Electrostatic Vs Dynamic Headphones and Speakers
The headphones with a planar driver feature a flat diaphragm covered by conductors and responds equally to the audio signals, not a focused wavefront as dynamic headphones. They also require a special amplifier and are generally more expensive than dynamic headphones.
They are known for their image structure and clarity, but they aren't as powerful and slam of dynamic headphones. They are also bigger and use more power.
Dynamic
Planar magnetic headphones are generally more expensive than dynamic models and require a special amplifier to use. Audiophiles prefer planar drivers due to their superior sound. Planar magnetic headphones are typically slightly more expensive than dynamic models and require a specific amplifier for use (though modern technology is reducing the cost). The technology behind these headphones is different from conventional moving-coil systems. It works on a more sophisticated principle.
best magnetic planar headphones is simple: a thin, flat film diaphragm is suspended between two plates that are perforated. The film membrane moves up and down due to the electrical attraction and repellence that occurs when audio signals are applied. This is similar to how condenser microphones work. When coupled with a top-quality headphone amplifier this results in a natural and accurate reproduction of music, without distortion or other issues that are common with conventional dynamic designs.
In addition to having a more precise sound stage, headphones with a planar design generally have a more natural sound with a better transient response than dynamic models. Dynamic drivers, however are susceptible to distortion when they are played at higher volumes because they only vibrate the part of the diaphragm that is attached to the voice coil. This causes tiny distortions that can affect the overall quality of the audio reproduction.
Planar headphones also have an even and consistent imaging capability, which makes it easier to determine the instruments in the stereo image. This is due to the fact that a planar diaphragm is more spherical and carries an even wavefront when responding audio signal. On the other hand older models of dynamic headphones are more likely to fade out around 20hz, which can adversely affect their bass extension and punch.
They are also able to reproduce the full spectrum of frequencies. This lets the listener hear the music as it was intended by the audio engineers. Dynamic headphones may have difficulty reproducing frequencies that are below their intended range. This is particularly the case for closed-back models.
Planar headphones can be a little more difficult to drive when compared to dynamic models. This is due to the fact that the conductors of the planar driver cover only just a small portion of the diaphragm and have to be driven by a higher current than dynamic headphones. This results in the need for more power and a higher level of complexity overall, requiring the headphones to be larger to ensure comfort and portability. They also require a bias supply to function (although newer technologies are decreasing the need for a bias supply). Planar headphones are an excellent choice for those who want the best quality headphone. They are extremely comfortable to wear and have an unmistakably natural sound that is not offered by other types of headphone. They are also very robust, meaning they'll last for many years.
Planar
Traditionally, headphones that use dynamic drivers make a cone vibrate using voice coils. This technology has been in use for over 100 years and is relatively cheap. However, it does have its downsides. The voice coil can only move a small section of the diaphragm and this leads to distortion that reduces the quality of the audio signal. A lot of high-end headphones, particularly ones which require an amplified signal to work, have a flattened frequency response. This reduces distortion at higher frequencies.
Planar magnetic headphones are a newer alternative. They utilize flat diaphragms and an array of magnets for sound. These headphones are more consistent in their movement and have less distortion than dynamic ones. They also generate a lot of bass. They are difficult to drive using integrated amplifiers. They typically require a separate headphone amplifier in order to achieve their full potential.
Some of the most sought-after headphones that are available are from HiFiMAN and Audeze. These headphones are usually made of exotic materials such as beryllium. This allows them to have an extremely wide frequency range while still being able reproduce detailed sounds. The trend we are witnessing is that these headphones, while they offer incredible clarity and image quality but they are not always able to provide the 'punch or slam' that you get with dynamic headphones.
Another issue with headphones made of planar is that they're prone to resonances, which can cause unwanted noise or leakage of sound. These issues aren't necessarily an issue for all listeners but it's still important to be aware before purchasing headphones. Whatever you decide to choose, whether an active or planar headphones, we suggest you test several models before choosing one. This will help you find the type of headphones that is best suited for your needs. If you are an occasional listener and need something easy to drive and comfortable, then a dynamic pair of headphones could be the ideal choice for you. If you'd like to listen to everything clearly and with clarity the planar headphones are the best option. The SR-009 by Stax is a perfect example of this. There are numerous other planar headphones that offer high-quality sound at a reasonable price. They may not carry the Stax brand name or expensive price tag however they'll give you the sound you're after without the issues that come with expensive electronics. If you can afford to pay a little more, you might think about an electrostatic headphone. This utilizes a totally different principle and requires special power sources and amplifiers. For the majority of people however, the more dynamic headphone that is affordable is still a great option.
Electrostatic
Electrostatic forces are noncontact forces that push or pull on objects that are not touching them. Coulomb's Law describes them: Like charges repel and unlike charges draw. To help students comprehend this concept, you may be able to show them examples of electrostatic phenomena that are commonplace like plastic wrap attracting lightweight particles when it is taken out of a bag or rulers attracting pieces of paper which have been rubbed onto them.
Dynamic headphones are based upon the simplest principles: A voice coil generates a magnetic force that causes a diaphragm movement. This motion creates sound waves, which are fed into the ears through ear cups or earbuds. Because of this simple mechanism these headphones are comparatively affordable. However, this also means that they will require a significant amount of power, which could take a lot of battery power from your smartphone.
Planar headphones On the other hand, use an advanced technology to produce sound. They employ a diaphragm that is ultra-thin that is suspended between two metal plates that are perforated. Electrostatic forces cause the film membrane to move when audio signals are pushed across the plates. This produces uniform sound waves which are more precise and precise when compared to the sounds produced by traditional dynamic headphone drivers.
The technology also operates at lower frequency than headphones with dynamic features. This results in more natural more resonant sound, as well as more responsive bass. These headphones can also be more comfortable than their more dynamic counterparts. Their more complicated design and price make them a costly option for many listeners.
Planar headphones tend to leak sound outwards.
