Electrostatic Vs Dynamic Headphones and Speakers
Headphones with a planar driver have an elongated diaphragm covered with conductors and responds equally to the audio signals, rather than the focused wavefront of dynamic headphones. However, they require an amplifier that is specialized and are generally more expensive than their counterparts with dynamic drivers.
They are well-known for their image structure and clarity, however they can lack the punch and slam of dynamic headphones. They're also larger and consume more power.
Dynamic
Dynamic headphones and speakers are the most common types that consumers purchase however audiophiles have for a long time preferred planar drivers for their superior sound quality. Planar magnetic headphones are generally more expensive than dynamic ones and require an amplifier (although newer technologies are helping lower the cost). The technology behind the planar speakers and headphones is different from conventional moving-coil systems. It works with a more sophisticated system.
The concept is simple A thin, flat film diaphragm floats between two perforated metal plates. The film membrane can move up and down due to electrical attraction and repellence as audio signals are applied. This is similar to how condenser microphones work. When combined with a high-quality headphone amplifier this results in a natural and precise reproduction of music without distortion or other issues that can occur with more conventional dynamic designs.
In addition to having a more precise sound stage, the planar headphones typically have a neutral sound quality and greater transient response than dynamic models. planar magnetic in ear , however, are subject to distortion at higher volumes, since they only vibrate the portion of the diaphragm connected to the voice coil. This can cause tiny distortions that can affect the overall quality of audio reproduction.
Planar headphones also have a more even and consistent imaging capability, which makes it easier to locate the instruments in the stereo image. A diaphragm with a planar shape has an elongated shape and can respond to audio signals with an even wavefront. Older models of dynamic headphones tend to sag at 20hz. This could have a negative impact on their bass extension.
Planar headphones are also able to reproduce the entire range of frequencies. This lets the listener hear music as intended by the audio engineers. Dynamic headphones can have issues reproducing frequencies below their intended range, particularly with closed-back models.
Planar headphones are somewhat more difficult to drive when compared to dynamic models. This is because the conductors on a planar driver only cover a fraction of the entire diaphragm and have to be driven with a much larger current than dynamic headphones. This leads to a higher power requirement and an increased complexity. The headphones are required to be larger and more comfortable to allow for portability and comfort. Additionally, they generally require a separate bias source for operation (though newer technologies are decreasing the requirements). Despite this challenge, planar headphones can be the ideal choice for listeners who want an experience that is top-quality. They are extremely comfortable to wear and have an unmistakably natural sound that is unparalleled by any other type of headphone. They are also extremely durable, so you can use for many years to come.
Planar
Traditionally headphones that have dynamic drivers make use of voice coils that vibrate the cone to create sound. This technology has been in use for over 100 years and is relatively inexpensive. However it has its drawbacks. This distortion occurs because the voice coil can only move parts of the diaphragm. This is the reason why a lot of high-end headphones (especially ones that require an amplifier to function) have a flat frequency response, which reduces distortion at higher frequencies.
Planar magnetic headphones are a more recent alternative. They use flat diaphragms and a variety of magnets for sound. These headphones usually have more uniform motion and less distortion than dynamic headphones. They can also generate a hefty quantity of bass. These headphones can be difficult to drive using integrated amps, which is why they require a separate headphone amp in order to reach their full potential.
HiFiMAN and Audeze are among the most sought-after headphones that are planar. These headphones are usually made from exotic materials such as beryllium. This lets them have an extremely wide frequency range and yet still be able to reproduce clear and precise sounds. However, the trend we're seeing is that although these headphones can deliver amazing image structure and clarity however, they may not have the sense of punch or slam you'll experience with a dynamic headphone.
Planar headphones are also susceptible to resonances. This can cause unwanted sounds or leakage of acoustic. While these issues aren't necessarily an issue for the majority of listeners, it's essential to understand what you're getting into when considering an investment in a pair planar headphone. We recommend you try various models regardless of whether or not you decide to choose a dynamic headphone or a planar one. This will allow you to find the type of headphones most appropriate for your requirements. If you're an avid listener who wants something easy to drive with, then a headphone that is dynamic may be the best choice for you. If you're looking to hear everything clearly and with clarity then planar headphones are the best option. Stax's SR-009 is a perfect example. There are many other excellent planar headphones with a a price tag that won't cost a fortune. They may not carry the Stax brand name or hefty price tag however they'll provide the sound you want without any of the pitfalls that come with expensive electronic. If you can afford to pay a little more, you may want to consider an electrostatic headphone, which uses a completely different principle and requires special power sources and amplifiers. For the majority of people, the affordable dynamic headphone remains an excellent choice.
Electrostatic
Electrostatic forces are non-contact forces that push or pull on objects, without touching them. Coulomb's Law explains them in terms of repelling like charges and unlike charges draw. It is possible to help students grasp the concept by demonstrating everyday electrostatic phenomena. For instance, plastic wrap will attract light particles after being removed from a bag or rulers will draw the paper that's been rubbed onto them.
Dynamic headphones are based upon the most basic of principles: a voice coil creates magnetic force which creates a diaphragm motion. This motion generates sound waves that are fed to the ears through ear cups or earbuds. These headphones are fairly inexpensive because of this simple mechanism. However, this also means that they can require a lot of power, which could drain your smartphone battery quickly.
Planar headphones however, use a more sophisticated technology to produce sound. They utilize a thin diaphragm that is floating between two metal plates that are perforated. When audio signals are applied to the plates an electrostatic force causes the whole film membrane to move back and forth. This produces uniform sound waves that are more precise and accurate compared to those generated by traditional dynamic headphone drivers.
The technology also operates at a lower tempo than dynamic headphones. This could result in a more natural and richer sound as well as more responsive bass. These headphones are also more comfortable than dynamic counterparts. Their more complicated design and price make them a costly option for many listeners.
One drawback of planar headphones is their propensity to leak sounds outwards. The diaphragm is moved in both directions rather than pushing sound towards your ear canal. In the end, it is typical for planar headphones to be used in quiet environments to prevent them from disrupting the people surrounding you.
While planar headphones provide superior audio quality, they come with a higher price tag than their dynamic counterparts. This is due to the complex manufacturing process needed to create the ultra-thin magnets and ultra-thin membranes. Some listeners say they cost more, but that they provide greater clarity, image separation and representation of transients.