serve as an all in one and cover all the bases that the DT1990 and the LCD2C can cover better than having both individually? Conversely, for the use case of listening to music for enjoyment, do you think the LCD-X is more enjoyable to listen to than the LCD2C as you’ve described in this video? Really appreciate your opinion on choice of those two options and feedback!
Amazing review!!!! I know a lcd 2C, 3 and X comparison video is coming and I can’t wait...but which one did you prefer among those? Which one would you recommend more?
The X
I agree with your point. They sound amazing.
Love your reviews. Would you recommend these, if I love the warm sound of the HD650 and want something 'identical but more" at the same time?
Hey Joshua, thanks for this Review! I just can not decide between the 1990 Pro and LCD-2C. I have tried the 1990 pro and I like it very much but like you said its a very analytical headphone and its not very relaxed to listening but in the other hand I need a Headphone for checking my mixes without loosing too much details. I have seen that you also made a review about the Amiron. How would you describe the differences between the LCD-2C and the Amiron? Could it be that the Amiron is between the dt1990 and LCD-2C ...that means a good compromise between analytical and easy listening?
Would you ever try to reach out to Kennerton and do a review on the Thror for them? It's their top of the line Planar and nobody else has done one in english, I really value your opinion on Audio now and this would just make a whole lot of sense because we know you love being first :P
Cheers dude!
In Tents
In Ten Cities
These look awesome how do you think they would work for gaming like FPS games
For me Audeze LCD-2C is the best of the Audezes,but the strange thing is that Audeze LCD-1 is the most analog sounding headphone that i ever had heard,is like listen to vinyl all the time on a Audio-GD - NFB 11.28 TCXO amp.
I had my Hifiman XS come in with a buzzing left driver so I've been looking around for an alternative to Hifiman. I don't think I'm alone when I think that I shouldn't have to worry about quality control issues when spending $500 on a headphone. so that's naturally led me to the LCD-2C. I'm still thinking about my other options, but this one's definitely high on my list
Wow I finally found someone with the same problem!
I returned my XS for repair and got a completely new one. Guess what, the new one has the same problem. They told me to not use it with heavy bass. But I really love the planar bass precision :(
Have had my pair of Audeze LCD2C for quite some time now. Even though I like them alot I still think this is a pair of 600$ headphones, 700$ max. I find them overpriced at 799$. They fact that you do not get a fazor array (although some people prefer fazorless Audezes), leather pads, wooden cups, nor the carrying case does not justify a price reduction of only 200$. You are not really killing the clone market with a pair of headphones costing 799$. Dekoni Velour pads make them slightly better.
it was massdrop collab and price should be 599
Overpriced 799 ? Here in Europe they are 1000 if u are lucky to find them , they cost usually 1100$
Hey Joshua,
How would you compare the LCD2c to the Elex?
I own both, Elex will give you a better more accurate soundstage and is a more focused pin point sound. Its kinda like the Elex takes a step back from the music and you're able to pick out little details in the music from the 3rd row back... the LCD2C is like youre in the front row and its walls of sound. Both are great to own.
@@kbeau937 I know this is an old comment but, if you had no choice and could only choose one, which one would it be?.
@@WyattOShea oof... the elex. BUT I loved the size of the sound image on the 2c. Enough where I bought the lcd2f
@@kbeau937 I have a pair of Ether C Flow headphones with a 1.1 upgrade kit on the way, I was just curious lol. Also thanks for the quick reply.
@@WyattOShea no prob.
First of all, I absolutely love your reviews.
Secondly, I'm completely sold by the way you described these headphones and I wanna buy them, but I wonder, for the sole purpose of enjoying music, are they worth buying if I already have the 660s, what do you think?
what was the music he mentioned in 10:59 ? "FIghting the Orc eye"? I want to also test my Audeze with that music.
*The Fighting Uruk-Hai - The Lord of the Rings Soundtrack (the Complete Recordings)
- The full 11:32 version.
Thanks Joshua!
What an amazing review video.
Have you tested the vanilla LCD2 vs these and LCD X? Thoughts?
This video is so old I’m sure no one will see this comment but I’m in the market and I fell in love with the design of these headphones and it’s right in my price range. Is it still a good option in 2021? I’m seeing mixed reviews everywhere. I plan to eq them as well as run them through a dac and amp. I currently have the 990 pro.
How are these for rock/metal? Generally really fast music? Something that wont make the double bass sound too flabby and blend into a wall of noise, rather keep up with them and keep it's accuracy. Also metal isn't very well mixed/produced a lot of the time, is this headphone unforgiving to more poorly produced music? Overall I love going for a more warmer sound, as any cans with slight high top end is a cheese greater when listening to metal, though you said the high end is a little chipped off which is promising.
Don't get me wrong, I love all types of music. Especially when I grab new headphones I love to listen to very well produced music and just marvel at the performance, but at the end of the day i'm listening to metal 80% of the time.
Thanks.
Awesome review! Are they darker sounding than 6xx?
GB Audio yes
Definitely way darker
@@JoshuaValour
LCD2C or Ananda ?
Please just response with the name of one of them
Great review indeed! Can u please shed some lights on comparison between LCD2C, LCD X and Stax L300/5100? I understand they're of different leagues but just curious.
A comparison video of the 2c, x and 3 will be coming soon Hopefully that will help
great review, would like to try these. to bring up the recessed treble , do they respond well to eq?
Josh.. is the soundstage wider then Sundara?
So I'm a bit confused, other websites state that the lcd-2c has all metal body but here you're saying it's plastic?
You describe these the way others describe the 650/6xx. How would you differentiate the two? Are these, to you, the planar version of the 650s?
What amp would be good to power these? Is there anything specific to look out for?
Would you say 2C or the X for EDM and Hip-Hop? I quite like thick bass
I owned the LCD-2C, Sennheiser HD800, HD600, HD650, Beyer DT990, Beyer DT 880, DT990, Focal Clear, AKG K701, K702, Hifiman Sundara. And my favorite Headphone is still the Audio Technica R70X :X
Comparison with your Stax L300L?
Josh, loving the videos, is it still worth owning hd600s after getting LCD2C's?
Yeah for sure I got both, 600s are way more comfy and midrange/tibre a bit better.
@@finbenton thanks for replying
What is your preferred music source? CDs? So your "workflow" I'm assuming is: CD player to integrated amp to headphones?
I think it's important you (test) guys mention this. I mean, your own personal recipe to listen to music (so we can jump in the copycat wagon). None of what you (clearly and professionally) explain (thank you very much) makes any sense if us viewers/listeners are not coming from similar (audio/music) sources as yours.
Other than that, thanks, great thorough review. Peace.
And 2nd question, would you recommend these over the L300's or visa-versa?
LOVE AUDEZE LCD2C..TQ BRO..
Would an atom dac/amp combo work for these? I understand that they have enough power to run them, but would a pair of headphones of this quality seriously benefit from a major amp/dac upgrade?
thanks for your vids ! i am looking for a nomad amplifier for my lcd 2 but i dont know which one to buy... Would you recommand the fiio Q3 with those headphones ? thanks !
Good review, thank you.
warm ritch and extremelly enjoyable that s all i want , that s what it s all about. don t need the german clinical, i leave that to the hospitals
I just got my shelf these headphones and I love them.
Does the LCD2C sound smoother and darker than the Nightowls or Nighthawks?
Currently have some HiFiman Sundara's and been thinking of upgrading to some new cans and I've been eyeing these, I game a lot and the Sundaras have been great for that and for listening to music but I'm wondering what other cans you guys would recommend that may be a better choice than the LCD 2c's just want something that will make listening to music that much better while keeping the soundstage wide/great to be able to hear footsetps, etc.
I upgraded my sundaras to these, never looked back, they sounds huge like your in a theater with an artist. I eqd them to sound more neutral like the sundaras
I did found out something nuts on these, i got big beard and i use cap on my head alot. :D
Now when i shaved my beard and took of the cap the sound got just bad, narrower soundstage and the bass lost its power.
When i lift them just a bit to open up the seal of the pads create inside the cans the sound gets bigger and better and the bass is back, in a big way.
These are totally new headphones when the seal is broken and the air gets in the driver from inside.
I think this might be why some people enjoys these alot and some just hates them.
Can someone test this and confirm this? Don't lift them over the grills but under or side of the pads to create airflow inside the cups.
Hello couldn't find this on other comments, which song you said you used? Fighting the ori what? Sorry wanted to check the song actually
El Cat *The Fighting Uruk-Hai - The Lord of the Rings Soundtrack
- The full 11:32 version.
@@JoshuaValour thanks a lot
El Cat how did you like it?
@@JoshuaValour love it, got the full TLotR soundtrack but it's true, that one feels different as on how distant it feels, would need better headphones tho, my best ones at the moment are ath-m40x
Interesting, I purchased the LCD-2 in 2020 and use almost all schiit gear (yggdrassil, loki, asgard/vali) and returned them because they were too "dark" sounding even with my loki tone control's treble knob turned all the way up. Replaced with LCD-X which still sounded darker than most headphones, however, opened up nicely with the Loki. Recently purchased Drop 6XX which is such a light and easy headphone to listen to (need an amp due to 300ohm though); less detail and bass "impact" than LCD but very nice indeed.
How would one compare this to the 6xx?
Why would they put a "C" at the end? That's their indicator for CLOSED back headphones...
youmongrel C for Classic
schiit Hel + LCD-2C is a good combination?
How does the LCD-2 open back compare to its closed back counterpart?
You should do a review on the nectar bee headphones which are plantar! Not very known but they guy who makes them is a very cool guy! His name is Sajeev, I compare those to the LCD 2C I think you would really like them.
ive had my pair for about a week now. i was unable to get an amp and dac and have been running them from onboard audio of my (fairly high end) pc. im very new to this hobby but i would have loved to hear how they change with an external amp and dac. i know that amp sounds change from solid state to tubes etc. but do they become cleaner? it may just be my setup but i stream master tracks from tidal and i swear sometimes i can hear distortion in the high end. will a better setup fix this issue?
oh also if you havent listened to pink floyd on these youre really missing out!
Hey dude nicely done.. i want to buy these LCD2c ... m40x ... hd650 so what do you think ? any edit you suggest
Ehh, you probably don't need 650 if you have the 2c.
Joshua Valour oh.. i thought they sounds different
Ali Almatook They definitely sound different. Maybe look at 58X instead. Cheaper than the 650 and literally just as good.
Joshua Valour i will thanx bro really appreciate it
What is the name of the music in the intro??? it sounded INCREDIBLE on my K712 Pro.
Hi Joshua, I really like your reviews they are very accurate. would you plz review the Hifiman Sundara, I am about to buy them and just wanted to know your thoughts on it.
It is on the list, but no one has sent it in.
@@JoshuaValour Tnx man
@@mehradzarourian3429 I had the Sundara and returned it because it wasn't what I needed but it was an absolutely fantastic set of headphones. "Beautiful" is the translation from the Sanskrit word Sundara and that is so damn true. The sound was almost emotional
I ordered my lcd 2c at the end of last year for 800€ and they came in the economy travel case. Not sure if that’s just because of the store I used (Thomann) or if all lcd 2cs now get a case.
What is that headphone amp that Joshua is using to listen to these headphones in the video??
I would like to know that too
Foobar
vancitygoobz i think it’s a audio-gd headphone amp.
My opinions after testing.
Good:
Almost never fatiguing
Great dynamics and decays
A lot of detail and good separation*
Bass can have great oomph at times
Bad:
Separation some times feels disjointed
Lack energy/aggression for metal etc
Overall too much airiness
Vocals/mids can sound distant
Low end usually punchy but lacking weight
Low end lacks detail
All in all I still preferred the HD650 for almost all test songs. Source: Chord Mojo.