Audeze LCD-XC

The reviewer compares four high-end closed-back headphones, including the Audeze LCD-XC, which he praises for its dynamic, lively, and high-energy sound with deep, tight, and fast bass. However, he notes it is the heaviest and least comfortable of the group, making it less suitable for long listening sessions. He concludes that the best choice depends on personal priorities, with the LCD-XC being ideal for those seeking a more engaging, rock-and-roll sound.

The reviewer finds the Audeze LCD-XC to be a surprisingly strong closed-back planar, outperforming its open-back sibling in technical performance and frequency response. It excels in detail retrieval, dynamics, and image separation, though its 700-gram weight and overly bright treble are notable drawbacks. Overall, it's recommended for those who can handle the weight and prefer a brighter tuning.

The reviewer finds the Audeze LCD-XC technically impressive, especially in imaging, but is disappointed overall. He describes the sound as overly bright and sharp with a boring low-end, making it unpleasant for long listening sessions. He concludes the headphones feel unfinished and not worth the $1,300 price, preferring other models in the LCD line.

The reviewer explains that 'flat' headphones are a misconception, as they actually refer to deviation from the Harman curve, and highlights the Audeze LCD-XC's key advantage: virtually zero distortion, which allows for effective EQ calibration without introducing artifacts. He concludes that while expensive, these headphones are worth it for their clarity, detail, and suitability for both mixing and recording, especially with a correction curve applied.