@@gossipmime7648 many headphones do not eq well, one of the great benefits of planar magnetic drivers and especially the audeze ones are that they can be tuned to the listener's preference to rather extreme levels without distorting or losing detail. There has also never been an objectively neutral pair of headphones since they interact with people's ears and heads differently, so eq can and will often make headphones sound more natural and lifelike.
Audeze is the best man. I’ve tried focal clear mg 800s and everything in between. The audeze LCD X 2021 won it for me and it did it easily. It can be super resolving or bass cannons with incredible full sound the drivers feel like they have no limitation.
Hello, I can't becide between the Focal Clear MG and the Audeze LCD-X 2021, how would you compare them? I mainly listen to metalcore, EDM & trap music. Thank you :)
@@Alkyno the focal is a toy compared to the audeze. The focal is slightly clearer if you will in its audio presentation at low volumes, but as soon are you turn up the volume there is instant distortion, no bass, ok sound stage, a bit lighter then the lcd x but the materials feels like a toy compared to the lcd x 2021 The lcd x is the most premium well built industrial design, endless bass I mean literally I don’t know what one has to do to distort the sound they are incredible. Sound stage ok. Really meaty sound presentation at any volume. With the lcd x u can do critical listening or have bass cannons on your head with excellent sound presentation. To kind of short this reply I’ll put it like this . When I got the focal clear mg I thought to my self wtf is this shit ? When I got the audeze lcd x 2021 I said to my self end game achieved after soooo long of searching. Edm, rap. Rock. Strings vocals idc the audeze can do it all . The focal has a slight advantage in vocals maybe ? But I would give that category to sennhiser all day anyway. My recommendation is audeze lcd x for overall best headphone and he 800s for soundstage/ vocal but remember that sennhiser has no bass like focal.
I wanted to say how much I appreciate you posting the EQ profiles for both the LCD-X and LCD-XC. I've been testing both for the past couple of weeks. I really wanted to like the XC because of sound bleed and environment noises, but they were just too bright and I felt myself gravitating more towards the LCD-X. I tried your initial EQ for the XC and it certainly did help, but if was your 2nd EQ posted for them that really got me to love them. I love these so much now that I've been re-listening to my favorite playlists. They sound amazing, better than the LCD-X (even with the posted EQ profiles for it). After trying out the DT 990 Pro, Sundara, Arya, LCD-X, and LCD-XC, I have finally decided on keeping the XC for sure. Thank you once again.
Picked up the LCD-X last month. I really wanted to wait for this review but you had already mentioned enough nice things about them to make me give it a shot. Glad I did.
Do you think for an 18 year old recluse audio enthusiast who might just be getting a job online stuck in a pandemic upgrading from HD58X+Fosi Q4 these would be worth it? I am interested in Planar but want more Bass and Soundscape than my 58X, and also what Amp+Dac would you recommend? I would use speakers (I actually have Mirage Speakers) but I can't use them much as my Ma would get upset.
@@SussyBaka-em9rq Hmm, I actually have a 58x and I would say the LCD-X is way better in terms of bass (I EQ of course), as far as soundstaging goes the LCD-X is definitely better but not mindblowing better. You will definitely want to upgrade the Q4. If you don't care about balanced you could go with the standard magni 3+/modi schiit stack. I personally used the JDS Labs atom amp/dac for a long time (even tried with the LCD-X and it had plenty of juice, plus it's clean enough for IEMs if you go that route). I did upgrade to the Topping A30 Pro/D30 Pro which I like but if you wanted a stack with good power for less I really like the iFi Zen Can / Zen Dac that a friend of mine owns.
@@rawrj LCD-X really doesn't need powerful amp and can be driven off nearly anything. Got FiiO K5 Pro and it works well with it. However planning to get a better DAC and just use K5 Pro just as an amp.
@@teemuvesala9575 it's surprisingly easy to drive, with the JDS Atom amp I didn't even need high gain and it was louder at 12 O'clock than some of my IEMs. Only reason I upgraded is future proofing; I intend to own a lot more headsets than the LCD-X, 58x, and 6XX.
I just bought the LCD-XC and honestly did not like them at all and was about to send them back until I applied your EQ settings. They sound SO MUCH better now. Thank you very much for posting your settings!
Do you think for an 18 year old recluse audio enthusiast who might just be getting a job online stuck in a pandemic upgrading from HD58X+Fosi Q4 these would be worth it? I am interested in Planar but want more Bass and Soundscape than my 58X, and also what Amp+Dac would you recommend? I would use speakers (I actually have Mirage Speakers) but I can't use them much as my Ma would get upset.
@@SussyBaka-em9rq planar has good bass when you move way up in the price bracket. I would say go with x2HR for amp dac go with ifi zen dac or zen can with true bass / x bass. I use audeze lcd X with ifi zen stack my self. But the setup I mentioned above is great too.
@@SussyBaka-em9rq The 2 answers you already got is grate! I hear good things about the Mojo. have the 2C and the new XC. The 2C pairs grate with the Zen Can Signature, as it gives more bass and ads a little detail with True bass (since it's a dark headphone). But it can't compare the the XC paired with the RME ADI 2 FS. (More detail and cleaner bass, witch can be tuned up to 11). But that's an expensive amp.
@@Rubmaster I have the 2021 lcdx and I have a chord mojo and it sounds great, I just bought a kann alpha dap, I was worried about trying to drive the lcdx with a dap but it sounds great with the kann alpha too.
Superb review - thanks a million. For several months I've been struggling with "analysis paralysis" in my attempt to choose among headphones. The models I was considering had many fine qualities, but I couldn't quite escape the feeling that in various ways they lacked some feature I was hoping to find. Your evaluation of these Audeze LCD-X and XC headphones has helped persuade me that these models offer a feature set that fulfills nearly every specification on my wish list. (Perhaps their only detriment is their weight, but I figure I'll just be willing to develop stronger neck muscles...)
Ah man, that was a close call! After a month of research, I was just about to buy the new X. But after this video I'm going for the XC. I have the 2C. And I'm using it for movies and detailed music listening. And when I'm laying on the couch in pillow heaven. There have been times, where I needed to be cautious to not cover the open back design (the sound becomes weird). So for that reason. I'm going for the close backs 😊
Really glad you brought up the changes. From my experience my LCD-X 2021 is more resolving, has better dynamics, and overall performs better than my Focal Clears. When I got the Clears I always heard it was a better performer than the LCD-X, but after ABing I can confidently say the X is noticeably better in every category other than timbre and comfort. The Clears sound more natural and has more correct tonality. Tested both with no EQ so I imagine the X will sound even better.
@@OptLab from my experience the FR of the X can be altered substantially via EQ. It just seems like planars response much better to EQ due to lower harmonic distortion, but I could be wrong on that. I also have a pair of LCD-i3s and once EQed it was simply sublime. Of course YMMV!!
@@blitzkreig000 Thanks. I'm going to test the LCD-X. Though I have the feeling they will be to heavy for my taste. Probably leaning towards Hifiman although I try not to buy chinese at all
Such a good, complete review. But I still maintain that headphones above 600 grams are murder for most people. The problem is clear: once the pain sets in, after 1, 2 or 4 hours - you cannot forget it. And so the next time you go to put it on, the pleasure is gone, you expect PAIN. :) So much so that you even fear lighter headphones.
Great video, love the red squares for easier following which part of the FR you're referring to. I am looking for a planar to supplement my Clear Pro. The 2021 XC seems perfect. :)
@@arancourt5623 I had started working out since I filled the form for lcd x giveaway. I had paused after I didn't win. Now I'll resume since I feel like buying lcd xc once I save up enough.. 😂
@@prabinpaudel5572 use the Klarna app. I used it to get my lcd x. I bought a $1000 gift certificate and paid $250 every 2 weeks until paid off and then paid the rest with my debit card. I've also used it to get Andromeda 2020.
@@brooksphillips2234 in 3rd world its different my friend. Food and clothing are super cheap while electronics and vehicles are super expensive here. I work part time as a high school teacher. 2hours everyday. And my pay is 170 dollars a month.. An average full time pay is 500 dollars a month. So the investment in electronics is always scary to us. I use 240 dollar phone and have an 270 dollar audio setup at present. It's pretty weird here. Thanks for the suggestion though. One of my friends in USA is deep in this hobby it would help him. ☺
After binge watching many of your videos and doing quite a bit of research in my search for an end-game game/music setup, I believe this video is the one that got me to pull the trigger. I am anxiously waiting for the LCD-XC (along with the LCD-XG's cable kit and the Shiit Hel 2E). Exceptional videos from you and the entire team at The Headphone Show. Thank you!
@@TheHEADPHONEShow Thank you for your reply. Absolutely, I will definitely EQ them based on your recommendations. All in all, would you agree that is a good "end-game" setup for music and gaming? - I understand it is impossible to talk absolutes on this topic. I am looking for whether or not I am getting the best value at that price bracket. Obviously, in my opinion I am, but I welcome feedback. Thanks again.
This is a great video. I purchased the LCD-X around Spring 2020 and use it with the below equipment. I almost always turn the outermost knobs (don't remember freq response) of the Schiit Loki to the max to get what I perceive to be the right sound from the headphones for music.
Thank you for the review. However I never understand people talking about low frequencies being "beyond the limits of human hearing". You can feel bass beyond what the ear drums themselves pick up, so it still matters. It can definitely affect the listening experience even if you can't hear it in the normal sense.
Definitely prefer the look of the wood cups. Don't mind the carbon fiber in exchange for the weight reduction, but still could have left the logo off...
I'm glad Audeze innovates on their long running models but this is disheartening as an LCD-X 2020 owner as all these revisions fix the small issues I have with older versions. They should really have some sort of trade in program if you purchase a pair close to the release of a new revision as there is a small market for this hobby. The weight changes, the revision of the pads, and upgrading to a carbon fiber headband seem like it would really improve the listening comfort of my current LCD-X with the weight reduction and shortening the distance of the pads.
Finally! I was waiting for this Review since you teased it in the Live Stream. I'm thinking about buying a high end Headphone. Was looking at HD800S, Focal, Arya, Auteur, Aeolus and others. Maybe this Review will convince me to go for the LCD-X (+ Rebel Amp). Now the only question is X or XC. Guess I have to test both of them side by side.
If i may suggest one look at the shure srh1840 it absolutely compeets with the hd800s and the clear in my opinion. I have all three and i kinda like the 1840 the best. Also they weigh only 270grams without cable wich is amazing for longer sessions. And the best thing is that it costs literally three times lessbthan the sennheiser or the focal.
Great review Andrew. Just some questions - 1. Which one would you recommend between Focal MG Clear and Audeze LCD-X? 2. Do you still think Arya is a better than MG Clear and LCD-X for $1500 price range?
I mean if you’re already spending 1.2k on cans is 300 more really out of the budget? I enjoy my Arya more than the LCDX that I returned even if they are harder to drive.
#1 is really hard for anyone to answer. You either like dynamic headphones or planars. If you already know the answer to that, then you already know the answer to your question. If you don't, you should really demo them or get some more "entry" level headphones of each (6xx vs Sundara) and see which you like better.
My arya has imbalanced channel issue , left channel has more bass and vibrate my ear than right channel . And the sound is little bit too bright for my taste .
If you're in a room where there is noises happening around you get the xc and if your in a quiet room get x, I got the x andYou can’t go wrong either way both are great headphones imo
Currently reviewing the XC along side the Stelia and Vc, That boost in the upper midrange and the slight spike below 6K plus the air, is, just, to much. Stelia is more tecnical but for the pricepoint jeeeees so glad these now are here and they can perform, that airea of pricepoint has been barren for so long, but we will see how it comes out aggenst the big boys in the coming weeks at the desk.
I do love my new XC, but after watching the video again I see you mention you just do a few filters on the XC. This is about 12:43 in the video. When I click the link above to the forums I only see a full 10 band filter recommendation. Would you mind sharing the simple 3 to 5 band EQ that you would recommend? I would like to EQ as minimal as possible.
Those who own an LCD-XC, try removing one screw from the backplates, and listen to deep bass, without any bass EQ. Be careful putting the screw back in, DO NOT OVER TIGHTEN. can damage the thread.
Could you make an updated comparison video of some of the best closed-back headphones ? Like LCD-XC, LCD-2 closed, Stellia, Celestee, Vérité closed, Eikon, Aeon 2 noire, HD 820, TH900mk2... That would be great! :D
These used to be my favorite cans prior to the major changed they made somewhere around d 2019. I purchased the current version in October 2022. As a starting point, I had to cut treble by 6db and boost bass by 9db. They still don't have the bass kick the older versions had. I can't believe Audeze changed these so dramatically. They seem to accept the heavy eq, so I haven't decided if I'll keep them.
Very helpful...vendor claimed they sent me the "older version", or pre-2021 version, but per this serial no. reference, I actually have the newer config model, which I'm assuming is what is the 2021 version. To be sure, because I need to be, I'm going to buy them again, this time the new 2021 version from another vendor and check the serial and compare. If anyone has questions about their version, hopefully I can answer them. Thanks for this important info!
I think these are overlooked due to all the yammering about the weight of Audeze hp, etc. To your point about out of the box/no eq FR, these are the best price to performance hp that Audeze has on tap. I really like my XCs and I like not feeling the need to eq if I do t want to be tethered to a computer. Furthermore, I can say that the carbon fiber headband upgrade improves the weight a fair amount also. Although the $200 price point stings but its well worth it IMO. Great overview man 👍🏻
Any chance you could find an old LCD X outfitted with the new pads to isolate the FR changes done to the drivers? I'd imagine legacy LCD X owners would be very interested in the measurements.
I bought my LCD-XC at the end of November 2020 and it weighs 766 grams, I have no problem with the weight. I really like this headphones and the Carbon looks so sexy. 🔥
What's the longest session that you would listen to music with the XC? Because I feel like over time it would be quite fatiguing over a period of time in one session.
@@clichehabitat8306 Usually my sessions are two to three hours long. But it has nothing to do with the weight of the LCD-XC, had the Hifiman HE1000SE for two years and I have never listened to it for longer.
I've just used the EQ from Resolve on my new LCD-XC. With bad recordings like Florence & The Machine - Rabbit heart, the XC is unlistenable without EQ. With EQ is a delight but for great recordings I prefer it without EQ.
Hello! I clearly see and understand that the Audeze LCD-XC frequency response curve coincides in the midrange with the Avantone Pro MixCube. This was not done by accident. Please tell me - how much is the stereo image inferior to the Open design? Thank you.
And now I don't know how the LCD-X compares to the Focal clear and hifiman Arya without EQ lol cause the tuning on the LCD-X still looks quite dark, it doesn't have a terrible frequency response anymore but it doesn't seem very neutral either. The LCD-XC just looks like a straight up amazingly well tuned headphone. Probably the best sounding closed back for the price by far. I wonder how it compares to the Focal Radiance. Comfort is still an issue for the XC though so I'd trade some technical performance for the comfort of a Focal.
Thank you for the EQ suggestions for the XC, it sounds better. I was wondering why you suggest EQing down 11k rather than 12k or 13k where the peak seems to be. I am new to EQ so was just curious!
Technically, you are correct, but Audeze will send you the frequency response curve for your individual headphones on request, meaning that his general advice about there being a peak over 10 kHz is correct. The specific advice, may not apply to others. The peak on my individual pair, is at 10.1 kHz. I can't hear over 13.5 kHz anymore due to my age, so any peak in that area is welcome to me. I hadn't spent as much time eq'ing over 10k, as I had at 4.1k, due to the content in most music above 10k being rather light compared to the midrange. Coldplay's "Politik", with its prominent cymbals, is one track that I'd used to test over 10k. I had ended up cooking up a response for mine, that was very close to that of the Reveal+ plugin, using the Harman curve to compare against.
Hi Andrew, can you please comment on the difference in soundstage between the LCD-X and LCD-XC? And is the bass response now similar in the current models? As I recall, in previous versions the bass from the LCD-X sounded looser while the LCD-X sounded tighter, punchier, and better defined. Thank you
Thanks for the great review. I traded up from an Ananda to an LCD-X that should arrive in a few days. My amp is a Schiit Ragnarock 2 with more than 24W of power from the balanced headphone out. Question… even though the LCD-X doesn’t require a lot of power, should I expect to hear any benefits from driving them with so much power? Maybe better transients or other improvements in the sound? The Ragnarock has a 128 step relay switched volume knob so I should still be able to make finite volume adjustments and have good channel matching at low volume settings. Please share your thoughts. Thanks!
No, these don't 'scale' the way something like an HD650 does. A good 'no nonsense' source is all you need - and those are available for cheap. Actually, I probably wouldn't use the balanced out, that's WAY too much power.
@@ResolveReviews Thanks for your reply and good to know. There is an article on the Audeze website about sensitivity, impedance and power that says raw power can’t be beat, but I guess my Ragnarock may be overkill for the LCD-X. Nonetheless I already bought a balanced cable for it so my curiosity will force me to try it out. Again, great review and thanks for all you do for the community!
I'm looking to purchase the 2021 LCD X or XC. I'm coming from the 6XXs, which I've really enjoyed. Which of the two, lcd x or lcd xc, do you think I would enjoy more? Thank you Side note, I listened to the Focal Clears and preferred the 6XXs.
I'm not particularly looking for something like the Hd6xx. I'm just wanting to try something different to get a better understanding of my preference, since I haven't had many headphones. I just know I'm a little treble sensitive. I am set on getting either the 2021 LCD X or XC but there's not much information on the difference between the two after the latest revision.
New person to this fied! I tried the xc vs LCD-2 and honestly the small sound stage in XC is such a turn off for me. Yes more precise and detailed experience with closed but it feels glued to my ears while the open lcd-2 classic were better for me. I am dropping taking my new headphones out for a walk and consiering getting the open now for home use only :/ MY ears are not trained at all so not sure why everyone is saying the XC are really good! am I wrong about these?
I’m thinking about trying the new LCD-X. I’ve stayed away from Audeze for a while due to the weight/comfort issues. Maybe the solution is to add a “neck day” into my weight training split to prepare for these.
Gotta add an endurance workout, you know, like a long run, but for your neck. If all else fails, a medical halo apparatus and hang them offa dat (kidding).
I'm curious how these new LCD-X 2021 now compare to Hifiman's lineup, considering Hifiman's strong point has always been tonality and Audeze's is technical performance. HE6SE vs LCD-X?
Clearly LCD-X In my opinion, the better comparison would be the original HE-6, which is technically better than HE6-SE On another note, I did compare LCD-X 2021 vs Arya last week, still prefer Arya for the imaging. The rest of technicality were par. Tonality i prefer Arya out of the box, but I think LCD-X will win if EQ-ed
There is a point to consider here. When other companies do their revisions, they either don't change the sound so drastically, or if the sound is significantly improved, they change the index in the name of their product. For example, Sennheiser HD800 -> HD800S. That's how it should be. Audeze, being a not very considerate company towards its clients, neglects their interests and only cares about its own profit. Yes, Audeze improves its products, but it does it as if to flatter its ego, not to make the world (of music listening) a better place. IMHO.
Actually, even within existing models, there are revisions, you just don't hear about them because they're not as significant. It typically comes down to small tweaks in the build. In Audeze's case though, it did result in a major tuning difference.
@@TheHEADPHONEShow That's right. That's why they should have come up with a new name or model index. At least a year indication as you rightly suggested, although that wouldn't be enough imo. They haven't done even that. And I consider that to be dishonest marketing because it misleads buyers. Dishonest marketing is not far from being a fraud. No matter how much of an improvement their new revision is. That's what I'm trying to convey.
The XC is “ok”, but it’s far far from the best. that makes sense, given the price. I just don’t like when people think they are the best, or close to. When I updated to the Stellia and ZMF, it was clear how much better those were.
@@JTB-- I know this is from a year ago but having done multiple tests I can tell you it’s closer to 98% and the XC actually beats the Stellia in several categories. It’s an amazingly well designed headphone. I think I hit my endgame closed back, now the hunt for the endgame open back begins
Good morning Andrew I hope all is well but in your honest opinion if you already had a good pair of open backs and wanted some good closed backs for home use and money wasn’t an issue witch would you choose the focal celestee or lcd xc carbon?
Does the leather and leather-free ear pads have noticeable sonic differences? Also do you know if all LCD X that come in economy travel case have 2021 revisions? Including b stock ones.
just curious about this... I saw the other day a guy selling a set of LCD-x and with it a set of LCD-xc cups... so he could just put the cups from a LCD-xc onto the LCD-x headphone... does this actually work or are there real differences between the X and XC besides the closed cups ? and if this is a possibility where do you purchase just the XC cups...
Hi Andrew! I don't agree with the explanation you've given regarding the redesigned magnet structure and that it doesn't affect the 'performance'. This is not possible, even in theory. Let me explain. In order to achieve the exact same result or a very similar one, Audeze could not have eliminated two magnets and relocate the rest. They had to do one of the two things, or both: 1) modify the diaphragm - either through size, thickness, material or more notably, a different circuit trace, 2) modify the magnetic field acting on the diaphragm, either it's strength or uniformity - either through size and shape of the magnets or by using a material or materials with different magnetic properties. In engineering, this is generally known as 'optimization'. It applies to transducer design in electroacoustic engineering, dynamic system in mechanical engineering and static system in structural engineering alike. It allows for similar results to be achieved at a lower cost, either through a more efficient use of materials or through use of cheaper materials. It is not a negative thing, it is what engineering is all about. But, for an optimized system to function identically as the previous iteration is simply not possible. This is a fact. On a side note, and this has nothing to do with what I've said above, I really think the LCD-X is a failure. I remember my first experience of listening to the demo unit in a HIFI store, alongside the LCD-2 Classic and LCD-3. The upper mids and treble were hard, likely caused by upper odd-order harmonic distortion (likely 5th and 7th) which is shocking since even musical instruments of the 18th and 19th century were made to suppress these harmonics. They might not have known the theory behind it at the time, but they certainly knew what they didn't like. It sounded like an early prototype to me, utterly off-putting, dynamically compressed and hard. I certainly hope the demo units were not damaged in some way as the intention should be for the customer to buy a pair, not to walk out of the store with empty hands. In contrast, the LCD-2 Classic was much better, still a bit compressed and hard in the upper mids, but quite OK for more current musical styles. The LCD-3 was again a step above, offering smoother mids and upper mids. But as good as they were, both the LCD-2 Classic and LCD-3 are much too expensive for what you get. As for the LCD-X, I can think of several headphones that cost 200 € or less and that sound incomparably better. Let me also say this, EU is not what it used to be and where I live, the price of the LCD-X equals two-and-a-half months of minimum salary. I would still consider this fair if it was a proper 'tool' with an appropriate level of authenticity to the sound it reproduced. But it doesn't. I know that starting a company is not easy and that managing one is even more difficult. But I don't like or appreciate the way Audeze is campaigning these headphones. They found famous producers and engineers and put them on a pay-roll. Of course, this serves only as a 'vehicle' to deliver the product to an unassuming music lover of whom there are many (because you can't make a living by selling your product only to high-profile producers) and to deliver it with a strong message: if it's good for famous professionals, it's more than good enough for you. Also, giving money to the reviewers and publications not to review other products or not to include their products in group tests speaks enough. More honesty would not hurt Audeze. Otherwise, a good review, as always. Cheers!
Why oh why did they slap that big AUDEZE on the cup. I asked if it can be removed, and it's beneath the varnish from the manufacturer. Does anyone know where to get custom earcups? My googling has turned up nothing but despair.
@@LomaGnome I didn't say I preferred a visible brand name on my head, I recommended a way to make it invisible. And no, I think it's gaudy and cheap. But that's just the price you pay for choosing closed back headphones :P
I'm going to be getting both of these (stepping up from ananda/Sony mdr-z7m2) next week. I plan on keeping only one. I'll let you know what I think tho!
@Lagunakid24 Had a bit of a hiccup. haven't order them yet. I've been down a RUclips rabbit hole for a couple weeks now trying to decide what exactly id like to spend my little bonus on. I think i'll be going with the Arya, and the Unique melody Mest mk2, but It'll be at least a week before I have them.
@@kenzoquiambao I did. Got both the Arya and the LCD-X. I've had them for a little over a month, and I'm back and forth on which one is "better". I dont think there's an answer, for me personally. The Arya (8.5/10) Light and airy. Bass is deep and addicting. Instrument separation and spaciousness is its area of expertise. It more versatile across the full FR spectrum than the Ananda, without question. Only downside is, vocals can come off juuuuust a tad unnatural on certain tracks. Lcd-x (8.5/10) I listened happily for a few days before applying oratory1990's eq profile. I Immediately smiled in recognition, now fully understanding the hype of the X. Even though it's the 2021 revision, DEFINITELY STILL EQ THEM. The resolution is top notch. It's more internalized or "intimate" than the Arya. This can be a good thing if you're in the mood. Bass hits hard and fast and is in your head. Listening to blues track, I'm Going to Missouri (Hector Anchondo)left me speechless. Rock/metal/electronic etc etc etc all sound delicious. Time will tell if I decide to let one of these go. For now, I'll just keep them both and be thankful to be in a position to have them in the first place. 🙏
Any difference between the Carbon and Maple LCD-XC? Also, revisions are ok as long as they're easily identifiable to the customer. Perhaps an exception for the tiniest changes that don't make any difference, but otherwise, yes, Audeze should have had model numbers ages ago. Is it that hard to slap just a "1, 2, 3.." or whatever after the name? Posting serial numbers is something, but still insufficient.
which one would you recommend if we already have the Sennheiser HD800? Which Audeze complements that the best? I want the LCD-X but is the XC "better" if I already have the HD800?
my god iu just got the xc and they are a huge upgrade over my either cx. Also either cx cable is the biggest pos ever i have had to repair it countless times over the last few years. also the headband adjuster on them is garbage to . only time will tell but these are amazing so far. Need to get the xlr cable tough accidently got the 1/4 in version.
Looking to another options from focal clear mg and Arya stealths. Using for mixing and mastering. If I get these and EQ using the RME 2/4 DAC would that not be better than software EQ? What frequencies do you suggest I adjust to get the most accurate sound? Would the MM-500's be better and what frequencies would that one need to adjust?
Thanks a lot for your great reviews! Could you also compare these ones with a gaming edition -GX!? And to make it clear, LCD-X is worth the money compered to the LCD-2C. I didn't have a chance to hear to both of them at a time. What is your preference: LCD-X 2021 or Ananda? Mainly for rock, pop and classics.
The GX is the best out of the 2c, 2, and GX. Though, I wouldn't really consider the 2C. The X is a fairly substantial upgrade to the GX as well. As far as Ananda vs X, the X is better. Ananda still has a weird FR, and the XS kind of makes it redundant. The X is an improvement across the board and doesn't have that compressed sound the Ananda does.
Ordered mine in March, thought it was the new one. But got the 2020 version instead, pretty bummed on that. The new version also includes a nice case with the creators version too which i missed out on.
@@ResolveReviews Off of Amazon. I just rechecked my order and now they updated the listing to the (old version) and made an entirely new one for the current version
I received a 2020 LCD-XC from a UK dealer when I ordered mine a few weeks ago. Audeze offered to upgrade them to the 2021 version free of charge, I just needed to pay shipping one-way. They're on their way back to me now having been with Audeze just under a week. Really can't fault their customer service.
Is it recommended to upgrade to the new pads for owners of the original Lcd-x for the new tuning? Or does your old eq curve for them accomplish the same thing?
Great overview and summation of the changes. I love to EQ everything, but sometimes I don't want to 'have to' EQ. Particularly when I am traveling or at work. I sold my previous LCD-XC for this reason alone. Yes, I will even wear these or my Stellia, E-MU Teaks etc at Starbucks. I was on the fence about ordering these 2021 LCD-XC until I saw this breakdown. Order placed!
@@ChrisKeyman To my ears and preferences, they are amazing. Even better than the 2018 version. I still add a bass shelf for certain genres, but these are overall closer to a Harman 'neutral' (without bass shelf) frequency response than any Audeze or closed back I have heard. I have heard every high end to TOTL closed back headphone available and this is my favorite. I have even heard the LCD-5, Susvara, HE1000, CRBN and again, to my ears, these are right up there. Although I would fully understand someone preferring another closed back like the Stellia or VC (not the DCA Stealth though, these are not in the same class, way overpriced for their sound).
@@ChrisKeyman I would say the XC is basically perfect for that because the sub bass quality is about as good as it gets, but it is not under/over emphasized, helping you avoid under/over emphasizing it in your final product. Only one way to find out really though. Get em on your head.
I have the Stellia and like them a lot, but find they are a little lightweight on the bass. Does this revised LCD-XC have a stronger bass than the Stellia?
Nope and what do you mean anyway? LCD-X creator package is just $200 more than LCD-2. My honest recommendation is to go with LCD-2C if you can't get LCD-X...
Make the XC lighter and they are close to perfection it seems. 200 grams lighter. Use high grade plastic. Just make one as an option and charge the same price for gods sake Sennheiser did it with the 820.
Loving your reviews man! I was able to try out the Arya stealth and LCD-X 2021 a few days ago. Felt to me like the Arya's sound was more 3-dimensional, immersive and more detailed than the LCD-X. Also in the lower/sub-bass region I could hear the bass rumbles (kind of like the Dolby Atmos trailer rumbles) better on the Arya, and felt it was almost missing on the LCD-X, very muted/dead. Sounds like water droplets seemed more detailed on the Arya than LCD-X. Bass had more of a thump and felt fuller on the LCD-X. I'm coming from a Sennheiser HD600 and even on that I could hear the low end bass rumble. Was wondering if you noticed something similar - if that bass rolloff you describe is what I picked up here or if it was potentially a not so good LCD-X that I ran into? I'm trying to decide between the two for my upgrade from the HD600 which I've had for years now. Solid pair of HP, only the cables kept dying on me. Thx
Great change for those who dislike EQ or have setups where EQ is not possible or not easily implemented
I dislike when eq is brought up during reviews.
@@gossipmime7648 many headphones do not eq well, one of the great benefits of planar magnetic drivers and especially the audeze ones are that they can be tuned to the listener's preference to rather extreme levels without distorting or losing detail. There has also never been an objectively neutral pair of headphones since they interact with people's ears and heads differently, so eq can and will often make headphones sound more natural and lifelike.
@@gossipmime7648it defeats the purpose of a headphone review
Audeze is the best man. I’ve tried focal clear mg 800s and everything in between. The audeze LCD X 2021 won it for me and it did it easily. It can be super resolving or bass cannons with incredible full sound the drivers feel like they have no limitation.
Hello, I can't becide between the Focal Clear MG and the Audeze LCD-X 2021, how would you compare them? I mainly listen to metalcore, EDM & trap music. Thank you :)
@@Alkyno the focal is a toy compared to the audeze. The focal is slightly clearer if you will in its audio presentation at low volumes, but as soon are you turn up the volume there is instant distortion, no bass, ok sound stage, a bit lighter then the lcd x but the materials feels like a toy compared to the lcd x 2021
The lcd x is the most premium well built industrial design, endless bass I mean literally I don’t know what one has to do to distort the sound they are incredible. Sound stage ok. Really meaty sound presentation at any volume. With the lcd x u can do critical listening or have bass cannons on your head with excellent sound presentation. To kind of short this reply I’ll put it like this . When I got the focal clear mg I thought to my self wtf is this shit ? When I got the audeze lcd x 2021 I said to my self end game achieved after soooo long of searching. Edm, rap. Rock. Strings vocals idc the audeze can do it all . The focal has a slight advantage in vocals maybe ? But I would give that category to sennhiser all day anyway. My recommendation is audeze lcd x for overall best headphone and he 800s for soundstage/ vocal but remember that sennhiser has no bass like focal.
@@intelligence6900 thank you so much for the detailed answer. I was already leaning towards the LCD-X but now my choice is obvious!
Mine are coming after 14 days
@@intelligence6900 Ur analogy is Spot On! All focals distorts and the 800s are the worst bass for high end headphones.
I wanted to say how much I appreciate you posting the EQ profiles for both the LCD-X and LCD-XC. I've been testing both for the past couple of weeks. I really wanted to like the XC because of sound bleed and environment noises, but they were just too bright and I felt myself gravitating more towards the LCD-X. I tried your initial EQ for the XC and it certainly did help, but if was your 2nd EQ posted for them that really got me to love them. I love these so much now that I've been re-listening to my favorite playlists. They sound amazing, better than the LCD-X (even with the posted EQ profiles for it). After trying out the DT 990 Pro, Sundara, Arya, LCD-X, and LCD-XC, I have finally decided on keeping the XC for sure. Thank you once again.
Got mine recently and love them.
Hi friend,
How to get EQ?
Look in description @@TaiLe-dr5ve
Picked up the LCD-X last month. I really wanted to wait for this review but you had already mentioned enough nice things about them to make me give it a shot. Glad I did.
Do you think for an 18 year old recluse audio enthusiast who might just be getting a job online stuck in a pandemic upgrading from HD58X+Fosi Q4 these would be worth it? I am interested in Planar but want more Bass and Soundscape than my 58X, and also what Amp+Dac would you recommend? I would use speakers (I actually have Mirage Speakers) but I can't use them much as my Ma would get upset.
@@SussyBaka-em9rq Hmm, I actually have a 58x and I would say the LCD-X is way better in terms of bass (I EQ of course), as far as soundstaging goes the LCD-X is definitely better but not mindblowing better.
You will definitely want to upgrade the Q4. If you don't care about balanced you could go with the standard magni 3+/modi schiit stack. I personally used the JDS Labs atom amp/dac for a long time (even tried with the LCD-X and it had plenty of juice, plus it's clean enough for IEMs if you go that route).
I did upgrade to the Topping A30 Pro/D30 Pro which I like but if you wanted a stack with good power for less I really like the iFi Zen Can / Zen Dac that a friend of mine owns.
@@rawrj LCD-X really doesn't need powerful amp and can be driven off nearly anything. Got FiiO K5 Pro and it works well with it. However planning to get a better DAC and just use K5 Pro just as an amp.
@@teemuvesala9575 it's surprisingly easy to drive, with the JDS Atom amp I didn't even need high gain and it was louder at 12 O'clock than some of my IEMs. Only reason I upgraded is future proofing; I intend to own a lot more headsets than the LCD-X, 58x, and 6XX.
I just bought the LCD-XC and honestly did not like them at all and was about to send them back until I applied your EQ settings. They sound SO MUCH better now. Thank you very much for posting your settings!
The same happened to me a week ago, I thought I wasted 1200 bucks on my lcd x but after eq I love them
Where you guys apply this EQ? Is it in their reveal app? How to EQ them one time forever?
I could listen to you talk about headphones for way too long. I find this all fascinating.
Love your reviews, they’re by far the most objective and in depth I’ve seen from any audio RUclipsr. Your voice is also very relaxing :)
👀
Do you think for an 18 year old recluse audio enthusiast who might just be getting a job online stuck in a pandemic upgrading from HD58X+Fosi Q4 these would be worth it? I am interested in Planar but want more Bass and Soundscape than my 58X, and also what Amp+Dac would you recommend? I would use speakers (I actually have Mirage Speakers) but I can't use them much as my Ma would get upset.
@@SussyBaka-em9rq planar has good bass when you move way up in the price bracket. I would say go with x2HR for amp dac go with ifi zen dac or zen can with true bass / x bass. I use audeze lcd X with ifi zen stack my self. But the setup I mentioned above is great too.
@@SussyBaka-em9rq I pair my lcd x with my dx300 or chord mojo. The mojo is much cheaper and sounds amazing with the lcd x.
@@SussyBaka-em9rq The 2 answers you already got is grate! I hear good things about the Mojo. have the 2C and the new XC. The 2C pairs grate with the Zen Can Signature, as it gives more bass and ads a little detail with True bass (since it's a dark headphone). But it can't compare the the XC paired with the RME ADI 2 FS. (More detail and cleaner bass, witch can be tuned up to 11). But that's an expensive amp.
@@Rubmaster I have the 2021 lcdx and I have a chord mojo and it sounds great, I just bought a kann alpha dap, I was worried about trying to drive the lcdx with a dap but it sounds great with the kann alpha too.
Superb review - thanks a million. For several months I've been struggling with "analysis paralysis" in my attempt to choose among headphones. The models I was considering had many fine qualities, but I couldn't quite escape the feeling that in various ways they lacked some feature I was hoping to find. Your evaluation of these Audeze LCD-X and XC headphones has helped persuade me that these models offer a feature set that fulfills nearly every specification on my wish list. (Perhaps their only detriment is their weight, but I figure I'll just be willing to develop stronger neck muscles...)
Ah man, that was a close call! After a month of research, I was just about to buy the new X. But after this video I'm going for the XC. I have the 2C. And I'm using it for movies and detailed music listening. And when I'm laying on the couch in pillow heaven. There have been times, where I needed to be cautious to not cover the open back design (the sound becomes weird). So for that reason. I'm going for the close backs 😊
Did you get them?
How is the sub bass?
Really glad you brought up the changes. From my experience my LCD-X 2021 is more resolving, has better dynamics, and overall performs better than my Focal Clears. When I got the Clears I always heard it was a better performer than the LCD-X, but after ABing I can confidently say the X is noticeably better in every category other than timbre and comfort. The Clears sound more natural and has more correct tonality.
Tested both with no EQ so I imagine the X will sound even better.
Does EQuing allows to match Clear's tonality without losses? From the curve I find the Lcd-x flat but I hope the peaks in the treble are fixable.
@@OptLab from my experience the FR of the X can be altered substantially via EQ. It just seems like planars response much better to EQ due to lower harmonic distortion, but I could be wrong on that. I also have a pair of LCD-i3s and once EQed it was simply sublime.
Of course YMMV!!
@@blitzkreig000 Thanks. I'm going to test the LCD-X. Though I have the feeling they will be to heavy for my taste. Probably leaning towards Hifiman although I try not to buy chinese at all
The Audeze LCD-X 2021 version is fantastic, I dig mine.
The LCD-X 2021 look like a very appealing set of cans I may invest in, thanks for all the great info!
Such a good, complete review. But I still maintain that headphones above 600 grams are murder for most people. The problem is clear: once the pain sets in, after 1, 2 or 4 hours - you cannot forget it. And so the next time you go to put it on, the pleasure is gone, you expect PAIN. :) So much so that you even fear lighter headphones.
Hmmm, I think the LCD X's are so well 'weight distributed' that for me, there isn't a problem. I don't have a neck like Mike Tyson either!
Great video, love the red squares for easier following which part of the FR you're referring to. I am looking for a planar to supplement my Clear Pro. The 2021 XC seems perfect. :)
I purchased an lcd x 2021 last week. Blown away.(using balanced dual cable for pono)
@Ted Vreden pono. Its a portable music player
Guess I should start training my neck again. 😂
Again? I only started working out so I could safely headbang without causing muscular damage in my neck
@@arancourt5623 I had started working out since I filled the form for lcd x giveaway. I had paused after I didn't win. Now I'll resume since I feel like buying lcd xc once I save up enough.. 😂
@@prabinpaudel5572 use the Klarna app. I used it to get my lcd x. I bought a $1000 gift certificate and paid $250 every 2 weeks until paid off and then paid the rest with my debit card. I've also used it to get Andromeda 2020.
@@brooksphillips2234 in 3rd world its different my friend. Food and clothing are super cheap while electronics and vehicles are super expensive here. I work part time as a high school teacher. 2hours everyday. And my pay is 170 dollars a month.. An average full time pay is 500 dollars a month. So the investment in electronics is always scary to us. I use 240 dollar phone and have an 270 dollar audio setup at present. It's pretty weird here. Thanks for the suggestion though. One of my friends in USA is deep in this hobby it would help him. ☺
After binge watching many of your videos and doing quite a bit of research in my search for an end-game game/music setup, I believe this video is the one that got me to pull the trigger. I am anxiously waiting for the LCD-XC (along with the LCD-XG's cable kit and the Shiit Hel 2E). Exceptional videos from you and the entire team at The Headphone Show. Thank you!
Just be sure to give some EQ profiles a try with these. You really can get a lot more out of them.
@@TheHEADPHONEShow Thank you for your reply. Absolutely, I will definitely EQ them based on your recommendations. All in all, would you agree that is a good "end-game" setup for music and gaming? - I understand it is impossible to talk absolutes on this topic. I am looking for whether or not I am getting the best value at that price bracket. Obviously, in my opinion I am, but I welcome feedback. Thanks again.
Great summary Resolve! I'm happy I have the 2021 version, I knew it was better, hehe
This is a great video. I purchased the LCD-X around Spring 2020 and use it with the below equipment. I almost always turn the outermost knobs (don't remember freq response) of the Schiit Loki to the max to get what I perceive to be the right sound from the headphones for music.
Great review! How would the XC compare to the Denon 9200?
Thank you for the review. However I never understand people talking about low frequencies being "beyond the limits of human hearing". You can feel bass beyond what the ear drums themselves pick up, so it still matters. It can definitely affect the listening experience even if you can't hear it in the normal sense.
Totally agree, what I enjoy the most about Audeze is the slam of the driver and not only the sound. I feel like the slam “tickles” my ear drums
You can't hear under 20Hz, and you won't feel it from headphones either.
How do these compare with the LCD-2? Having trouble deciding between the two
Sig sauer does the same thing... very quiet rolling changes. All while denying there's been problems.
Am I the only one who isnt a fan of the
XC design? I think the Big Audeze logo is too cheesy.
Definitely prefer the look of the wood cups. Don't mind the carbon fiber in exchange for the weight reduction, but still could have left the logo off...
they made it so ugly so that ppl will buy the limited edition then
I own them and can't see the logo while I'm wearing them so it doesn't bother me.
I think they look pretty cool. But I love carbon fiber.
I agree. I replaced mine with custom backs made by Coca Cola.
I'm glad Audeze innovates on their long running models but this is disheartening as an LCD-X 2020 owner as all these revisions fix the small issues I have with older versions. They should really have some sort of trade in program if you purchase a pair close to the release of a new revision as there is a small market for this hobby. The weight changes, the revision of the pads, and upgrading to a carbon fiber headband seem like it would really improve the listening comfort of my current LCD-X with the weight reduction and shortening the distance of the pads.
Finally! I was waiting for this Review since you teased it in the Live Stream. I'm thinking about buying a high end Headphone. Was looking at HD800S, Focal, Arya, Auteur, Aeolus and others. Maybe this Review will convince me to go for the LCD-X (+ Rebel Amp).
Now the only question is X or XC. Guess I have to test both of them side by side.
If i may suggest one look at the shure srh1840 it absolutely compeets with the hd800s and the clear in my opinion. I have all three and i kinda like the 1840 the best. Also they weigh only 270grams without cable wich is amazing for longer sessions. And the best thing is that it costs literally three times lessbthan the sennheiser or the focal.
I say Arya
Great review Andrew. Just some questions -
1. Which one would you recommend between Focal MG Clear and Audeze LCD-X?
2. Do you still think Arya is a better than MG Clear and LCD-X for $1500 price range?
I mean if you’re already spending 1.2k on cans is 300 more really out of the budget? I enjoy my Arya more than the LCDX that I returned even if they are harder to drive.
#1 is really hard for anyone to answer. You either like dynamic headphones or planars. If you already know the answer to that, then you already know the answer to your question. If you don't, you should really demo them or get some more "entry" level headphones of each (6xx vs Sundara) and see which you like better.
My arya has imbalanced channel issue , left channel has more bass and vibrate my ear than right channel . And the sound is little bit too bright for my taste .
@@sanhnguyen97 my Arya had same issue and I tried 2 different ones.
@@oscillatingdailyaudio I read somewhere that this problem is because of a loose screw somewhere ...
Great timing on this review bc I'm trying to decide between the two rn
If you're in a room where there is noises happening around you get the xc and if your in a quiet room get x,
I got the x andYou can’t go wrong either way both are great headphones imo
thanks for the great review 😎 how is the soundstage of th lcd-xc compared to the lcd-x and the Arya?
I told myself I wasn't going to spend anymore money, and then this happens.
Currently reviewing the XC along side the Stelia and Vc, That boost in the upper midrange and the slight spike below 6K plus the air, is, just, to much. Stelia is more tecnical but for the pricepoint jeeeees
so glad these now are here and they can perform, that airea of pricepoint has been barren for so long, but we will see how it comes out aggenst the big boys in the coming weeks at the desk.
I do love my new XC, but after watching the video again I see you mention you just do a few filters on the XC. This is about 12:43 in the video. When I click the link above to the forums I only see a full 10 band filter recommendation. Would you mind sharing the simple 3 to 5 band EQ that you would recommend? I would like to EQ as minimal as possible.
Those who own an LCD-XC, try removing one screw from the backplates, and listen to deep bass, without any bass EQ.
Be careful putting the screw back in, DO NOT OVER TIGHTEN. can damage the thread.
I was just curious about the new ones!
Could you make an updated comparison video of some of the best closed-back headphones ? Like LCD-XC, LCD-2 closed, Stellia, Celestee, Vérité closed, Eikon, Aeon 2 noire, HD 820, TH900mk2...
That would be great! :D
Would be good to add the denon d9200 to the mix
These used to be my favorite cans prior to the major changed they made somewhere around d 2019. I purchased the current version in October 2022. As a starting point, I had to cut treble by 6db and boost bass by 9db. They still don't have the bass kick the older versions had. I can't believe Audeze changed these so dramatically. They seem to accept the heavy eq, so I haven't decided if I'll keep them.
Note: I am talking about the XC
Do you think that LCD-X 2021 is on the same level as Meze Empyrean?
Thanks.
Very helpful...vendor claimed they sent me the "older version", or pre-2021 version, but per this serial no. reference, I actually have the newer config model, which I'm assuming is what is the 2021 version. To be sure, because I need to be, I'm going to buy them again, this time the new 2021 version from another vendor and check the serial and compare. If anyone has questions about their version, hopefully I can answer them. Thanks for this important info!
I think these are overlooked due to all the yammering about the weight of Audeze hp, etc.
To your point about out of the box/no eq FR, these are the best price to performance hp that Audeze has on tap.
I really like my XCs and I like not feeling the need to eq if I do t want to be tethered to a computer. Furthermore, I can say that the carbon fiber headband upgrade improves the weight a fair amount also.
Although the $200 price point stings but its well worth it IMO.
Great overview man 👍🏻
How much weight reduction with this headband, please ?
Any chance you could find an old LCD X outfitted with the new pads to isolate the FR changes done to the drivers? I'd imagine legacy LCD X owners would be very interested in the measurements.
I bought my LCD-XC at the end of November 2020 and it weighs 766 grams, I have no problem with the weight. I really like this headphones and the Carbon looks so sexy. 🔥
What's the longest session that you would listen to music with the XC? Because I feel like over time it would be quite fatiguing over a period of time in one session.
@@clichehabitat8306 Usually my sessions are two to three hours long. But it has nothing to do with the weight of the LCD-XC, had the Hifiman HE1000SE for two years and I have never listened to it for longer.
In terms of detail retrieval, LCD x vs Focal Clear (MG), who wins?
A. What took them so long to get to this point?
B. Will they be offering upgrades to owners of older versions?
I've just used the EQ from Resolve on my new LCD-XC. With bad recordings like Florence & The Machine - Rabbit heart, the XC is unlistenable without EQ. With EQ is a delight but for great recordings I prefer it without EQ.
Thank you for making this video! I bet you were tired of me asking the difference between these and my maple xc's 😂. You're the best
Hi again. 🤣
@@vancybergoth great to see you again pal 😂
@@theprinceofeverything1975 I hope you are fine and happy with your LCD-XC maple wood.
@@vancybergoth that means a lot to me man, thank you so much
Hello!
I clearly see and understand that the Audeze LCD-XC frequency response curve coincides in the midrange with the Avantone Pro MixCube.
This was not done by accident.
Please tell me - how much is the stereo image inferior to the Open design? Thank you.
And now I don't know how the LCD-X compares to the Focal clear and hifiman Arya without EQ lol cause the tuning on the LCD-X still looks quite dark, it doesn't have a terrible frequency response anymore but it doesn't seem very neutral either. The LCD-XC just looks like a straight up amazingly well tuned headphone. Probably the best sounding closed back for the price by far. I wonder how it compares to the Focal Radiance. Comfort is still an issue for the XC though so I'd trade some technical performance for the comfort of a Focal.
Resolve here. In general, the Focals have better dynamics, and the Audeze's have better separation and control. But yeah I'd still EQ the Audeze's.
@@TheHEADPHONEShow oh hey got a reply pog thanks. Can I also ask how big is the difference in the technical performance between the X and the XC?
Great review man thank you. Helped me out.
xc greatest sub $2k, even sub $4k headphones ever made
Can you hear the difference in improved sound quality using balanced cable vs unbalanced in LCD-XC?
Excellent, super informative and helpful review.
Thank you for the EQ suggestions for the XC, it sounds better. I was wondering why you suggest EQing down 11k rather than 12k or 13k where the peak seems to be. I am new to EQ so was just curious!
Technically, you are correct, but Audeze will send you the frequency response curve for your individual headphones on request, meaning that his general advice about there being a peak over 10 kHz is correct. The specific advice, may not apply to others. The peak on my individual pair, is at 10.1 kHz. I can't hear over 13.5 kHz anymore due to my age, so any peak in that area is welcome to me. I hadn't spent as much time eq'ing over 10k, as I had at 4.1k, due to the content in most music above 10k being rather light compared to the midrange. Coldplay's "Politik", with its prominent cymbals, is one track that I'd used to test over 10k. I had ended up cooking up a response for mine, that was very close to that of the Reveal+ plugin, using the Harman curve to compare against.
Hi Andrew, can you please comment on the difference in soundstage between the LCD-X and LCD-XC? And is the bass response now similar in the current models? As I recall, in previous versions the bass from the LCD-X sounded looser while the LCD-X sounded tighter, punchier, and better defined. Thank you
Why no one is reviewing the new LCD2-Classic Editions (Closed and open back) :(
Trying to justify the need for the X. I have the LCD2f (2016) and wonder if the X (2021) is worth jumping on to?
Could you compare the lcd-XC 2021 with sony mdr-z1r? Especially the bass, thank you!!
Thanks for the great review. I traded up from an Ananda to an LCD-X that should arrive in a few days. My amp is a Schiit Ragnarock 2 with more than 24W of power from the balanced headphone out. Question… even though the LCD-X doesn’t require a lot of power, should I expect to hear any benefits from driving them with so much power? Maybe better transients or other improvements in the sound? The Ragnarock has a 128 step relay switched volume knob so I should still be able to make finite volume adjustments and have good channel matching at low volume settings. Please share your thoughts. Thanks!
No, these don't 'scale' the way something like an HD650 does. A good 'no nonsense' source is all you need - and those are available for cheap. Actually, I probably wouldn't use the balanced out, that's WAY too much power.
@@ResolveReviews Thanks for your reply and good to know. There is an article on the Audeze website about sensitivity, impedance and power that says raw power can’t be beat, but I guess my Ragnarock may be overkill for the LCD-X. Nonetheless I already bought a balanced cable for it so my curiosity will force me to try it out. Again, great review and thanks for all you do for the community!
Which pads are on your LCD x, I believe they offer at least 2, one being not leather. How would you compare the bass to the LCD 3 model?
great great review, for listening at low volume in general what headphone do you recommend ?
I'm looking to purchase the 2021 LCD X or XC. I'm coming from the 6XXs, which I've really enjoyed. Which of the two, lcd x or lcd xc, do you think I would enjoy more? Thank you
Side note, I listened to the Focal Clears and preferred the 6XXs.
Neither are like the hd6xx really, they both have a distinctly 'planar' sound. If you're after something closer to an hd6xx, consider the ZMF Auteur.
I'm not particularly looking for something like the Hd6xx. I'm just wanting to try something different to get a better understanding of my preference, since I haven't had many headphones. I just know I'm a little treble sensitive. I am set on getting either the 2021 LCD X or XC but there's not much information on the difference between the two after the latest revision.
@@123curtisj hifiman sundara
New person to this fied! I tried the xc vs LCD-2 and honestly the small sound stage in XC is such a turn off for me. Yes more precise and detailed experience with closed but it feels glued to my ears while the open lcd-2 classic were better for me. I am dropping taking my new headphones out for a walk and consiering getting the open now for home use only :/ MY ears are not trained at all so not sure why everyone is saying the XC are really good! am I wrong about these?
Can you own both and they both
Be different enough?
Great review man, I’m getting used to this 🤓.
Avantone Planar? would be nice to finally get a serious review of the Avantones, and comparison to the LCD-2
Its completely different then? No huge hole in the mids like the previous. Good bass too.
Which headphones in general are best for electronic synth heavy music?
I’m thinking about trying the new LCD-X. I’ve stayed away from Audeze for a while due to the weight/comfort issues. Maybe the solution is to add a “neck day” into my weight training split to prepare for these.
Gotta add an endurance workout, you know, like a long run, but for your neck.
If all else fails, a medical halo apparatus and hang them offa dat
(kidding).
Love the lightness of my MX4's and you get all the detail.
Carhartt hat is back baby!!!
I'm curious how these new LCD-X 2021 now compare to Hifiman's lineup, considering Hifiman's strong point has always been tonality and Audeze's is technical performance. HE6SE vs LCD-X?
Clearly LCD-X
In my opinion, the better comparison would be the original HE-6, which is technically better than HE6-SE
On another note, I did compare LCD-X 2021 vs Arya last week, still prefer Arya for the imaging. The rest of technicality were par.
Tonality i prefer Arya out of the box, but I think LCD-X will win if EQ-ed
There is a point to consider here. When other companies do their revisions, they either don't change the sound so drastically, or if the sound is significantly improved, they change the index in the name of their product. For example, Sennheiser HD800 -> HD800S. That's how it should be. Audeze, being a not very considerate company towards its clients, neglects their interests and only cares about its own profit. Yes, Audeze improves its products, but it does it as if to flatter its ego, not to make the world (of music listening) a better place. IMHO.
Actually, even within existing models, there are revisions, you just don't hear about them because they're not as significant. It typically comes down to small tweaks in the build. In Audeze's case though, it did result in a major tuning difference.
@@TheHEADPHONEShow That's right. That's why they should have come up with a new name or model index. At least a year indication as you rightly suggested, although that wouldn't be enough imo. They haven't done even that. And I consider that to be dishonest marketing because it misleads buyers. Dishonest marketing is not far from being a fraud. No matter how much of an improvement their new revision is. That's what I'm trying to convey.
The XC is “ok”, but it’s far far from the best. that makes sense, given the price. I just don’t like when people think they are the best, or close to. When I updated to the Stellia and ZMF, it was clear how much better those were.
@@JTB-- I know this is from a year ago but having done multiple tests I can tell you it’s closer to 98% and the XC actually beats the Stellia in several categories. It’s an amazingly well designed headphone. I think I hit my endgame closed back, now the hunt for the endgame open back begins
@@jasonblaise6786 u didnt finished yet, lets try the Denon D9200 - :P
Good morning Andrew I hope all is well but in your honest opinion if you already had a good pair of open backs and wanted some good closed backs for home use and money wasn’t an issue witch would you choose the focal celestee or lcd xc carbon?
If you’re outside I would get the focal Celestee inside the lcd XC
Is there anything that the original revision of the LCD-X would lack, if simliarly EQ'd to the LCD-X 2021 version?
are both of these the 2021 model?? or is only the xc 2021?
Where you guys apply this EQ? Is it in their reveal app? How to EQ them one time forever?
Does the leather and leather-free ear pads have noticeable sonic differences? Also do you know if all LCD X that come in economy travel case have 2021 revisions? Including b stock ones.
just curious about this... I saw the other day a guy selling a set of LCD-x and with it a set of LCD-xc cups... so he could just put the cups from a LCD-xc onto the LCD-x headphone... does this actually work or are there real differences between the X and XC besides the closed cups ? and if this is a possibility where do you purchase just the XC cups...
Hi Andrew! I don't agree with the explanation you've given regarding the redesigned magnet structure and that it doesn't affect the 'performance'. This is not possible, even in theory. Let me explain. In order to achieve the exact same result or a very similar one, Audeze could not have eliminated two magnets and relocate the rest. They had to do one of the two things, or both: 1) modify the diaphragm - either through size, thickness, material or more notably, a different circuit trace, 2) modify the magnetic field acting on the diaphragm, either it's strength or uniformity - either through size and shape of the magnets or by using a material or materials with different magnetic properties. In engineering, this is generally known as 'optimization'. It applies to transducer design in electroacoustic engineering, dynamic system in mechanical engineering and static system in structural engineering alike. It allows for similar results to be achieved at a lower cost, either through a more efficient use of materials or through use of cheaper materials. It is not a negative thing, it is what engineering is all about. But, for an optimized system to function identically as the previous iteration is simply not possible. This is a fact.
On a side note, and this has nothing to do with what I've said above, I really think the LCD-X is a failure. I remember my first experience of listening to the demo unit in a HIFI store, alongside the LCD-2 Classic and LCD-3. The upper mids and treble were hard, likely caused by upper odd-order harmonic distortion (likely 5th and 7th) which is shocking since even musical instruments of the 18th and 19th century were made to suppress these harmonics. They might not have known the theory behind it at the time, but they certainly knew what they didn't like. It sounded like an early prototype to me, utterly off-putting, dynamically compressed and hard. I certainly hope the demo units were not damaged in some way as the intention should be for the customer to buy a pair, not to walk out of the store with empty hands. In contrast, the LCD-2 Classic was much better, still a bit compressed and hard in the upper mids, but quite OK for more current musical styles. The LCD-3 was again a step above, offering smoother mids and upper mids. But as good as they were, both the LCD-2 Classic and LCD-3 are much too expensive for what you get. As for the LCD-X, I can think of several headphones that cost 200 € or less and that sound incomparably better. Let me also say this, EU is not what it used to be and where I live, the price of the LCD-X equals two-and-a-half months of minimum salary. I would still consider this fair if it was a proper 'tool' with an appropriate level of authenticity to the sound it reproduced. But it doesn't.
I know that starting a company is not easy and that managing one is even more difficult. But I don't like or appreciate the way Audeze is campaigning these headphones. They found famous producers and engineers and put them on a pay-roll. Of course, this serves only as a 'vehicle' to deliver the product to an unassuming music lover of whom there are many (because you can't make a living by selling your product only to high-profile producers) and to deliver it with a strong message: if it's good for famous professionals, it's more than good enough for you. Also, giving money to the reviewers and publications not to review other products or not to include their products in group tests speaks enough. More honesty would not hurt Audeze.
Otherwise, a good review, as always. Cheers!
Why oh why did they slap that big AUDEZE on the cup. I asked if it can be removed, and it's beneath the varnish from the manufacturer. Does anyone know where to get custom earcups? My googling has turned up nothing but despair.
Have you tried using a sharpie?
@@jackfrosterton432 Nah, I did a vinyl heatshrink wrap. Are you telling me you prefer a brand name billboard on the side of your head?
@@LomaGnome I didn't say I preferred a visible brand name on my head, I recommended a way to make it invisible.
And no, I think it's gaudy and cheap. But that's just the price you pay for choosing closed back headphones :P
@@jackfrosterton432 hah touche, honestly thought you were messing with me, sorry bout that.
@@LomaGnome I _was_ messing with you. Drawing on your $1000 headphones with a sharpie is not a good solution
How do the updated LCD-X compare w/ the HiFiMAN Arya?
I'm going to be getting both of these (stepping up from ananda/Sony mdr-z7m2) next week. I plan on keeping only one. I'll let you know what I think tho!
@Lagunakid24 Had a bit of a hiccup. haven't order them yet. I've been down a RUclips rabbit hole for a couple weeks now trying to decide what exactly id like to spend my little bonus on. I think i'll be going with the Arya, and the Unique melody Mest mk2, but It'll be at least a week before I have them.
@@BSG_Bebop did you get it?
@@kenzoquiambao I did. Got both the Arya and the LCD-X. I've had them for a little over a month, and I'm back and forth on which one is "better". I dont think there's an answer, for me personally.
The Arya (8.5/10) Light and airy. Bass is deep and addicting. Instrument separation and spaciousness is its area of expertise. It more versatile across the full FR spectrum than the Ananda, without question. Only downside is, vocals can come off juuuuust a tad unnatural on certain tracks.
Lcd-x (8.5/10) I listened happily for a few days before applying oratory1990's eq profile. I Immediately smiled in recognition, now fully understanding the hype of the X. Even though it's the 2021 revision, DEFINITELY STILL EQ THEM. The resolution is top notch. It's more internalized or "intimate" than the Arya. This can be a good thing if you're in the mood. Bass hits hard and fast and is in your head. Listening to blues track, I'm Going to Missouri (Hector Anchondo)left me speechless. Rock/metal/electronic etc etc etc all sound delicious.
Time will tell if I decide to let one of these go. For now, I'll just keep them both and be thankful to be in a position to have them in the first place. 🙏
@@BSG_Bebop Which version of the Aria did you get? Still have both?
Any difference between the Carbon and Maple LCD-XC?
Also, revisions are ok as long as they're easily identifiable to the customer. Perhaps an exception for the tiniest changes that don't make any difference, but otherwise, yes, Audeze should have had model numbers ages ago. Is it that hard to slap just a "1, 2, 3.." or whatever after the name? Posting serial numbers is something, but still insufficient.
The maple is no longer available, so the new revision doesn't apply to them.
I just got the lcd-x 2021 yesteday, and it sound empty and I feel no bass at all.
which one would you recommend if we already have the Sennheiser HD800? Which Audeze complements that the best? I want the LCD-X but is the XC "better" if I already have the HD800?
my god iu just got the xc and they are a huge upgrade over my either cx. Also either cx cable is the biggest pos ever i have had to repair it countless times over the last few years. also the headband adjuster on them is garbage to . only time will tell but these are amazing so far. Need to get the xlr cable tough accidently got the 1/4 in version.
Looking to another options from focal clear mg and Arya stealths. Using for mixing and mastering. If I get these and EQ using the RME 2/4 DAC would that not be better than software EQ? What frequencies do you suggest I adjust to get the most accurate sound? Would the MM-500's be better and what frequencies would that one need to adjust?
Thanks a lot for your great reviews! Could you also compare these ones with a gaming edition -GX!? And to make it clear, LCD-X is worth the money compered to the LCD-2C. I didn't have a chance to hear to both of them at a time. What is your preference: LCD-X 2021 or Ananda? Mainly for rock, pop and classics.
The GX is the best out of the 2c, 2, and GX. Though, I wouldn't really consider the 2C. The X is a fairly substantial upgrade to the GX as well.
As far as Ananda vs X, the X is better. Ananda still has a weird FR, and the XS kind of makes it redundant. The X is an improvement across the board and doesn't have that compressed sound the Ananda does.
Ordered mine in March, thought it was the new one. But got the 2020 version instead, pretty bummed on that. The new version also includes a nice case with the creators version too which i missed out on.
From where? Audeze has apparently been on the new revision for a bit.
@@ResolveReviews Off of Amazon. I just rechecked my order and now they updated the listing to the (old version) and made an entirely new one for the current version
@@briantomasinomedia5077 ahh sorry to hear. Well, just use the old EQ profile
@@ResolveReviews thanks man, keep up the great videos! I love your content!
I received a 2020 LCD-XC from a UK dealer when I ordered mine a few weeks ago. Audeze offered to upgrade them to the 2021 version free of charge, I just needed to pay shipping one-way. They're on their way back to me now having been with Audeze just under a week. Really can't fault their customer service.
Is it recommended to upgrade to the new pads for owners of the original Lcd-x for the new tuning? Or does your old eq curve for them accomplish the same thing?
Great overview and summation of the changes. I love to EQ everything, but sometimes I don't want to 'have to' EQ. Particularly when I am traveling or at work. I sold my previous LCD-XC for this reason alone. Yes, I will even wear these or my Stellia, E-MU Teaks etc at Starbucks. I was on the fence about ordering these 2021 LCD-XC until I saw this breakdown. Order placed!
How do you like them?
@@ChrisKeyman To my ears and preferences, they are amazing. Even better than the 2018 version. I still add a bass shelf for certain genres, but these are overall closer to a Harman 'neutral' (without bass shelf) frequency response than any Audeze or closed back I have heard. I have heard every high end to TOTL closed back headphone available and this is my favorite. I have even heard the LCD-5, Susvara, HE1000, CRBN and again, to my ears, these are right up there. Although I would fully understand someone preferring another closed back like the Stellia or VC (not the DCA Stealth though, these are not in the same class, way overpriced for their sound).
@@04yellowjacket thanks man.
I am looking for a headphones for mixing and mastering with a good sub bass.
@@ChrisKeyman I would say the XC is basically perfect for that because the sub bass quality is about as good as it gets, but it is not under/over emphasized, helping you avoid under/over emphasizing it in your final product. Only one way to find out really though. Get em on your head.
@@04yellowjacket do you know another headphone with good emphasis in the sub bass?
With the pads now being shallower, do your ears touch the magnet fazors now? I really don't like when that happens.
My ears were touching. Had to swap to Dekoni Elite Hybrids.
@@MerveilIes That's not good. I believe most of the sound improvement comes from the new pads. Dekoni's will change the sound.
I have a TEAC UD-505-X I want to buy AudezeLCDX , to cope UD-505-X with LCD-X .
Z1R or LCD-XC 👀🤷🏻♂️
I have the Stellia and like them a lot, but find they are a little lightweight on the bass. Does this revised LCD-XC have a stronger bass than the Stellia?
No Stellia is quite bassy by comparison.
Stellia bass light whaaaaaaat
Does this pad revision also apply to the LCD2 Classic?
Great. Have the LCD-X 2020's. Resale value hopefully won't plummet, but good pts in the video.
Ive been trying to sell my 2020 model for 6 months. I decided to just keep them
@@st3vemcqeef495 Eeeek!
@@Jamie-666He wasn't trying to sell them, he was trying to get more money than they're worth
I am considering the closed back LCD-2, since this is out of my price range. Are there similar changes done to the LCD2?
Nope and what do you mean anyway? LCD-X creator package is just $200 more than LCD-2. My honest recommendation is to go with LCD-2C if you can't get LCD-X...
Make the XC lighter and they are close to perfection it seems. 200 grams lighter. Use high grade plastic. Just make one as an option and charge the same price for gods sake Sennheiser did it with the 820.
Loving your reviews man! I was able to try out the Arya stealth and LCD-X 2021 a few days ago. Felt to me like the Arya's sound was more 3-dimensional, immersive and more detailed than the LCD-X. Also in the lower/sub-bass region I could hear the bass rumbles (kind of like the Dolby Atmos trailer rumbles) better on the Arya, and felt it was almost missing on the LCD-X, very muted/dead. Sounds like water droplets seemed more detailed on the Arya than LCD-X. Bass had more of a thump and felt fuller on the LCD-X. I'm coming from a Sennheiser HD600 and even on that I could hear the low end bass rumble.
Was wondering if you noticed something similar - if that bass rolloff you describe is what I picked up here or if it was potentially a not so good LCD-X that I ran into?
I'm trying to decide between the two for my upgrade from the HD600 which I've had for years now. Solid pair of HP, only the cables kept dying on me. Thx
Depends if it was a 2021 LCD-x. That's very different from the memory foam ones from before