In passive mode, the headphone is strictly powered by the external amp. No battery is used. I don't know about balanced jacks, but you can use USB-C audio if you use the headphone's DAC (non-passive mode). I'd say that they are hi-fi in passive, not open back, $2000 audiophile grade, but...

I have recently listened extensively to the following headphones. I am going to write my review on the set that I chose and relate it to my second choice. Beyerdynamic Lagoon: Best sounding of the bunch, hands down, no contest. These sound fantastic all the way through the spectrum. Well...