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to produce, and requires more electrical power than dynamic drivers, which is what makes the LCD -1's such an achievement; with minimal power requirements and a $399 price tag, it finally delivers the promise of planar magnetics to everyday listeners. The result is an accurate audio profile without any distortion, thanks to the speed at which the planar magnetic technology can move the lightweight diaphragm. The aforementioned resolution really allows the listening to hear ever y note and instrument as if you could reach out and touch it (you can see why these are popular in the studio). Especially at the high frequency range, the LCD -1 headphones will soar unlike any other headphone you've heard. The open-back design also adds a fairly unique element to the listening experience— air and sound are free to f low out the back of the headphones, unlike most closed-back headphones that are more akin to putting a cup over your ear. It is an element of ten paired with planar magnetics, and results in an almost literal open soundstage. The benefit is a feeling of presence that you won't get from closed-back design, but it also means these aren't particularly suited towards public listening. The energy required to drive the 90mm drivers (you read that correctly) of ten means that planar magnetic headphones are best experienced with an external amp and added power. While an amp will still help you squeeze a bit more out of the LCD -1's, they are remarkable for their low power requirements, and you will notice the benefit out of all your devices, even your smartphone (if you still have a headphone jack). Indeed, the power requirements are one of the many portability focused features of the LCD -1, and help these cans carve out some real demand and a great use case. Their light weight construction is limited to 250 grams, an achievement in its own right, and a worthwhile payoff for the mostly plastic housing (the internals are still metal). These headphones were also designed to be folded up, and fit nicely in the included hard shell carry case. The earcups themselves are also inspired by utility and mobility. They are small enough to almost seem like on-ear cups, but comfortably accommodate all but the largest of ears. Compared to Audeze's more typical flagship products, the LCD -1's have a significantly smaller footprint (earprint?). Into these earcups go two ends of the split, 2-meter, braided cable included with every pair. Indeed, the LCD -1's are unapologetically wired and, for that matter, unapologetically different from so many other flagship over-the- ear headphones you'll f ind in this price range. That focus on planar magnetics and the values it delivers carves out a place for Audeze on every audiophile or music aficionados' shelves. By making design decisions to keep the LCD -1's lightweight and portable without sacrificing the audio quality derived from their planar magnetic design, Audeze has created a unique product sitting between the bass-heavy, compact dynamic drivers littering the shelves of big box stores, and the large, electrostatic set pieces reserved for only the most die-hard or wealthy enthusiasts. If you are looking to experience your music in a whole new light, the LCD -1's are the most affordable way to do so. For more information, visit: www.audeze.com/products/lcd-1