Audeze’s flagship LCD-4 headphones are packed with cutting-edge tech, from their planar magnetic drivers to their carbon-fibre headband. But if you don’t have a dedicated headphone amplifier to drive them, you might as well not bother.
And that’s where the new Audeze LCD-4z come in.
These are still top-quality over-ear cans from one of the most respected headphone manufacturers in the world, promising the same sonic signature as the LCD-4. Where they differ is in using a new 15-ohm voice coil, so they can be plugged straight into the headphone socket of a phone or tablet and still perform – although they’ll probably pair best with a Hi-Res Audio player such as the Astell&Kern AK70 MKII or Onkyo DP-X1.
Related: Best headphones
In addition to this newfound sensitivity, the LCD-4z feature all-new magnesium housings for lighter weight, and have a snazzy black-and-gold aesthetic that’s a little less shouty than the LCD-4’s shiny grilles.
And how much for this phone-friendly audiophilia? You’ll be splashing out £3599/$3995 when they go on sale in late May 2018.
Insanely awesome or just insane? Let us know on Twitter @TrustedReviews
Editorial independence
Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
Professional conduct
We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.
Editorial independence
Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
Professional conduct
We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.
