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Dan Clark Audio E3 vs Dan Clark Audio Stealth: which should you buy?

On aggregated review scores the Dan Clark Audio Stealth comes out ahead with an HearWiki score of 88. The full breakdown - sub-scores, specs and what reviewers actually said - is below.

Our pick: Dan Clark Audio Stealth - Outstanding overall at around $4499.

Score breakdown

Each axis is a 0–10 blend of what reviewers scored, not a lab measurement.

Dan Clark Audio E3
Sound9.0
Value7.0
Dan Clark Audio Stealth
Sound9.5
Value6.0

Specifications

Specification comparison of Dan Clark Audio E3 vs Dan Clark Audio Stealth
SpecDan Clark Audio E3Dan Clark Audio Stealth
TypeOver-EarOver-Ear
Price (USD)$2300$4499
HearWiki score86 / 100 · Outstanding88 / 100 · Outstanding
Released20232021
Audio
Driverplanarplanar
Driver size76 mm76 mm
Drivers per side11
Frequency response20Hz-20kHz-
Impedance27 Ω23 Ω
Sensitivity90 dB/mW90 dB/mW
Wireless
Bluetoothno-
Multipoint pairingNoNo
Battery
Quick chargenone-
Wireless chargingNo-
Features
Active noise cancelling-No
ANC typenone-
Transparency modeNo-
Companion appNo-
Custom EQNo-
Wear detectionNo-
Controlsnone-
Voice assistantnone-
Design
Weight455 g415 g
Water resistancenone-
USB-CNoNo
Balanced connectionYesYes
Calls
Call noise reductionnone-

What reviewers said

Dan Clark Audio E3

The Dan Clark Audio E3 is a premium closed-back planar headphone that aims for reference-level performance, combining spacious and lively sound with excellent comfort. It is a technically advanced model featuring a fifth-generation driver and AMTS tuning, though it requires a capable amplifier to perform at its best. Overall, it is considered one of the top closed-back options available, rivaling far pricier competitors.

  • Pro:Spacious, natural soundstage for a closed-back
  • Pro:High comfort for long listening sessions
  • Pro:Advanced planar driver and tuning tech
  • Con:Requires a strong amp due to low sensitivity
  • Con:Limited to wired, analog connections
  • Con:No built-in controls or smart features

Dan Clark Audio Stealth

The Dan Clark Audio Stealth is a premium closed-back planar magnetic headphone that delivers a highly refined, natural sound with impressive technical performance. It stands out among closed-back models for its clarity, detail, and smoothness, though it requires a powerful amplifier to reach its full potential, particularly for bass response. Its flagship-level build quality and included accessories further cement its status as a top-tier option.

  • Pro:Exceptional clarity and detail retrieval
  • Pro:Natural, smooth tonal balance
  • Pro:Flagship build quality and accessories
  • Con:Very power-hungry; needs a strong amp
  • Con:Bass impact may be limited without ample power
  • Con:Very high price point

Summaries are AI-condensed and paraphrased from published reviews and specs - not original hands-on testing. More on our method.

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