Looking at the "spaciousness" of your apartment here in late 2015, you've certainly come a long way on your channel if gear accumulation is any indicator. :)
"These fuck! Just a globe of happiness!" I love this. I ordered my LCD 2 fazor yesterday and they arrive in just a few days! I'm incredibly excited as this has been my endgame since I got into the audio world with the DT 770 in 2015. almost 10 years later and here I am!
9 років тому+1
Z, as a mixer i can tell you that your impressions at 8:30 are totally right. Phase cancellation actually makes a muddier bass , most of the time, but it can be perceived as "more bass" but it is a lot less accurate. Some people could even like it, personally i'd always go for the cleaner bass. It's a bit like "surround headphones" or "dolby headphones". What it basically does is extreme fake widening which messes with the phase correlation of your track which ruins the sound quality, but the basic listener would like it.
Just an FYI, the LCD-2's(pre fazor, at least) also have an advertised peak power handling of 15w. When I read that in the manual, I immediately began searching for a desktop/headphone reciever.
+TheFijianGuy A 1974 Corvette with a modern drivetrain and full racing paraphernalia [image.superchevy.com/f/14830151+w640+h640+q80+re0+cr1+st0/vemp_0607_02_z%2Bscca_c3_corvette%2Brear_view.jpg]
Wanna cyber ? i0.kym-cdn.com/photos/images/original/001/004/324/180.jpg (Apologies for the Beats logo - I dont know what sort of monster would defile such a glorious image with that symbol. Nazis ?)
Nice review and comparison, finally! I bought those new Audeze pads for my old LCD-2.1's and got a big improvement in comfort. Also I think the bass got beefier because of a better seal. Big recommendation for other folk with the old model. BTW, my pair looks just like that old one you got there, but with darker rosewood and the cable (Canare with Neutrik & Rean plugs) is not color coded. I got them for 500 euros used - so these don't necessarily cost like crazy. These are totally crazy good headphones, even compared to my HD600's and many others.
Another good review Z. Quick question, I purchased the Fidelio x2's (partly based on your review) and was wondering just how much better the LCD2's sound compared with nearly 3.5x price tag ?. Many thanks. (loving the x2's by the way).
+PAUL HIGGINS Completely different design goals. The planar lcd2's are some of the most neutral I have ever heard yet spacious and comfortable. X2's being a standard design and aimed a bit more for low end don't really fight the same fight.
Thanks for the reply, I think my music tastes would prefer the sound from the x2's Im more into fun than neutral and the fidelios deliver plenty of fun and comfort. Im listening to them through the Audeze deckard and its a great combo if not overkill.
How to make it even better?...Titanium. I don't like heavy. I like headphones that can disappear on my head, for long gaming, and whatever. And maybe memory foam too? Do those get hot on your head? I think I would prefer the EL-8... Opened & closed versions. I'm new to all of this, and poor right now...but it's great to have future goals.
Z, I need you to help me out, my man. I've got around $500 to burn and am considering buying the newly offered B-Stock LCD-2's from Audeze. Was also considering the 400i or 650, though. Currently have the HD 558's and TH-X00's and looking for something to "round out" my collection, in a sense. Thoughts?
No quells about the B-stock status of the headphones? Thing I'd hate more than anything else was to get something of actual lesser sound quality than a brand new LCD-2.
Hey great reviews! I'm a budding enthusiast and I just bought a pair of SHP9500s on your recommendation. They sound fantastic but I noticed the bass distorts at pretty low levels in comparison to some of my other sets. Do you think this is my pair, or does yours as well? Its not my source btw I've tried several.
+Z Reviews It seems to be at about 200 Hz and lower (at average to slightly above average listening levels) the bass distorts, especially when it is competing with the mids and highs.
Yo Z, just picked up a pair of used fazor LCD-2s. What would you recommend for a good value-for-money cable & amp/dac? Tempted to snag a Schiit Fulla 2 since these are easy to drive, and I've got no clue in terms of cables. Just heard the stock one is good, but not great.
Fulla 2 would work. I think Audeze improved the efficiency with the fazor revisions, because on my O2 amp, the LCD-2 is noticeably louder than my HD 800 at the same volume setting. Whether or not it's because my source doesn't provide as much voltage swing as current, I have no clue.
Hey Z, love the videos, been watching you for a couple weeks, quick question, I'm looking for some headphones for christmas max 250$CAD. Canadian pricing is weird, which of these would you recommend the most; HD558, HD598, G4ME ZERO, SHP9500, DT990 Pro, AD700X, or something else? Any suggestions are greatly appreciated, keep up the good reviews Z :)
+Levi Besserer SHP's or the 700X from that list. 558's over the 598's but that might be my personal preference. Not sure what else fits into your strange Candian Monies.
What's up with the things holding the exercise balls to your right? Are they supposed to be chairs? I thought the whole point of sitting on them is to sit in the center and it forces your back straight.
Z, awesome review, really entertaining. I have a question, how is the durability of the hp150/ hp200? I want to get either the hp150, V-moda M100, or another closed back portable headphone for under 200. Which do you think is better?
+Dead pool The Vmoda with the XL pads would probably be my choice. The HP150's have had some reports of the ball joints snapping. But only if you are reckless.
"The LCD-2 was bumped from the wall of fame by the Oppo PM-1 due to the slightly better sound, but mostly based on the ergonomic advantages as a better general purpose headphone." Source: Innerfidelity. Now you need to get some more Oppos :D
+theodoro89 Fuck me, I wish he had them right now so he could review them soon and tell us. I want them to be better, I just did a little research and apparently according to a shit ton of people the quality control at Audeze is just absolutely horrible. With sound varying a lot (check InnerFidelity) , ear cups not being made right, driver issues, units breaking after a few months, ect. It scares the hell out of me, especially since I can only buy used, there's no way I'm going to take that risk.
Oppo PM-1 is a seriously boring and deflated sounding headphone. The pads didn't work with my ears either so comfort was subpar. Really liked the design though. It's a mid-fi headphone at best. I take the HD600/650 any day over this can.
+vladamir Invest in a great tube amp instead, you'd be incredibly surprised how well the HD650 can sound. The new (fazored) Audeze's sound kind of off and the soundstage is pretty bad for the price. The 650 is one of the best cans to build a system around!
+Braden Olszewski i have a nuforce icon dac but i don't have much options for equalization software. www.audioholics.com/gadget-reviews/nuforce-icon-dac
+vladamir Look...sell the DAC, get a Bottlehead Crack with speedball, a Schiit Bifrost multibit, and THEN listen to your HD650's. The HD650's scale better than just about anything else. Big Sound 2015 was pretty telling about where the Audeze cans stand now after FOTM died down. People see "planar" or a high price tag and become ignorant to how their cans sound. Don't get me wrong, my modded HE400's are great at what they do (subbass, fun), but they get smoked by a nice HD650 rig. So does the LCD2...
+john lin HE500's are a more aggressive sound for sure. X00's in the same boat. The LCD-2's are basically the prototype for the LCD-X which still stands as the best headphone I've heard.
+Z Reviews in term of sound quality, the bass and the mids are great on the lcds, this is what I found from research. worth the money to upgrade? or should I get a T1 instead to compliment mine H500.
600's are GREAT for mixing and neutrality. They are what I use for sound demo monitoring. As for the LCD-Z nobody knows yet. The X is out there but I don't know if monitoring/mixing would be best on them. Not sure how it would result.
I'm really liking your reviews. I think you're probably experienced enough to make as good a guess as anybody. Matt at Vintage King in LA is telling me he likes the Audezes and he knows what I work on. So I definately need more info on these LCD-z.
+Z Reviews you mentioned a balance version of hd800s was different than a non version. Is this in general for all headphones? What makes a balance headphone sound different? Thanks, I like your videos and have been learning a lot. Keep up the great work.
Ok, thanks for the reply, I should have a Massdrop O2 amp (desktop) to power them when they get in, if I don't would a Centrance dacport slim be ok for a couple days?
Actually the older Hifiman HE-500 is regarded better than the new lineup by the majority, at least if you compare them to similar priced 400i. Purely SQ-wise though
Z Reviews If the open back headphone rivet the song directly into your ear, it isn't considering sound staging. I am planning on buying an open back purely for better sound staging. Can yo| please enlighten me what different can I expect from an open back compared to closed back??
+Krishnakumar Get the X2's for soundstage. Open backs sound far more natural than closed. It is like someone whispering into your ear vs hearing them on the phone.
Have an LCD-3 which btw is better than the LCD-2. Originally it was the non fazored until the right side died and had to send it in to get it fixed. They put in the fazored and the bass is just not the mouth drooling bass that it used to be. It still sounds nice but just not euphonic like the original. Man, I miss those. Never got into the LCD-2. The 3 is more neutral than that. Btw, Hifiman's are all a bit bright. The best cheap headphone they made that I heard was the old HD-400. The bass is just awesome on that.
Exactly what I expected, the praise on these never seems to stop. How do these compare to the MrSpeakers Mad Dogs? I remember your review of those ages ago and I actually own a pair now because of your review and love them. Really want a set of these one day but what is the scaling like? How much more 'bang for your buck' do these give?
Greetings Zeos viewers As someone who is just starting their journey into the world of high end audio there is a very important question that i was wondering weather any of you could answer for me. That is where exactly does one go to download hi res audio files, lossless, flac, etc. would greatly appreciate any answers -Carl
Z i need help. This black friday the v moda m100 for 150$ and the sennheisers hd 598 for 100$ which should i get if any looking under 200$ with moderate bass not the m50x any suggestion would help.
Has anyone found a place that sells or makes a closed back cup for the lcd series of headphones so you dont have to buy an entire new pair of Audeze cans closed to have the benefits of both open and closed cause I have looked everywhere and been completely unable to find any anywhere and I have the LCD-X and would love to be able to occasionally convert them to Cs when needed.
+Ab Sa Me personally, god yes. I only own the HD600 and LCD-2F but I've tried the HD800 and it was way too...boring. It's not for music it's more for deciphering the music and showing off how many different sounds there are. The LCD's just throw the music in the best way to your ears and it sounds like bliss.
Hi, if I may ask, how was the upgrade from hd600 to LCD2 ? Was it a big difference, a worthy upgrade ? And how did you handle the crazy difference in comfort ?
Martin Rajdl Sound can be very subjective. I wouldn't suggest going for the LCD-2 without at least demoing them somewhere for half an hour if possible. Your ears adjust to sound signatures overtime and this heavily influences what you interpret as marginally good/drastically good. Objectively the LCD-2 is superior to the HD600 in just about everything sound-wise. Price/comfort is up to you. Subjectively I love the bass slam and clarity the LCD-2 gives vs. the hd600 which is neutral and lie the hd800 a little boring. DEMO IT BEFORE BUYING!
Hey, Thanks for the answer, luckily enough, I will be able to audition then before buying them. I am particularly interested in comparing these to the HD800, BUT from what I've read, I believe I will prefer the LCD2s, but yeah, many thanks for the quick answer, I will hopefully give them a listen as soon as possible :) Again, thanks.
weigh is not an problem for you? Its the only reason I didnt get those. Id recommend testing the Stax 2170, since they have the same low distortion as the LCD-2. I also liked the Bifrost multibit a lot as a DAC, quite good.
+sagar4080 I did but it was on my old rig and because youtube and Victor entertaiment will pull all the audio if I upload it in its current state. Wait a bit and hear the LCD-X on the new rig.
+TheTechAudiophile I have only been wearing these HD800's for 40 minutes. The LCD2's have a bit more excitement but really the LCD-x's I reviewed take them all.
+TheTechAudiophile Yes it is wide. Not as wide as the X. Is it realistic. Sorta.. The phazor array sounded weird and whatever issue it had was sorted on the X.
pressing headphones together is a bad practice, if there is a seal on an open headphone it can over stress the driver because of the pressure, word here is can i'm not saying it will. Specialy the headphones where you hear the crunch crunch noise from the drive when the headphone moves on your head, like the stax did.
I have one thing I want to add and that is Audeze needs to open it's information center to include revisions and dates on their website open to the public . It only has where you can validate the authenticity and nothing else . You have to call them during their limited hours to find out . What happens if you come home and find a nice set on eBay buy it now for 550.00 and you can't afford to pass up a great deal . If you wait until they reopen someone else will snatch it but if you buy it and it's an older revision lets say 4/6/2013 it's not only a non fazor it's out of warranty. Audeze created this mess by having so many revisions all with the same model number ? Like I said it's a 400.00 dollar mistake . If Audeze feels it's no big deal then why does the upgrade cost 400.00?? ?
I have the Audeze Sine headphones. I, unlike Zeos, have really tiny ears. So small that the Sine are over-ear for me, and my ears touch the fazor when I listen with my glasses on. It can be uncomfortable when listening for a long time 4+hrs. Still, love the Sine, and LCD 3 is endgame for me.
I loved the sound of the LCD-2s but man they are the most uncomfortable headphones I have ever worn. The clamping force was just too much and I end up with head pain after an hour of listening.
Think it's pronounced like Au-dee-zy ( like Odyssey ). Hard leather like in a funeral parlor.. hah ha ha.. you mean a corpse. So it's like in terms of low end and sound stage the non-fazor=HD650 and fazor=HD600? The newer one with the fazor, leather covered headband and protective metal connectors I do much like more.
+metring073 Everything he said in the review was as others have noticed except for the soundstage comment. The Fazors have a better soundstage and imaging than the non-fazors in common opinion and my experience. The non-fazors only have some (muddy, but more prominent) bass going for them.
I don't disagree that it sounds great. However, if you put it on for 2-3 hours, you feel you lose all of soft tissue in your neck due to the weight, and no amount of padding can help your neck when it is that heavy. So... no matter how good it sounds, you can never say this is a endgame headphone due to the outrageous weight. The Fostex Th-900, Beyer T1s, AKG 812, OPPO PM-1 & 2 (Planar as well), and not the mention the HD-800s, all sound superior (different perspective from different people of course) without weighting like 10 bricks. I love your reviews, but I disagree with your conclusion for this review and I guess I can only put this down to the fact you haven't critically reviewed other headphones in the same class yet (other than the alpha dogs).
As amazing as these sound.. they are heavy as sin! Unless you have beefy neck muscles... it's tough to recommend them... or maybe I'm just weak... either way.... much heavier than your average headphone... They are worth hearing tho...
+Z Reviews That case is serious overkill for headphones, they can survive falls out of moving vehicles without any damage to sensitive camera equipment (one of my clients can attest to that).
i have the HE500s, but i am really curious about these cans if i can snatch a pair through bartering my Hifimans off. What would i be gaining and losing by going from HE500s, to the LCD2 Fazors
+Nik Hulstein Hrm, I think you would feel a sense of more soundstage and more balance. They feel farther away. If you are still using stock pads on the 500's you may want to try changing those first before investing in the LCD's.
+Z Reviews the Velours have been revised from the original Stock Hifimans with nicer material and thicker. HUGE improvement for 10 dollars Sadly, any really good pads (Alpha Dogs or Audeze) are sold in U.S., and with the Canadian Dollar showing no signs of ending its downward spiral, I'm looking at $100+ for pads. p.s. HM5s (angled) did not fit. broke a pair of mounting rings (and cried myself to sleep) trying to get them on.
+Z Reviews possibly. I have the pleather angled, and i also read somewhere that i guy could only get the velours to fit on them. Maybe they are more stretchy? i dunno. will give it a shot
I didn't have time to read all your comments so maybe someone already corrected you. The lcd-2 non fazor also comes in a pelican style case and also modern cables and the connectors that face forward . They are called LCD-2.2 why ? I don't know. Why would I care enough to mention this ?? because of the idiots selling and buying on ebay that have seen your video thinking I have a plastic case and connectors that face forward I must have a fazor model .... Wrong! the only way to tell is by the serial number and by calling Audeze. So who cares Non fazor must be better right ? Maybe ?? All I do know is you can update your LCD-2's ... you better sit down the cost will be 400.00 plus change . so you better know the real difference before you buy off eBay Audiogon Amazon used or CL. That great deal you made buying those " fazor " LCD-2 might be non fazor LCD-2 costing you another 400.00 or you are clueless thinking wow I have fazor LCD-2's that only cost me 600 bucks..... It's not just the cheap fazor that you get for your 400 bucks but an additional 3 year warranty on your drivers the other parts on your headphones not covered.
Thank you for this, you literally just stopped me from making that mistake. Turns out that the pair that I have been looking at were non-fazor. I ended up going with a new pair of el-8's instead.
Thank you for reading. There's a lot more I could have put in it but not knowing if it makes a difference I didn't want to go any further . Most people are not aware that there's 3 LCD-2 models the earlier one with the all wood cups and then the 2.2 and because there's no 2.3 this is where the problem starts. Z review didn't get it wrong on purpose . Audeze should have clearly had 2.2 and 2.3 meaning second series non fazor (2.2) and second series fazor (2.3 ). Some eBay sellers know the difference or should know but they see this video and feel justified . This leads to my second thought which is why hasn't Audeze fixed this? I don't know if there's any improvement in the two all I do know is if you get into it thinking you have a 2.3 and then find out you have a 2.2 that might cost you . some buyers is paying 600.00 for a 2.2 while another buyers is paying 600.00 for a 2.3 based on this video . I'm not saying Z has it wrong he just doesn't have it 100% right . If you get anything out of my comments it should be get the serial number on any Audeze headphones and call them up for two reasons 1st to verify if it's stolen and 2nd if it current because even a 2.2 could have been factory upgraded by the previous owner and still have a 3 year warranty. Let me break it down. all 2.3's have some warranty left some 2.2 have maybe a few months left but the first series has no warranty . That's another thing to consider when buying used and Audeze will be more than happy to inform the you. Here's what is happening Owners of 2.2's are selling their 2.2's for LCD-X and LCD-3's but also this is the cheapest way to get a 2.3. Sell you old 2.2 for 600.00 and buy a 2.3 for 600.00-650.00 and not pay 400.00 for the driver upgrade.
Now I want the audeze. No no no no no. I'd rather stick with the hifiman he 400i until I hit jackpot in some lottery and win a thousand dollars and then I'll probably look at them.
+Justin Willms The HD800 is an Enigma. I've heard it a few time in passing at Audio Shows and it never grabs me. It just plays. I think that is why half the reviews I read say it is boring.
+Z Reviews it seems like sennheiser really just wanted to define reference can. never heard it but from descriptions it sounds like it was made to be analytical and unforgiving
Jumped on the omni cherry never looking back... Audeze have qc issues and weigh like heavy ass bricks, everybody knows that! Ohhhhhhhhhhhhhh but I'm not a rapper.
Problem with the LCD-2's is the consistency. Judging by your Fazor they should actually sound more open than the non Fazor model. The pre Fazor actually has better resolution and is a smoother, more natural sound. I personally found a lot of the Fazors to be junk.
The best Audeze I've heard were one of the first versions of the LCD-3 I had a few years ago. I think they might have pushed the driver material too thin or something with the first batches because a lot of them had failures. Still one of the best headphones I've heard. Just amazing fluidity, liquid detail, tactility, body and realness. The bass was to die for. Weight was too much though for my pencil neck. Heard a new LCD-3 in a store and was a little underwhelmed. They didn't capture that same magic.
![Z Review - Audeze LCD-2 Classic [Why Buy Anything Else?] .... seriously tho](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/loumUjLVGmw/mqdefault.jpg)
How far you’ve come from the E09K, “Aw-deez,” and “balanced amp - however you get one of those.” 😂
Looking at the "spaciousness" of your apartment here in late 2015, you've certainly come a long way on your channel if gear accumulation is any indicator. :)
"These fuck! Just a globe of happiness!" I love this. I ordered my LCD 2 fazor yesterday and they arrive in just a few days! I'm incredibly excited as this has been my endgame since I got into the audio world with the DT 770 in 2015. almost 10 years later and here I am!
Z, as a mixer i can tell you that your impressions at 8:30 are totally right. Phase cancellation actually makes a muddier bass , most of the time, but it can be perceived as "more bass" but it is a lot less accurate.
Some people could even like it, personally i'd always go for the cleaner bass.
It's a bit like "surround headphones" or "dolby headphones". What it basically does is extreme fake widening which messes with the phase correlation of your track which ruins the sound quality, but the basic listener would like it.
Hope one day you'll end up with the El-8. Been looking at a pair since they're the only Audeze I can get locally.
+Gray Au picked up some 400is instead since hifiman sale is a thing
Gray Au Yeah $299 usd
Just an FYI, the LCD-2's(pre fazor, at least) also have an advertised peak power handling of 15w. When I read that in the manual, I immediately began searching for a desktop/headphone reciever.
That honking horn was to tell Zeos not to take the pad off
Zee what is your endgame headphone?
+TheFijianGuy A 1974 Corvette with a modern drivetrain and full racing paraphernalia [image.superchevy.com/f/14830151+w640+h640+q80+re0+cr1+st0/vemp_0607_02_z%2Bscca_c3_corvette%2Brear_view.jpg]
+Z Reviews Oh god really? I just wasted 5 sec of my life, clicking on your link and hoping I got the answer to all of my questions.
+TheFijianGuy obviously $1 earbuds from your local walmart
Stax stats.
srs3100
Just had a nerdgasm when you said 'Phaser array' :)
Wanna cyber ?
i0.kym-cdn.com/photos/images/original/001/004/324/180.jpg
(Apologies for the Beats logo - I dont know what sort of monster would defile such a glorious image with that symbol. Nazis ?)
Nice review and comparison, finally! I bought those new Audeze pads for my old LCD-2.1's and got a big improvement in comfort. Also I think the bass got beefier because of a better seal. Big recommendation for other folk with the old model.
BTW, my pair looks just like that old one you got there, but with darker rosewood and the cable (Canare with Neutrik & Rean plugs) is not color coded. I got them for 500 euros used - so these don't necessarily cost like crazy. These are totally crazy good headphones, even compared to my HD600's and many others.
Another good review Z. Quick question, I purchased the Fidelio x2's (partly based on your review) and was wondering just how much better the LCD2's sound compared with nearly 3.5x price tag ?. Many thanks. (loving the x2's by the way).
+PAUL HIGGINS Completely different design goals. The planar lcd2's are some of the most neutral I have ever heard yet spacious and comfortable. X2's being a standard design and aimed a bit more for low end don't really fight the same fight.
Thanks for the reply, I think my music tastes would prefer the sound from the x2's Im more into fun than neutral and the fidelios deliver plenty of fun and comfort. Im listening to them through the Audeze deckard and its a great combo if not overkill.
How to make it even better?...Titanium. I don't like heavy. I like headphones that can disappear on my head, for long gaming, and whatever. And maybe memory foam too? Do those get hot on your head? I think I would prefer the EL-8... Opened & closed versions. I'm new to all of this, and poor right now...but it's great to have future goals.
Any chance you could borrow the fazored again for a sound demo, Zeos?
Z, I need you to help me out, my man. I've got around $500 to burn and am considering buying the newly offered B-Stock LCD-2's from Audeze. Was also considering the 400i or 650, though. Currently have the HD 558's and TH-X00's and looking for something to "round out" my collection, in a sense. Thoughts?
For that price you sorta have to.. Only other choices are like 2000x or K712
No quells about the B-stock status of the headphones? Thing I'd hate more than anything else was to get something of actual lesser sound quality than a brand new LCD-2.
Hey great reviews! I'm a budding enthusiast and I just bought a pair of SHP9500s on your recommendation. They sound fantastic but I noticed the bass distorts at pretty low levels in comparison to some of my other sets. Do you think this is my pair, or does yours as well? Its not my source btw I've tried several.
+Matthew Quinn Possibly. I am not sure what volumes or Hz you are trying to reproduce.
+Z Reviews It seems to be at about 200 Hz and lower (at average to slightly above average listening levels) the bass distorts, especially when it is competing with the mids and highs.
+Matthew Quinn Maybe closer to 100 Hz and lower
+Matthew Quinn As a reference I hear it is deadmau5's Bleed at about the 3 min mark
Will you be doing a review on Beyerdynamic DT 150s in the near future?? Folks at Head-Fi seems to be very enthusiastic about it...
+debankan sen See if someone sends a pair out first.
These compared to the Hifiman 400is. They're double the price, roughly! Percentage-wise, how much better are they?
Hard to say. I think the LCD2's are only a slight upgrade. 20%.. the LCDx are more like 50%
Yo Z, just picked up a pair of used fazor LCD-2s. What would you recommend for a good value-for-money cable & amp/dac? Tempted to snag a Schiit Fulla 2 since these are easy to drive, and I've got no clue in terms of cables. Just heard the stock one is good, but not great.
Yeah the fulla 2 can probably do it. Cables you have to look around.
Fulla 2 would work. I think Audeze improved the efficiency with the fazor revisions, because on my O2 amp, the LCD-2 is noticeably louder than my HD 800 at the same volume setting. Whether or not it's because my source doesn't provide as much voltage swing as current, I have no clue.
HE400S are the best planar magnetic you can buy for 200 bucks...just incredible sounding
Would you take these over the Mr. Speakers Ether?
+TheDutchSandwich Send me the Ether's and I will tell you.
Hey Z, love the videos, been watching you for a couple weeks, quick question, I'm looking for some headphones for christmas max 250$CAD. Canadian pricing is weird, which of these would you recommend the most; HD558, HD598, G4ME ZERO, SHP9500, DT990 Pro, AD700X, or something else? Any suggestions are greatly appreciated, keep up the good reviews Z :)
+Levi Besserer SHP's or the 700X from that list. 558's over the 598's but that might be my personal preference.
Not sure what else fits into your strange Candian Monies.
+Z Reviews Thanks for the reply, right now I'm thinking I'll get the SHP on black friday, and if I like the open style, pick up a 700X
What's up with the things holding the exercise balls to your right? Are they supposed to be chairs? I thought the whole point of sitting on them is to sit in the center and it forces your back straight.
+Aaron Burley Here they are [amzn.to/1I46Spi] Well the backrest is shit so you sort of still have to use your core to stay straight.
LCD-2 versus Alpha Prime? Specifically soundstage advantages? Both are around the same price right now.
+Snuss Open vs Closed. The LCD's have a wider soundstage and the primes have a magical soundstage.
That is the best way I can put it.
what kind of subwoofer is that? I've seen 2 of your videos, and you have a lot of cool shit around lol
Would you suggest the Schiit Stack for the LCD-2? Or the E09K?
yeah a stack has more power.
What do you thinks better the LCD 2 (undated) or EL-8 Closed?
Z, awesome review, really entertaining. I have a question, how is the durability of the hp150/ hp200? I want to get either the hp150, V-moda M100, or another closed back portable headphone for under 200. Which do you think is better?
+Dead pool The Vmoda with the XL pads would probably be my choice. The HP150's have had some reports of the ball joints snapping. But only if you are reckless.
Thanks for the recommendation, ordering one of them today!
Does the V-moda M100 work with the Mpow Bluetooth adapter
Yes?
"The LCD-2 was bumped from the wall of fame by the Oppo PM-1 due to the slightly better sound, but mostly based on the ergonomic advantages as a better general purpose headphone."
Source: Innerfidelity. Now you need to get some more Oppos :D
+theodoro89 Fuck me, I wish he had them right now so he could review them soon and tell us. I want them to be better, I just did a little research and apparently according to a shit ton of people the quality control at Audeze is just absolutely horrible. With sound varying a lot (check InnerFidelity) , ear cups not being made right, driver issues, units breaking after a few months, ect. It scares the hell out of me, especially since I can only buy used, there's no way I'm going to take that risk.
Oppo PM-1 is a seriously boring and deflated sounding headphone. The pads didn't work with my ears either so comfort was subpar. Really liked the design though. It's a mid-fi headphone at best. I take the HD600/650 any day over this can.
i have the hd 650s .Are the lcd-2 s going to be much better than those.....I wasn't really blown away with the hd650s. Should i get the lcd-2s ?
+vladamir Invest in a great tube amp instead, you'd be incredibly surprised how well the HD650 can sound. The new (fazored) Audeze's sound kind of off and the soundstage is pretty bad for the price. The 650 is one of the best cans to build a system around!
+Braden Olszewski i have a nuforce icon dac but i don't have much options for equalization software. www.audioholics.com/gadget-reviews/nuforce-icon-dac
+vladamir yes. to both.
+vladamir Look...sell the DAC, get a Bottlehead Crack with speedball, a Schiit Bifrost multibit, and THEN listen to your HD650's. The HD650's scale better than just about anything else. Big Sound 2015 was pretty telling about where the Audeze cans stand now after FOTM died down. People see "planar" or a high price tag and become ignorant to how their cans sound. Don't get me wrong, my modded HE400's are great at what they do (subbass, fun), but they get smoked by a nice HD650 rig. So does the LCD2...
Braden Olszewski no they don’t. No YOU don’t.
Hi Z,you still like HE500's?Thanks!
Those vs mine he500 and Thx-00. Are those a upgrade, is so how much? Thanks again Z
+john lin HE500's are a more aggressive sound for sure. X00's in the same boat. The LCD-2's are basically the prototype for the LCD-X which still stands as the best headphone I've heard.
+Z Reviews in term of sound quality, the bass and the mids are great on the lcds, this is what I found from research. worth the money to upgrade?
or should I get a T1 instead to compliment mine H500.
Yep, this is it. I'm starting to save money now!
I'm getting into headphones. I do mixing. How would you compare HD600 to LCD-Z?
600's are GREAT for mixing and neutrality. They are what I use for sound demo monitoring. As for the LCD-Z nobody knows yet. The X is out there but I don't know if monitoring/mixing would be best on them. Not sure how it would result.
I'm really liking your reviews. I think you're probably experienced enough to make as good a guess as anybody. Matt at Vintage King in LA is telling me he likes the Audezes and he knows what I work on. So I definately need more info on these LCD-z.
Try Au de ze 3 syllables like "odyssey"
+Z Reviews you mentioned a balance version of hd800s was different than a non version. Is this in general for all headphones? What makes a balance headphone
sound different? Thanks, I like your videos and have been learning a lot. Keep up the
great work.
+Ricardo Fernandez it is a voltage delivery difference. Hard to say if ALL headphones would benefit.
So, I'm taking a chance on a used pair of these, any advice while looking at them to determine if they are in good condition?
Check for scratches on the paint inside the drivers. Make sure the screws aren't loose around the headband. Power them properly if you can.
Ok, thanks for the reply, I should have a Massdrop O2 amp (desktop) to power them when they get in, if I don't would a Centrance dacport slim be ok for a couple days?
Actually the older Hifiman HE-500 is regarded better than the new lineup by the majority, at least if you compare them to similar priced 400i. Purely SQ-wise though
Nice Quiet wallpaper!
how is the bass on these compared to he560? or any other planar in this price range?
560 are mostly neutral. These are trying to be neutral but they are so big the bass comes up from just the physics.
so these have more bass?
Shoot... Any chance of getting hold of a set of LCD2 v2 with comparison with the fazor?
There is a New Audeze lcd2 will they take the phaser back out and then made from different materials all unified black look with mini XLR
So a Pair of LCD-2C (Classic) from what I take are Non Fazor LCD 2's are a good option ?
Yeah they are good
Read that these "produces that vinyl sound", is that true..I'd love to sample these soon.
Z Reviews If the open back headphone rivet the song directly into your ear, it isn't considering sound staging. I am planning on buying an open back purely for better sound staging.
Can yo| please enlighten me what different can I expect from an open back compared to closed back??
+Krishnakumar Get the X2's for soundstage. Open backs sound far more natural than closed. It is like someone whispering into your ear vs hearing them on the phone.
thumbnail looks amazing!
Have an LCD-3 which btw is better than the LCD-2. Originally it was the non fazored until the right side died and had to send it in to get it fixed. They put in the fazored and the bass is just not the mouth drooling bass that it used to be. It still sounds nice but just not euphonic like the original. Man, I miss those.
Never got into the LCD-2. The 3 is more neutral than that.
Btw, Hifiman's are all a bit bright. The best cheap headphone they made that I heard was the old HD-400. The bass is just awesome on that.
Exactly what I expected, the praise on these never seems to stop.
How do these compare to the MrSpeakers Mad Dogs? I remember your review of those ages ago and I actually own a pair now because of your review and love them. Really want a set of these one day but what is the scaling like? How much more 'bang for your buck' do these give?
+Xyrax Alaria You give a lot of buck and they bang the proper amount. Hard to judge against the mostly closed mad dogs.
I'm torn between the Zmf Omni and the LCD 2.2f, you're making the choice hard Zeos!
Greetings Zeos viewers
As someone who is just starting their journey into the world of high end audio there is a very important question that i was wondering weather any of you could answer for me. That is where exactly does one go to download hi res audio files, lossless, flac, etc. would greatly appreciate any answers
-Carl
Torrents
Carl Nieckarz I buy CDs most of the time. otherwise I get flacs off beatport or traxsource or Bandcamp.
Carl Nieckarz tidal
Z i need help. This black friday the v moda m100 for 150$ and the sennheisers hd 598 for 100$ which should i get if any looking under 200$ with moderate bass not the m50x any suggestion would help.
+PureZingy The Vmoda's and the XL pads [amzn.to/21fwIx3] are my vote.
Has anyone found a place that sells or makes a closed back cup for the lcd series of headphones so you dont have to buy an entire new pair of Audeze cans closed to have the benefits of both open and closed cause I have looked everywhere and been completely unable to find any anywhere and I have the LCD-X and would love to be able to occasionally convert them to Cs when needed.
If you want to trade your hd 800 for lcd 3 F, will you do it ?
+Ab Sa Me personally, god yes. I only own the HD600 and LCD-2F but I've tried the HD800 and it was way too...boring. It's not for music it's more for deciphering the music and showing off how many different sounds there are. The LCD's just throw the music in the best way to your ears and it sounds like bliss.
OK let's see how you deal with the heavy weight cause my lcd 3 killing my neck !
after 1year I return to beyer T1.
Thanks
Hi, if I may ask, how was the upgrade from hd600 to LCD2 ? Was it a big difference, a worthy upgrade ? And how did you handle the crazy difference in comfort ?
Martin Rajdl Sound can be very subjective. I wouldn't suggest going for the LCD-2 without at least demoing them somewhere for half an hour if possible. Your ears adjust to sound signatures overtime and this heavily influences what you interpret as marginally good/drastically good. Objectively the LCD-2 is superior to the HD600 in just about everything sound-wise. Price/comfort is up to you. Subjectively I love the bass slam and clarity the LCD-2 gives vs. the hd600 which is neutral and lie the hd800 a little boring.
DEMO IT BEFORE BUYING!
Hey, Thanks for the answer, luckily enough, I will be able to audition then before buying them. I am particularly interested in comparing these to the HD800, BUT from what I've read, I believe I will prefer the LCD2s, but yeah, many thanks for the quick answer, I will hopefully give them a listen as soon as possible :) Again, thanks.
weigh is not an problem for you?
Its the only reason I didnt get those.
Id recommend testing the Stax 2170, since they have the same low distortion as the LCD-2.
I also liked the Bifrost multibit a lot as a DAC, quite good.
dosduros Yeah I got the 2.2 and after a while they start to hurt my head.
took me about 9 months but I got used to the weight.
Not that I can use it for 6 hours, but 3 hours is kinda fine.
Man,why haven't you done a sound test for us?
+sagar4080 I did but it was on my old rig and because youtube and Victor entertaiment will pull all the audio if I upload it in its current state. Wait a bit and hear the LCD-X on the new rig.
+Z Reviews I am eagerly waiting for it,dude.Thanks!
Any chance you can upload it on a site for download?
Hi any chance you're going to review the alpha dog headphones?
+PolloliciousGaming That may happen in the near future.
nice since since im planning to buy a new pair of headphones for christmas and im deciding between the mad dogs, mad dogs pros, or alpha primes
Which is the best out of these, lcd-2, hd800 or he-500?
+TheTechAudiophile I have only been wearing these HD800's for 40 minutes. The LCD2's have a bit more excitement but really the LCD-x's I reviewed take them all.
+Z Reviews do the lcd-2 have a good soundstage?? Is it wide and the realistic??
+TheTechAudiophile Yes it is wide. Not as wide as the X. Is it realistic. Sorta.. The phazor array sounded weird and whatever issue it had was sorted on the X.
How do they sound compared to the hifiman he-500?
pressing headphones together is a bad practice, if there is a seal on an open headphone it can over stress the driver because of the pressure, word here is can i'm not saying it will. Specialy the headphones where you hear the crunch crunch noise from the drive when the headphone moves on your head, like the stax did.
I thought it was pronounced like Odyssey?
+Justin DiPlacido It is.
+Justin DiPlacido maybe it is.. Baybe it isn't. It isn't spelled like that so I can do as I wish.
Was trying to recreate the magic that was this www.reddit.com/r/headphones/comments/3tth14/z_review_audeze_lcd2_fazor_vs_non_fazor/cx991a5
You explain this stuff In a way I personally can understand that’s why I (try ) to pay!
4 years later, just did an image search for "best headphones". Top 5 right now are B&O, Audiotechnica, Beyerdynamic, Meze and Hifiman. Progress?
I have one thing I want to add and that is Audeze needs to open it's information center to include revisions and dates on their website open to the public . It only has where you can validate the authenticity and nothing else . You have to call them during their limited hours to find out . What happens if you come home and find a nice set on eBay buy it now for 550.00 and you can't afford to pass up a great deal . If you wait until they reopen someone else will snatch it but if you buy it and it's an older revision lets say 4/6/2013 it's not only a non fazor it's out of warranty. Audeze created this mess by having so many revisions all with the same model number ? Like I said it's a 400.00 dollar mistake . If Audeze feels it's no big deal then why does the upgrade cost 400.00?? ?
I have the Audeze Sine headphones. I, unlike Zeos, have really tiny ears. So small that the Sine are over-ear for me, and my ears touch the fazor when I listen with my glasses on. It can be uncomfortable when listening for a long time 4+hrs. Still, love the Sine, and LCD 3 is endgame for me.
Kylepb07 I couldn't agree more. What a horrible way to enjoy a hobby. I don't understand why everyone is trying to get to the end. Then what?
What is the amp/dac under the E09K?
+Nick Blank It is the SMSL Sanskrit [amzn.to/1P52Gad]
Is it worth using over just the E09K? As that one has a dac built in right?
E09K is an amp. The E17K is the dac you dock with it. I didn't like the E17 so I just use the E09k and whatever dac I fancy. So yes.
Hi, Amazon Cyber Monday is coming. I'm looking for a DAC/Amp (under $150), any suggestions are appreciated.
+Sean Khok Yee Shiong redd.it/3fsegw just check that page on the big day and see what prices changed most.
lol this guys calls everything the best :D just loves music and sound
i just ordered these for 499 on audeze website. i hope it's an improvement over my hd650
If you've taken the time to properly match the HD650 to an amp...nope. Quite the opposite, actually.
They are a completely different animal. I wouldn't say nope like that.
PilipBwoy Should have gone with a hd 700 with a bass heavy tube amp.
i upgraded to the LCD X. Driving them with an Objective 2 Odac
PilipBwoy What is the cost?I am trying to find lcd 3 or lcd x for around 500$.
there seems to be a new zubwoofer in the corner
+ziggy8757 Dayton 15" Ultimax Kit. Not assembled yet. Videos will come.
+Z Reviews can't wait was worried for a while there that you have gone headphones
How they compared to HE-400i?
+V2760 These are better. By a ways. Bigger, heavier, wider, more comfortable better bass, midrange and treble and made in the USA on top of it all.
Thanks, but I think it made in India :)
I loved the sound of the LCD-2s but man they are the most uncomfortable headphones I have ever worn. The clamping force was just too much and I end up with head pain after an hour of listening.
Just bought a used pair of Audeze LCD-2 Shedua, anyone got a good recomandation to what Dac to get? Tryn best bang for buck aproach.
ZERO DAC
FYI, According to Audeze, it's pronounced like Odyssey.
Where is the sound demo?
+DesWhiteShark All my sound demo's got blocked so I have to re-eddit.
Think it's pronounced like Au-dee-zy ( like Odyssey ). Hard leather like in a funeral parlor.. hah ha ha.. you mean a corpse. So it's like in terms of low end and sound stage the non-fazor=HD650 and fazor=HD600? The newer one with the fazor, leather covered headband and protective metal connectors I do much like more.
+metring073 Everything he said in the review was as others have noticed except for the soundstage comment. The Fazors have a better soundstage and imaging than the non-fazors in common opinion and my experience. The non-fazors only have some (muddy, but more prominent) bass going for them.
Can a v30 drive these properly? Thanks
Kyle Handy No I don't think it will. Look at the LCD-X or Hifiman HE Edition X
If Z lacking a balanced amp doesn't splash a bit of cold water on the face....
These vs the Alpha primes?
+xthetechwiz Open Vs Closed. I won't do it.
+Z Reviews Thank you.
Now all you need to review is a pair of STAX
You were ahead of the curve.
Baulsz done:) and now my wallet Crys, thanks zeos
I don't disagree that it sounds great. However, if you put it on for 2-3 hours, you feel you lose all of soft tissue in your neck due to the weight, and no amount of padding can help your neck when it is that heavy. So... no matter how good it sounds, you can never say this is a endgame headphone due to the outrageous weight. The Fostex Th-900, Beyer T1s, AKG 812, OPPO PM-1 & 2 (Planar as well), and not the mention the HD-800s, all sound superior (different perspective from different people of course) without weighting like 10 bricks. I love your reviews, but I disagree with your conclusion for this review and I guess I can only put this down to the fact you haven't critically reviewed other headphones in the same class yet (other than the alpha dogs).
This or Alpha Primes?
+Justin Shut up. Nobody needs to think about that.
Can the Ha 2 drive these well?
+Muggles3130 In its sleep.
Are these still the best 1k phones you can get?
No. And they never were.
The LCD2s are just $699 right now at Adorama with the 1JUNESVING promo code. Sounds like a steal?
Yeah, just pulled the trigger on those. They commonly sell used for ~$600 so you won't see a better deal
hay im planing to order them but for how long will this code last ?
***** Techbargain says the coupon code expires in 3 days
MishterBobo thx for the answer but im from europe so this coupon does not work anyways :D
where can i get em for that price range? everywhere i go they want 1 thousand dollars plus, but you say they commonly sell around 600??
As amazing as these sound.. they are heavy as sin! Unless you have beefy neck muscles... it's tough to recommend them... or maybe I'm just weak... either way.... much heavier than your average headphone... They are worth hearing tho...
Headphone[dot]com says they weigh 490 grams.
much heavier than regular headphones... too heavy to be comfortable for an extended period in my personal opinion...
@@asgiov jesus christ why are you using so much ellipsis
That's a $55-80 camera case that those headphones come in. o_O
+EnsoZero It is a NICE case. $125 on their site.
+Z Reviews That case is serious overkill for headphones, they can survive falls out of moving vehicles without any damage to sensitive camera equipment (one of my clients can attest to that).
+EnsoZero I mean if someone wants to throw around their headphones or trust airport security with them thats the way to go
Nice RWBY artwork
please review Grado's
i have the HE500s, but i am really curious about these cans if i can snatch a pair through bartering my Hifimans off. What would i be gaining and losing by going from HE500s, to the LCD2 Fazors
+Nik Hulstein Hrm, I think you would feel a sense of more soundstage and more balance. They feel farther away. If you are still using stock pads on the 500's you may want to try changing those first before investing in the LCD's.
+Z Reviews the Velours have been revised from the original Stock Hifimans with nicer material and thicker. HUGE improvement for 10 dollars Sadly, any really good pads (Alpha Dogs or Audeze) are sold in U.S., and with the Canadian Dollar showing no signs of ending its downward spiral, I'm looking at $100+ for pads.
p.s. HM5s (angled) did not fit. broke a pair of mounting rings (and cried myself to sleep) trying to get them on.
+Nik Hulstein They should fit. May have needed a bit more stretching..
+Z Reviews possibly. I have the pleather angled, and i also read somewhere that i guy could only get the velours to fit on them. Maybe they are more stretchy? i dunno. will give it a shot
LCD-4 and a Ragnarok amp... who needs desktop speakers, just set your headphones on the desk.
I didn't have time to read all your comments so maybe someone already corrected you. The lcd-2 non fazor also comes in a pelican style case and also modern cables and the connectors that face forward . They are called LCD-2.2 why ? I don't know. Why would I care enough to mention this ?? because of the idiots selling and buying on ebay that have seen your video thinking I have a plastic case and connectors that face forward I must have a fazor model .... Wrong! the only way to tell is by the serial number and by calling Audeze. So who cares Non fazor must be better right ? Maybe ?? All I do know is you can update your LCD-2's ... you better sit down the cost will be 400.00 plus change . so you better know the real difference before you buy off eBay Audiogon Amazon used or CL. That great deal you made buying those " fazor " LCD-2 might be non fazor LCD-2 costing you another 400.00 or you are clueless thinking wow I have fazor LCD-2's that only cost me 600 bucks..... It's not just the cheap fazor that you get for your 400 bucks but an additional 3 year warranty on your drivers the other parts on your headphones not covered.
Thank you for this, you literally just stopped me from making that mistake. Turns out that the pair that I have been looking at were non-fazor. I ended up going with a new pair of el-8's instead.
Thank you for reading. There's a lot more I could have put in it but not knowing if it makes a difference I didn't want to go any further . Most people are not aware that there's 3 LCD-2 models the earlier one with the all wood cups and then the 2.2 and because there's no 2.3 this is where the problem starts. Z review didn't get it wrong on purpose . Audeze should have clearly had 2.2 and 2.3 meaning second series non fazor (2.2) and second series fazor (2.3 ). Some eBay sellers know the difference or should know but they see this video and feel justified . This leads to my second thought which is why hasn't Audeze fixed this? I don't know if there's any improvement in the two all I do know is if you get into it thinking you have a 2.3 and then find out you have a 2.2 that might cost you . some buyers is paying 600.00 for a 2.2 while another buyers is paying 600.00 for a 2.3 based on this video . I'm not saying Z has it wrong he just doesn't have it 100% right . If you get anything out of my comments it should be get the serial number on any Audeze headphones and call them up for two reasons 1st to verify if it's stolen and 2nd if it current because even a 2.2 could have been factory upgraded by the previous owner and still have a 3 year warranty. Let me break it down. all 2.3's have some warranty left some 2.2 have maybe a few months left but the first series has no warranty . That's another thing to consider when buying used and Audeze will be more than happy to inform the you. Here's what is happening Owners of 2.2's are selling their 2.2's for LCD-X and LCD-3's but also this is the cheapest way to get a 2.3. Sell you old 2.2 for 600.00 and buy a 2.3 for 600.00-650.00 and not pay 400.00 for the driver upgrade.
Austin Lankford hey man. How has the El 8 been going for you so far? I'm quite interested in them snd thinking of buying
I want these headphone so bad I am buying them.
A lot of camera shake bro.
+Dont-be Evil Shaking my head in dis-belief.
Now I want the audeze. No no no no no. I'd rather stick with the hifiman he 400i until I hit jackpot in some lottery and win a thousand dollars and then I'll probably look at them.
you know you can't resist..you got the audiophile disease there is no cure
Hehe, "phaser array".
Spotted another nerd.
Nice background picture
"The best headphone" has the LCD-3s on the 2nd row with the HD800 as the first you damn liar.
+Justin Willms The HD800 is an Enigma. I've heard it a few time in passing at Audio Shows and it never grabs me. It just plays. I think that is why half the reviews I read say it is boring.
+Z Reviews it seems like sennheiser really just wanted to define reference can. never heard it but from descriptions it sounds like it was made to be analytical and unforgiving
I hear ya beats beats beats beats
Jumped on the omni cherry never looking back... Audeze have qc issues and weigh like heavy ass bricks, everybody knows that!
Ohhhhhhhhhhhhhh but I'm not a rapper.
Problem with the LCD-2's is the consistency. Judging by your Fazor they should actually sound more open than the non Fazor model.
The pre Fazor actually has better resolution and is a smoother, more natural sound. I personally found a lot of the Fazors to be junk.
The best Audeze I've heard were one of the first versions of the LCD-3 I had a few years ago. I think they might have pushed the driver material too thin or something with the first batches because a lot of them had failures. Still one of the best headphones I've heard. Just amazing fluidity, liquid detail, tactility, body and realness. The bass was to die for.
Weight was too much though for my pencil neck. Heard a new LCD-3 in a store and was a little underwhelmed. They didn't capture that same magic.
fuck yeah!
Molten salt farms to power them.. ha ha..