TRANSDUCER
Reference Open-Back Planar
Specifications
| Category | Open Back Headphone |
|---|---|
| Brand | Reference Audio |
| Driver type | Planar Magnetic |
| Driver size | 97 mm |
| Driver count | 1 per side |
| Impedance | 32 Ω |
| Sensitivity | 94 dB/mW |
| Frequency response | 5 Hz – 50 kHz |
| THD | 0.06 % |
| Cable termination | detachable |
| Recommended amp power | 500 mW |
| Tuning target | Harman 2018 |
| Weight | 385 g |
| Price (USD) | $1599 |
| Release year | 2023 |
Overview
Reference-class open-back planar magnetic headphone, intended as the topology benchmark for the parameter database. Detachable cable with dual 3.5mm TRS sockets at the cups; ships with 4.4mm balanced and 6.35mm single-ended terminations.
Recommended source devices
Desktop Headphone Amplifier
3200mW @ 32Ω · Headphone Amp
Integrated DAC + Amp
1800mW @ 32Ω · Dac Amp
Reference Portable DAP
650mW @ 32Ω · Dap
Frequently asked questions
What amp does Reference Open-Back Planar need?
Reference Open-Back Planar has 32Ω impedance and 94 dB/mW sensitivity. Recommended amp output: ~500 mW at the operating impedance for typical listening levels with 10dB of headroom.
What driver type does Reference Open-Back Planar use?
Reference Open-Back Planar uses a planar-magnetic topology. Driver size: 97mm.