Audeze LCD-S20 Headphones Review

The Audeze LCD-S20 enters the market as a closed-back planar magnetic headphone targeted at studio use, with engineers and musicians being the clear primary audience. This product borrows from many other successful Audeze headphones to create what, at least in theory, should be the perfect studio headphone when it comes to recording and tracking. Here is my review. 

The SLAM system

The big feature being pushed by Audeze is the SLAM system. In layman’s terms, the LCD-S20 is able to reproduce deeper bass notes with more clarity and more control, helping to avoid any muddiness. For those critical listeners in studios, this is a huge boon. 

Of course, the rest of the headphone’s setup also impresses, with a 90 mm planar driver, Uniforced diaphragm, Fluxor magnetic array, and Fazor waveguides. If this sounds familiar, it’s because Audeze has pulled from other proven headsets in its history. 

For the studio

Touted for studio use, it’s especially important that the LCD-S20s feel durable. With the potential for many different wearers in a studio setting, many of whom might not “baby” the headphones like we would do at home, it’s good to see this headphone’s heavy use of metal. A big highlight in the build are the magnetic ear pads, which makes swapping them out a breeze. 

Connecting to an audio source is made easier by the 3.5 mm jacks found on both sides of the headphone. Users can pick which side is most convenient. 

No muddy bass here

Of course, sound quality is the most important factor when it comes to studio headphones. Thankfully, the LCD-S20 delivers an excellent closed-back experience. The SLAM implementation solves any potential muddiness in the sub-bass, significantly tightening things up. For critical listening, this is a big, big factor. 

The mids and treble are cleanly rendered without being overbearing. It’s easy to hone in on potential problem areas and treat them without being misled by overly hyped higher frequencies, which is so often an issue. 

I was quite surprised by the LCD-S20’s wider soundstage, which does set it apart from other closed-back competitors in this segment. 

It’s heavy

The main downside of the LCD-S20 is the weight. At 540g, this is on the heavier side of a modern headphone. While it’s possible to get a very comfortable fit with the right angle, it can take some maneuvering to find the perfect spot. 

Disclosure: Review sample provided by Audeze.