Dan Clark Audio Noire X
Reddit take
AI summary of the Reddit excerpts below — not a quote
The Dan Clark Audio Noire X is a high-end closed-back planar magnetic headphone widely praised for its exceptional out-of-the-box tonality and comfort. Users frequently highlight its Harman-style tuning, which eliminates the need for EQ, and its ability to deliver high detail and 'punch' without the sibilance found in previous models. However, it is a power-hungry device that requires a robust amplifier to reach its full potential.
Pros
- Excellent out-of-the-box tonality following the Harman target
- High level of detail retrieval, particularly for jazz and classical music
- Lightweight and highly comfortable for long listening sessions
- Improved treble response that avoids sibilance
- Satisfying mid-bass 'punch' and overall clarity
Cons
- Very low sensitivity (94 dB/mW) makes them difficult to drive
- Glass earcups are prone to collecting fingerprints
- High price point, often exceeding $1,000 USD
- The fit can feel slightly loose on some head shapes
Caveats
- Requires a powerful dedicated amplifier; users report they can sound 'thin' on amps delivering less than 750mW.
- Portable DAC/amps may lack the current necessary to drive these headphones comfortably.
- Some users may still prefer aftermarket headbands for extreme long-term comfort (5+ hours).
Best for
- Audiophiles seeking a premium closed-back experience
- Listeners who prefer not to use EQ software
- Fans of highly dynamic music like classical and jazz
Avoid if
- You do not own or plan to buy a powerful desktop headphone amplifier
- You are looking for a budget-friendly or entry-level planar headphone
- You are sensitive to fingerprint marks on high-gloss surfaces
This summary uses balanced time weighting with about a 6-month half-life. The evidence is drawn from 21 mentions with a median age of 265 days, reflecting a mix of initial impressions and longer-term ownership experiences.
Sentiment
18 positive (86%) · 2 mixed (10%) · 1 negative (5%)
Trust + time weighted score: +76% · raw score 81%
What redditors said (10 of 21)
I mean, for that budget go for the dca noire x
a DCA Noire X will also have "extra punch" and an excellent FR so no need for EQ. These are the best headphones >$1000 imo.
DCA Noire X: I’ve heard these during a demo, and they were great. The Xs werent sibilant to my ears unlike the originals and they have a really fun mid-bass hump. Super comfy though!
If you're absolutely dead set on a closed back then the DCA Noire X is among the best.
The Noire X has a fairly low sensitivity of 94 dB/mW. Dan Clark recommended to have an amp that can deliver a minimum of 250mW into 16 ohms, though I have found they sound thin with amps under 750mW.
The BTR17 doesn't have the current needed to comfortably drive the Noire X. The Noire X is a planar magnetic headphone. Planar magnetics are known to be power hungry.
DC makes good cans. pricey, but good cans...
For closed would go with the DCA Noire X.
These are my most expensive headphones yet, I'm absolutely blown away! They sound absolutely perfect. I told myself I wouldn't spend over $1,000 on headphones, and... (these are $2,000 here in NZ.) I'd say it was worth it, 100%.
Only had it a few hours and it sounds absolutely spectacular. It's a little loose on my head and the glass collects all my greasy fingerprints, but it's otherwise pretty comfortable and lightweight. I don't have to EQ the Noire X at all, it's perfect right out of the box. I'm really happy with these!
Compare
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