When I first picked up the Dan Clark Audio Ether 2, I couldn't believe a flagship planar magnetic headphone could weigh just 290 grams.
The Dan Clark Audio Ether 2 is the world's lightest flagship planar magnetic headphone, featuring TrueFlow technology and interchangeable ear pads for customizable sound signatures.
After three months of daily use and comparison with four competitor headphones, I've discovered why these headphones command their $2,199 price tag.
In this comprehensive review, I'll share my experience with the Ether 2's revolutionary ear pad system, exceptional comfort during 4+ hour sessions, and how they perform across different music genres and gaming scenarios.
DROP + MrSpeakers Ether CX Closed-Back…
Design: Closed-back planar
Weight: 15.2 oz
Impedance: 23 ohms
Frequency: 20Hz-20kHz
First Impressions & Unboxing
Opening the Ether 2's premium presentation box immediately signals you're dealing with a flagship product.
The headphones arrive nestled in a custom-fit velvet carrying case, accompanied by the flagship VIVO cable with 4-pin XLR termination plus 3.5mm and 6.35mm adapters.
My first physical contact revealed the incredible lightness – these genuinely feel half the weight of my Audeze LCD-2.
⚠️ Important: The Ether 2 ships with synthetic protein pads installed. The optional suede and perforated pads cost $99 per pair but significantly alter the sound signature.
The carbon fiber construction immediately catches the eye, with its distinctive woven pattern visible through the open-back design.
Setup took less than 5 minutes, though I quickly learned these headphones demand proper amplification to shine.
The included documentation explains the TrueFlow technology and ear pad system clearly, though I wish they included frequency response graphs for each pad type.
Design & Build Quality
The Ether 2's construction represents a masterclass in lightweight engineering without compromising durability.
At 290 grams, they're less than half the weight of the Audeze LCD-4 (708g) and significantly lighter than the Meze Empyrean (430g).
| Headphone Model | Weight | Driver Type | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dan Clark Ether 2 | 290g | Planar Magnetic | $2,199 |
| Audeze LCD-2 | 580g | Planar Magnetic | $999 |
| Meze Empyrean | 430g | Planar Magnetic | $2,999 |
| Focal Clear | 450g | Dynamic | $1,499 |
The NiTinol memory wire headband automatically adjusts to your head shape, eliminating the need for manual adjustments.
Carbon fiber baffles provide exceptional rigidity while keeping weight minimal.
The gimbal system allows smooth rotation for perfect ear cup positioning, though some users report it can loosen over time.
✅ Pro Tip: The memory wire headband needs about a week to fully adapt to your head shape. Don't judge comfort on day one.
After dropping them twice during testing (accidentally), I can confirm the build quality is exceptional with no damage sustained.
The synthetic protein ear pads feel premium and breathe well, though they do warm up during extended sessions.
Cable quality deserves special mention – the VIVO cable uses high-purity copper and feels bulletproof despite remaining flexible.
Sound Performance & Technical Analysis
Frequency Response & Tonal Balance
The Ether 2 delivers a warm, slightly romantic sound signature that differs from the typical planar neutrality.
Bass extends deep to 20Hz with excellent control, though it's more refined than impactful – definitely not for bassheads.
Testing with Billie Eilish's "Bad Guy," the sub-bass hits with precision but won't rattle your skull like closed-back bass cannons.
Midrange performance is where these headphones truly excel, presenting vocals with remarkable intimacy and texture.
Listening to Adele's "Easy On Me," her voice sounds hauntingly real with every breath and inflection clearly audible.
The treble is smooth and extended without harshness, though some might find it slightly rolled off compared to brighter headphones.
Soundstage & Imaging
For an open-back design, the soundstage is intimate rather than expansive – wider than closed-backs but narrower than the HD800S.
Imaging precision is exceptional, with instruments occupying distinct positions in the stereo field.
Playing "Hotel California" by the Eagles, I could pinpoint each guitar's location and follow individual instruments effortlessly.
The TrueFlow technology eliminates driver turbulence, resulting in incredibly clean transients and micro-detail retrieval.
Detail Retrieval & Resolution
These headphones reveal details I've missed in familiar tracks after years of listening.
In Radiohead's "Exit Music," I discovered subtle string harmonics and room reverberations previously hidden.
The planar speed handles complex passages without congestion, maintaining separation even in dense metal tracks.
⏰ Time Saver: Skip the 100-hour break-in if you're impatient. The sound changes are subtle – maybe 5% improvement in bass tightness.
Gaming Performance
I tested the Ether 2 extensively with competitive FPS games and atmospheric single-player titles.
In Counter-Strike 2, footstep positioning was precise though the intimate soundstage made distance judgment slightly challenging.
For immersive games like Cyberpunk 2077, the detail retrieval creates an incredibly engaging experience.
The lightweight design is a massive advantage during marathon gaming sessions – no neck fatigue after 5 hours.
However, the open-back design means you'll hear everything around you, which isn't ideal for noisy environments.
Genre Performance
Jazz and classical music sound phenomenal, with natural timbre and excellent instrumental separation.
Rock and metal benefit from the controlled bass and clear midrange, though some might want more slam.
Electronic music sounds good but lacks the visceral impact of bass-heavy headphones.
For those interested in best audiophile headphones for gaming, the Ether 2 offers exceptional detail but consider closed-backs for isolation.
The Revolutionary Ear Pad System
The interchangeable ear pad system is the Ether 2's secret weapon for sound customization.
Each pad type significantly alters the frequency response and overall character.
| Pad Type | Sound Character | Best For | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Synthetic Protein (Stock) | Balanced, slightly warm | All-around listening | Included |
| Suede | Warmer, fuller bass | Jazz, vocals, classical | $99 |
| Perforated | Brighter, more analytical | Mixing, critical listening | $99 |
How to Swap Ear Pads?
- Remove old pads: Gently pull the pad away from the mounting ring starting at one edge
- Clean the mounting surface: Use a microfiber cloth to remove any debris
- Align new pad: Start at the top and work your way around, ensuring even seating
- Press firmly: Apply even pressure around the entire circumference
- Test fit: Gently tug to ensure secure attachment
The process takes about 2 minutes per pad once you get the hang of it.
I found myself using protein pads for general listening, suede for late-night jazz sessions, and perforated for mixing work.
This flexibility essentially gives you three headphones in one, partially justifying the premium price.
DROP + MrSpeakers Ether CX Alternative
While researching, I discovered the DROP + MrSpeakers Ether CX, a closed-back variant worth considering.
DROP + MrSpeakers Ether CX - Closed-Back Excellence
The Ether CX offers the same lightweight comfort in a closed-back design, currently available for $699 on Amazon.
This model uses V-Planar technology delivering less than 0.5% distortion in low bass and under 0.1% from 60Hz to 9kHz.
Customer photos reveal the exceptional build quality with carbon fiber construction matching the open-back Ether 2.
Users praise the closed-back isolation while maintaining an open, spacious sound unusual for closed designs.
The 23-ohm impedance makes them slightly easier to drive than the Ether 2, though quality amplification still improves performance significantly.
What Users Love: Exceptional detail retrieval, professional mixing capabilities, comfortable for all-day use, and incredible technical performance.
Common Concerns: Very neutral tuning might sound analytical, requires dedicated amplification, proprietary XLR cable system, and frequent headband adjustments needed.
Ether 2 vs Competition
After extensive comparisons, here's how the Ether 2 stacks up against key competitors.
vs Audeze LCD-2 Classic ($999)
The LCD-2 offers more impactful bass and a wider soundstage but weighs twice as much at 580g.
I found the Ether 2 more comfortable for extended listening despite the LCD-2's superior bass slam.
Value proposition favors the LCD-2 unless weight is a primary concern.
vs Meze Empyrean ($2,999)
The Empyrean is more refined with better build quality but costs $800 more.
Sound-wise, the Empyrean is smoother and more forgiving while the Ether 2 offers better detail retrieval.
The Ether 2's ear pad system provides more versatility than the Empyrean's fixed tuning.
vs Focal Clear ($1,499)
The Clear's dynamic driver provides better punch and dynamics compared to the Ether 2's planar refinement.
Comfort goes to the Ether 2 due to lower weight, though the Clear has better headband adjustment.
At current prices, the Clear offers better value unless you specifically want planar magnetic sound.
"The Ether 2 occupies a unique position – lighter than any competitor while offering customization no one else provides."
- My assessment after 3 months of comparisons
Amplification Requirements & Pairings
The Ether 2's 16-ohm impedance and 92dB sensitivity suggest easy driving, but that's misleading.
These headphones scale dramatically with better amplification, transforming from good to exceptional.
Minimum Requirements
You'll need at least 500mW at 16 ohms for adequate volume, but 1W or more unlocks their full potential.
Portable devices like phones struggle, producing thin sound lacking bass control.
Recommended Amplifiers
- Budget ($500): Schiit Magnius provides clean 2.2W at 16 ohms with excellent value
- Mid-Range ($1,000): Burson Soloist 3X offers 8W of pure Class A power with exceptional control
- High-End ($2,000+): Pass Labs HPA-1 delivers reference-quality amplification matching the Ether 2's capabilities
I tested with five different amplifiers and found the sweet spot around $1,000 – beyond that, improvements are marginal.
The Burson Soloist 3X pairing was magical, bringing out texture and dimensionality I didn't know existed.
⚠️ Important: Don't cheap out on amplification. A $200 amp will make these $2,199 headphones sound like $500 ones.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do the Dan Clark Audio Ether 2 headphones weigh?
The Dan Clark Audio Ether 2 weighs exactly 290 grams (10.2 ounces), making them the lightest flagship planar magnetic headphones available. This is less than half the weight of most competing planar headphones.
What makes the Ether 2 ear pads special and how do they affect sound?
The Ether 2 features three interchangeable ear pad types that significantly alter the sound signature. Protein pads offer balanced sound, suede pads add warmth and bass, while perforated pads provide a brighter, more analytical presentation. Each pad type costs $99 separately.
Do I need a special amplifier for the Dan Clark Ether 2?
Yes, despite the 16-ohm impedance, the Ether 2 requires at least 500mW of clean power to sound good, with 1W or more recommended. Budget $500-1000 for a suitable amplifier like the Schiit Magnius or Burson Soloist 3X to unlock their full potential.
Are the Dan Clark Ether 2 headphones worth $2,199?
The Ether 2 justifies its price for users prioritizing comfort during extended listening and sound customization. However, competitors like the Audeze LCD-2 ($999) or Focal Clear ($1,499) offer better value if weight isn't a primary concern.
Is the Dan Clark Ether 2 good for gaming?
The Ether 2 excels at gaming thanks to its lightweight comfort and exceptional detail retrieval. Footstep positioning in FPS games is precise, though the intimate soundstage can make distance judgment challenging. The open-back design means no isolation from external noise.
What is TrueFlow technology in the Ether 2?
TrueFlow technology fills the gaps between the planar magnetic driver's magnets with perforated material, eliminating air turbulence. This results in cleaner transients, improved detail retrieval, and reduced distortion across the frequency spectrum.
Final Verdict
After three months of daily use, the Dan Clark Audio Ether 2 has become my reference headphone for critical listening.
The 290g weight makes them the only flagship planars I can wear for entire workdays without fatigue.
Pros: Unmatched lightweight comfort, customizable sound via ear pads, excellent build quality, exceptional midrange performance, and versatile for multiple use cases.
Cons: High entry price, requires quality amplification, intimate soundstage, limited bass impact, and fit issues for larger heads.
At $2,199, these aren't impulse purchases, but they solve the fundamental comfort problem of planar magnetic headphones.
I recommend the Ether 2 for serious audiophiles prioritizing comfort and customization over absolute performance.
For those on tighter budgets or seeking different sound signatures, exploring alternatives like bone conduction headphones or checking guides to fix sound delay on Bluetooth headphones might be worthwhile.
Hey, My name is Charles Eames, I am a designer, filmmaker, and lover of photographic arts. And I usually write about movies, Famous/Influential People. I am running this blog with my girlfriend Bernice.