As a bridge between the entry-level and high-end models from this American manufacturer, these headphones bring the sound quality of the top products from Audeze’s in-ear range into affordable realms without making major compromises. If you don’t mind the size of these in-ears, you will not only receive a lavishly presented product with extensive extras but also workmanship, technology, fit and sound that will simply delight you. Rich bass, airy treble and a very differentiated mid-range make listening to all music styles with these headphones a real pleasure. iOS and Bluetooth cables with remote control promise uncomplicated use on the go. The Audeze LCDi3 headphones are unquestionably worth every penny that you spend.

The Audeze LCDi3 are a stunning pair of IEM headphones, backed up by the excellent sound produced by planar magnetic headphones. If you want a pair of audiophile headphones for under $1,000, make the LCDi3 your IEM of choice.

In truth, the LCDi3 are not IEMs. It is much more accurate to call them portable ear monitors; they are as close as you will find to the full-sized headphone experience in a truly portable package. The sound is expansive and immersive and does not seem to emanate from the center of your cranium (as is the case with many IEMs). Yet, there’s no need to bring an additional amp or DAP along with you — they sound their best just mated to your iPhone with the Lightning cable.

I’m a big fan of the Audeze sound, and while the $899 LCDi3 aren’t cheap, they’re fantastic. It’s the closest to the open-backed goodness of larger over-ear planar drivers, probably because they’re the same, just scaled down on the LCDi3.

Now I get it. The truth is, though, that this earphone does what other Audeze earphones simply try to do (albeit very well): it gives you a lifelike planar sound that feels as real as real can get. Though $899 may be a bit pricey when stacked up against iSine dollars, the LCD-i3’s sound will speak for itself. This earphone is worth every penny, and then some.

It is immensely difficult for me to go back to anything else at the moment, due to the epic airiness factor of the imaging experience of the LCD-i3. If I am able to, I tend to adjust DSP on each album that pops in my playlist, which adds to the musical experience for me as a listener. I am able to customize.

At $899, the Audeze LCD-i3 is a great option for audiophiles who love the planar magnetic sound but want a portable and-or lightweight solution with options for wired or wireless listening. It's got an engaging and detailed but relaxed sound and a soundstage that blows most IEMs out of the water. I think the LCD-i3 will especially shine with classical, blues, classic rocks, and bass-heavy music like EDM. Depending on your listening scenario, the open-back design may be a deal-breaker. But if you can live with that potential limitation or it's irrelevant for you, the LCD-i3 is a phenomenal IEM that will get you much of the way toward the LCD-i4 but at a fraction of the price.

The comparatively big drivers create a sound that really is on par with some open Over Ear headphones. The stage is massive for an IEM, the layering, imaging and separation are just incredible. Audeze’s IEMs are the only ones I would consider wearing at home instead of a full sized headphone. It’s just that good. A big plus is also that you get two different sounding monitors in one package. Just slap on the Cipher cable, given you have an Apple device, and you get a different beast all together. The Bluetooth cable is a nice addition for those who want extra convenience.

In fact, while the default tuning isn’t exactly what I’m after, my hunch is that the average person will really enjoy the i3 with the Cipher modules. And from my perspective, this absolutely is a benchmark IEM when it comes to technical performance. Add to that the fact that my issues with tonality are entirely alleviated by making EQ that much more accessible - anywhere - and I have to say that I thoroughly recommend the LCD-i3… that is of course, if you’re okay with the completely ridiculous deal-breaking concept of an open back IEM.