Improved: Audez’e LCD-2 Revision 2

The awesome just got an upgrade. And it’s so obvious that I’m going to make this article short and sweet at just 463 words.

Whatever the changes Audez’e did to their LCD-2 headphone has made the newest version of the LCD-2 better across the board, and most certainly a better headphone than the original. It’s not a totally new sound, and for Mac users, it’s more like upgrading from Snow Leopard to Lion, but it is a nice upgrade to have.

It’s still and Audez’e LCD-2 after all, with the distinctive Stax-like, black background planar sound. But now, things sound bigger overall, both in soundstage and instrument separation. Better clarity from top to bottom (especially very noticeable on the midrange section), treble section that doesn’t intentionally tries to hide itself. The same awesome bass. Overall everything just sounds fresher and more real. Vocals got a little dryer and thinner, and that’s about the only complain I have, but I’d still take the livelier presentation of the new LCD-2 anyway.

The changes on the build quality include a thicker, deeper pads (though the pads have been made available for a while now) as well as a leather headband. Good changes, as the larger headband accommodate my head better, resulting in a better overall fit without sacrificing comfort. The newer ADZ cable is also softer than the Canare cable that was used previously.

Last month I did audition this new Audeze LCD-2 Rev. 2 model and compared it to a different Revision 1 model, but both headphones being equipped with the same newer style pads and Moon Audio Silver Dragon cables. I don’t know how much the cables and the newer pads change the sound, but back then my impression was more of a different tonality between the two, and less of a definite improvement by the new model. I even commented that the soundstage of the original model was bigger and more open, while the midrange section of the original model was also more resolving compared to the new model. The new model on the other hand had a more forward upper mid and more treble presence. But this time, the comparison is on a fully stock versus fully stock model, and the Revision 2 is an obvious upgrade. Through different set ups and different recordings, I choose the 2nd Revision, every single time.

I can go on and dissect every part of the sound of the new LCD-2, but I think it’s pointless. It’s plain to me that the new LCD-2 is just better. Livelier, fresher, more natural treble region helps make everything more real, more spacious soundstage. What’s there not to like?

Special thanks to Mike and Rudi for the LCD-2s.

Gear used for review

Hifiman HM-801, Apex Peak, CEntrance DACport LX, CEntrance DACport, Audinst AMP-HP, ALO Continental

5/5 - (3 votes)
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156 Comments

  • Reply September 6, 2011

    Anthony Flores

    Thanks Mike, would love to get your thoughts on this v2 in conjunction with the RWA/Audez dedicated amp that is being sold by RWA, ALO, etc. I know it’s popular with the Lyr, and I’ve heard the Audez sounds great on the Burson, but super curious about how that amp sounds to you and if it’s worth the extra cost over the Burson 160. Thanks!

    • Reply September 6, 2011

      Anonymous

      Yes, I’ve never had a chance to listen to the RWA amp, unfortunately.

      • Reply May 30, 2013

        STARSTERN

        how lcd compare to dt 880 ?

  • Reply September 6, 2011

    Anonymous

    Totally unrelated question.  What is the best way to clean headphone ear pads(leather, pleather and cloth)?  This is virtually no straight answers in Google.

    • Reply September 6, 2011

      Mr Guest

      Try flicking off an email to Audeze. They are generally very helpful and should point you in the right direction.

    • Reply September 6, 2011

      Anonymous

      Hmmm.. take a damp cloth and wipe? That’s what I do, except for the foam pads on the Grado, where I wash them with water and shampoo. 

      • Reply September 6, 2011

        Anonymous

        Shampoo?  Carpet, car or hair?  Some suggested leather conditioners to real leather but I fear that it could irritate the skin, contains some chemicals that corrode the wiring and this is useless in pleather.  Thanks for the reply.  I didn’t know you can wash removable cloth and foam pads so I’ve been avoiding those type for years.

        • Reply September 6, 2011

          Anonymous

          Last time I use hair shampoo for the Grado foam-type pads. I’ve never tried washing velour pads, when they get really filthy I prefer buying new sets. 

          As for leather pads, I have no experience with leather conditioners too. 

          • Reply September 6, 2011

            Anonymous

            Thanks for the info and it makes sense because hair shampoo are very mild detergent. 🙂

          • Reply September 6, 2011

            Anonymous

            Thanks for the info. 🙂

  • Reply September 6, 2011

    Donunus

    What if the old rev used all the new accessories like the new headband, pads, cables, etc… Would you still prefer the v2 then?

    • Reply September 6, 2011

      Anonymous

      Well if you noticed I did talk about how I prefer the sound of the old version when both were fitted with the same new style pads, and Moon Audio Silver Dragon cables (I believe the internal wiring on the old one has already been changed to Silver Dragon as well). But I don’t know, stock for stock the v2 is a big improvement. 

      • Reply September 6, 2011

        Donunus

        Thats what I wanted to confirm. So there is still a chance that a v1 with v2 stock accessories can get the upper hand.

        • Reply September 7, 2011

          Anonymous

          Yea we need to look more into it though.

  • Reply September 6, 2011

    Tim

    Great impression Mike! Do you know any amp that could boost the vocal presence hence make the Rev-2 seems fuller and less dry? That’s gonna be a winner IMO. Thanks.

    • Reply September 6, 2011

      Anonymous

      The Apex Peak amplifier with the Shuguang tube is really good for that, hope it fits your budget. 😉

    • Reply September 6, 2011

      Rudi0504

      Hi Tim

      I have own the LCD 2 Rev 2, please try with with Peak and Vulcano pair with Tube Upgrade
      50 Years Tresure from Shugang, this Amp can improoive the Mid and Impact f0r LCD 2 Rev 2.
      The cheapest solution please try to drive with Graham Solo Ultra Linear
      I hope this can help you

      • Reply September 6, 2011

        Anonymous

        Yes, the Graham Solo should be good as well. Maybe the SRG II is better than the Ultra Linear for boosting mids.

      • Reply September 6, 2011

        Tim

        Hi Rudi,

        Thanks for your help. What do you think about Woo amps? It seems that you own a WA6. Would the hybrid Peak even more tubey-sounding and emphasize vocals better than the Woo? If not mistaken some reviewers on Head-Fi said that it’s neutral, detailed, and a bit bright.

        Thanks Mike.
        Look forward to your Peak review!

        I never thought before that Graham Slee amps have adequate current to drive planars such as the LCD-2, well I will read some more regarding the SRG II. 

        • Reply September 7, 2011

          Anonymous

          Tim,
          The Graham Slee actually drives the HE-500 very well, and the HE-500 is still harder to drive than the LCD-2, so I wouldn’t doubt the current capability of the Graham Slee at all.

          The Peak with the stock Tung Sol tube sounds just like what you quoted: neutral, detailed, a bit bright.

  • Reply September 6, 2011

    WarriorAnt

    Did you burn in the revision 2 before listening?  Th Rev 2 need at least 24 hours burn in before they begin to open up.  200-300 hours before they come into their own.  The vocals will sound much better after 30 hours.

    • Reply September 6, 2011

      Anonymous

      Really? Burning in on a planar headphone? That’s new.

      Anyway the Rev2 has been used for probably a month now, that should be more than enough to break anything in.

  • Reply September 6, 2011

    Rudi0504

    Always Two Thumbs Up Mike for your review
    I have agreed with your review for LCD 2 Rev 2For LCD 2 Rev 2 must turn the Volume Control about  1 hour more than the Rev 1 top have the same Sound Level.To have more sound like the Rev 1 specially for the MID and BASS Region i use Tube Amp WA 6 with MAXX  Upgrade internal Part and Tube from Sophia Electric Prinzess .

    • Reply September 6, 2011

      Anonymous

      I bet it will sound really good with a Balancing Act. 😉 

  • Reply September 6, 2011

    WarriorAnt

    The Rev.1 didn’t need any burn in but the rev.2 does.  Many rev.2 owners will tell you that. They will also tell you the sonic character changes after 24 hours and continues on until the longer duration is reached.  

    Why would you clump all planars together like that?

    • Reply September 6, 2011

      Anonymous

      Okay, cool. 

    • Reply September 6, 2011

      Brian Fu

      It has been burned-in for one month… is it not long enough for you?

      • Reply September 6, 2011

        WarriorAnt

        Depends on how many hours in that month Brian.

  • Reply September 6, 2011

    HZE

    Hi, thanks for the great impression. Is hifiman hm-801 with power module good enough to drive the LCD-2? 

    • Reply September 7, 2011

      Anonymous

      What is the power module? Are you talking about the balanced amplifier?

      • Reply September 7, 2011

        HZE

        I mean the high gain amp module. My HM-801 was shipped with 2 amp modules, one is labeled for big headphone and the other one is labeled for small headphone (lot”s of people called it the new standard module). It’s not the balanced module. Haven’t got any chance to try it. I was told that LCD-2 is pretty easy to drive. Thanks for the reply.

        • Reply September 7, 2011

          Anonymous

          Ah, I see. Yes the high gain amp module is good for anything up to the HD800. The LCD-2 is slightly harder than that to drive. You can get pretty decent results, but it will feel slightly underpowered. 

          • Reply September 7, 2011

            HZE

            I heard LCD-2 with B22 is a great combination, how about it’s little brother M^3? Is it good as well? Sorry if I ask too much…

            • Reply September 7, 2011

              Anonymous

              Yes it’s good with the B22. I’ve never listened to the M3 though.

  • Reply September 7, 2011

    Nicklotr

    Heyy Mike,

    In the past, you suggested that better cables, such as the ALO, be used to up the treble levels of the Rev 1 to sound better. As such, would you still suggest that it would still be worth it then to do the same for the Rev 2 drivers? Will there be significant improvements to the sound?

    Sam

    • Reply September 7, 2011

      Anonymous

      Hi Sam,
      I think the stock configuration is good as it is. Upgrading the cable, however would most probably improve the sound, but I haven’t quite tried the new ALO cables with the Rev 2.

      • Reply September 7, 2011

        Nicklotr

        Ok, thanks!

  • Reply September 7, 2011

    Steven

    Hi,

    Going to Hong Kong soon and planing to pick up a pair Audez’e.

    Is there any way to spot the difference between Rev 1 and Rev 2?

    • Reply September 7, 2011

      Anonymous

      Hi Steven,
      I think there are a few differences:
      1. All leather black headband
      2. Thicker pads
      3. Softer cables

      You can try comparing the pictures on the few LCD-2 articles:

      This is the new version: http://www.headfonia.com/improved-audeze-lcd-2-revision-2/

      This is the old version:
      http://www.headfonia.com/audeze-lcd-2-trio/

      You can also try asking the guy in the headphone store, Jaben Hong Kong and Mingo. Both should be quite trustworthy.

      • Reply September 7, 2011

        VagabondJ

        Actually the black leather headband (or lack thereof) is not necessarily an indicator. I bought my LCD-2s at the end of June without the leather head band (a $50 option that I did not purchase, though I will admit in retrospect I wish I had as it definitely looks cooler) but they are the Rev2 (confirmed this with Audeze).

        Love the site, btw, Mike. It was big help with my headphone purchase decision. Any plans to audition the Musical Fidelity M1 HPA amp? I am using said amp to drive the LCD-2s and think the two make an excellent pairing …

        • Reply September 7, 2011

          Steven

          Thanks for the replies and I’ll check out the stores. I see no difference between rev1 and rev2, I guess I must rely on the stores.

        • Reply September 8, 2011

          Anonymous

          Thanks for the info, Jim. Interesting to see how there are so many different variants of the LCD-2.

          The M1 HPA amp, I’ve been looking into it for a while, but I don’t know when I’m going to be able to get one unit for a review. It does look excellent though. 🙂

      • Reply September 9, 2011

        Steven

        In case anyone wonders, I received a reply from Audeze.”The serial number and the date of manufacture in the graph are the easiest way to sport the difference. Any LCD-2 manufactured after middle of June is rev2″

        • Reply September 12, 2011

          Anonymous

          Thanks, Steven.

  • Reply September 7, 2011

    Loevhagen

    The rev. 1 and the rev. 2 s/n are different. The former starts with 569 and the latter 531.

    • Reply September 8, 2011

      Anonymous

      Now that’s a solid piece of information that we can rely on. Thanks!

      • Reply September 8, 2011

        Steven

        That was very useful, thanks!

    • Reply September 8, 2011

      Brian Fu

      Be careful, that’s not always the case.  Tyll from Inner Fidelity had received and measured an older LCD2 with 531xxx serial # several weeks before they announced the revision 2.

      I seem to recall that the new serial # started right from the batch with intermittent driver failure to just before they released the revision 2. The only thing we can be sure of is the 531xxx shipped with the newer pads and newer cables but NOT the newer headband.

  • Reply September 8, 2011

    Anonymous

    Hi Mike,
         How does the soundstage with the new revised LCD2 compare against the T1? 

    • Reply September 8, 2011

      Anonymous

      I haven’t done a direct comparison, but from memory, the T1 is more precise but narrower and small (the T1’s soundstage is smaller than the DT880, for instance). While the LCD-2 has a much more spacious space, and still a pretty good accurate soundstage.

  • Reply September 8, 2011

    Shahrose

    This jives a little more with my own impressions Mike (you made the earlier SD3 comments in reply to my inquiry if you recall).

    I’ve got the Q-audio cable for my Rev.2s now BTW, which I think is definitely an upgrade over the stock cable (which I find a bit thick and muddy).

    • Reply September 8, 2011

      Anonymous

      Really? Can you post your impressions here, would love to read it.

      Generally, I haven’t met one instance where an aftermarket cable doesn’t clear up the sound.. but sometimes I prefer stock cables for overall tonal balance results, sometimes.

      • Reply September 9, 2011

        Shahrose

        Sure Mike.

        The Q-audio cable, aside from its practically non-existent mass, improved a few aspects of the sound which I previously found annoying.

        Firstly, it did slightly reduce the bass quantity, but also made it more taught and gave it a sharper attack. These are all positive changes for these headphones IMO, as I found the stock form to err on the boomy/muddy side. (Relative to my other cans…HD800/T1/HD650)

        The stock cord produced a slight grain and harshness in the lower treble/upper midrange area which I couldn’t pinpoint or rectify. This has been cleared up with the Q cable.

        Lastly, and this is partly affected by the changes described earlier, the soundstage has gotten deeper and more coherent (less disjointed).

        The end result a clearer, more balanced, transparent and involving sound.

        I’d be interested to see if you find the same. (BTW, I agree with your assessment of cables in general…usually yield improvements in technical aspects, but not always in subjective tone).

        • Reply September 9, 2011

          Anonymous

          Thanks, Shahrose.

          Yes that sounds like a proper improvement from a good cable.

          What I find often is that when you reduce the bass body/quantity, it always improve the clarity, control and attack, and that’s exactly what you reported. The lower treble/upper mid harshness is indeed there, and yes a good cable would most probably correct it. Actually when the ADZ cable was first released I tested it on the v1 LCD-2 and found that issue to be very bothersome, and so I prefer to use the older Canare cable as it is cleaner and more linear on the mids (though darker sounding).

          A more coherent and deeper soundstage would be a very nice improvement to have though not all cables do that.

        • Reply September 9, 2011

          Anonymous

          Thanks, Shahrose.

          Yes that sounds like a proper improvement from a good cable.

          What I find often is that when you reduce the bass body/quantity, it always improve the clarity, control and attack, and that’s exactly what you reported. The lower treble/upper mid harshness is indeed there, and yes a good cable would most probably correct it. Actually when the ADZ cable was first released I tested it on the v1 LCD-2 and found that issue to be very bothersome, and so I prefer to use the older Canare cable as it is cleaner and more linear on the mids (though darker sounding).

          A more coherent and deeper soundstage would be a very nice improvement to have though not all cables do that.

        • Reply September 9, 2011

          Brian Fu

          My bro, I see you have gotten the revised LCD2. Do you reckon you like it better than the good ol’ HD800?

          • Reply September 9, 2011

            Anonymous

            Hey Brian,
            So you are brothers with Shahrose now? 😉

          • Reply September 9, 2011

            Shahrose

            I still prefer the DHC 7n silver-recabled HD800 (always been my go to cans)…but the gap is closing in with the Rev 2. + Q cable.

          • Reply September 11, 2011

            Brian Fu

            Mike: We cross our paths sometimes in Head-Fi. 🙂

            Shahrose: Glad to hear that! Lately I’ve been thinking that the HD800 should complement the LCD2 nicely.

  • Reply December 1, 2011

    Roman

    Thanks for the nice review, Mike. I’ve been using the Revision 2 for awhile now, but I still haven’t decided which aftermarket cable to use with it. Which non-stock cable do you use with the new LCD-2? Any recommendations?

    • Reply December 1, 2011

      Mike

      Hi Roman,
      Most of my friends either use homegrown silver or Moon Audio’s Silver Dragon. I still like the stock Canare best — because I just love the mid and low end body you get with copper wires. A good upgrade if you like Copper like me is the Jena wire.

      • Reply December 2, 2011

        Roman

        I love wonderful mid and bass too, but what advantages does a silver cable have over a copper cable in general? Because what matters to me the most is imaging and soundstage…

        • Reply December 2, 2011

          Mike

          In general, what silver does is boost treble levels and reduce mid and low end body. High quality silver can be smooth, but most are a little dryer.
          Since the treble is boosted, you’ll get an impression of a more open sound. But soundstage and imaging is not necessarily improved. It may, but not always.

          • Reply December 2, 2011

            Roman

            I use the words “imaging and soundstage”; I don’t know if I’m using them correctly, but what I really mean is “breathtaking sound” – you know, headphones that give you a 3D impression that you’re not listening to closed headphones, but loudspeakers in a large room.

            I’m starting to lean toward a copper cable after hearing what you have to say. In your opinion, which headphone amp (among the ones you’ve auditioned/reviewed at Headfonia) do you think provides the LCD-2 with the best 3D imaging and soundstage?

            Also, I know it’s a bit off-topic, but compared to the recently reviewed HE-500 with new cable and earpads, how does the LCD-2 perform in 3D imaging and soundstage versus the HE-500?

            • Reply December 3, 2011

              Mike

              Okay a higher quality cable would help with improving the soundstage, but not much. As for an amplifier choice, I don’t know, I haven’t quite find an amplifier that really does wonders to the LCD-2’s soundstage. It’s been pretty consistent from one amplifier to the next.
              As compared to the HE-500, the LCD-2 has a better soundstage image, but the HE-500 is more open and spacious.

  • Reply December 24, 2011

    Stew

    Hi Mike,

    I am new to this site; have been enjoying your reviews and writing style. Thanks for that.

    I am seriously considering a pair of Audez’e LCD-2 headphones. Until I could afford to get a better amp and dac to use them with (coming off my home pc), I would be using the Fiio E10, which I think sounds pretty good, actually. I have listened to the Fiio through a pair of  Stax Lambda Signature headphones using their dedicated tube amp, and the Fiio actually tones down that peaky treble. Doesn’t tone it down  enough overall for me, but anyway, the Audeze sound more like the what I am looking for. Do you think I would be wasting my time to purchase the LCD-2s before I were to purchase a more ‘high end’ amp/dac?

    • Reply December 24, 2011

      Mike

      Stew, 
      The Fiio E10 would be a good pairing with the Lambdas due to the Fiio’s dark signature. With the LCD-2, I don’t know if it’s going to be too dark? I personally haven’t tried driving the LCD-2 with the Fiio. 

      The LCD-2 plays well with relatively mid-fi amplification, unlike the other flagships, so in that sense I don’t think you absolutely have to go with $1K+ stuff as with the other flagships. However I am not saying you can plug it into the E10 and get great results. I don’t know, I haven’t tried it, but the lowest set up I’ve tried the LCD-2 with is the DACport (DAC+Amp) and it was pretty good. 

      • Reply December 24, 2011

        Stew

        Thanks Mike. 
        On closer reading of your review of the Fiio E10, I saw that apparently you did try it with the LCD-2 headphones, and were surprised that it sounded better than expected, being that they both have a relatively ‘dark’ presentation. Anyhow, you must listen to so much stuff, I would think it pretty hard to keep track!

        Thanks again for all you do on this site. And happy holidays.

        • Reply December 24, 2011

          Mike

          Stew,
          Awww sorry about that. 🙂

  • Reply January 7, 2012

    chris

    Mike i dont know if you know of any experiments that test this, but i was curious to know – does it make a difference in isolating and shielding each channel or signal of the headphone wire? does it actually reduce the interference between them and does it even make a difference? 

    read the philosophy part – http://doublehelixcables.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=49 

    • Reply January 7, 2012

      chris

      “of the headphone wire?” of the headphone cable* sorry

    • Reply January 7, 2012

      Mike

      Chris,
      I’m always open to ideas, but usually my friends do these experiments and they would let me listen to the mods. So far I haven’t really heard any of them doing such mods, but I’ll pass the info along. Thanks!

      • Reply January 8, 2012

        chris

        thx 🙂

  • Reply January 17, 2012

    Mikemoss52

    Mike does the HM-801 with the balanced amp module have enough power to properly drive the lcd-2’s?, and furthermore, would you recommend the lcd-2’s or the he-500’s if primarily listening the aforementioned set up?  Thank you

  • Reply February 15, 2012

    Anonymous

    Hi Mike,

    Which one do you think is a better all-rounder, this(Rev.2, of course) or T1?

    Thanks

  • Reply August 8, 2012

    Brian Werner

    Mike is the difference between the Rev 1 and Rev 2 a noticeable difference or one of those critical listening things that you have to pay close attention to catch? I know you write your reviews sure footed and draw contrasts clearly even when the differences are audibly not very dynamic…. I was looking at buying a pair second hand and the price for Rev 2’s is about $200 more than Rev 1’s… just curious if you thought the SQ was that significant…. I think both versions are handsome so the minor aesthetic changes are not a big factor for me…. But I do want the best SQ possible for that type of money.

    • Reply August 8, 2012

      L.

      Long story short: Look at your actual heaphones and preference, if you’re a treble fan -> R2, if not R1. I’m very happy with my R1, prices are great on the 2nd hand market nowadays.

      • Reply August 8, 2012

        Brian Werner

        Crap I wish I would’ve read this first this morning…. I just bought a rev 2 for $775 USD…. I actually prefer bass. I had a dude with the Rev 1 offering for $600…. Oh well I guess I can always flip it.

        • Reply August 8, 2012

          Brian Werner

          Re-read your review…. I can’t imagine I am going to be disappointed with Rev 2…. good to know though.

          • Reply August 8, 2012

            L.

            I’m sure you will Brian, it’s a nice headphone

    • Reply August 8, 2012

      Mike

      Brian,
      Basically what L said. For me it’s quite noticeable even when I don’t listen critically. Personally, I think the Rev1 is best. Too bad they don’t make it anymore.

  • Reply September 2, 2012

    Patrick

    Hi,

    I’m new to this site,forum and have some questions about the Audez’e LCD-2.
    I listen to Pop/Rock music most of the time and heard that the LCD-2 suit this type of music. But what kind of amp would you recommend?would they pair well with the Violectric V200 for example? I have a Marantz SA-15 SACD Player as the source and do you think that I also need a DAC or just an amplifier?
    I’m from Germany so English isn’t my first language, so please don’t be too harsh about grammatical faults and spelling errors.

    Patrick

    • Reply September 3, 2012

      Mike

      Patrick,
      Lieven who is another reviewer here is from belgium and he loves the LCD-2 with the V200. Yes the LCD-2 is great for Pop and Rock.

    • Reply September 3, 2012

      L.

      Hi Patrick,

      The V200 is one of the better amps for the LCD, do check out my review of the Violectrics. Not only here but only on Head-fi as well you will find the V200 to be very popular with the LCD-2’s. You can’t go wrong with the V200. And as you’re German it’s always good to support a local business.

      If you will only be using your SACD player as a source and no laptop/ipod/MP3 files you won’t need a DAC, just the amp.

    • Reply September 4, 2012

      Spencer Chan

      I’m enjoying the V200+LCD2 combo for most music. The LCD2s are slowly replacing my HD650s.

      • Reply September 4, 2012

        L.

        Never ever part of the magical HD650 Spencer 🙂

    • Reply September 4, 2012

      Patrick

      I’ve heard that the LCD-3 is even better, but is it worth the double price tag? in german forums many people say that they are significantly superior to the LCD 2.
      do you agree with that?

  • Reply September 4, 2012

    Adrian Stephen Mulyadi

    Hi Mike
    how this rev.2 compare to HE-6 ?
    thanks

    • Reply September 4, 2012

      Mike

      Adrian,
      Two very different headphones. You should look up the HE-6 vs LCD-2 comparison.

  • Reply October 24, 2012

    Alfani Gunawan

    is there any lcd2 rev3 out there, coz some people said that the angled connector on lcd2 is the new rev3?

    • Reply October 24, 2012

      Mike

      I think the angled connector is often thought as the rev3. Although the “revision” may not be official from Audez’e, people who’ve heard it does say that the sound is different than rev2.

      • Reply October 24, 2012

        Alfani Gunawan

        yes my friend peter pitsel told me that it was more soundstage, maybe you know him 🙂

      • Reply November 28, 2012

        Jerry

        In what way does it sound different?

        • Reply November 28, 2012

          Julius

          My ears always pick up a more clear Treble experience with the Rev2. The Rev1 had a more complete stage forward experience by a small but noticeable degree ( in my opinion ) which was removed in Rev2. This made is sound more wide but at the cost of a larger void in the stage-forward presentation. I prefer the Rev1 for Staging qualities. Rev2 might also be a little more transparent and deep. Could be my ears playing tricks, can’t confirm that quality but I really feel like its really an improvement over my Rev1. The Rev2 has slightly better low end detail retrieval. These are just my opinions and not based on any hard evidence. The Rev2 tends to have a lighter shade of wood used for the cups,with a more polished look, different case as well and the adjustment screws are different.

          • Reply November 28, 2012

            Vern

            Julius, do you notice any difference in the comfort between the rev.1 and rev.2?
            My main issue with the rev.1 was that it squeezed my cheekbones to an uncomfortable level after about 30 min. of wearing them. My second issue with the rev.1 was that the vocals seemed too distant. I’m hoping that if I do purchase a pair of rev.2s I might actually begin to like the LCD-2, which everyone raves about 🙂

            • Reply November 29, 2012

              Julius

              People have told me the earpads are a bit different but I can’t seem to find any difference. Both of mine were purchased used so the pads are pretty much identical by now. You would need to confirm this with someone who has unused versions. Neither are balanced in weight and tug downward on my ears too much for me. One user on another forum described the mid changes very well by saying something like ” The mid range blood effect in the rev1 was toned back and refined in the rev2.” Which suggests less prominent mids. I can hear that, Vocals seems slightly exagerated in the Rev1 and a bit more relaxed in the Rev2.

              I wouldn’t recommend swapping for the Rev2 if you want more forward mids, definitely try to get someone to loan you a pair or hope to run into someone at a meet with one you can compare with before you buy. As I find my Rev2 vocals equally placed in terms of distance away, but slightly less large in terms a physical size.

              • Reply November 29, 2012

                Vern

                Thanks for the detailed response.

                That helps me come to the consensus that the LCD-2 will never be the headphone for me.

                • Reply November 29, 2012

                  Julius

                  I am not a fan of Audeze, but I don’t want you to be unhappy with your purchase and feel bad when I hear others admit to being unhappy with any given quality in a headphone. Nobody is wiser than you so don’t let anyone ( especially a reviewer ) sway you from keeping/buying/investigating any audio gear you think you might enjoy. I strongly suggest trying to at least get your hands on a Rev2 before finalizing your decision. Maybe call Audeze and let them know about your situation and how you feel, maybe you can send your Rev1 in and exchange it temporarily for a Rev2. Maybe ask the if they have any B stock or cosmetically damaged rev2s you can swap out for. You never know, its worth at least contacting them to see if they can help out.

                  Rev2 sounds like a slightly better overall headphone, so if you find yourself enjoying the Rev1 then I say stick with it and enjoy!

                  • Reply November 29, 2012

                    Vern

                    Well, like I said before, the main problem I had with the headphones was the way they clamped onto the head. If the comfort level isn’t much different on the Rev.2 then I don’t think I could ever warm up to the LCD-2.

                    Along with that, I’ve owned the rev.1s twice, and sold the second pair long ago =P I was just curious what you thought about the rev.2 since I was possibly thinking of acquiring a secondhand pair. Due to your insightful opinion however, I don’t think it would be worth my time to buy another pair of LCD-2s just out of curiosity.

                    • November 29, 2012

                      Julius

                      You could always upgrade to the Rev2 and give me your old Rev1. Are you interested in selling ? hehe 😛

                    • November 29, 2012

                      Vern

                      haha, like I said, I no longer own any LCD-2s cause I sold all of them a while back.

                    • November 30, 2012

                      Julius

                      Oops, my bad. That part didn’t at all sink in, sorry ha!

                      How did you feel about the Audeze Experience in general and have you used the HE-500? Neither are extremely forward, but I think the Hifiman edges out in forwardness potential with proper EQ.

                    • November 30, 2012

                      Vern

                      I tried the LCD-2 rev.1 on three different amps: HA-160D, La Figaro 339, and HPA-V200. I felt that it lacked transparency and sounded messy with the HA-160D. It was slightly better with the LF339, but still not that impressive. The best I had heard it with was the V200, but the vocals were still too distant for my liking (even if some may call this ‘natural’).

                      I own the HE-500, and it’s one of my favorite headphones. I feel like the HE-500 got the vocals just right. I would say from my experience, that the LCD-2 is more forward than the HE-500 when it comes to instruments, and the HE-500 is more forward than the LCD-2 when it comes to vocals.

                      I understand that both are top tier headphones, but I do believe I like the tonality and comfort of the HE-500 much much better =)

                    • November 30, 2012

                      L.

                      The HE-500 do is a lovely headphone, I prefer it over the LCD2 too. Also agree about the amp part V200>339>Burson!

                    • December 1, 2012

                      Julius

                      BTG Audio just made me a portable cable for my HE-500. Yummy Yummy Yum Yum.

                    • December 1, 2012

                      Julius

                      I completely agree with you.

                    • December 1, 2012

                      Julius

                      Forgot to ask you, have you heard the LCD3? It is more forward all over than the HE-500. Vocals are definitely not as relaxed as the Hifiman HE-500 and are more in your face. This is VERY much to my liking. Although, the LCD3 seems like its more a balanced signature where the LCD2 is a little more bass emphasized. My LCD3 is a loaner and I really do not want to give it back…like…seriously. :[

                    • December 1, 2012

                      Vern

                      Julius, don’t tell me things like this. I don’t have another $2k to spare. I hate you 😛
                      Seriously may consider LCD-3 though with consideration of all the praise it gets. What are you amping it with? I wonder how it sounds with the V200

                    • December 1, 2012

                      Julius

                      Ah man! I’m sorry!!! 🙂

                      I’m amping it with an Aune T1 USB Dac with a Telefunken 6922 > A Bottlehead Crack > Hifiman EF-6. The result makes the same combo with the HE-500 sound hazy ( thats saying something because the HE500 is awesome ) The LCD3 is a big leap up IMO from the LCD2 and sounds noticeably more clear and more forward all over. I really enjoy it. Vocals are definitely noticeably more forward than the HE500. Tough call between the LCD3 and the HE-6, ive got them all here on my desk and I am not sure which one of them I enjoy the most. The Audeze is significantly more efficient and would be great on a portable rig, where the HE-6 never will be and needs a small nuclear reactor to power. This is a serious statement coming from me, because I am very outspoken about my distastes for the LCD2. Dare I say I enjoy the LCD3 more than my JVC DX1000 ( something I never thought possible ).

                      Those price tags though…deal breakers. But for pure enjoyment? My vote goes for the LCD3 at the moment, its a close call between it and the HE-6 but thats mostly due to the Audeze being much more efficient and sounding great out of my Hisound Studio V Dap.

                      In comparison to the LCD2 and the HE500, the LCD3 is much more clear on my rig and forward enough to make me happy. I prefer a forward experience and really dislike distant sound. Vocals are definitely well within my happiness range on the LCD3 and I find everything highly immersing. Much more than the HE500 which I found to be more immersive than the LCD2s. I am touching on these topics in my next review. Look for that coming soon here on Headfonia. 🙂

                    • December 1, 2012

                      Vern

                      Lol, don’t be sorry. I am actually building a crack (with speedball) soon on a great Black Friday deal that Bottlehead advertised.

                      I have a feeling I’ll get the LCD-3 in the near future and decide between selling it back out or the HD800. I don’t think I’ll sell the he-500, but who knows man… I vowed to never sell the HD650 when I owned it and loved it, but gave in and sold it last week!

                      The overly ambitious human brain never ceases to amaze me.

      • Reply January 10, 2017

        Ben Fong

        How to tell the different for the angle connector or r3? Is it all lcd 2 from 2015 onwards are all r3?

        • Reply January 15, 2017

          Lieven

          That would probably be best by looking at serial numbers. And only Audeze could tell that

  • which is better to amping the lcd 2 : schiit lyr,mjolnir,alo pan am or burson soloist ? i will hear rock and eletronica and bit of vocal like diana krall. thanks

    • Reply October 25, 2012

      Nick Tam

      Do read the individual reviews on the amps themselves. Ignoring music genres, Mike would say that the Pan Am was built to the LCD-2 sound. The soloist would come in a close second.

      • Reply October 25, 2012

        Trent_D

        Actually Nick, if you read the Pan Am review, it doesn’t sound like there is a close second. The Pan Am is THE amp for the LCD-2. But yeah Caio, check out the reviews. The answer you seek is already there.

        • Reply October 25, 2012

          Mike

          Yea, although there are tons of other amps out there so I’m not saying that the PanAm is the absolute best among the sea of amps. But from all the amps I’ve listened the LCD-2 on, the PanAm, despite being small, surprisingly beats all the other, much bigger amps.

          • yeah i read the pan am review and i saw that but i need to confirm :),a last question schiit mjlonir review anytime soon ? thanks

            • Reply October 26, 2012

              L.

              not in our planning, sorry

    • Reply October 25, 2012

      Mike

      I’ve never heard the Mjolnir, but the Lyr was not that good. Between the PanAm and the Burson, if you read the review for the PanAm (http://www.headfonia.com/portable-desktop-alo-the-panam/), I wrote that the PanAm is the better amp specifically for the LCD-2.

  • Reply November 8, 2012

    sisprod

    Hi mike

    Sorry to ask

    Have you tried lcd2 driven from graham slee ultra linear?

    If this combination would sound too dark/veiled ?

    Thanx

    • Reply November 8, 2012

      Mike

      The latest LCD-2 is in no way dark so I won’t worry about the combination being too dark. Besides the Graham Slee is not a dark sounding amp.

      However I’ve never really tried driving the LCD-2 from the Graham Slee, so I won’t be able to comment on that pairing.

  • Reply November 27, 2012

    Tam Ho

    Hi Mike,

    Is there a difference in sound between the stock cable adz-6 to its predecessor adz-5? Thanks!

    • Reply November 30, 2012

      Mike

      Sorry never really compared that.

  • Reply December 15, 2012

    Kenneth S.

    Mike,

    I took the plunge and bought a Pan Am (Siemens tubes) and have been loving it with my old K702s. I’ve been contemplating either the HD700 or LCD-2s, but I’m stuck. Some of my favorite albums are pretty sibilant, and from what I’ve heard, the HD700s have a hot treble which would probably make the songs unenjoyable. But I wear my headphones for long durations of time, so comfort really is a must, and the HD700 is said to be the more comfortable one…I’m really stuck here.

    I listen mostly to classical and classic rock. (Classic rock goes up to the 80’s for me :P)

    Thanks,

    Kenneth

  • Reply March 26, 2013

    ryan

    I just got the LCD2. Is the internal amp of the HP-A8 or Solo SRGII good enough to drive it? Or should I add a Burson Soloist/SL?

    • Reply March 26, 2013

      Mike

      Yes enough but not best.

      • Reply March 26, 2013

        ryan

        Then Soloist or Soloist SL? Or maybe LYR? Something that I could purchase locally

      • Reply March 28, 2013

        ryan

        Just for LCD2, is the Pan Am better than the HP-A8 or Solo SRGII ? Or should I get the Soloist?

        • Reply March 29, 2013

          Dave Ulrich

          If you need a DAC too, it is hard to deny the convenience of the Pan Am

          • Reply March 29, 2013

            ryan

            Thx Dave, I am not looking for convenience but sound quality of the amp below $1k just for the LCD2, or maybe T1/H800 as well (I guess that is too much to expect from 1 amp)

          • Reply March 29, 2013

            Dave Ulrich

            Well, Mike liked the Pan Am best with the LCD2. L, I believe, preferred the Violectric v200

        • Reply March 29, 2013

          Mike

          You should read the Pan Am review, then the Fostex and finally the Soloist 😉

  • Reply April 2, 2013

    Tobias Hust

    Hi Mike, tested the LCD-2 rev 3 (with the Mini XLR metal connector instead of wood) with the Grace 903 – just great. Similiar results with the ODAC / O2.

    For comparison, the FiiO E10 has not enough power to drive the cans, plus the bass is rather blurry.

    • Reply April 2, 2013

      Mike

      Thanks for sharing, Tobias.

  • Reply August 16, 2013

    George Lai

    Was deciding between a Sennheiser HD700 and an LCD-2. In the end I decided that, using automotive analogy, the HD700 is like a top line Mercedes Benz SLS AMG GT, but at the end of the day, it’s still a Mercedes Benz and how often does one get a chance to own a Ferrari, even if it’s not the top of the line Ferrari?

    • Reply August 16, 2013

      Mike

      Oh yeah the LCD-2 is very popular these days.

  • Reply February 12, 2014

    STARSTERN

    for a lcd-x which has a lower impedance ,dosen,t have the need for much additional amp ,
    how would a pan am dac/amp do to it {the one that audeze continue suggesting it }
    in compare to theorem 720 dac ?

    • Reply August 7, 2014

      L.

      Both extremely good!

      • Reply August 12, 2014

        Andrew Nanton

        Thanks, L, for your many replies. They have been very helpful. One quick question: Is the PanAm good enough to make the extra $$ for an LCD-X worthwhile, or does the LCD-2 take it about as far as it will go?

      • Reply August 12, 2014

        phren0logy

        Thanks, L, for your many replies. They have been very helpful. One quick question: Is the PanAm good enough to make the extra $$ for an LCD-X worthwhile, or does the LCD-2 take it about as far as it will go?

        • Reply August 12, 2014

          L.

          I would look at it the other way around. Can the panam take my x as far as it can go. And the answer is no

          • Reply August 12, 2014

            phren0logy

            Thanks. Unfortunately in prioritizing my budget toward headphones the PanAm (on sale for $360) is about as far as I am willing to go for a source. Perhaps I’ll try to stretch for the LCD-X anyway as that will give me room to upgrade later. On the other hand, I might be very happy with the LCD-2/PanAm pairing. What a wonderful dilemma to have. Appreciate the input.

  • Reply August 7, 2014

    SoundEskimoo

    Rev2 is the LCD2 Bamboo?

    What kind of minimal amp you need to make LCD2 sings?

    If I may ask (about LCD2 Bamboo), how it compare with $1000 or more cans like Final Audio Pandora Hope with Hybrid drivers (the SQ quite fun energic, especially mids&bass) or with Fostex TH-series?

    • Reply August 7, 2014

      L.

      This Rev2 was rosewood. You can buy the cheaper bamboo as well. Doesn’t change the sound.

      Lot’s of amps can make the LCD2 sing, but my cheapest fav one for the LCDs is the Theorem 720

      I don’t like the FA audio and it’s completely different from the close Fostex series.

      • Reply March 5, 2015

        Siddhant Merh

        I would suggest get a musical paradise mp 301 Mk 3..its cheap…reviews are well…and its a single ended triode !! Pair it with their DAC…or a NOS DAC.

  • Reply June 22, 2015

    Peter

    suggestions on a dac to match the audeze lcd-2 fazor and a violectric v200? really don’t want to spend over $500, if there is a very good match with these two, can you suggest any? if not, then what is a good dac under $1000 in your opinion? ty.

    • Reply June 22, 2015

      Headfonia_L.

      V800, Rein, Resonessence, …

      • Reply June 22, 2015

        Peter

        Which resonessence would you recommend? Also any centrance dacs that would match well?

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