Types of Headphone Drivers and How They Differ

Headphones have become an essential accessory for most people nowadays. They allow us to listen to music or take calls without disturbing the people around us. Headphone drivers are the heart of a headphone, and they determine the quality of sound you get when you use them. There are different types of headphone drivers, and each has its pros and cons. In this article, we will discuss the types of headphone drivers and how they differ.
Dynamic Drivers:
These are the most common types of headphone drivers found in headphones. They consist of a diaphragm, a magnet, and a voice coil. When an electrical current flows through the voice coil, it creates a magnetic field that interacts with the magnet and causes the diaphragm to vibrate, producing sound.
Dynamic drivers are known for producing a wide range of sound frequencies. They are also excellent at producing bass frequencies and high-volume levels. However, they tend to have a slightly lower sound quality than other drivers. They are popular in headphones because they are easy to manufacture and cost-effective.
Planar Magnetic Drivers:
Planar magnetic drivers are also known as orthodynamic drivers. They have a thin diaphragm that is mounted between two magnetic plates. When an electrical current flows through the diaphragm, it moves back and forth, producing sound.
Planar magnetic drivers are known for producing accurate and detailed sound. They are excellent at producing mid and high-range frequencies. They are also more efficient than dynamic drivers, which means they require less power to produce the same sound level. However, they are more expensive to manufacture than dynamic drivers.
Electrostatic Drivers:
Electrostatic drivers consist of a thin diaphragm that is charged with an electrical signal. It is placed between two conductive plates that hold the charge. When an electrical signal is applied, the diaphragm moves back and forth, producing sound.
Electrostatic drivers are known for producing the most accurate and detailed sound. They excel in producing high-frequency sounds, but they struggle with producing bass frequencies. They require a lot of power to produce sound, which makes them less efficient than other drivers. They also tend to be the most expensive type of driver.
Conclusion:
Different types of headphone drivers have their strengths and weaknesses. The type of driver you choose depends on your personal preference and the type of sound you are looking for. Dynamic drivers are perfect for people who want an affordable headphone with a decent sound quality. Planar magnetic drivers are ideal for people who want accurate and detailed sound quality. Electrostatic drivers are perfect for people who want the most accurate and detailed sound, even if it means paying a premium price.