Overview

The Audeze LCD2 Classic Closed Back is a refined, non-Fazor planar magnetic headphone that brings the iconic "Origins" sound into a private, isolated listening experience. By revisiting the warmer, more forgiving tonality of the original LCD-2 but sealing the earcups, Audeze has created a headphone that offers deep, punchy bass and a lush midrange without disturbing those around you. The 2021 Model revision includes the lightweight suspension headband and updated earpads, ensuring that while the build remains industrial and robust, the weight is distributed as efficiently as possible for long-haul sessions.

Simcoe Audio Video Insight

We recommend the LCD2 Classic Closed Back for our clients who love the Audeze "house sound"—characterized by that famous planar slam and liquid-smooth mids—but need to block out room noise. While many closed-back headphones can feel "boxy" or claustrophobic, these maintain a surprisingly wide and deep soundstage that mimics the openness of their siblings. They are particularly effective for late-night listening or shared office spaces where you want to experience a high-end personal concert hall without leakage. Keep in mind, these are substantial headphones; they provide a physical, immersive experience that smaller dynamic drivers simply cannot replicate.

Best for the Audeze LCD2 Classic Closed Back: even though they are rated at 70 ohms, they truly come to life when paired with a high-current desktop amplifier. The planar drivers thrive on power to maintain their "tight" bass response. For the best ergonomic experience, adjust the suspension strap so the leather band takes the weight of the headphones rather than the metal frame, which prevents localized pressure points on the top of your head during extended use.

More Details

Why It Wins

• Non-Fazor Planar Drivers: Delivers a warmer, more nostalgic sound profile that is more forgiving of lower-quality recordings than the clinical high-end models.
• Exceptional Isolation: The closed-back design and thick, contoured earpads provide significant passive noise cancellation for focused listening.
• Superior Spatial Imaging: Innovative driver placement allows for a soundstage that is wider and more three-dimensional than most traditional closed-back headphones.

What Makes It Different

The LCD2 Classic Closed Back stands out because it retains the soul of the original "Pre-Fazor" LCD-2, which many audiophiles prefer for its emotive and "meaty" presentation. Most modern high-end headphones focus on extreme treble detail, but Audeze prioritizes a "wall of sound" effect that makes rock, jazz, and electronic music feel incredibly visceral. The 2021 revision specifically improved the headband design to a ventilated suspension system, a critical update that helps manage the weight of the massive 106mm planar transducers, making it much more wearable than previous iterations.

Technical Highlights

• 106mm Planar Transducers: Massive driver surface area ensures lightning-fast transient response and distortion-free audio even at high volumes.
• Ultra-Thin Diaphragm: Audeze’s proprietary material is thinner than a human hair, allowing for incredible detail retrieval across a 10Hz–50kHz range.
• Handcrafted in California: Each unit is engineered and hand-built in Audeze’s Southern California facility to exacting professional standards.
• Standard Travel Case Included: This 2021 model package includes the rugged, foam-lined Audeze travel case for maximum protection.

Buyers Guide

Who This Is For

• The Private Audiophile: Listeners who want a reference-grade planar experience without the sound leakage associated with open-back designs.
• The Bass Enthusiast: Those who crave the "slam" and texture of planar bass that can reach down to sub-audible frequencies with perfect clarity.
• The "Laid-Back" Listener: Individuals who prefer a smooth, rich, and non-fatiguing sound over a bright or analytical one.

Ideal Use Case

• Shared Office or Living Spaces: Allows for a high-fidelity experience in the presence of others without causing a disturbance.
• Late-Night Listening: Provides an immersive "big room" sound in total silence, perfect for unwinding at the end of the day.
• Critical Mixing in Noisy Environments: Useful for audio professionals who need to monitor recordings in spaces where open-back headphones aren't practical.

What To Pair It With

• High-Current Desktop Amp: An amplifier like the Schiit Magni or JDS Labs Element is recommended to provide the current these planars demand.
• Balanced 4-pin XLR Cable: While it comes with a 1/4" cable, moving to a balanced connection can often provide more headroom and lower noise.
• High-Res DAC: Pair with a quality DAC to ensure you are feeding these resolving drivers the cleanest possible signal.

Alternative Options

The LCD2 Classic Closed Back is the primary choice for "vintage" Audeze warmth in a closed design. If you prefer more treble detail and a more analytical sound, the Audeze LCD-XC is the professional studio-targeted alternative. For those who don't need isolation and want the most natural, airy soundstage possible, the Audeze LCD2 Classic (Open Back) is the logical counterpart. If weight is your primary concern, the Audeze LCD-GX offers a lighter chassis, though it is tuned specifically with gaming and communication in mind.