Skip to main content

Audeze’s iSine LX in-ears put planar magnetic sound in your pocket on the cheap

When Audeze first unveiled its relatively tiny iSine planar magnetic in-ears in 2016, it came as a major surprise, as full-size planar magnetic headphones are known for being on the large size. Even more surprisingly, they worked incredibly well and sounded great. The only downside was the price: Planar magnetic technology often comes at a premium, and that was the case with the iSine. At least that was the case, as the company has officially launched the comparatively affordable iSine LX just in time for CES 2018.

Like the other models in the iSine series, the iSine LX features the same angluar look and general design touches. It also features all the technology that makes them great, like Audeze’s Fluxor planar magnets as well as its Uniforce voice coil technology. So what has changed that they’re so much more affordable than the iSine 10 or iSine 20? It turns out it’s all in the manufacturing process.

Recommended Videos

“The iSine LX is the first Audeze headphone to utilize our newly developed automated driver-manufacturing process at our California facility. The launch of the iSine LX demonstrates our ongoing commitment for continued product and manufacturing process innovation allowing us to manufacture our headphones in the United States,” Audeze CEO Sankar Thiagasamudram said in a statement.

Late last year, Audeze announced a set of audio plugins known as Reveal, available for free download on its website. These plugins are meant for audio professionals and enthusiasts alike who want to mix and master music using Audeze headphones. The iSine LX are the latest headphones to work with these plugins, making it easier than ever to mix a record in an economy class airplane seat. Just make sure the other passengers don’t mind, as like the other iSine in-ears, these are open backed, so some sound will be audible to those in your immediate surroundings.

The Audeze iSine LX in-ears sell for $200 and include a standard audio cable. If you’re a recent iPhone owner or just prefer Lightning, Audeze sells an optional Cipher Lightning cable that includes a built-in DAC to convert digital audio right out of your iPhone or iPad. The company says this even improves the quality of voice calls.

The iSine LX are available now via the Audeze website, and will soon be available via Amazon as well.

Kris Wouk
Former Contributor
Kris Wouk is a tech writer, gadget reviewer, blogger, and whatever it's called when someone makes videos for the web. In his…
You Asked: Your biggest Switch 2 questions, answered
You Asked Ep. 94: Best TV For Switch 2

On today’s episode of You Asked: What’s the best TV for your shiny new Switch 2 and how does the screen compare to the OLED model we loved? We break down the top TV picks, answer your biggest Switch 2 questions, and share early hands-on impressions from launch week.

Best TV for the Switch 2?

Read more
Save $200 on Amazon’s “best yet” Fire TV and matching soundbar
A 50-inch Amazon Fire TV Omni Series with a Fire TV soundbar.

Getting a TV can actually be a stressor if you're not the type that likes to tinker with things. Since the vast majority of TVs today don't produce great sound, you'll have to go through the hassle of choosing a soundbar. But that's not all! You also have to connect your soundbar to your TV, which isn't always trivial.

That's why we like this deal that saves you $200 on a QLED TV and gives you a matching soundbar that you know will work with it and be easy to assemble. Normally the 50-inch Amazon Fire TV Omni and Fire TV Soundbar bundle would cost $600, but right now you can get it for an impressively affordable $400. Tap the button below to see the deal. Then, keep reading below to get our take on this bundle's components.

Read more
This new “ultraportable” outdoor speaker is on sale for under $60
Ultimate Ears Miniroll.

It's undeniably the season for outdoor Bluetooth speakers. Unfortunately, they can get quite expensive, with the Beats Pill (our top pick) at $150 and the premium JBL Xtreme 4 all the way up at $380. However, a good alternative is to get an Ultimate Ears Miniroll speaker. It's normally priced around $80, but right now you can get one for just $59, saving you $21. If you order it soon enough, you'll even be able to get it ahead of Father's Day, making it great as either a gift or a way to elevate your sound for the event. Tap the button below to see it or keep reading for our take.

Why you should buy the Ultimate Ears Miniroll speaker

Read more