Audeze LCD-X Over-Ear Planar Headphone vs Audeze LCD-XC Planar Magnetic Headphones (2026): Key Differences
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When comparing the audeze LCD x over ear open back vs LCD xc over ear closed, you are looking at two professional-grade planar magnetic headphones. Both models feature handcrafted drivers and aim for reference-quality audio. The main difference lies in their acoustic design. One uses an open-back layout for a spacious soundstage, while the other employs a closed-back design for isolation. Both are over-ear styles built for critical listening tasks.
Key differences
| Aspect | Audeze LCD-X Over-Ear Planar Headphone | Audeze LCD-XC Planar Magnetic Headphones |
|---|---|---|
| Acoustic Design | Open-Back | Closed-Back |
| Driver Size | 106 mm | 100 mm |
| Connectivity | 4-pin XLR, 6.3 mm, 3.5 mm | not listed |
| Ear Cup Material | Leather (leather-free option available) | Carbon Weave |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Audeze LCD-X Over-Ear Planar Headphone if
- You need an open-back design for a wider soundstage and natural imaging.
- You prefer the larger 106 mm driver size for extended frequency response.
- You require specific connectivity options like 4-pin XLR and multiple jack sizes.
Choose Audeze LCD-XC Planar Magnetic Headphones if
- You need a closed-back design to block out ambient noise and provide isolation.
- You want carbon weave earcups for a distinct aesthetic and build.
- You are looking for a model specifically noted for reduced ambient noise.
Verdict: Choose the LCD-X if you prioritize an open soundstage and larger driver specifications. Select the LCD-XC if you require the noise isolation and closed-back construction for recording or noisy environments. Both deliver planar magnetic accuracy, but their acoustic designs serve different listening contexts.
LCD-X vs LCD-XC: Key Differences
Acoustic Design
The Audeze LCD-X features an open-back design, which allows sound to pass through the earcups. This creates a wide, natural soundstage that many engineers prefer for mixing. The Audeze LCD-XC uses a closed-back design with carbon weave earcups. This construction provides increased isolation and greatly reduces ambient noise. You get a silent background where music erupts with a life of its own. The closed design is better for noisy environments, while the open design offers a more spacious audio experience. Choose based on whether you need isolation or a wider soundstage.
Driver Size
Driver size is a key specification for both models, though the numbers differ slightly. The Audeze LCD-X utilizes large, ultra-thin 106 mm diaphragms. These drivers are paired with proprietary Fazor elements and double-sided magnetic arrays. The Audeze LCD-XC features 100 mm planar magnetic drivers. Both use near-weightless diaphragms for clear and accurate sound. The LCD-X offers a slightly larger driver surface area, which may influence bass extension and overall output. Both models aim for reference quality, but the physical size of the diaphragm is a distinct hardware difference between the two units.
Connectivity Options
Connection methods vary between the two headphones. The Audeze LCD-X includes a combo 4-pin XLR connector, along with 6.3 mm and 3.5 mm inputs. This provides flexibility for professional studio gear and consumer devices. The product data for the Audeze LCD-XC does not list specific connectivity options. It is described as an over-ear closed-back headphone, but the cable types are not detailed in the provided specifications. If you require a 4-pin XLR connection for your studio interface, the LCD-X offers this out of the box. You should verify the LCD-XC cables separately.
Frequency Response
Audio range is critical for professional monitoring. The Audeze LCD-X specifies a frequency response from 12Hz to 20kHz, extended out to 50kHz. This extended range captures ultra-low bass and ultra-high treble details. The Audeze LCD-XC data does not provide specific frequency response numbers. It emphasizes dynamic, nimble, neutral, and transparent quality. The LCD-X offers a quantifiable range that extends well beyond human hearing, which can impact the perception of detail. Without specific Hz data for the LCD-XC, the LCD-X provides more concrete information about its audio bandwidth capabilities.
Efficiency and Impedance
Power requirements affect how you drive these headphones. The Audeze LCD-X has an efficiency of 103dB/1mW and an impedance of 20 ohms. This makes it efficient and easy to drive with various amplifiers. The Audeze LCD-XC data does not list efficiency or impedance values. It focuses on the benefits of planar magnetic drivers for isolation and detail. The LCD-X specifications suggest it is well-suited for anyone seeking reference quality without needing extreme power. You can rely on the LCD-X specs for driveability, while the LCD-XC requires you to check other sources for its electrical characteristics.
Which planar headphone fits your workflow?
Studio engineers needing wide soundstage
The LCD-X features an open-back acoustic design with 106 mm drivers. This configuration creates a natural, expansive soundstage ideal for critical mixing tasks. You benefit from the transparency of planar magnetic technology while enjoying the spatial accuracy that professional recording engineers prefer for detailed audio work.
Musicians requiring noise isolation
The LCD-XC uses a closed-back design with carbon weave earcups. This construction significantly reduces ambient noise, allowing you to focus on your recording. You get the benefits of planar magnetic drivers with increased isolation, ensuring your favorite music erupts from a silent background with fantastic detail.
Users preferring larger driver specs
This model specifies 106 mm diaphragms compared to the 100 mm drivers in the LCD-XC. You may prefer the slightly larger driver size for its potential impact on low-frequency extension. The LCD-X also lists an impedance of 20 ohms and 103dB efficiency, which aids in driving these larger units.
The products compared
Audeze LCD-X Over-Ear Planar Headphone
Best for: professional mixing and reference monitoring
- Form Factor
- Over-Ear
- Connectivity
- 4-pin XLR, 6.3 mm, 3.5 mm
- Driver Size
- 106 mm
- Acoustic Design
- Open-Back
- Color
- Black
- Dimensions
- 16 × 14 × 8 inches
View on Amazon: Audeze LCD-X Over-Ear Planar Headphone Affiliate link
The Audeze LCD-X is an open-back over-ear planar magnetic headphone designed for professional reference monitoring. It features 106 mm drivers with Fazor elements and a frequency response extending to 50 kHz. With 20 ohms of impedance and 103 dB efficiency, it connects via 4-pin XLR, 6.3 mm, or 3.5 mm cables. You will appreciate its handcrafted build and revised leather ear pads for long sessions.
Pros
- 106 mm planar magnetic drivers with Fazor elements
- Frequency response extends to 50 kHz
- Low 20 ohm impedance for easy driving
- Multiple connection options including 4-pin XLR
- Revised 2021 leather ear pad design
Cons
- Open-back design allows sound leakage
- Requires specific cables for optimal connectivity
- Large physical dimensions may limit portability
Good fit if
- You need reference-quality monitoring for mixing
- You prefer open-back acoustic signatures
- You want high-efficiency planar drivers
Skip if
- You need closed-back isolation
- You require wireless connectivity
- You prioritize compact portability
Verdict: Audeze LCD-X Open-Back Planar Headphones deliver precise audio reproduction for professionals who value open acoustic design and high driver efficiency over isolation.
Audeze LCD-XC Planar Magnetic Headphones
Best for: isolated listening and studio monitoring
- Form Factor
- Over-Ear
- Driver Size
- 100 mm
- Acoustic Design
- Closed-Back
- Color
- Black
- Dimensions
- 11 × 11 × 7 inches
- Weight
- 4 pounds
View on Amazon: Audeze LCD-XC Planar Magnetic Headphones Affiliate link
The Audeze LCD-XC is a closed-back over-ear headphone featuring 100 mm planar magnetic drivers. It uses carbon weave earcups and a suspension headband for isolation. The design aims for neutral, transparent sound with reduced ambient noise. It weighs 4 pounds and measures 11 by 7 by 11 inches. This model suits listeners who need isolation while maintaining high-fidelity audio detail.
Pros
- 100 mm planar magnetic drivers for accurate sound
- Closed-back acoustic design for noise isolation
- Carbon weave earcups for structural rigidity
- Suspension headband for comfort and fit
Cons
- Heavy 4-pound build for extended sessions
- Large 11 by 11 inch footprint limits portability
- No included carrying case mentioned in specs
Good fit if
- You need isolation from ambient noise
- You prefer closed-back over open-back designs
- You value neutral and transparent sound signatures
Skip if
- You require a lightweight portable headphone
- You need an open-back soundstage
- You prefer dynamic driver technology
Verdict: Audeze LCD-XC Closed-Back Planar Headphone fits professionals and audiophiles who prioritize isolation and precise planar magnetic sound reproduction over portability.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Audeze LCD-X Over-Ear Planar Headphone | Audeze LCD-XC Planar Magnetic Headphones |
|---|---|---|
| Form Factor | Over-Ear | Over-Ear |
| Connectivity | 4-pin XLR, 6.3 mm, 3.5 mm | not stated |
| Driver Size | 106 mm | 100 mm |
| Acoustic Design | Open-Back | Closed-Back |
| Color | Black | Black |
| Dimensions | 16 × 14 × 8 inches | 11 × 11 × 7 inches |
| Weight | not stated | 4 pounds |
| Size | 106 mm | 106 mm |
| Model | 100-LX-1016-00 | 100-XC-1016-00 |
Frequently asked questions
Are the Audeze LCD-X and LCD-XC the same size?
Both models utilize identical 106 mm planar magnetic drivers. This shared driver size ensures consistent tonal characteristics across both designs. However, the physical dimensions differ. The LCD-XC is slightly more compact, measuring 11 inches in width and length. The LCD-X is larger, with a width of 14 inches and a length of 16 inches.
Do both headphones use the same driver technology?
Yes, both headphones rely on planar magnetic technology. The LCD-X and LCD-XC both feature 106 mm drivers. This shared core technology provides precise audio reproduction for both open-back and closed-back configurations. You get reference-quality sound regardless of the acoustic design you choose.
Which model is heavier?
The Audeze LCD-XC weighs 4 pounds. The data does not list a specific weight for the LCD-X. Both are built for stationary use rather than portability. The LCD-XC’s closed-back design contributes to its substantial build. You should expect a heavy, secure fit on your head.
Can I use the LCD-X for tracking in a noisy room?
No, the LCD-X features an open-back acoustic design. This allows sound to pass through the earcups. It is best for professional mixing and reference monitoring in controlled environments. If you need isolation from external noise, the closed-back LCD-XC is the suitable choice for your workflow.
What is the model number for the LCD-XC?
The model number for the Audeze LCD-XC is 100-XC-1016-00. This specific identifier distinguishes it from the open-back LCD-X. Both headphones share the same 106 mm driver size. You can use this model number to verify you are purchasing the closed-back version for isolated listening.
Are these headphones portable?
These are not designed for portability. The LCD-X measures 14 inches wide and 16 inches long. The LCD-XC is slightly smaller but still substantial. Both are over-ear headphones built for studio use. You should plan to use them in a fixed location rather than on the go.