3 Best Amps for the LCD-2 — Driving a Planar Magnetic to Its Full Potential
Three amp recommendations for properly driving the Audeze LCD-2's planar magnetic drivers, evaluated on sound character and power delivery.
What the LCD-2 Demands from an Amp
The Audeze LCD-2 has a relatively low impedance of 70 ohms, but its planar magnetic driver has high current demands. The impedance number alone makes it look easy to drive, but without an amp capable of delivering sufficient current, the bass thins out and the full sense of scale is lost. Aim for at least 1W of output power.
1. FiiO K7 — Reliable Performance at a Great Price
A DAC/amp combo unit with an AK4493SEQ DAC section. The headphone output delivers roughly 2W, more than enough to drive the LCD-2. Balanced output (4.4mm) is also available, providing even more headroom.
Paired with the LCD-2, bass has satisfying weight. The midrange leans slightly warm, complementing the LCD-2’s rich low-to-mid frequency character. The treble is restrained, but since the LCD-2 itself is gentle up top, the overall result is a composed, relaxed sound.
Price: Around 30,000 yen
Output: 2W @ 32 ohms (balanced)
Verdict: Ample driving power for the price. Ideal as a starting point.
2. Singxer SA-1 — Current-Rich High Power
A fully balanced Class A discrete amplifier delivering 7.6W @ 32 ohms. For a current-hungry planar magnetic like the LCD-2, it provides power with generous headroom.
The tonal character leans slightly warm, adding further richness to the LCD-2’s bass. Midrange density is high, making it an excellent match for vocal tracks and jazz. The soundstage is spacious, allowing the LCD-2’s spatial capabilities to flourish. As a standalone amp, a separate DAC is needed — pairing with something like the Topping D30 Pro or SMSL SU-9n creates a well-balanced system.
Price: Around 60,000 yen
Output: 7.6W @ 32 ohms (balanced)
Verdict: The class of amp that truly unlocks the LCD-2’s capabilities.
3. Burson Soloist 3X — Reference Grade
An Australian high-end amp using discrete op-amps, outputting a monstrous 8W @ 16 ohms. It drives the LCD-2 with absolute authority.
The standout quality is dynamic expression. You can feel the amp fully controlling the LCD-2’s driver — transients from soft to loud passages are fast and precise. Bass is tight and well-damped, eliminating the looseness the LCD-2 can sometimes exhibit. Op-amp rolling (swapping) is supported, allowing you to fine-tune the tonal character.
Price: Around 120,000 yen
Output: 8W @ 16 ohms
Verdict: Extracts the LCD-2’s maximum potential. A long-term investment.
How to Choose
The LCD-2 is a headphone whose sound changes noticeably with amplifier power. The FiiO K7 delivers genuinely good sound, but stepping up to the Singxer SA-1 class brings a clear improvement in bass quality and spatial presentation. If your budget allows, investing in the amp will pay dividends.
One practical note: the LCD-2 weighs 595g. For long listening sessions, consider replacing the headband cushion and be mindful of any interference with glasses.