Although I monitor on loudspeakers for mixing, I do spend a significant amount of time doing detail work on headphones, and Audeze’s LCD-Xs [Tape Op #119] have been my first choice for several years now. They provide a fantastic amount of detail, are comfortable, and have been operating without issue for years. Audeze’s new flagship product, the CRBN2, is an electrostatic open-back headphone design that delivers what may be the most balanced listening I have experienced.
These headphones are fantastically comfortable, with every detail thoughtfully designed and labored over. Note: A specialized amp for electrostatic headphones is required. Users should be aware that plugging the CRBN2 into an existing system with a standard headphone cable is not an option, so be aware before reaching for the “buy” button. However, a 2.5-meter OCC (Ohno Continuous Cast) monocrystal copper, 5-pin cable is included. I reviewed the Audezes using a provided Mjölnir Audio electrostatic headphone amplifier (not included with purchase).
The CRBN2’s drivers utilize an ultra-thin polyamide film infused with carbon nanotubes, and combined with Audeze’s patent-pending SLAM (Symmetric Linear Acoustic Modulator) technology, claims a frequency response of 10 Hz to 40 kHz, with a max SPL of 120 dB. The provided frequency spec shows a gradual rise from around 50 Hz with a +5 dB boost around 15 Hz, and then returning to 0 at 10 Hz. Earpads are wrapped in leather, and the headband is covered in carbon fiber and leather. The ear cups are an oval shape, which is a departure from Audeze’s typical circular design. Notably, the CRBN2s are much lighter than some products in Audeze’s line of headphones, weighing in at 480 grams (just over a pound) as opposed to the LCD-X model’s 612 grams. The CRBN2s included a black metal foam-lined travel case, and even a pair of white gloves for handling! The overall package just screams ultimate quality.