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What we think
The PerfectRec Earbuds or Headphones team Learn more
Updated January 10, 2024·
If sound quality and detail are paramount, and budget is not a concern, the Audeze LCD 2 Classics offer superior audiophile-grade performance known for their planar magnetic drivers which deliver a level of clarity and detail that outperforms the Philips Fidelio X2HR. However, if you prefer a more spacious soundstage and comfort for extended listening sessions, at a more affordable price, the Philips Fidelio X2HR is a noteworthy choice. They are also easier to drive without a dedicated amplifier. Keep in mind though, the Audeze set includes a premium build and materials which could justify the extra cost. Consider also, the weight and fit if you plan to use them for long periods, as the Audeze may be heavier. Be aware that neither set may be optimal for activities that require a lot of movement due to their size and open-back design which leaks sound and provides little isolation from external noise. Give Feedback
this description is based on the product variant with some specs and product variant with some specs. At the time of writing, the variant with some specs cost some dollars and the variant with some specs cost some dollars.
Advantages of the Audeze LCD 2 Classic
- The Audeze LCD 2 Classic has no clear advantages over the Philips Fidelio X2HR.
Advantages of the Philips Fidelio X2HR
- The Philips Fidelio X2HR has no clear advantages over the Audeze LCD 2 Classic.
Key differences
Cost
$799
$148
$50
$100
$150
$200
$250
$300
$350
$400
The Audeze LCD 2 Classic has a price of $799 and the Philips Fidelio X2HR costs $148.
Build Quality
10.0
9.0
The Audeze LCD 2 Classic has best in class build quality, while the Philips Fidelio X2HR has excellent build quality.
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Key similarities
Music
9.2
9.3
The Philips Fidelio X2HR and Audeze LCD 2 Classic are both excellent for music.
Gaming
7.3
7.0
The Audeze LCD 2 Classic and Philips Fidelio X2HR are both good for gaming.
Phone Calls
4.8
5.0
The Philips Fidelio X2HR and Audeze LCD 2 Classic are both poor for phone calls.
Podcasts and Audiobooks
7.7
7.9
The Philips Fidelio X2HR and Audeze LCD 2 Classic are both good for podcasts and audiobooks.
TV and Video
8.6
8.8
The Philips Fidelio X2HR and Audeze LCD 2 Classic are both very good for TV and video.
Noise Reduction
2.5
2.5
The Audeze LCD 2 Classic and Philips Fidelio X2HR are both poor for noise reduction.
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How the Audeze LCD 2 Classic and the Philips Fidelio X2HR compare to other earbuds and headphones
Spec Comparison
 |  | |
| Audeze LCD 2 Classic | Philips Fidelio X2HR |
GENERAL | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | |||
$799 | $148 | ||
Brand | |||
Brand | Audeze | Philips | |
Release Date | |||
Release Date | November 1, 2017 | September 1, 2014 | |
Form Factor | |||
Form Factor | Headphones | Headphones | |
Connectivity | |||
Connectivity | Wired | Wired | |
SOUND | |||
|---|---|---|---|
Music Score | |||
Music Score | 9.3/10 | 9.3/10 | |
Phone Calls Score | |||
Phone Calls Score | 4.9/10 | 5/10 | |
Gaming Score | |||
Gaming Score | 7.3/10 | 7.1/10 | |
TV and Video Score | |||
TV and Video Score | 8.6/10 | 8.9/10 | |
Exercise Score | |||
Exercise Score | 4.4/10 | 4.5/10 | |
FEATURES | |||
|---|---|---|---|
Active Noise Cancelling | |||
Active Noise Cancelling | No | No | |
Noise Reduction Score | |||
Noise Reduction Score | 2.5/10 | 2.5/10 | |
BUILD AND DESIGN | |||
|---|---|---|---|
Build Quality | |||
Build Quality | 10/10 | 9/10 | |
Comfort score | |||
Comfort score | 8/10 | 8.4/10 | |
Weight (headset or single earbud) | |||
Weight (headset or single earbud) | 635 Grams | 390 Grams | |
Waterproof Rating | |||
Waterproof Rating | 0 | 0 | |
Dustproof Rating | |||
Dustproof Rating | 0 | 0 | |
Shopping
Audeze LCD 2 Classic
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Dig into reviews and images
The Greatest Song
Greatest Song Team | August 2023
"These headphones outdo rival planar magnetic headphones, especially in terms of dynamics. Compared to the Hifiman Ananda or the Hifiman Edition XS there is noticeably more slam in the sound, particularly in the bass. The LCD-2C gives you a fantastic sense of quiet dynamics with crystalline precision. This is evident also in our clinical tests, where it’s just easier to understand spoken text at very low volumes."
Philips Fidelio X2HR
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Dig into reviews and images
Liquid Audio
Stefan | May 2022
"This piece is a fantastic option for music lovers searching for premium sound and a snug fit. You should get these headphones if you care about sound quality and want to hear music in a new light. This technology is a great option for high-quality headphones with superb sound reproduction."
Get a great deal on the Audeze LCD 2 Classic or the Philips Fidelio X2HR
About Audeze
Audeze is an, award-winning, American premium headphone manufacturer based in California. Founded in 2008, their products are developed around aerospace materials technology first used by NASA and are widely used by enthusiasts and professionals alike, not only in the fields of music and sound engineering but also in e-sports and the health industry.
About Philips
Philips is a Dutch conglomerate and electronics manufacturer with over 130 years of history. Philips makes the Fidelio audio line which includes several models of full-sized wired and wireless headphones, true wireless earbuds. soundbars and wireless speakers.
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This information was produced and vetted by the PerfectRec earbuds & headphones team. We are a product research and recommendation organization that meticulously reviews and evaluates the latest earbuds or headphones information and makes it digestible for you.
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