Dan Clark Audio NOIRE X: The New Standard in Midrange Headphones

Acoustic Performance, Improved Comfort, and a Breakthrough Price

The NOIRE X™ updates the iconic AEON 2 NOIRE by integrating Dan Clark Audio’s state-of-the-art Acoustic Metamaterial Tuning System™ (AMTS™) with an improved driver, all wrapped in a gorgeously enhanced ergonomic design.

NOIRE X’s dramatic black-on-black aesthetic, improved ear pads, self-adjusting headband, and Gorilla Glass 3-clad cups hint at the numerous exciting upgrades within, all designed to maximize listening pleasure.

With NOIRE X, Dan Clark Audio sets a new benchmark in midrange headphone performance, comfort, and value.

You can learn more about Dan Clark Audio's whole line of products with our comprehensive guide.

Dan Clark Audio NOIRE X Closed Back Planar Headphones Lifestyle with Woo Audio WA7

Key Features at a Glance

Updated Planar Magnetic Driver: Enhanced rigidity and low distortion for superior audio clarity.
AMTS Technology: Eliminates high-frequency standing waves for balanced and realistic sound.
Self-Tensioning Headband: Provides a secure and pressure-free fit for long listening sessions.
Alcantara Ear Pads: Soft, heat-resistant ear cushions for extended comfort and durability.
Gorilla Glass 3 Finish: Durable and stylish headphone cups with scratch resistance.
Versatile Cable Options: Includes multiple terminations for compatibility with a wide range of amplifiers.
Luxurious Aesthetic: Sleek black-on-black design with minimalist branding.

Better Technology Means Better Sound

The NOIRE X is designed around an updated and improved AEON audio driver. This new driver is significantly more rigid than its predecessor, offering superior unit-to-unit consistency, reduced distortion, improved reliability, and smoother frequency response.

Extensive research and development optimizations, coupled with advanced manufacturing processes, deliver a remarkably smooth frequency response with low distortion throughout the listening range. The result is a level of detail previously found primarily in top-of-the-line headphones.

The integration of the new driver, patent-pending AMTS, and redesigned ear pads creates an unforgettable auditory experience, as verified through state-of-the-art measurement systems like the Audio Precision 555B and B&K 5128.

Dan Clark Audio NOIRE X Closed Back Planar Headphones | Lifestyle on Leather Couch

The Legendary Acoustic Metamaterial Tuning System

One of the standout features of NOIRE X is the inclusion of Dan Clark Audio’s acclaimed AMTS tuning system, previously exclusive to the brand’s flagship headphones such as Stealth, Expanse, E3, and Corina.

AMTS uses advanced metamaterial design to shape system frequency response while eliminating high-frequency standing waves that often create synthetic-sounding treble. This revolutionary technology delivers balanced, nuanced, and airy treble, free of fatiguing artifacts that diminish listening experiences.

Dan Clark Audio NOIRE X Closed Back Planar Headphones | AMTS Diagram

Self-Tensioning Headband

The self-tensioning headband ensures even pressure distribution across the listener’s head for a barely-there fit. This uniform design prevents hotspots and pressure points, making the NOIRE X ideal for long, immersive listening sessions without discomfort or strain.

Dan Clark Audio NOIRE X Closed Back Planar Headphones | Headband Design

Gorilla Glass Finish

The NOIRE X features an understated yet striking design, highlighted by Gorilla Glass 3 on the ear cups. This alkali-aluminosilicate material is more scratch- and break-resistant than conventional glass, offering both durability and elegance.

The minimalist aesthetic is completed with a tone-on-tone understated NOIRE X logo.

Dan Clark Audio NOIRE X Closed Back Planar Headphones | Gorilla Glass Finish

Luxurious Comfort with Upgraded Ear Pads

The ear pads of the NOIRE X use Alcantara synthetic suede on the contact surface to minimize heat and moisture buildup, ensuring comfort during extended listening sessions, even in warm or humid conditions.

Designed to reduce foam rolling, the ear pads offer longer usability, consistent fit, and operation. They are also backwards compatible with AEON 2 NOIRE, AEON RT Closed, and AEON 2 Closed headphones.

Dan Clark Audio NOIRE X Closed Back Planar Headphones | Earpads

Enhanced Connectivity with Versatile Cable Options

The NOIRE X supports a variety of cable terminations, including combo 1/4" and 3.5mm, 4-pin XLR, and 4.4mm options. For additional flexibility, users can upgrade to the ultra-premium VIVO cables, available in custom lengths and terminations.

These versatile options make pairing with any amplifier seamless, eliminating the need for costly third-party cables.

Dan Clark Audio NOIRE X Closed Back Planar Headphones | With Amplifier

Remarkable Sound Performance

Dan Clark Audio engineered the NOIRE X to deliver an exhilarating sonic experience across all genres of music. Its expansive soundstage, punchy bass, silky midrange, and vibrant highs provide an engaging and fatigue-free listening session.

Combining high-end technology, comfort, and performance, the NOIRE X stands as one of the greatest value-to-performance headphones available.

Dan Clark Audio NOIRE X Closed Back Planar Headphones | On Stand with Tube Amp

In The Box

NOIRE X Closed Back Planar Headphones
Alcantara Synthetic Suede Earpads (Installed)
Detachable Cable (choice of termination: 1/4", 3.5mm, 4-pin XLR, or 4.4mm)
Carrying Case
Cleaning Cloth
User Manual
Dan Clark Audio Warranty

Specifications

Driver Type: Planar Magnetic
Tuning System: Acoustic Metamaterial Tuning System (AMTS)
Frequency Response: TBD
Efficiency: ~94dB/mW
THD at 85dB @1KHz: <0.1% 100Hz-8KHz
Recommended minimum power at 16 ohms: 250mW
Weight: 385g
Ear Pad Material: Alcantara Synthetic Suede

FAQ

What makes the NOIRE X headphones unique?
The NOIRE X features an updated planar magnetic driver, AMTS technology for eliminating high-frequency standing waves, a luxurious black-on-black design, and Gorilla Glass 3 ear cups. It offers a premium listening experience at a midrange price.
What is AMTS technology, and how does it enhance sound?
Dan Clark Audio’s Acoustic Metamaterial Tuning System (AMTS) eliminates high-frequency standing waves, ensuring balanced, realistic, and fatigue-free treble. It creates a nuanced, airy sound free of synthetic artifacts.
How has the planar magnetic driver been improved?
The updated driver offers enhanced rigidity, reduced distortion, improved reliability, and smoother frequency response, resulting in superior audio clarity and a highly detailed listening experience.
Are these headphones comfortable for long listening sessions?
Yes, the self-tensioning headband evenly distributes pressure for a barely-there fit, and Alcantara ear pads provide softness and heat resistance for extended comfort without strain or hotspots.
What materials are used in the NOIRE X headphones?
The NOIRE X features Gorilla Glass 3 ear cups for durability and aesthetics, Alcantara synthetic suede ear pads for comfort, and a lightweight ergonomic design for ease of use.
What cable options are available with the NOIRE X?
The headphones support versatile cable terminations, including 1/4", 3.5mm, 4-pin XLR, and 4.4mm balanced options. Optional VIVO cables are also available for premium connectivity.
How is the NOIRE X’s sound performance?
The NOIRE X delivers an expansive soundstage, punchy bass, silky midrange, and vibrant highs, making it ideal for all music genres while maintaining a fatigue-free listening experience.
What is the NOIRE X’s design aesthetic?
The NOIRE X showcases a sleek black-on-black design with Gorilla Glass ear cups and an understated logo, offering a modern and luxurious appearance.

Dan Clark Audio NOIRE X Closed Back Planar Headphones