As the LA-based headphone manufacturer explains, the new LCD-5 represents a completely new design made specifically for minimal reflections, improved frequency response, and a more open yet accurate soundstage. The LCD-5’s impedance is just 14 Ohms while its sensitivity is 90dB, and it weighs just 420 grams (1/3 less than the LCD-4!).
"Handcrafted in California, USA, the LCD-5 has been meticulously engineered to provide unmatched audio for industry professionals and audiophiles alike," says the company in the announcement which was scheduled to precede a scheduled headphone showcase taking place in LA, which would be the first attempt to promote an in-person CanJam event since the start of the global pandemic.
The LCD-5 features Audeze’s patented core technologies, and comes with new acoustically designed leather earpads, an improved and luxurious carbon fiber suspension headband, deep “tortoise shell” acetate rings (in what is possibly the most controversial aspect of the design - we wouldn't be surprised if Audeze will consider launching an-all black version very soon) - all-new magnesium housing, plus a new premium audio cable made with high-purity copper, and an aluminum travel case.
As the specifications detail, the flagship headphones are based on the new Parallel Uniforce "thinner than a red blood cell" diaphragms and Fluxor Magnets which are able to deliver powerful sound and detail without increasing the impedance. These 90mm planar magnetic drivers have essentially the same diaphragm area as the LCD-4. Newly designed Fazors waveguides are optimized to reduce diffractions along with new patent-pending voice coils, while the LCD-5’s fully re-designed magnesium frame provides rigidity and ultra-light weight.
Also important to note the Audeze LCD-5's new internally sloped earpads that help to reduce unwanted resonances and interior reflections, also providing better seal on a wider variety of head shapes for consistent comfort. These large earpds use smaller foam than other LCD pads for less absorption of frequencies, while the sloped interior foam more easily conforms to the surface around the listener’s ears. The result, Audeze says is a more neutral upper midrange response.
"Featuring our core technologies while adding some new innovations like our Parallel Uniforce voice coil, the LCD-5 incorporates decades of audio and technology research to deliver all the aspects of a truly reference audio experience," states Audeze CEO Sankar Thiagasamudram. "Our long term commitment to delivering reference products has led us to the LCD-5," he adds.
These new LCD headphones are launched short after the spectacular announcement of the Audeze CRBN electrostatic headphone, which features a new patent-pending polymer film with suspended carbon nanotubes to eliminate problems commonly found in previous electrostatic designs. Originally developed for MRI medical applications, the company adapted those innovations for the audiophile version of the CRBN, which was surprisingly made available on the company's own online store without a formal launch announcement. The CRBN headphones are priced at the same exact price - $4,500 USD - as the new LCD-5.
The LCD-5 headphones are now available to order through Audeze’s website and select dealers. Audeze will be demoing the new LCD-5 at CanJam SoCal September 25-26 at the Irvine Marriott hotel, and also at the Capital Audio Fest - November 5-7 at the Twinbrook Hilton, Rockville, Maryland.
www.audeze.com
