DAN CLARK NOIRE XO BRINGS OPEN-BACK SOUND TO THE NOIRE LINE

Dan Clark Audio has unveiled its latest model, the Dan Clark Audio Noire XO headphones – an open-back sibling to the previously released Noire X. These new headphones are now available in the UK through official distributor Electromod.

The Noire XO builds on the success of the closed-back Noire X, offering an open-back design that aims to deliver a more spacious and natural sound. Dan Clark Audio, based in San Diego, California, has a strong reputation for innovation in planar magnetic headphone design, and the Noire XO incorporates technologies derived from the company’s flagship models.

The Dan Clark Noire XO will debut at NWAS 2025 this weekend, with Electromod, more info here

While inspired by the Noire X, the Dan Clark Audio Noire XO has been comprehensively re-engineered to suit the open-back format. The design goes beyond simply replacing the closed ear cups with open mesh – extensive retuning ensures the headphones maintain a balanced signature while enhancing openness and imaging.

Open-back headphones are often favoured by listeners in quiet environments who seek a more ‘natural’ soundstage. With the Noire XO, Dan Clark Audio addresses this preference, combining its existing expertise in planar magnetic technology with a new acoustic structure.

PLANAR DRIVER TECHNOLOGY AT THE CORE

At the heart of the Dan Clark Audio Noire XO is an upgraded planar magnetic driver. Developed from the Aeon driver and refined for the Noire series, this 62x34mm diaphragm is designed for low distortion, improved consistency and greater reliability. The use of V-Planar knurling contributes to a smooth and natural frequency response across a wide range of music genres.

Unlike conventional dynamic drivers, planar magnetic designs like this one provide enhanced accuracy, detailed imaging and wider soundstaging – characteristics prized by critical listeners.

FEATURING THE ACOUSTIC METAMATERIAL TUNING SYSTEM

One of the key technologies in the Dan Clark Audio Noire XO is the company’s proprietary Acoustic Metamaterial Tuning System (AMTS). Previously reserved for flagship models like the Stealth and Expanse, AMTS controls unwanted high-frequency resonances and standing waves that can otherwise colour treble performance.

By mitigating these distortions, AMTS allows the Noire XO to deliver refined high frequencies that remain clear and non-fatiguing, even during long listening sessions.

TUNED TO THE HARMAN CURVE FOR BALANCED LISTENING

The Dan Clark Audio Noire XO is engineered to follow the Harman Curve – a target frequency response developed to appeal to the widest range of listeners. Achieving this in an open-back headphone is particularly challenging, especially in maintaining sufficient bass energy. Dan Clark Audio claims the Noire XO meets this target while preserving tonal balance and musical engagement.

This tuning approach supports the headphones’ versatility, making them suitable for a wide array of music without favouring any one style.

COMFORT AND BUILD: NO COMPROMISES

Despite their planar magnetic architecture, the Dan Clark Audio Noire XO headphones remain relatively lightweight at 408g. They feature a durable chassis constructed from aluminium and carbon, with a self-tensioning nickel-titanium alloy headband designed to distribute pressure evenly.

Comfort is further enhanced by newly designed memory foam ear pads, wrapped in synthetic leather with an Alcantara contact surface to minimise heat and moisture build-up. The headphones also fold for convenient transport and storage, and come in a smart black-on-black finish.

NOIRE X VS NOIRE XO – CHOOSING YOUR SOUND

Both models in the Noire line share design DNA, but offer distinct listening experiences. The Noire X, priced lower at £1000, is better suited to those needing passive noise isolation, such as in shared or noisy environments. In contrast, the Dan Clark Audio Noire XO offers greater openness, depth and spatial detail, ideal for home listening or quiet settings.

The open-back design excels in three-dimensional imaging and realism, revealing fine details without becoming fatiguing – a signature many listeners will find rewarding over extended sessions.

DAN CLARK NOIRE XO PRICE AND AVAILABILITY

The Dan Clark Audio Noire XO headphones are available now in the UK through Electromod, priced at £1300 including VAT. Each pair comes with a detachable cable (choice of 4.4mm balanced, 4-pin XLR, or 6.35/3.5mm), a protective storage case, and a microfibre cloth.

HiFi PiG Says: A fantastic new set of Headphones from Dan Clark, Oscar will be checking them out at NWAS this weekend.