If you want a neutral, reference-grade soundstage for mixing or critical listening in a quiet studio, choose Avantone Pro Planar Headphones; if you need immersive isolation, superior comfort for long flights, and advanced acoustic tuning to eliminate standing waves, choose Dan Clark Audio Noire X Closed.
• Avantone Pro Planar Headphones: Delivers a massive, open soundstage with a wide 30Hz–30kHz frequency response ideal for professional audio work, but the open-back design leaks sound completely, making it useless for noisy environments like airplanes.
• Dan Clark Audio Noire X Closed: Features patented AMTS technology and Gorilla Glass cups to create a tight, detailed sound while blocking external noise, offering self-adjusting headband comfort that eliminates pressure points during extended wear.
• The Verdict: The Avantone is for the engineer who needs absolute accuracy in a controlled room, while the Dan Clark is for the traveler or home listener who demands high fidelity without disturbing others.
The Avantone Pro Planar Headphones are built for one specific purpose: revealing the truth about your audio. They utilize planar magnetic drivers housed within an open-back enclosure, a design choice that sacrifices isolation entirely to achieve a natural, uncolored presentation of sound. When I look at the specifications, the frequency response range of 30Hz to 30,000 Hz stands out immediately. That is an incredibly broad spectrum that allows engineers and audiophiles to hear details that many other headphones simply hide. The "Red" aesthetic is striking, but it is purely cosmetic; the real story is in the metal and plastic construction designed to house these sensitive drivers without introducing resonance.
This headphone is the perfect tool for musicians, recording engineers, and mastering specialists who need a "reference-grade" platform. Because the ear cups are open, air moves freely, creating a sense of space that mimics hearing music from speakers in a room rather than inside your ears. This makes them excellent for mixing sessions where you need to detect subtle artifacts, reverb tails, or frequency clashes that might get masked by the physical barriers of closed-back cans. The detachable cable is a practical inclusion here, ensuring that if a connection fails, you don't have to replace the entire unit. However, the lack of any active or passive noise control means these headphones offer zero protection against the world around you. If you try to use these on a commercial flight, the cabin roar will drown out the nuance of your mix, and passengers will hear every note you play.
We compare products from their published specs and features; the verdicts below are our independent editorial opinions.
Updated: 2026-10-25 · 7 min read · Independent comparison
You should skip this model if you are looking for a multipurpose device for travel or commuting. The 3.5mm jack connectivity limits you to wired setups, which can be cumbersome if you are trying to move around. Furthermore, the weight of 3.5 pounds (including the carrying bag) suggests a substantial build that might feel heavy over time compared to lighter consumer options, though the material quality implies durability. These are not "red over ear headphones" for casual gaming or background listening; they are surgical instruments for the ears. If you value privacy or need to block out a crying child or a chatty coworker, the open design is a dealbreaker. You also won't find a built-in microphone for calls or a Bluetooth option, so these remain strictly for stationary, high-fidelity listening sessions.
In stark contrast, the Dan Clark Audio Noire X Closed is engineered for those who demand audiophile performance without sacrificing isolation. This is a closed-back planar headphone that integrates DCA's Acoustic Metamaterial Tuning System (AMTS), a feature that fundamentally changes how the drivers interact with the air inside the ear cup. By using advanced metamaterial concepts, the Noire X eliminates high-frequency standing waves, which are often responsible for the harsh, synthetic treble found in cheaper headphones. The result is a smooth, airy sound that remains detailed even at higher volumes. The driver itself has been upgraded with V-planar knurling, providing stiffer diaphragms that reduce distortion across a broad frequency range, delivering clarity that rivals much more expensive flagship models.
Comfort is a major selling point for the Noire X, especially for anyone planning to use these for airplane travel or long study sessions. The self-tensioning headband distributes pressure evenly across the top of the head, preventing the "hot spots" that cause pain after an hour of wear. The ear pads are crafted from Alcantara synthetic suede, a material known for its softness and breathability, which helps prevent sweat buildup during long flights. The cups themselves are clad in Gorilla Glass 3, adding a layer of premium durability and a sleek, black-on-black aesthetic that feels robust. With impedance as low as 13 ohms, these headphones are relatively easy to drive, meaning they can pair well with portable devices or standard audio interfaces without needing a dedicated amplifier, though they still shine when paired with quality gear.
Who is this for? It is for the frequent flyer who wants to enjoy their favorite classical recordings or podcasts without hearing the jet engines. It is for the gamer who wants to immerse themselves in a game world without leaking sound into the room, or perhaps for someone looking for a best with mic bluetooth headset for ps5 alternative, although the Noire X remains a wired experience. The inclusion of both 3.5mm and 6.35mm jacks offers flexibility for different audio sources. While it lacks a microphone for calls, its primary strength lies in pure audio reproduction. If you are a parent searching for a waterproof headphone for toddlers, this is not the right tool; however, for adults seeking a high-end, comfortable, and isolated listening experience, the Noire X is a powerhouse. The trade-off is that you pay a premium for the engineering, but the specs suggest a product built to last and perform at the highest level of fidelity.
• Best for Soundstage and Spatial Accuracy → Avantone Pro Planar Headphones: The open-back design creates a wider, more natural sound field essential for critical listening.
• Best for Noise Isolation and Travel → Dan Clark Audio Noire X Closed: The closed-back architecture blocks external noise, making it the only viable choice for airplanes or busy offices.
• Best for Long-Wear Comfort → Dan Clark Audio Noire X Closed: The self-adjusting headband and Alcantara pads eliminate pressure points better than the standard fit of the Avantone.
• Best for Professional Mixing/Studio Work → Avantone Pro Planar Headphones: The neutral, flat response is specifically tuned for engineers who need to hear exactly what is recorded.
• Best for Durability and Build Quality → Dan Clark Audio Noire X Closed: Gorilla Glass cups and premium materials suggest a more rugged, luxury build compared to the standard metal/plastic mix of the Avantone.
• Best for Low-Impedance Driving → Dan Clark Audio Noire X Closed: At 13 ohms, it requires less power to reach high volumes than typical studio headphones.
• Best for Cable Versatility → Dan Clark Audio Noire X Closed: Includes both 3.5mm and 6.35mm jacks for broader compatibility with various audio systems.
• Best for Visual Distinction → Avantone Pro Planar Headphones: The bold red color makes a statement, whereas the Noire X opts for a stealthy, all-black look.
After weighing the technical specifications and intended use cases, I would personally buy the Dan Clark Audio Noire X Closed. While the Avantone Pro Planar Headphones are exceptional for a dedicated studio environment, their open design renders them impractical for modern life where noise pollution is constant. The Noire X offers the same planar magnetic fidelity but adds the crucial element of isolation and superior comfort through its AMTS technology and ergonomic design. For a buyer who travels frequently—specifically for airplane travel—the ability to block out engine noise while enjoying rich, detailed audio is non-negotiable. The Noire X delivers a premium, fatigue-free experience that works in almost any setting, making it the more versatile and valuable investment for the average enthusiast.
Yes, the Dan Clark Audio Noire X Closed is far superior for airplane travel because its closed-back design blocks out cabin noise, whereas the open-back Avantone model will leak sound and let in too much ambient noise.
The Dan Clark Audio Noire X Closed has a low impedance of 13 ohms, making it easier to drive than many other planar headphones, while the Avantone Pro Planar may require more power to fully utilize its dynamic range.
The Dan Clark Audio Noire X Closed features Gorilla Glass 3 cups and Alcantara pads, suggesting a more premium and impact-resistant build compared to the standard metal and plastic construction of the Avantone Pro Planar.
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