[chechu21]

Hello. I am thinking of buying myself an open high-end headphone.
It would be mainly to listen to electronic music, pop, r & b and hip hop.
My candidates are:
- Audeze LCD X
- Focal Clear
- Hifiman Ananda
What do you guys think? Many thanks!

 

[marcgii]

Focal Clear would probably be the safest bet. I've frequently heard about issues regarding manufacture variation for the LCD-X. Though if you buy new, I imagine Audeze has since resolved those issues.

 

[qboogie]

LCD-X has a huge mid-range scoop that makes it less synergistic with vocal heavy music like pop. But it's a stellar performer when EQ is applied to correct it. With EQ I would take it over the others. Without EQ, go for the Ananda.

 

[hiImGrant]

I really enjoy electronic on my clears. I’m waiting on a set of lcd-x, should be here next week. I expect they will sound very different from the clears. Audeze has a 30 day no questions asked return policy so it’s a very low risk.

 

[ksorota]

I would suggest Elex over Clears... they are great headphones for your music choice!

 

[340519]

Focal Clear would probably be the safest bet. I've frequently heard about issues regarding manufacture variation for the LCD-X. Though if you buy new, I imagine Audeze has since resolved those issues.

I have owned both the X, XCs, and Clears. I agree about the Clears.

 

[Audiosolace]

I would agree with the Focal Clears - great for electronic choice

 

[qboogie]

Wow with all the love for the Clears I might have to give them a try too

 

[hiImGrant]

Wow with all the love for the Clears I might have to give them a try too

They can be found open box for hundreds less than new. The black and red “pro” variant does better staying clean looking for longer.

 

[Malevolent]

Hello. I am thinking of buying myself an open high-end headphone.
It would be mainly to listen to electronic music, pop, r & b and hip hop.
My candidates are:
- Audeze LCD X
- Focal Clear
- Hifiman Ananda
What do you guys think? Many thanks!

Are these your only choices?

If so, I would pick the LCD-X or the Ananda.

 

[Arniesb]

You need tight and punchy bass with energetic mids and Audeze dont have that. Audeze sound = boring.

 

[buke9]

You need tight and punchy bass with energetic mids and Audeze dont have that. Audeze sound = boring.

HE-500 does that.

 

[Mightygrey]

Focal Clears are a genuinely safe bet, with plenty of dynamic punch for the genres that you've mentioned. They're easy to pair with source gear, too.