The LCD-XC 2021 evokes a similar pleasing impression as the LCD-2 Closed Back. That means a much better staging quality than you would expect for a closed-back headphone and excellent clarity throughout.

While there are potentially other closed-back headphones out there that perform better or have better tonal balance overall, I find the LCD-XC to be very competitive at its price point, easily beating headphones that cost quite a bit more for technical performance.

I think the LCD-XC is a pretty good entry into the line but I personally would never purchase it due to the comfort issues as well as that mid-range honk.