Meet the LCD-S20: Audeze’s Budget Planar Headphone with Flagship DNA

By DaMarko Webster

Audeze, the high-end audio brand revered for its boundary-pushing headphone technology, has just unveiled its most accessible LCD model yet: the LCD-S20, a $499 closed-back planar magnetic headphone that marks a bold new step in the company’s lineup.

At the heart of the LCD-S20 is Audeze’s new SLAM™ technology—short for Symmetric Linear Acoustic Modulator—which debuted on the flagship CRBN2 electrostatic headphone in 2024. For the first time, it now appears in a planar magnetic model, offering enhanced low-end performance and improved spatial accuracy. SLAM works by channeling acoustic energy through finely tuned pathways, delivering cleaner bass and more controlled diaphragm movement. The result? A closed-back headphone that feels more open, precise, and emotionally resonant than ever before.

“Audeze’s studio sound is trusted by top professionals—but with the LCD-S20, we’re expanding that experience to a much wider audience,” said CEO Sankar Thiagasamudram. “This isn’t just our most affordable LCD headphone. It’s a statement about how accessible innovation should be.”

Alongside SLAM, the LCD-S20 introduces a new magnetic earpad attachment system—a first for the brand—allowing users to easily swap pads with zero hassle. Comfort is also front and center, with plush synthetic leather earpads and a matching head strap built for all-day use.

Functionality is smart, too: a detachable single-sided cable can connect to either earcup, letting users optimize for their workflow whether in the studio or on the move. And the headphone’s chassis, borrowed from Audeze’s best-selling Maxwell headset, combines a spring-steel headband, forged aluminum yokes, and glass-infused nylon parts for rugged durability without the weight.

The premium aesthetic is completed by woven fabric-covered earcups and Audeze’s signature 90mm planar magnetic drivers, made in California and powered by their patented Fluxor™ magnets, Fazor™ waveguides, and Uniforce™ voice coils—a trio of technologies that help maintain the company’s reputation for ultra-low distortion and unmatched clarity.

With the LCD-S20, Audeze opens the door for emerging producers, musicians, and detail-obsessed listeners to join its high-fidelity ecosystem—no compromises, just pure sonic performance.

The Audeze LCD-S20 is available now for $499.