Dan Clark Audio has just introduced its newest pair of headphones, the Noire X—a closed-back model that aims to bring a lot of the tech from its top-shelf Stealth and Expanse models into a more affordable (but still premium) package. If you’ve been curious about planar magnetic headphones but didn’t want to drop four grand, this might be the pair you’ve been waiting for.

Closed-back headphones are usually chosen for their practicality—they’re great for keeping sound in and background noise out. But let’s be honest: they often sound more confined compared to open-back models, which tend to feel more spacious and “natural.” Dan Clark Audio has been trying to change that, and the Noire X continues that mission.

Instead of using standard dynamic drivers (the ones with cones and coils you find in most headphones), the Noire X uses planar magnetic drivers. These rely on a super-thin diaphragm that floats in a magnetic field, moving back and forth to create sound. The benefit? Smoother, more detailed sound, with less distortion and more consistency between units.

The Noire X takes things further with a newly redesigned 62 x 34mm diaphragm that’s stiffer than the one in the original Aeon series. That added rigidity helps with clarity and reduces the variation you sometimes get between pairs. There’s also something called V-Planar knurling—a fancy name for a textured pattern on the diaphragm that helps smooth out how it responds across all frequencies.

If you’ve been eyeing Dan Clark’s flagship headphones, you’ve probably heard about their AMTS (Acoustic Metamaterial Tuning System). The Noire X brings this same tech to a more accessible price point.

So what is AMTS? It’s a physical structure placed between the driver and your ear, designed to handle treble frequencies more carefully. One of the most common issues with headphones is harshness in the highs—think of those piercing sounds that get tiring after a while. AMTS helps eliminate those “standing waves” that cause the problem, resulting in a more natural and relaxed treble experience.

In short, you get the airiness and detail you want up top, without the sharp edges that can ruin a long listening session.

Comfort is a big deal with any headphone, especially if you wear them for hours. The Noire X includes a self-tensioning headband that spreads pressure evenly across your head, helping to avoid sore spots. The ear pads are made from memory foam and covered in synthetic leather, with Alcantara where they touch your skin—a smart move to cut down on heat and moisture build-up.

The ear cups are finished with Gorilla Glass 3, which isn’t just about looks (though the black-on-black styling is pretty sleek). It also makes the headphones more resistant to scratches and dings, which is great if you’re planning to take them on the go.

Speaking of which, the Noire X folds flat and comes with a travel case, so you won’t need to baby them while traveling.

One of the more practical things about the Noire X is how many connection options you get. It includes a dual 6.3mm/3.5mm cable right out of the box, but also supports balanced connections via 4.4mm or 4-pin XLR—great if you're plugging into a headphone amp or high-end DAC.

And if you want even more flexibility, Dan Clark Audio’s VIVO upgrade cables come in different lengths and connector types. That’s a nice bonus for anyone who already has a custom setup and doesn’t want to buy third-party cables.

Technical Specifications:

• Style: Closed-back circumaural.
• Transducers: Planar magnetic.
• Chassis materials: Aluminum and Gorilla Glass 3.
• Headband: Nickel-titanium alloy with leather-wrapped suspension band.
• Ear pads: Memory foam with synthetic leather outer, Alcantara synthetic suede surface.
• Frequency response: Extended and tuned to the Harman Curve.
• Sensitivity: 94dB/mW.
• Impedance: 13Ω.
• Recommended minimum power: 250mW @ 16Ω.
• Weight: 385g.
• Accessories: Detachable cable in fabric pouch; travel case; microfiber cloth; certificate of authenticity.

With the Noire X, Dan Clark Audio is offering a headphone that takes a lot of the high-end engineering from its flagship lineup and brings it down to a more manageable price. You get a redesigned planar driver, the AMTS tuning system, flexible cable options, and a well-thought-out design aimed at both comfort and durability.

It’s still a premium purchase, no doubt—but for those looking for closed-back headphones that sound more open than most, and come packed with serious audio tech, the Noire X seems worth a closer look.

You can pick up the Noire X in the U.S. now for $999.99 at Amazon or through authorized Dan Clark Audio dealers.