Isodynamic Headphones: What Are They? Choosing Orthodynamic Headphones

2024 Author: Beatrice Philips | [email protected]. Last modified: 2024-01-18 12:09

For most people, headphones have become an integral acoustic accessory that allows you to fully immerse yourself in the world of computer games and music, without being distracted by external noises. Today the market is represented by a chic assortment of headsets, while isodynamic headphones are in great demand … They are convenient to use, of high quality and provide excellent sound, but in order to choose the right one or another model of an accessory, you need to take into account its technical features.

What it is?

Isodynamic headphones are portable device for listening to audio signals . They differ from ordinary types of headsets in that they have a built-in planar amplifier in their design, which looks like a thin membrane on which a voice coil is applied. Thus, the device combines all the advantages of dynamic (the ability to use with any amplifier) and electrostatic (fast moving lightweight membrane) models.

Thanks to the membrane in such headphones has a large area , it is capable of providing high quality reproduction of all sound effects.

Manufacturers produce isodynamic headphones of several types . They are closed, open type and also distinguish conventional and orthodynamic models … The main feature of these headphones is considered to be low sensitivity, which is important to consider when choosing them for a specific portable device. If the power of the device acting as a sound source is insignificant, then you will have to buy an additional amplifier.

The main advantages of isodynamic models include an extended frequency range, which allows you to listen to digital recordings in high quality. These headphones have no drawbacks.

The only exception is the high price for certain models, but budget options can also be found on the market.

Top Models

Before purchasing isodynamic headphones, it is important not only to clarify their technical characteristics, but also to pay attention to the reviews. So, the following models have proven themselves well in the acoustic equipment market.

HiFiMan Susvara (China) . These are some of the finest open-type isodynamic headphones that deliver true-to-life, accurate sound. They have an excellent arrangement of musical parts, which allows you to listen to not only vocal compositions, but also classical music. In addition, the headsets are comfortable to fit. The only drawback is that this model is very demanding on the quality of amplification and power of the portable device.

Abyss AB-1266 (USA) . Listening to music with these headphones is a pleasure, since the device perfectly transmits transparent and detailed sound. This model is well suited for deep bass lovers. The downside is an uncomfortable fit.

Audeze LCD-4 (USA) . These isodynamic headphones are recommended to be purchased for all music lovers, the device conveys well the compositions of rock and vocals. Listening to music in such headsets gives the impression of reality that everything is happening on a concert stage. The stylish design of the structure also deserves special attention. The disadvantage is the high demands on the quality and power of the amplifier.

Kennerton Thror (Russia) … These are Russian-assembled headphones that have proven themselves in the market for high quality and long service life. They provide lively and rich sound. The main advantage of the model is its versatility, since the headphones can be used to listen to musical compositions of any genre, from classical reproductions to heavy metal.

This model can be connected to all portable devices, regardless of their power. There are no downsides.

Meze Empyrean (Romania) … They are an incredibly comfortable device for listening to music. This model is considered not only the highest quality, but also stylish. The sound has both clear bass and muffled frequencies. The disadvantage is the high cost.

How to choose?

Isodynamic headphones, like any other technical device, must be selected according to user characteristics. If the headsets are purchased for the first time, then experts recommend paying attention to their following indicators.

• Sensitivity . It directly depends on the size of the magnetic core built into the structure, and is responsible for the sound volume. Headphones can have a sensitivity of 20 to 130 dB. The higher the sensitivity level, the louder the accessory will be.
• Resistance . Headphones are produced in high and low impedance, in the former, the resistance can be up to 100 ohms, and in the latter, up to 32 ohms. The lower the resistance level, the higher the volume of the device, but the higher it is, the more economical the use of the battery will be (in wireless models).
• KGI . This parameter indicates the clarity and purity of the sound, it is measured as a percentage. For high-quality headphones, the ratio should not exceed 0.5%.
• Power … Its allowable range is from 1 to 5000 mW. To listen to music in high quality, it is not necessary to buy heavy-duty headphones, a few milliwatts are enough. Models with high power provide excellent sound, but under such a load, the battery of the gadget is quickly discharged.
• Availability of customization for the user … Thanks to the presence of such software, headsets acquire additional functions. So, for example, you can create a personal "auditory fingerprint", taking into account the individual characteristics of the user's hearing. A huge role is played by the ability to analyze listening to tracks. In addition, it is best to give preference to models that are equipped with command controls located on the touch control panel.

It is also considered important purpose of the device … If you plan to buy headphones for a TV, then you need to choose models with a frequency of 20 to 20,000 Hz, they can be either open or closed. For computer isodynamic headphones with a low frequency are well suited, it is desirable that their design provides for the presence of a microphone. For pocket MP3 players and smartphones you need to choose an accessory with a comfortable fit, medium power. As for professional work with sound, orthodynamic headphones, in the design of which there are 2 magnets and a membrane, are perfect for this.

It is best to give preference to models with leather ear cushions, which snuggle well to the ears and do not allow extraneous sounds to pass through. Their cable should be thick, coiled, and long.