Dan Clark Audio NOIRE X Headphones Set a New Standard in Their Market Segment
Renowned American headphone manufacturer Dan Clark Audio has introduced its latest planar magnetic creation — the NOIRE X — positioning it as a new benchmark within its price and consumer segment.
In developing the NOIRE X, Dan Clark Audio’s engineering team took an evolutionary approach, reimagining the iconic AEON 2 NOIRE. The new model features a refined driver and incorporates cutting-edge technologies from the brand’s flagship headphones, all wrapped in a refreshed, modern design.
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Dan Clark Headphones
Earpads material: leather
Headphone type: wired
Kind of headphones: over-ear
Earpads material: synthetic leather
Headphone type: wired
Kind of headphones: over-ear
Earpads material: leather
Headphone type: wired
Kind of headphones: over-ear
Headset type: stereo
Brand: Dan Clark Audio
Headphone type: wired
Brand: Dan Clark Audio
Headphone type: wired
The lowest frequency, Hz: 20
Earpads material: leather
Headphone type: wired
Kind of headphones: over-ear
Headset type: stereo
Brand: Dan Clark Audio
Headphone type: wired
Headset type: stereo
Brand: Dan Clark Audio
Headphone type: wired
Headset type: stereo
Brand: Dan Clark Audio
Headphone type: wired
Headset type: stereo
Brand: Dan Clark Audio
Headphone type: wired
Brand: Dan Clark Audio
The lowest frequency, Hz: 10
The highest frequency, kHz: 20
Earpads material: leather, microfiber
Headphone type: wired
Kind of headphones: over-ear
Earpads material: leather
Headphone type: wired
Kind of headphones: over-ear
A Fusion of Cutting-Edge Technologies
At the core of the NOIRE X is Dan Clark Audio’s proprietary V-Planar driver — renowned for its resistance to edge deformation and ability to maintain a flat profile in motion, effectively eliminating standing waves. In this latest iteration, the driver has been significantly reinforced, enhancing rigidity and performance over its predecessor.
Thanks to advanced manufacturing techniques — including refined driver fabrication and rigorous testing with Audio Precision 555B and B&K 5128 systems — the NOIRE X delivers an exceptionally smooth frequency response and remarkably low distortion across the entire listening range.
One of the standout innovations in the NOIRE X is the addition of AMTS (Acoustic Metamaterial Tuning System) — a game-changing, patented technology that first made waves in Dan Clark’s flagship models like the Stealth, Expanse, E3, and Corina.
So, what makes AMTS so special? It uses an intricate combination of waveguides and resonators to precisely control how sound waves travel through the headphone, especially in the high frequencies. The result is a smoother, more natural treble with added clarity and detail.
But it doesn’t stop there. AMTS also allowed the engineers to fine-tune the frequency response and eliminate pesky high-frequency standing waves — the kind that can make music sound artificial or overly bright. With NOIRE X, those familiar clean, crisp highs that Dan Clark Audio is known for are now even more refined — beautifully detailed, perfectly balanced, and completely free from harshness or listening fatigue.
Versatile Connectivity for Every Setup
Whether you're plugging into a desktop amp, portable player, or high-end balanced rig, the NOIRE X has you covered. It ships with a variety of cable terminations — including a 1/4" and 3.5mm combo jack, 4-pin XLR, and a 4.4mm balanced connector — making it easy to pair with just about any gear right out of the box.
For those who want to take things a step further, Dan Clark Audio also offers their ultra-premium VIVO cables. These cables come in a range of lengths and connector options, so you can build the perfect setup without having to rely on aftermarket solutions.
In short: no adapters, no guesswork — just clean, reliable connectivity that fits into your system effortlessly.
Striking Aesthetics, Supreme Comfort
Dan Clark Audio has always had a knack for blending cutting-edge performance with standout design — and the NOIRE X is no exception.
Dressed in a bold, all-black finish, the NOIRE X makes a statement without saying a word. Its look is sleek, modern, and unmistakably premium. But it’s not just about style — every detail serves a purpose.
The earcups are topped with Gorilla Glass 3, a tough, ultra-thin layer of chemically strengthened glass that resists scratches while adding a touch of shine and structural integrity. The self-adjusting headband and upgraded earpad sensure a secure, feather-light fit, whether you're diving into a long listening session or just relaxing with a few tracks.
This is comfort and craftsmanship in perfect harmony — headphones that look as good as they sound.
Adding to its modern appeal, the new NOIRE X logo has been thoughtfully designed with a tone-on-tone aesthetic that subtly reinforces the headphone’s minimalist sophistication. It’s a small detail, but one that speaks volumes — sleek, understated, and perfectly in tune with the NOIRE X’s refined design language.
Innovative Earpads and Headband: Comfort That Lasts
Comfort has always been a top priority for Dan Clark Audio, and with the NOIRE X, they’ve taken it to a whole new level.
The NOIRE X debuts a set of all-new earpads, crafted from ultra-soft Alcantara synthetic suede. This premium material isn’t just about luxury — it’s highly breathable, helping to minimize heat and moisture buildup, even during long sessions or warmer days. Inside, the foam has been re-engineered to resist collapse over time, maintaining a consistent fit and feel for years to come.
An added bonus? These earpads are fully compatible with several other Dan Clark models, including the AEON 2 NOIRE, AEON RT Closed, and AEON 2 Closed, giving existing owners a seamless upgrade path.
Topping it off is a self-adjusting headband that distributes pressure evenly across your head, creating a lightweight, barely-there experience — perfect for hours of uninterrupted, immersive listening.
Sound Comes First: Immersive by Design
At the core of the NOIRE X is a simple mission: deliver the most immersive, high-fidelity audio experience in its class. And Dan Clark Audio delivers — big time.
From the moment you press play, you're met with a wide, spacious soundstage that pulls you right into the heart of the music. The bass is deep and powerful, yet never overpowering. The mids are silky-smooth, rich with nuance, while the highs remain vivid and airy, striking the perfect balance between detail and smoothness.
What really sets the NOIRE X apart is its ability to create a multi-layered musical texture — one where every instrument has room to breathe, and every genre comes alive. Whether you're spinning classical vinyl, diving into a rock anthem, vibing with electronic beats, or relaxing with jazz, the NOIRE X delivers an experience that’s deeply engagingyet effortlessly fatigue-free, even during marathon listening sessions.
With the NOIRE X, Dan Clark Audio may have just set a new benchmark for mid-range planar magnetic headphones — delivering a masterful blend of high-end sound, exceptional comfort, and versatile connectivity, all at a highly competitive price point.
Once again, the brand reinforces its reputation for cutting-edge audio innovation, crafting a headphone that speaks directly to the needs of discerning audiophiles who refuse to compromise.
You can explore the full Dan Clark Audio lineup and experience the NOIRE X firsthand at Dr.Head store. Our expert consultants are always on hand to help you find the perfect match for your listening style — whether you're a seasoned audiophile or just starting your audio journey.
Specs & Features Recap:
Here’s a quick look at what makes the Dan Clark Audio NOIRE X stand out:
- AMTS (Acoustic Metamaterial Tuning System)
- Shapes the frequency response and eliminates high-frequency standing waves for a smoother, more natural sound.
- Upgraded Driver Design
- Enhanced rigidity and consistency reduce distortion and improve long-term reliability.
- V-Planar Technology
- Produces a smooth, distortion-free frequency curve with remarkable clarity.
- Self-Adjusting Headband
- Evenly distributes pressure for a weightless, all-day listening experience.
- Gorilla Glass 3 Earcups
- Durable, scratch-resistant, and stylish — built to last.
- Alcantara Earpads
- Soft, breathable material reduces heat and moisture buildup for maximum comfort.
- Earpad Compatibility
- Easily swappable with AEON 2 NOIRE, AEON RT Closed, and AEON 2 Closed.
- Versatile Connectivity
- Includes 1/4" + 3.5mm combo, 4-pin XLR, and 4.4mm balanced connectors. Optional VIVO cables available for custom setups.
- Sound Profile
- Expansive soundstage, punchy bass, lush mids, and refined highs — perfect for any genre.
Dan Clark Headphones
Earpads material: leather
Headphone type: wired
Kind of headphones: over-ear
Earpads material: synthetic leather
Headphone type: wired
Kind of headphones: over-ear
Earpads material: leather
Headphone type: wired
Kind of headphones: over-ear
Headset type: stereo
Brand: Dan Clark Audio
Headphone type: wired
Brand: Dan Clark Audio
Headphone type: wired
The lowest frequency, Hz: 20
Earpads material: leather
Headphone type: wired
Kind of headphones: over-ear
Headset type: stereo
Brand: Dan Clark Audio
Headphone type: wired
Headset type: stereo
Brand: Dan Clark Audio
Headphone type: wired
Headset type: stereo
Brand: Dan Clark Audio
Headphone type: wired
Headset type: stereo
Brand: Dan Clark Audio
Headphone type: wired
Brand: Dan Clark Audio
The lowest frequency, Hz: 10
The highest frequency, kHz: 20
Earpads material: leather, microfiber
Headphone type: wired
Kind of headphones: over-ear
Earpads material: leather
Headphone type: wired
Kind of headphones: over-ear
