Audeze LCD-S20

Name: Audeze LCD-S20 | Crutchfield Car Audio
Brand: Crutchfield
SKU: 22140934-22140934-0-0-0-0-0-0
Price: 149.70 USD
Availability: InStock

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$149.70 ~~$499.00~~

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Audeze LCD-S20

$149.70

$149.70 ~~$499.00~~

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by Crutchfield's Jeff Miller

Closed-back headphones with studio-grade precision and power

You could look at the closed-back Audeze LCD-S20 two different ways: either a set of audiophile headphones that work well in the studio — or as a set of studio headphones you can use with your personal audio rig. I've only spent a few days with these wired headphones, but I heard the clarity and texture that make Audeze's planar magnetic drivers so popular for both kinds of listening. Those drivers are paired with an air pressure distribution system, originally developed for the CRB2 electrostatic headphones, called "SLAM" — designed to enhance and reinforce the bass.

These headphones are smaller than the LCD-2 closed-backs, with a frame and suspension-strap headband design similar to the company's MM-100 studio headphones and popular Maxwell gaming headsets. Like the MM-100s, the soundstage is spacious, but just outside the head versus the more extended LCD-2 presentation.

Build and fit

You'll notice that even though they are smaller than most of Audeze's higher-end lineup, they are still larger than your typical over-ear headphones. To compensate, these headphones fit snugly and securely without feeling like they grip too much. This helps distribute the weight well and keeps them from slipping around or drooping.

The weight is distributed nicely and there are three adjustment positions for the inner suspension strap. I did feel a little extra pressure on the crown of my head, but it was something I was able to get used to after a while. And the ear pads are spacious and generously cushioned.

Audeze's efficient planar magnetic technology

These 'phones are larger than average because Audeze doesn't use dynamic drivers with a cone shape, like you find in most headphones. The company is known for its cutting-edge take on planar magnetic drivers: thin, flat diaphragms with a larger surface area, which start and stop very quickly to deliver precise sound.

Versatile connection options

At 18 ohms, the headphones are efficient enough to work with a portable music player or pro audio interface — but I got the best results with some extra power from a separate headphone amp. They come with a rugged, braided cable that can connect to either earcup. It's terminated with a 1/4" headphone plug and a 3.5mm miniplug adapter is included.

My early listening impressions

I've had a very brief time with the LCD-S20, but so far they've adapted well to both the warm charm of my vintage tube amp and also handled the more forceful slam of the compact iFi Audio ZEN CAN 3. As noted, they perform best with more power — I was less impressed when paired with my portable, thumb-drive-sized amp.

Like most Audeze headphones, they deliver a clean, well-balanced sound with a high level of detail and precise impulse control. I've personally always been struck by how their lifelike dynamics can enhance the emotional impact of certain songs.

On the track "Nothing I Need" by indie folk band Lord Huron (streaming on Qobuz in 24-bit/48kHz), the wistful and melodic acoustic guitar riff, banjo twang, and soaring slide of the steel guitar all came through distinctly and clearly. I've heard the song on the radio through lesser speakers and the various strings sound a bit muffled and indistinct. Through the LCD-S20, they created a cohesive, hypnotic blend — but I could easily pick out and focus on the individual instruments.

Powerful and lifelike bass

To get a taste of the bass, I listened to a compilation of instrumentals from hip-hop producer Ant (half of the legendary group, Atmosphere). His percussion-centric beats tend to sound simple and straightforward at first, but closer listens can reveal complex basslines that jump around the lower frequencies. It's well-suited to these headphones.

The sub-bass on the track "Behind the Sound" came through with presence, muscle, and authority. But there was enough restraint and control that it didn't swallow up the mid-bass or take the wind out of its sails. All the while, higher-frequency keyboard and guitar sounds danced around the soundstage.

Product highlights:

over-the-ear wired headphones with closed-back design
- reinforced dual-chamber earcups offer noise isolation and extended bass response
designed for mixing, mastering, and/or focused listening
planar magnetic drivers offer low distortion, enhanced dynamics, and textured sound
- tuned for a linear sound with detailed highs and tactile bass
patent-pending SLAM™ air distribution system enhances low frequency punch
assembled and tested in Audeze's Southern California headquarters

Driver details:

thin 90mm planar magnetic diaphragms stop and start quickly
Fluxor™ magnet array for precise and accurate music reproduction
Fazor driver technology offers improved phase response, three-dimensional imaging, and extended frequency response
require less powerful amplification than most planar magnetic headphones
- a separate headphone amplifier will produce optimum sound quality

Construction details:

rugged chassis with spring-steel headband and cast aluminum yokes
- adjustable suspension strap
magnetically attached ear pads with soft, comfortable padding
snug, secure fit keeps headphones in place during long sessions

General info and accessories:

braided oxygen-free cable with a 1/4" plug
- single-sided cable that can connect to either earcup
3.5mm mini adapter included
soft storage bag
frequency response: 10-40,000 Hz
sensitivity: 93 dB
impedance: 18 ohms
weight: 19.4 oz.
warranty: 3 years (planar drivers), 1 year (earpads, enclosure, headband, and cable)
MFR # LCDS20
Item # 884LCDS20

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Audeze LCD-S20

Audeze LCD-S20

About the Audeze LCD-S20

Closed-back headphones with studio-grade precision and power

Build and fit

Audeze's efficient planar magnetic technology

Versatile connection options

My early listening impressions

Powerful and lifelike bass

Product highlights:

Driver details:

Construction details:

General info and accessories:

Customer Reviews

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