Could you please compare the i4 and the Clear? Thanks.
Hi Misson07,
I own both and find both excellent.
I normally don't drive them in the same manner as they are not meant for the same purpose,
I usually drive the LCDi4 with my AK SP1000cu and the Clear with my RME ADI-2 Pro,
I mean this is not easy to compare.
Not using any E.Q. here are my impressions:
With the stock cable the LCDi4 has the relaxed Audeze coloration (several dips in the FR), very pleasant but not neutral whereas the Clear sounds neutral, reference.
I purchased a balanced EffectAudio Cleopatra cable for the LCDi4 and it does increase resolution and treble, making it sound less relaxed but even more high end.
(I intend to buy the bluetooth cipher adapter to connect to my android phone and see how it will change the FR of the LCDi4).
For soundstage (huge) and bass, I find that the LCDi4 is easily the better.
For dynamics, I find the Focals better.
One practical negative thing for the LCDi4 is that, unlike compact in-ears or strongly-build headphones like Focals, they look fragile, I fear I may damage them, so I have to give them extra care and carry them in a Peli 1020 case.
In any case, I find the LCDi4 to be fantastic. If one does not have enough space for headphones, the LCDi4 maybe one of the best substitutes.
The practical thing I find negative about the Clear is the light grey color of the headband and earpads because they may take a dirty coloration after much contact (my wife knitted some fabric around the headband, but that doesn't protect the earpads).
BTW comparing the LCDi4 to the LCD4, well surprisingly (it was also a surprise for me) I prefer the sound of the LCDi4 to that LCD4!
(not speaking of issues such as weight and comfort):
I listen at very low volume levels, at such levels the sound of the LCD headphones is not clean enough for me,
I went once to my dealer to audition the LCD4 and possibly purchase them, but actually didn't like them so much and walked away having purchased the LCDi4 instead, something I even hadn't thought about... But the LCDi4 were clean for me at very low level and were also the big surprise that day compared to headphones I was auditioning.
Have a nice weekend,
bidn