Planar Magnetic In-Ear Headphones
Planar magnetic headphones (also called orthodynamic or isodynamic) have earned themselves a name in the audiophile community due to their incredible detail and strong bass.
They also let some of the sound into the surrounding area, so they require an isolated listening environment and may be disruptive to people who are around you. They can, however, provide exceptional sound quality at an affordable price.
Open or closed-back?
It's not hard to understand why audiophiles enjoy the planar magnetic headphones. The best models offer incredible detail and powerful presence without sounding distorted. However, they can be costly and usually require a headphone amplifier to drive them. The open-back designs also let sound out and let in ambient noise. If you're in the market for a pair of planar headphones, it's best to consider your listening habits and preferences before purchasing.
Start by deciding whether you'll use your headphones for audiophile or for casual listening. You'll also want to consider your comfort level and whether you prefer a closed or open back design.
Historically, planar magnetic headphones had an advantage over dynamic drivers in the bass department, because they could reproduce frequencies down to 20hz, whereas dynamic driver headphones would roll off around 50hz. However, this distinction has diminished over the years as manufacturers have tried to improve the performance of their diaphragms and make the rest of the headphones lighter.
As a result, the majority of affordable planar magnetic headphones stray from the deepest bass and concentrate on clarity in the mids and highs. These headphones may not have as much a punch and rumble, which can be a problem to certain listeners.
HiFiMAN's Venus over-ear headphones are an exception. They feature a closed back design and a diaphragm which is only one-sided. They don't go as low, but still deliver deep sub-bass tones with a lively texture.
In the end, the type of headphone you pick will depend on your listening habits and budget. If you plan to listen to music on your laptop at home, then an open-back pair will be the best choice. A closed-back model will be better for use on-the-go. If you plan to use your headphones for gaming, an open-back version like the Audeze LCD-2 Classics may be superior to a model with a closed-back design, such as the HiFiMan Susvara 2020. These headphones are ideal for those who love music and want to experience the full range of sound and enjoy incredible clarity.
Response to bass
Planar magnetic headphones utilize a different technology to produce sound than traditional dynamic driver in-ear monitors (IEM). Instead of a single magnet pushing the diaphragm, these headphones employ two magnetic fields that are sandwiched between an electrified movie. This produces a much wider and more natural sound wavefront with less distortion. This allows for a quicker response time and a greater frequency range than conventional dynamic drivers.
The differences in bass response are evident. High-end dynamic headphones can go over 20hz, however most planar headphones can be capable of going deeper and with less distortion. This is an enormous benefit for audiophiles and allows them to get the best in ear listening experience.
Imaging is another method that planar headphones can improve the sound quality. Dynamic drivers are only able to vibrate the the diaphragm attached to the voice coil, which can cause small distortions that change the intended audio reproduction. However, planar drivers are able to produce a fuller soundstage because the entire diaphragm is vibrating in response to an audio signal. This allows headphones to accurately reproduce the stereo balance, transparency, and the position of instruments as specified by the audio producer.
Open-back planars like the HIFIMAN Anaanda and Monoprice Monolith M1070 don't block out sound. Everyone in your area will be able to hear your music. This is a small price to pay for the incredible detail and clarity you'll be able to enjoy.
Planar headphones are more leaky than open-back dynamic ones due to the fact that they have two magnetic fields that are in opposition. This is a huge issue for those who wish to listen to music in quiet spaces or who are concerned about causing a disturbance to those around them. If you're concerned about leakage, you can reduce the issue by using ear pads which are wrapped around your ears to provide extra isolation.
Sensitivity
Contrary to traditional dynamic drivers which have a dome or speaker cone in which the voice coil is vibrating, planar headphones feature incredibly thin membranes infused with conductors, and strung across magnetic arrays that manipulate them at lightning speed. This allows them to deliver high-frequency response that most moving-coil headphones struggle with, as well as a bass that's crisp and deep down to lowest frequencies.
But while they excel at low frequencies, the most affordable over-ear magnetic headphones are often lacking in acoustic accuracy that would make them ideal for mixing or high-fidelity listening. The diaphragms' flatness make it impossible to drive them in a way that is symmetrical like a moving coil headphone. If you want a headphone that has great treble, you'll need to spend more than 500 dollars.
Boutique audio brands typically offer models that are priced at a reasonable price and sound great. Meze Elite is a pair closed-back headphones with one-sided magnet array that provides an immersive listening experience. They have a 90dB sensitivty and a resistance of 35ohms, which should work with most consumer audio devices. They also come with a stunning array of exotic woods and composites, making them look as luxurious as they sound.
More expensive models such as the HiFiMAN HE-560s are up to 30% lighter than their counterparts, thanks to the unique magnet structure and a variety of other design innovations. This includes a patent-pending design that reduces wave-diffraction. This means they are able to be driven more efficiently and cause less distortion than double-sided models.
The HE-560s are more expensive because of many of the same innovations. If you're willing more, you'll get to experience the full spectrum of musical sensations. From the low-frequency rumbles that accompany thunderstorms to the glistening of the cymbals in your favorite track. The quality of sound produced by a high-quality set of planars is amazing and can completely change your music. It is important to select the best model for your requirements and budget.
Comfort
Upgrade to a premium pair of headphones if you like listening to music. The best planar headphones provide detail and clarity that you won't get from cheaper headphones. Choose an over-ear headphone like the HiFiMan Sundara or a compact in-ear model such as the CCA PLA 13 to breathe new life into all your favourite songs.
Planar magnetic headphones are also extremely heavy due to their large ear cups. They typically require an additional headphone amplifier. Many boutique headphone brands have designed headphones to overcome these issues and provide incredible sound in a lightweight package. The OPPO PM-3, for example is a compact closed-back magnetic headphone which folds flat and comes with a selvedge-denim carrying case, making it simple to take with you on the go.
Many of the planar magnetic headphones are bulky and uncomfortable for prolonged wear due to their large earcups. However, the majority of models come with ample padding and are calibrated to the clamping force to ensure a comfortable fit. The OPPO PM-3 is no exception and comes with ultra-soft earpads and suspension bands that evenly distribute weight across the head and ears.
In contrast to dynamic drivers Planar magnetic driver systems utilize large diaphragms with flexible diaphragms to produce bass and mid range sounds. They can move much larger volumes of air than their more stiff counterparts, without the huge excursions that can damage and alter the sound of traditional dynamic drivers. This leads to an even, smooth response that is accompanied by amazing bass clarity and depth.
Planar magnetic headphones are also more efficient and have less distortion than other dynamic headphones. They can be used at a higher volume without sacrificing comfort or clarity. Some headphones require an external headphone amplifier however, most are designed to work with any audio source.
Ultimately, deciding whether headphones shop in-ear headphones are worth it depends on your personal preferences as well as budgetary limitations. The best planar headphones can reproduce amazing bass and clarity, without ever slipping into distortion. However they can be costly to drive and require more power. In addition, they often come with open-back designs that allow for bleed of sound and allow ambient sound.