I bought a pair of Elex three years ago and they're still going strong. I find myself reaching for them more often than my 6XXs or LCD 2Cs, which is pretty incredible.
I own the elex since 2020 and I am very happy with then, I have never had a need to change the pads, every few months I wash them with washing powder, and let the dry. And then they are like a new piar
I remember when the Elear first came out for $1000. It was a flagship killer even at that price point. And now its variants have gotten so cheap. It's astounding that you can get almost perfect sound quality for so cheap. Add reverse EQ to it, and it is unbeatable..well, except for the bass issue, which is worsened with EQ. The only downside is how expensive replacement pads are. It's like changing the tires of a car. You could buy entry-level headphones for the cost of the pads.
In Korea the whole lineup from Focal is 50% off, even the Utopia. They are either exiting this market or new Focals are on the way. I got the Celestee for 500USD.
@@metalblakedowns yeah, I know what he said. My point being, on an under $500 tag a price difference of $200 does not make the realm of "abiout the same price tag".🙂🙂
You're right, not quite the same price tag but they're in the same category when it comes to competing against each other. Anything under 200 I'd argue is budget, while 200-500 mid range usually are in competition against each other. So though is wording might've not been the best, his point still stands @@chutgowdingo-loon3212
Finally agree with Josh on a headphone review! 😂 The 660S2 is a great headphone and turns out to be my favorite in the Sennheiser 6-series. A lot of reviewers were lukewarm to it because they wanted a 600 with more bass and that's not what the S2 is about (obviously I'm happy with the actual results).
Got these 3 weeks ago on the recommendation of the ultimate headphones tier list. Nothing else on DMS, Resolve, etc. tier list ranked this high at this price.
I saw Resolve reviewing the pads, from his recommendation the Valour, or however it's spelled, pads were the best, and they were only 65 bucks (from what I remember).
I just sent my Focal Clear MG because my driver was popping! Everyone acted like it was my DACs! It took me multiple emails for them to tell me to send them in. I hope they take care of the issues, wish I had a youtube channel to get customer support, service and free stuff!
@Josh: Since you mentioned an upcoming refresh-review of the 1990s: Could you throw on oratory1990's EQ settings and also evaluate them with those settings on? In my opinion, the most common and absolutely justified criticism of the 1990s are the amount of energy in the treble region. I find that issue to be relatively easily fixable (with oratory's settings), and I find that -- tonal balance = EQ-fixable things aside -- they more or less run circles around 660S's or Sundaras in terms of dynmaics, sound staging and imaging (i.e., the things that are not really fixable via EQ). I'd love to see you make that differentiation and hear your take on this.
I just jumped from Hd58x to the Elex and geez that's a big jump - the Elex is amazing the Seperation, Imaging, dynamic range and punch are amazing and I know understand what all of those terms mean! The only downside for me which is a bit nit picky is it is 'intimate' sounds like you're standing as the lead singer with the drummer behind you and guitars other instruments either side. Some wider soundstage for games to give a sense of bigger space would be nice, but the sound is very good.
I always wanted to pull the trigger and get one, but there were hundreds of reviews of driver failure that Focal seemingly never addressed. Every person would think they'd be the lucky one to not suffer driver failures, and eventually it'd happen. It gets worse knowing it takes months to ship for repairs/replacements back and forth from France.
the driver issues are a very small minority of owners, ive had my elex's for years and no issues difference is most happy customers dont make forum posts saying their shit still works x years later
Tried the Para at CanJam NYC, was extremely impressed and confused why more people don't talk about them. I almost both the demo unit off of Shenzen but it had a huge dent on the left housing. Heavy like a house, though!
At $459 I think the Elex is a real solid buy. I've had mine for nearly two years and love them except for the fact that the pads suck the oil out of my skin and get kind of less than gorgeous over time. Oh, and as mentioned it can be difficult to find replacements. Once upon a time I would have thought "baby-ing" a quality headphone would be a no-brainer but I've seen the way others treat things sometimes. Don't be one of those guys!
ZMF has a set of pads for these that are tuned to sound as close as possible to OEM but supposedly wear much better. They're also available for the Elegia. I'm running the Dekoni Custom Stellia pads on my Elegia right now but if I was going to change out I'd probably try the ZMFs.
Focal also have the pad issues with the clears and guessing other models in their lineup. The pads on the clears show everything! Guessing the replacement pads for these have been a issue as well. I admit I have came close to buying these or the clears many times and still might get a pait of clears. Thanks!
Been using dekoni pads on my ananda and celestee. They've lasted a little longer than the focal pads or the hifiman. obviously, some changes in sound may occur. They are usually readily available. And yeah, the focal headphones chip paint easy.
Huh, excellent timing. I've been contemplating about upgrading from my HD6XX (sidegrading?) to something with more soundstage and bass. I've narrowed it down to this and the Edition XS. This really helps, thanks!
Not sure if you purchased already, but I tried both and hear are my thoughts (I kept the Elex). If you want something with the more "wow" factor, the Edition XS has the staging and width to do it. Really awesome and I definetely think a lot of people would enjoy it. However, when it comes to tuning, the Elex is just better. It's more refined, more impactful, and it doesn't thin out in the upper mids like I thought the edition XS did. If you were to A and B them, the XS might pull you in more due to it's more "immersive" sound, but when you spend time with the Elex you really discover what a fantastic headphone it is. Every time I sit down with them, I just think to myself "wow, these just sound so right and so good". I never had that feeling with the XS, in fact, after a while I just didn't find them all that interesting. They're still a great headphone, just not my cup of tea. I recommend you try both if able, and just return what you don't like!
Update: If you don’t already own a tube amp get the Woo Audio tube mini instead. You will be much happier with this compared to getting a new headphone.
My first Elex had a snapped headband unfortunately, but it was covered by Drop. I actually haven't been using my replacement as much as I'm scared of the headband snapping again, I do try to baby it as much as possible though. I really enjoy it when I do pull it out, otherwise I was mostly using my HE-5XX and lately I've gotten an Edition XS. Haven't heard any of the driver popping yet! I probably don't listen loud enough.
Thanks for making the video! I'm curious if they've changed the way their driver voice coils terminate to the solder pad. I've repaired a couple dozen at this point that have broken in the last cm of the wire. Hopefully their design for that has improved! I love these headphones though, they sound great.
I bought this headphone based on the video you made as an upgrade from my HiFi man Sundara, I have had them 3 years now they are my daily driver but i have accidentally dropped them 3 times in 3 years and the head band broke. now my audio cuts in and out but other than that I have had no issues with them other than ya I could probably use a pad change. I will definitely purchase another pair; for my head I prefer more rounded headphones as opposed to oval shape like the hd 6xx.
With 400 U Get Sennheiser HD660s2 , No Problems , No clipping, No US only,No Heavy, No Painful in head , Warranty Official and not Send them Back to Drop... And most of all sound more Realistic more organic Smoother.
Dekoni has solid focal replacement pads, I got the sheepskin ones meant for the top end Stellias or Utopias to replace my Elegia pads. They all use the same pad attachment style. Highly recommend. I understand though that isn't a stock pad replacement
i'm old enough to remember when the hifi man xs edition was the best headphone under $500, maybe even under a $1000.00. you might remember it as well, it was less than a year ago. in hifi world, everything is the latest and greatest thing since sliced bread, until the next thing...
@@MrMrpony it's almost as if the entire hifi review industry is just the latest thing, almost. I'm big into cigars and I don't think I've watched a review from someone with 1k subs and thought, Its and advert, Payola. What's the point of watching RUclips adds ? Cos that's what it is.
Footage of the 490 pro but no comparison? Is it just in there because it looks pretty or perhaps it’s just similar to the 660s2 not worth talking about seperatly?
I owned 3 focals, 2 elears, 1 elex, elears got problem of dead driver 2 times, elex 2 times, please, dont recommend this junk, clear mg is the right choice, and focal consumer service sucks
Caralho vim ver esse vídeo já assisti seu vídeo sobre o Celestee (fone que eu tenho e amo o som ) e nele conheci sua linda história de amor com a focal , meus pêsames mano, curto seu conteúdo 🫡
I had a pair of Elexes for two years. These headphones adhere to my ideal FR and always sounded pretty good. Noticeably better than my HD 560s. In my opinion though, nothing super special. Bass slam was there and the midrange and detail was nice, but it never really blew me away.
@@CammyFiand that isn’t the reason… it was replaced by a new model at its OG MSRP and it went cheaper to clear inventory. Not because it was a bad headphone.
I've purchased a couple of Focal headphones like Elegia, Clear, Celestee, and I've read and saw pictures on Forums such as Reddit and other such forums the headband snapping and cracking in half from just wearing them and placing them on and off your head very gently as it's a design flaw of the headband mixing very thin plastic and metal, this has got me very worried and anxious as now every time I want to listen to music I'm extremely anxious that the Focal headphones I own are going to snap and crack in half.
All the headphones in this review are such based meta picks. Personally I have Edition XS and it's really special but ultimately I go back to Cloud 3 wireless for convenience or IEM when I want more engagement.
Sr. I need a link for this gorgeous olive color shirt, please. Oh and great video. I already have the HF EDXS maybe it is time to pull the trigger on this Focal just for the dynamics ! Thanks!
Spring for the Clear or Clear MG. As a former Elex owner, they are a bit underwhelming if you already have a solid pair of cans. Won't recommend them for anyone other than the most entry level listeners and even then, you're probably better off putting your money into something else.
Wow there is some strong dislike for these cans in the comments…i think they’re great at the price. Just don’t use them in studio, unless you substitute something more honest for final adjustments…even then, I feel like sorting out dynamic and EQ issues make it not worth the hassle, they’re super forgiving. And that makes me realise I really need to try some tunes that have awful fidelity on these 😌
How do these compare to the OG Clear? Ive heard theyre really really close, but Im still keen on getting the Clear. Is there anything I should consider?
Prob my favorite headphones in my collection. It's a super HD650 for me which I also own. I don't know what is better under $500. Maybe just side upgrades in certain areas.
Admittedly I haven't tried them at canjam like the other person commenting, but the last $400 headphone Audeze produced about 4 years ago, the LCD-1, got some pretty mixed reviews. I had a pair, and they were just generally pretty boring, especially given their price. Just thought I'd throw that out there
I have a pair of 660s and have been looking to get something to compliment them. They have been mint! But these seem like they could be a nice addition.
Was one of the first headphones I bought when I got into the hobby a few years ago. Loved em. Until I encountered their famous QC issues and the left driver died. Steer clear, in my personal opinion.
As someone who's owned both the Ananda and Elex at the same time and couldn't wait to get rid of the Elex after hearing the Ananda, I don't think it's worth it even at sub $500 prices. Simply too bright and lacking in bass response, and I'm not even a basshead.
Completely agree. I was in the same boat and basically begged massdrop to let me return it even though it was a final sale (thankfully they agreed). Too sharp, too forward in the mids, and with not enough bass to balance it out.
@@codysantmyer5781they were my first pair of 'audiophile' headphones. Actually bought them off Josh's review. And for the first year or so I had them I really did think they were awesome coming from what I had been listening to up to that point. As soon as I got the Ananda the scales fell from me 'ears'. Lol
another issue is the focal headband construction. babied my elex and yet the plastic-metal joint still gave out. sacrificed my elegia's for a headband transplant, because i still love em. daily drivers to this day, they're great otherwise
For me, the metallic sound that these produced threw me off enough that I ended up selling them. Other than that metallic sound, these were great in terms of comfort and overall sound...probably the closest sounding headphones to speakers that I have tried.
Thanks for this great review. I own several pipe organ recordings, which can feature some of the lowest bass notes in music. I know I would feel terribly disappointed with the Focal Elex if I heard crackling noises from these headphones while listening to organ music at moderate volume. Joshua's comparison of the Elex with other headphones seemed to have a repeated theme: they're not as accurate as this other model, but they're pleasing. Forgive me for drawing this conclusion, but I feel as though I'm being told that the Elex reproduce music in an appealing but not exactly truthful way. A 6-month earpad lifespan - with doubtful replacement availability - is not particularly encouraging, either. I believe I'll keep looking for a newer headphone option.
are the 660s2 better than elex? i do like my 6xx, i have tried the elex and i love the detail but i feel like the overall impact and feel could be better, if that makes sense. I dont know how to articulate how i feel about the differences too well probably. the highs are a little too high maybe also and too punchy when i want the volume up maybe. what are some good options for around the same price range or above to like 8 or 900. but thats probably as high as id go since im poor. i havent tried many headphones so i have few comparisions. i know crap headphones well haha. but ive used the 6xx as my default for a whille so thats not bad but entry level. i can agree with everything joshua says about the elex but theres a feeling in me that if i compared to other headphones id prefer something else but maybe that still has some of the qualities where it shows the detail and basically all the good stuff.
Guys, how does the Focal Elex compare to Focal Elear (which sounds pretty flat to me) and Focal Celestee? I have a Focal Clear myself and wonder if I would get disappointed if I would get an additional Elex. Strong opinions welcome!
Can someone please answer a dumb question for me. I have never listened to a very high end system before. How do I know when my system has reached its peak so to say? I currently am running the Parasound ZDac V2 and Hifiman Saundra. How much improvement in sound can I get ? And do I upgrade amp or headphones for the next upgrade? Thank you. I appreciate all responses
You stop when you can push out the desired sound you want or whatever is most appealing to you then once you have it look for amps dacs that deliver best in that area and get the best version and that should be the maximum delivery or buy a new pair of headphones until you get something you like that you can improve.
I won't deny that there may be some QC issues with these headphone, but mine have been perfect for 2 years with daily use. I did not like the Edition XS, I returned it after a couple days.
I bought a pair of Elex three years ago and they're still going strong. I find myself reaching for them more often than my 6XXs or LCD 2Cs, which is pretty incredible.
This director here appreciates the care and craftsmanship you put into filming your videos. Just lovely execution.
Crazy thing is, I got these just yesterday. Very pleased so far, their sound is fenomenal!
Get a Feliks Echo for them. It’s heaven.
@@sleepyrhythms6668 that's so much money though holy
I own the elex since 2020 and I am very happy with then, I have never had a need to change the pads, every few months I wash them with washing powder, and let the dry. And then they are like a new piar
What is washing powder
You don't have that?. I've seen it my entire life living in Australia lol.@@tinypickle
@@tinypickleI was thinking the same lol
@@tinypickleprobably powdered detergent
I remember when the Elear first came out for $1000. It was a flagship killer even at that price point. And now its variants have gotten so cheap. It's astounding that you can get almost perfect sound quality for so cheap. Add reverse EQ to it, and it is unbeatable..well, except for the bass issue, which is worsened with EQ. The only downside is how expensive replacement pads are. It's like changing the tires of a car. You could buy entry-level headphones for the cost of the pads.
The headphone shots look great as always
Honestly I'm too worried ab their QC, but other than that it is a steal!
Can't be worse than Hifiman 😅😅
Honestly, at this point only Sennheiser have a decent reputation for QC (and even then, people will probably disagree).
@@ToreOnRUclips It is worse than hifiman somehow
@@ToreOnRUclips focal makes the impossible, possible.
FWIW, I've owned a set since they first came out. Mine still work perfectly fine; no issues
The new Aune AR5000 clears this. I hope to see a review or impression on it soon!
In Korea the whole lineup from Focal is 50% off, even the Utopia. They are either exiting this market or new Focals are on the way. I got the Celestee for 500USD.
This headphone are better than the hifiman edition xs ?
I prefer them much more than the XS I had.
Josh, the Moondrop Para does not come in at the same price tag. At $299 it is 200 bucks cheaper than the Focal.
he said "about the same price tag"
Yeah... thats a similar price range my guy
@@metalblakedowns yeah, I know what he said. My point being, on an under $500 tag a price difference of $200 does not make the realm of "abiout the same price tag".🙂🙂
You're right, not quite the same price tag but they're in the same category when it comes to competing against each other. Anything under 200 I'd argue is budget, while 200-500 mid range usually are in competition against each other. So though is wording might've not been the best, his point still stands @@chutgowdingo-loon3212
Finally agree with Josh on a headphone review! 😂 The 660S2 is a great headphone and turns out to be my favorite in the Sennheiser 6-series. A lot of reviewers were lukewarm to it because they wanted a 600 with more bass and that's not what the S2 is about (obviously I'm happy with the actual results).
I like this even more than the Clears when it comes to tubes.
I've owned the Elex since 2019. The sound is so natural it completely made me a Focal fanboy. Under $500, this is a steal.
Got these 3 weeks ago on the recommendation of the ultimate headphones tier list. Nothing else on DMS, Resolve, etc. tier list ranked this high at this price.
How are they irl ? they look nice !
@@wb3213 very nice. The only other pair I own is 6XX. Keeping these until I can afford S tier headphones like meze empyrean 2.
Dekoni has, technically, always sold pads for these (really they are for the Clear, but it's the same pad). They ain't cheap, but they're available
I saw Resolve reviewing the pads, from his recommendation the Valour, or however it's spelled, pads were the best, and they were only 65 bucks (from what I remember).
ZMF has the best replacement pads. Especially since they have a suede option.
Listening to this with my pair of the Elex :)
I just sent my Focal Clear MG because my driver was popping! Everyone acted like it was my DACs! It took me multiple emails for them to tell me to send them in. I hope they take care of the issues, wish I had a youtube channel to get customer support, service and free stuff!
How long did you own them before you discovered they were popping? Where do you ship them under warranty?
How this Elex compare to Elegia?
@Josh: Since you mentioned an upcoming refresh-review of the 1990s: Could you throw on oratory1990's EQ settings and also evaluate them with those settings on? In my opinion, the most common and absolutely justified criticism of the 1990s are the amount of energy in the treble region. I find that issue to be relatively easily fixable (with oratory's settings), and I find that -- tonal balance = EQ-fixable things aside -- they more or less run circles around 660S's or Sundaras in terms of dynmaics, sound staging and imaging (i.e., the things that are not really fixable via EQ). I'd love to see you make that differentiation and hear your take on this.
Ebay for $325 shipped as open-box. I am very impressed with these headphones…… You original review is why I purchased these.
I just jumped from Hd58x to the Elex and geez that's a big jump - the Elex is amazing the Seperation, Imaging, dynamic range and punch are amazing and I know understand what all of those terms mean! The only downside for me which is a bit nit picky is it is 'intimate' sounds like you're standing as the lead singer with the drummer behind you and guitars other instruments either side. Some wider soundstage for games to give a sense of bigger space would be nice, but the sound is very good.
I always wanted to pull the trigger and get one, but there were hundreds of reviews of driver failure that Focal seemingly never addressed. Every person would think they'd be the lucky one to not suffer driver failures, and eventually it'd happen. It gets worse knowing it takes months to ship for repairs/replacements back and forth from France.
the driver issues are a very small minority of owners, ive had my elex's for years and no issues difference is most happy customers dont make forum posts saying their shit still works x years later
how about pads? i heard they cost a fortune to replace
Out of all the headphones I own, I love my Moondrop Para the most and reach for them more than my OG HD 600, or the Elex and Elegia when I had them.
Tried the Para at CanJam NYC, was extremely impressed and confused why more people don't talk about them. I almost both the demo unit off of Shenzen but it had a huge dent on the left housing. Heavy like a house, though!
At $459 I think the Elex is a real solid buy. I've had mine for nearly two years and love them except for the fact that the pads suck the oil out of my skin and get kind of less than gorgeous over time. Oh, and as mentioned it can be difficult to find replacements. Once upon a time I would have thought "baby-ing" a quality headphone would be a no-brainer but I've seen the way others treat things sometimes. Don't be one of those guys!
Is these headphones for the studio or for listening on my smartphone?
ZMF has a set of pads for these that are tuned to sound as close as possible to OEM but supposedly wear much better. They're also available for the Elegia. I'm running the Dekoni Custom Stellia pads on my Elegia right now but if I was going to change out I'd probably try the ZMFs.
Strange that josh has not reviewed the Stellia but every other focal headset.
Focal also have the pad issues with the clears and guessing other models in their lineup. The pads on the clears show everything! Guessing the replacement pads for these have been a issue as well. I admit I have came close to buying these or the clears many times and still might get a pait of clears. Thanks!
I’ve owned these headphones for four years and the pads are as good as new.
I think the drop in price is because they have been discontinued. They aren't listed on the Focal website. I wonder what comes next?
Hi, do they provide more bass then the Celestee?
Been using dekoni pads on my ananda and celestee. They've lasted a little longer than the focal pads or the hifiman. obviously, some changes in sound may occur. They are usually readily available. And yeah, the focal headphones chip paint easy.
Huh, excellent timing. I've been contemplating about upgrading from my HD6XX (sidegrading?) to something with more soundstage and bass. I've narrowed it down to this and the Edition XS. This really helps, thanks!
Get the Elex. They will play nicer with tubes which are the gold standard for audio bliss. I love them off the Feliks Echo.
Not sure if you purchased already, but I tried both and hear are my thoughts (I kept the Elex).
If you want something with the more "wow" factor, the Edition XS has the staging and width to do it. Really awesome and I definetely think a lot of people would enjoy it. However, when it comes to tuning, the Elex is just better. It's more refined, more impactful, and it doesn't thin out in the upper mids like I thought the edition XS did. If you were to A and B them, the XS might pull you in more due to it's more "immersive" sound, but when you spend time with the Elex you really discover what a fantastic headphone it is. Every time I sit down with them, I just think to myself "wow, these just sound so right and so good". I never had that feeling with the XS, in fact, after a while I just didn't find them all that interesting. They're still a great headphone, just not my cup of tea. I recommend you try both if able, and just return what you don't like!
Update: If you don’t already own a tube amp get the Woo Audio tube mini instead. You will be much happier with this compared to getting a new headphone.
@@christianmartinez5173
Thanks, much appreciated 🙂
My first Elex had a snapped headband unfortunately, but it was covered by Drop. I actually haven't been using my replacement as much as I'm scared of the headband snapping again, I do try to baby it as much as possible though. I really enjoy it when I do pull it out, otherwise I was mostly using my HE-5XX and lately I've gotten an Edition XS.
Haven't heard any of the driver popping yet! I probably don't listen loud enough.
Thanks for making the video! I'm curious if they've changed the way their driver voice coils terminate to the solder pad. I've repaired a couple dozen at this point that have broken in the last cm of the wire. Hopefully their design for that has improved! I love these headphones though, they sound great.
0:51
Nice music, can you share the name?
I bought this headphone based on the video you made as an upgrade from my HiFi man Sundara, I have had them 3 years now they are my daily driver but i have accidentally dropped them 3 times in 3 years and the head band broke. now my audio cuts in and out but other than that I have had no issues with them other than ya I could probably use a pad change. I will definitely purchase another pair; for my head I prefer more rounded headphones as opposed to oval shape like the hd 6xx.
Whats the best bass dynamic headphone under £1000
With 400 U Get Sennheiser HD660s2 , No Problems , No clipping, No US only,No Heavy, No Painful in head , Warranty Official and not Send them Back to Drop... And most of all sound more Realistic more organic Smoother.
Dekoni has solid focal replacement pads, I got the sheepskin ones meant for the top end Stellias or Utopias to replace my Elegia pads. They all use the same pad attachment style. Highly recommend. I understand though that isn't a stock pad replacement
It’s aesthetically beautiful focal always has very nice looking headphones
i'm old enough to remember when the hifi man xs edition was the best headphone under $500, maybe even under a $1000.00. you might remember it as well, it was less than a year ago. in hifi world, everything is the latest and greatest thing since sliced bread, until the next thing...
Wasn't that like a year ago?
@@WildfireXlast week is soooo last year.
My headphone amp used to top tier lists. Now it doesn’t rate a mention 😆
@@MrMrpony it's almost as if the entire hifi review industry is just the latest thing, almost. I'm big into cigars and I don't think I've watched a review from someone with 1k subs and thought, Its and advert, Payola. What's the point of watching RUclips adds ? Cos that's what it is.
Footage of the 490 pro but no comparison? Is it just in there because it looks pretty or perhaps it’s just similar to the 660s2 not worth talking about seperatly?
I owned 3 focals, 2 elears, 1 elex, elears got problem of dead driver 2 times, elex 2 times, please, dont recommend this junk, clear mg is the right choice, and focal consumer service sucks
💯 this is not acceptable
@@RX-rd4sc bro os everywhere hahaha
Caralho vim ver esse vídeo já assisti seu vídeo sobre o Celestee (fone que eu tenho e amo o som ) e nele conheci sua linda história de amor com a focal , meus pêsames mano, curto seu conteúdo 🫡
@gamersintech hahaha vlw velho!!
I had a pair of Elexes for two years. These headphones adhere to my ideal FR and always sounded pretty good. Noticeably better than my HD 560s. In my opinion though, nothing super special. Bass slam was there and the midrange and detail was nice, but it never really blew me away.
Hi! Would you recommend buying the Focal Elegia at $400? I would love to buy the Elex but I need a closed back headphone.
That's too much for Elegia. You should be able to find it cheaper.
Elegia is a terrible headphone, there's a reason it was discontinued
Then which closed back headphone would you recommend under $500?
@@CammyFiand that isn’t the reason… it was replaced by a new model at its OG MSRP and it went cheaper to clear inventory. Not because it was a bad headphone.
@@dtamasaeon closed x, meze99 noir (if u like a really basshead sound), dt770 (a bit more of a budget pick)
I've purchased a couple of Focal headphones like Elegia, Clear, Celestee, and I've read and saw pictures on Forums such as Reddit and other such forums the headband snapping and cracking in half from just wearing them and placing them on and off your head very gently as it's a design flaw of the headband mixing very thin plastic and metal, this has got me very worried and anxious as now every time I want to listen to music I'm extremely anxious that the Focal headphones I own are going to snap and crack in half.
well I got this for $399 now, so I think this is a no brainer for this price.
Hi Josh, weren't you gonna make a video about the hifiman xs
Nice review and congrats 🎉 on the
kiddo .
As for me ..I’ll stick with my Sen’s 650’s ..
All the headphones in this review are such based meta picks. Personally I have Edition XS and it's really special but ultimately I go back to Cloud 3 wireless for convenience or IEM when I want more engagement.
How about the third issue of the headbands on a lot of focal headphones snapping under just regular use and not being covered by warranty.
Thank you very much!
Please review the Geshelli Archel 3 pro
Sr. I need a link for this gorgeous olive color shirt, please. Oh and great video. I already have the HF EDXS maybe it is time to pull the trigger on this Focal just for the dynamics ! Thanks!
Spring for the Clear or Clear MG. As a former Elex owner, they are a bit underwhelming if you already have a solid pair of cans. Won't recommend them for anyone other than the most entry level listeners and even then, you're probably better off putting your money into something else.
Wow there is some strong dislike for these cans in the comments…i think they’re great at the price. Just don’t use them in studio, unless you substitute something more honest for final adjustments…even then, I feel like sorting out dynamic and EQ issues make it not worth the hassle, they’re super forgiving. And that makes me realise I really need to try some tunes that have awful fidelity on these 😌
better than sundara?
What watch are you wearing, Josh?
How do these compare to the OG Clear? Ive heard theyre really really close, but Im still keen on getting the Clear. Is there anything I should consider?
Where’s the review of Focal utopia 2022 ? It’s been almost 2 years in the market, but the re-review of Elex is more important ?
I only use iems but love these high quality headphone videos lol
Prob my favorite headphones in my collection. It's a super HD650 for me which I also own. I don't know what is better under $500. Maybe just side upgrades in certain areas.
I can’t believe it I was just looking into buying one used!
Dosnt this break a lot?
Hi Joshua,
As the Elex is not available in Europe, may I ask what is your upgrade rec for the 560s?
Thanks
Why would you not baby a pair headphones regardless of its price? Or any device for that matter?
Never heard these but if like my Focal's then a pad change will make them even better.
Should I cancel my audezee mm-100 pre order or get this.
Definitely not, I tried MM100 at Canjam and preferred it over even my LCD-X trying them side by side. Elex is more likely to disappoint.
@@Lost1ntheSauc3 Thanks for the reply. These are gonna be an upgrade from the Sennheiser 58xx that I currently have.
Admittedly I haven't tried them at canjam like the other person commenting, but the last $400 headphone Audeze produced about 4 years ago, the LCD-1, got some pretty mixed reviews. I had a pair, and they were just generally pretty boring, especially given their price. Just thought I'd throw that out there
@@christmas_doggo5537 LCD-1 is not representative of Audeze quality, it's shunned for a reason. Most people won't even consider it a true LCD.
Elex on a Feliks Audio Echo is an incredible experience.
I have a pair of 660s and have been looking to get something to compliment them. They have been mint! But these seem like they could be a nice addition.
Get good tubes first. Recommend the Feliks Audio Echo.
@@sleepyrhythms6668 anything cheaper? That's like $1400 in Canada. More then I want to spend.
@@yfz450rider39 Woo Audio tube mini.
Would this be a good upgrade for an HD6XX (I use them mostly for house music production) I know DT1990 Pro is a bit too bright/harsh maybe?
Was one of the first headphones I bought when I got into the hobby a few years ago. Loved em. Until I encountered their famous QC issues and the left driver died. Steer clear, in my personal opinion.
As someone who's owned both the Ananda and Elex at the same time and couldn't wait to get rid of the Elex after hearing the Ananda, I don't think it's worth it even at sub $500 prices. Simply too bright and lacking in bass response, and I'm not even a basshead.
Completely agree. I was in the same boat and basically begged massdrop to let me return it even though it was a final sale (thankfully they agreed). Too sharp, too forward in the mids, and with not enough bass to balance it out.
Great discussion. I love the clarity of the Ananda
@@imabeliever85 the Ananda Stealth (I've never heard the OG) punch so far above their weight to me it's a solid ~$500 contender.
I had the edition xs and the elex and sold the elex on eBay, not very impressive to me
@@codysantmyer5781they were my first pair of 'audiophile' headphones. Actually bought them off Josh's review. And for the first year or so I had them I really did think they were awesome coming from what I had been listening to up to that point. As soon as I got the Ananda the scales fell from me 'ears'. Lol
That dark backdrop is so stunning. Anyone know what it is?
Should I upgrade from Edition XS to this?
That's a downgrade if anything
Regarding the DT 1990, What is the sound stage on them?
Play the song "2049" on the Blade Runner 2049 soundtrack with these headphones on. Enjoy the crackle. They cannot handle bass at higher volume levels.
This was such a crazy test for me, I tried it on my Elex then on my he400se and you're right I couldn't believe it tbh. It actually kinda sucks.
I have an opportunity to get an Ananda or an Elex, both at $300... Any thoughts on which would be a better buy??
Elex at $300 could be worth a shot. Are they used?
I recently got my hands on these, but was pretty underwhelmed. It really made me miss the bass extension of cheaper planars.
another issue is the focal headband construction. babied my elex and yet the plastic-metal joint still gave out. sacrificed my elegia's for a headband transplant, because i still love em. daily drivers to this day, they're great otherwise
My question would be why the Edition XS and not the Nano. I like the Elex, but I think my preference would be for the Nano.
i want something to make music and mixing, any advice? 😲
what about vs the drop version?
Since I paid $750 for them back in the day, Ive always babied mine
3:55 looking for a background for the video...*drops headphones* "oops! oh well...hmm...whatever lets film it there" lmao
Edition XS $379 and ANANDA-Stealth $399 from Hifiman.
Considering both similar price right now, which one would you say better?
Edition Xs
Ananda Stealth@@JKevinWeng
Focal Elex vs Apple Airpod Max? Both $500-ish, plus I have a Focal Clear OG already.
For me, the metallic sound that these produced threw me off enough that I ended up selling them. Other than that metallic sound, these were great in terms of comfort and overall sound...probably the closest sounding headphones to speakers that I have tried.
Thanks for this great review. I own several pipe organ recordings, which can feature some of the lowest bass notes in music. I know I would feel terribly disappointed with the Focal Elex if I heard crackling noises from these headphones while listening to organ music at moderate volume. Joshua's comparison of the Elex with other headphones seemed to have a repeated theme: they're not as accurate as this other model, but they're pleasing. Forgive me for drawing this conclusion, but I feel as though I'm being told that the Elex reproduce music in an appealing but not exactly truthful way. A 6-month earpad lifespan - with doubtful replacement availability - is not particularly encouraging, either. I believe I'll keep looking for a newer headphone option.
bought my elexes in april 2018. The headband broke last year.
I think these were like $399 on their site before... same price as when they're 'on sale' on Drop.
are the 660s2 better than elex?
i do like my 6xx, i have tried the elex and i love the detail but i feel like the overall impact and feel could be better, if that makes sense. I dont know how to articulate how i feel about the differences too well probably. the highs are a little too high maybe also and too punchy when i want the volume up maybe. what are some good options for around the same price range or above to like 8 or 900. but thats probably as high as id go since im poor. i havent tried many headphones so i have few comparisions. i know crap headphones well haha. but ive used the 6xx as my default for a whille so thats not bad but entry level. i can agree with everything joshua says about the elex but theres a feeling in me that if i compared to other headphones id prefer something else but maybe that still has some of the qualities where it shows the detail and basically all the good stuff.
Guys, how does the Focal Elex compare to Focal Elear (which sounds pretty flat to me) and Focal Celestee? I have a Focal Clear myself and wonder if I would get disappointed if I would get an additional Elex. Strong opinions welcome!
Great video overall but, the lighting in your room looks weird in this video.
Can someone please answer a dumb question for me. I have never listened to a very high end system before. How do I know when my system has reached its peak so to say? I currently am running the Parasound ZDac V2 and Hifiman Saundra. How much improvement in sound can I get ? And do I upgrade amp or headphones for the next upgrade? Thank you. I appreciate all responses
You stop when you can push out the desired sound you want or whatever is most appealing to you then once you have it look for amps dacs that deliver best in that area and get the best version and that should be the maximum delivery or buy a new pair of headphones until you get something you like that you can improve.
I'd go for XS, HE6se V2 or MM-100 instead.
I won't deny that there may be some QC issues with these headphone, but mine have been perfect for 2 years with daily use. I did not like the Edition XS, I returned it after a couple days.
alright I'm sold... on the Arya Organic
is it ok if i eq thr sennheiser 650 to have more bass? since thats the only thing i feel that the 650s are missing.
Sure but there’s only so much you can do. The headphone doesn’t have good sub-bass extension and you’ll get distortion at a certain point.
I want 660S2 w/ Focal Clear bass and no damn clipping :)
No comparison to the Clear ??? mmm i see