Focal Clear Review - The Best Flagship Headphone?
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- Опубликовано: 1 авг 2024
- Focal list the Clear as their flagship open-back headphone (despite the more expensive Utopia being technically a higher level open-back headphone in their range). Check out the review where I discuss the Clear and how I think it compares to the similarly priced or more expensive alternatives from Sennheiser and AKG.
Think the Clears are just right for you? Here's a link to the listing on Amazon - it'll cost you nothing and help support this channel while we grow: amzn.to/2NVmcKk
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Specifications:
Impedance: 55 Ohms
Sensitivity: 104dB SPL / 1mW @ 1kHz
THD: 0.25% @ 1kHz / 100dB SPL
Frequency response: 5 - 28,000 Hz
Driver: 1.6" (40mm) Aluminum/Magnesium 'M'-shape dome
Weight: 0.99lb / 450g
Cables provided:
3m balanced cable (XLR 4-pin)
3m unbalanced cable (1/4" TRS jack)
1.2m unbalanced cable (1/8" TRS jack)1/8" jack to 1/4" stereo jack adapter
My review of the Sennheiser HD 800S: passionforsound.lachlanfennen....
PASSION FOR SOUND GEAR LIST
(Affiliate links to Amazon and Apos Audio help to support the channel - thank you!)
Desktop Sources
Playback software: Roon roonlabs.com/r/St5em2YsbUqGXc...
Primary DAC: Chord Hugo TT2 tinyurl.com/y4vys4zq with Chord M-Scaler tinyurl.com/y6hcm3kw
Secondary DAC for active speakers: Topping D50s amzn.to/2T2GExr upgraded with Muses02 op-amp amzn.to/2FtPmNj
USB cables: AudioQuest Diamond amzn.to/35AX4Qf and AudioQuest Coffee amzn.to/3059qiA
Active Speakers
Bang & Olufsen BeoLab 3 Speakers
Amps
Massdrop x THX AAA 789 Amplifier massdrop.7eer.net/J0xWa
Bottlehead Mainline DIY kit tube amplifier bottlehead.com/product/mainli...
Burson Audio FUN: www.bursonaudio.com/products/... with Sparkos Labs SS3601 op-amps: sparkoslabs.com/product/singl...
Headphones
Open: Meze Audio Empyrean tinyurl.com/y6gfyquz
Open: Focal Clear amzn.to/37Ihgky
Semi-open: Beyerdynamic DT880 Premium LE massdrop.7eer.net/L6633 or amzn.to/3bBg7xs
Closed: AudioQuest NightOwl Carbon (these may have been discontinued)
Closed: Audio Technica ATH-M50x amzn.to/2Y2NeXo
Closed: Meze Audio 99 Neo tinyurl.com/y2zjd6wm
Portable
Phone: Samsung Galaxy S10+ amzn.to/37MzTUA
DAC for phone: Audioquest Dragonfly Cobalt amzn.to/36AzpAB
Digital audio player: Astell & Kern AK240 Stainless Steel amzn.to/2ZluP70
Earphones
Audiofly AF1120 Mk2: amzn.to/2ZoTuHZ
Noble Kaiser 10 custom IEM (discontinued) - universal version available via Drop massdrop.7eer.net/vkaWy
SIMGOT EN700 PRO amzn.to/304xO3R
Shozy Form 1.4 amzn.to/3cIL0Az or massdrop.7eer.net/499YL
Bluetooth Headphones
Nuraphone amzn.to/2N7G2Tu
My god. It is hard to find a so fluent, wise, experienced like you to review headphones and audio gears. Even your voice, words, tonality are easy to follow than most of other reviewers. You are a treasure lol. Thanks.
Thank you for the kind words!
Great review! I'm waiting for the clear to be delivered to me and I'm super excited!
You'll love them!
Great review, great headphone- right now even greater because Focal is phasing it out and the price has dropped to about $900 USD on-line, just over half their original price. This makes the Clears THE buy of the year.
They're an excellent headphone at their original price. At $900 they're insane value
Another great review!!! I’m very intrigued with the Focal Clear after watching this video!!! Thank you for sharing your thoughts and experience!!! ☮️🖖🏽
They are really excellent, Ralph. Do give them a listen
Great review !!!! Hope you continue !!
Very happy with my Focal Clear Pro. Thanks for your review
You're welcome! Glad you're enjoying them
Nice review, keep it up. I wanted to mention that I'm using the Oratory 1990 EQ settings on my Focal Clear headphones which have made a tremendous difference, highs, mids and especially the bass, so definitely try those out!
Thanks for sharing your experiences with the EQ settings! Glad you're enjoying the Clears - they're a great headphone
purchased a pair based on this review (mainly). Wonderful commentary, thank you so much for putting this together. Looking forward to hearing these for myself. :)
Great choice! Glad I could help. I hope you love them
How was it?
Great informative review! Good luck with your channel, subbed.
Love the review! Waiting on the Focal Elegia's I ordered and watching anything Focal related.
Nice. I hope you love them!
Brilliant review! Thank you! ^_^
Excellent review and I agree with your conclusions. I have recently paired them with the Focal Arche a Amp/DAC and there is some good synergy going on with that combo.
Nice! Thanks for sharing
Great review mate, love it. Keep continuing,🙌
Thanks Sathya! Glad you liked it
Outstanding review in content, analysis, and style. Look forward to more!
Thanks Gandalf!
@@PassionforSound I share your prefvencnes. I bought and returned Sennheiser HD 800 S (too analytical). I have B&W P7 and thoroughly enjoy them. If both were available at same price, which would you prefer for musical enjoyment: Focal Clear or Audeze LCD-X?
I'd love to answer that, but I'm yet to hear the LCD-X. I previously owned LCD-2s (just pre-fazor) and they were nice, but comfort for longer sessions was always an issue.
I've got the Meze Empyreans on the way so I'll at least be able to provide that comparison shortly...
Very great, detailed review with nice comparisons. Reminds me of Tyll from Innerfidelity, a huge void that's been left since his retirement. Thank you for the detailed review without getting lost in all the "flowery" and opaque audiophile terminology that a lot of people like to use.
Glad you like it and thank you for the Tyll comparison - that's humbling! I miss his reviews too! I'll do my best to try and fill his very large shoes (metaphorically speaking 😉)
Liquid has a specific meaning in audiophile speak. It describes the tonal character of the sound, like dry, rich, lush, etc.
I just bought the HD800S the other day, and I'm very happy with them (upgraded from HD700). But this review has made me excited to get the Clear one day! Very well done.
Thanks Spyker. I have a review of the HD800S coming soon so I'll no doubt discuss it specifically versus the Clears just to whet your appetite further. The HD800S are great at what they do though so you're already enjoying some epic sound 🙂
Thanks for a great review
very informative and great communication
I love how you clearly outline your preferences,
luckily it sounds a lot like what I tend to like, so this was a really helpful and just a great, informative review
Fantastic! Glad you found the review helpful!
@@PassionforSound would you be able to recommend some headphone amps (or dac/amps) that would compliment this well?
i saw that you listed THX AAA 789 in the description but it's not easily available where I live, I'm looking at the Magni 3 plus or heresey at the moment, but simply because that's all I know
The Schiit products are always solid performers. I don't really have any other suggestions that I know will beat the Schiit offerings so I'd probably go ahead with those of I were you.
Great video!
Thanks Tyler!
I own Clears. They are spectacular. Great review!
Thanks Stephen! Glad you enjoyed it and the headphones
Have you heard the utopia ?
No, not yet. Based on everything I've read, I doubt they'll suit my tastes, but I'm still keen to take a listen one day.
@@PassionforSound could we describe the clear as a headphone that successfully combines the best qualities of the Meze’s warm musicality and the analytic prowess of the Hd800?
Kind of, but it's overstating both I think. With sound, there's always a degree of trade-off because having more bass will mask our perception of treble. Also, being dynamic, it can't match the quality of the Empyrean bass. While it brings some of the Empyrean warmth, it's not as smooth and rich. At the same time, it can't quite match the detail of the HD800S, but it's definitely the right choice for someone who wants something in-between and is happy with the trade-off. I'd probably choose the Empys and use the velour pads if you really want a middle-ground though.
Bought these yesterday for AUD$799 brand new - agree 100% with everything said in this review. Really enjoying them so far and I also have the HD800S. Both have their unique distinguishing qualities. The clear really is a great all rounder that can be driven from portable setups in spaces were open back leakage is acceptable. I’m using the XLR balanced cable. Carry case is very nice too.
So glad you're enjoying them. That's a great price for a fantastic headphone.
@@PassionforSound
In your opinion, strictly from enjoying music standpoint. Clears or 109 pro?
I'd choose 109 Pro
Just snagged a pair myself for the same price (A2A?). Can't wait to hear them, should be a nice upgrade from my HD650s.
Hope you love them! Definitely an upgrade over the 650s IMO
Spot on review. I've been a proud owner of the Clears for 8 months now, and can state with confidence that these beat any competition in their price range. I A/B tested with multiple TOTL headphones, coming to the conclusion that its overall better than headphones like the 800S, LCD 4z, Aeon Flow... its 90% of what the utopia is, but with accessories and less than half the price.
With that said, the Clears have two drawbacks for me. 1. Is while they are super comfortable and I can listen to them for hours on end without fatigue, the soundstage is actually quite lackluster for an open back. It was the same with the utopia, very in your face but so enjoyable. You dont always want a tunnel.
Second thing is they have an issue with the metal creaking over time. The joints, primarily the yokes, make an unenjoyable creak anytime I move or take them on/off. I've been told that teflon lube spray would fix this, but haven't tested yet.
Otherwise, you can't do much better for the price of $1500 CAD. Drives easily on a phone and has so much potential. No regrets from me.
@@PassionforSound Tunnel is perhaps the wrong word, haha. When testing them I used the Ifi black label and tried it on the chord Dave. I currently just use my phone/laptop to drive them as they're efficient... But, the sound is not "far away." On my fostex TR-x00 ebony they sound like a tunnel, but on the focals the positioning is pin point accurate and you're right in the middle of the stage. Not too forward or far back. It's not wide like the 800s, of course, but it's mid-centric. They do all genres well, especially instruments and vocals... Man.
When I fix the creaking the Focals should last for a couple decades to come. I'll ask the guys at the local hifi store, but I think Teflon should do it. It's a rare thing, I'm just unlucky :)
Last thing, because you're quite knowledgable and your review was very well put together. Just wanted to say keep it up. With Tyll gone and the current reviewers quite biased, people like you are needed.
If you have any recommendations for a sub $500 DAC/amp for the Focals, please let me know also. When this university student finds enough money in the budget I'll go with the Ifi black label otherwise. 🤙
@@PassionforSound No worries. I'll keep looking until I desire more out of my gear. Satisfied for now. Looking for IEM's next. Fearless audio S8 Freedom probably.
You have a new subscriber, for sure. Keep it up.
headband also make that cheap plastic noise, I agree with you in 100% about sound stage but anyway I love the sound :) just beautiful and spot on clear :)
Glad you're enjoying them, soulfood
Great review and explanation of these headphones. I own the sennheiser HD800s and have loved them but do agree with the over analytical experience. The 800s is great for classical and instrumental music but for modern music the bass and overall experience is lacking. I think one reviewer said it best of the Focal Clear "sometimes having a jack of all trades but a master of none is better than having a master of one" . I will still use my HD800s for some music but I just ordered the Focal Clear based on your review. Great Video!
So glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for watching and commenting.
I think this was the most informative review on Focal clear. Thx.
You're welcome! Glad it was helpful
I jumped into buying the Clears some 8months ago now. Absolutely outstanding. Clear is not enough to describe the sound. Pristine is the word. :)
Glad you're enjoying them! Great headphone!
@@PassionforSound Great review :). Keep it up
YES! They have beautiful sound
@@soulfulfool great to hear. They are my all time end of the game headphones
@@valkyr989 yes they can be end game for people who are satisfy with just one pair of headphones :) Im a bit more crazy
Hi Lachlan, great review as usual. As i said before i really enjoy your presentation and the professionnal feeling of it, keep it up!
Excited to see your take on the Sparkos Labs stuff, will it be the SS3601 ? If so please consider comparing them with the Burson Vivid that you already reviewed. I would love to know if there's any difference in terms of details and soundstage, i've already seen some users feedback online but none talk about it (maybe there's none ?). I hope it will feature the Burson Fun. :) Can't wait for your review!
Thanks!
@@PassionforSound Yayyy, that"s perfect. Thank you :)
Subbed!!! Great work~~~
Thank you! ❤️
I just bought a pair for $790 . I think they look very nice . I listened to many reviews to buy them as I’m no where near a place that sells this . I will connect them to my topping DX9 and a streamer with Tidal . I hear so much good things about them
That's a great deal. I hope you love them!
How is this compared to the Audeze LCD-X?
Fantastic review, subscribed! Interested to know if you’ve tried the Audeze LCD-X and how they compare? I’m a happy HD800S owner, but looking at a complimentary headphone so was thinking of either the clear or the LCD-X.
Hi Kris, I haven't had the pleasure of the LCD-X. I used to own LCD-2s back when I had me HD800s as well. I don't think I'd want the Clears and HD800S at the same time as they're not far enough apart in terms of signature. The LCD-X (based on their being planars) will provide a better contrast because the delivery of audio is different (weighting, texture, etc.). Of course, if you want something really fantastic and have the budget, try the Meze Empyreans.
Sorry I can't help more!
Nice mine should be here tm.
currently testing the HiFy man Susvara before the review.
I hope the clears will stand out at there price point and where they are in the line up.
because the susvara has broken my brain and in the process of selling some of my gear to by my own.
good video mate
Hi Koji, I haven't yet heard the Susvara, but it think you'll be impressed with the Clears - they've held their own for me against every similarly priced (and sometimes more expensive) competitors I've tried.
@@PassionforSound That’s good to know, I just relinquish the LCDX
A few days ago, and in the process of dusting off the shelf LOL getting rid of equipment, for the
Susvara benchmark aHB2 and holo audio may
Going back to HD 800 S et cetera has been very tough doing side-by-side comparisons
When you get a free moment sit down with them for a few days but I promise you you will hate everything else LOL
Until you can re-orientate your brain for a few days
Always fun when something totally recalibrates your expectations or senses! Hopefully I can try them in the future.
Hi Lachlan, I'm wondering if you've had a chance to listen to the new Focal Clear MG yet. A comparison that I've found online suggests that they're an improvement in bass, treble and possibly soundstage but they slightly sacrifice the clarity and lushness of the mids by colouring them a little. Because your perception of sound usually coincides with mine, I am curious to find out if you think that they've made this great headphone even better or whether they've taken away its uniqueness and turned into a more mainstream/V-shaped headphone. Thanks
Hi Michal, I haven't had a chance as yet. I'll have to see what I can arrange
I had dt 1990s for over a year and like you i prefer balanced pads over analytical ones. I wonder if Clears would be a good upgrade path from 1990s, or are they completely diffrent beast?
They're quite different, but I can see someone who enjoys one also enjoying the other (referring to the original, silver Clears)
I bought the Clear. I auditioned them along with heaps of other headphones from brands like Audeze, Hifiman, Final Audio, Sennheiser, Fostex, etc. The Clear was the ONLY headphone I heard where I just thought "wow, these are good", instead of "yeah, these are ok/good BUT", like the others I tried.
I agree. That's almost exactly my feeling with them too
@@PassionforSound 100%. Although the Campfire Audio Cascade and Fostex TH-610 were also really good. You should try those out one day if you haven't already!
I want to try the Cascades because I love CA's products. I've never been a huge fan of the Fostex range - I appreciate the TH-600 & 900, but never felt to buy them. I hadn't heard of the 610 - I'll check them out - thanks!
Arya is excellent as well!
They definitely are! I wasn't such a fan of the previous version, but the V3 with the stealth magnets is great!
I have a suggestion for you to try to increase the Bass and punch and IMPACT of Focal Clears (Which have perforated earpads) Simply take heavy foam stripping (approx 1/4 inch thick) and an inch or so wide) Such as stripping included with air conditioners. Cut a strip long enough to snugly fit around the Focal earpads. Have the foam facing the earpads......Simply tape the ends together on the paper backing side.You'll find it significantly prevents the bass from being lost through perforated earcups..plus it helps create a better seal around your ears.......I've also tried placing soft vinyl stripping (roughly 1/2 inch wide against the inner side of the earcups, but it tends to produce an echo effect However, if you cut out 1/4 inch tabs.and face the full side towards your ears, the strip will cover the inner earcup perforations without causing the echo effect......But for pretty much no money at all, since you may already have the stripping in the house, you can improve the bass rather than paying for expensive new earpads. Stripping placed on the outside of the Earchups seems to make a huge difference..Please let me know what you think if you do try it. You can also try this on smaller on ear headphones where you can cut some stripping as wide as you like. It makes quite a difference in comfort and sound.
Thanks for sharing. I'll see about giving it a try sometime!
Great review! I'm between HD800S and Focal Clear Professional (same as these in terms of tuning but in different color scheme - black/red which I dig a lot and different accesories). I already own Focal Elex, HD650, HD660S along with Yggdrasil DAC and Jotunheim amp all fully balanced.
@@PassionforSound Thanks for the honest opinion. I still need find some way how to try them side by side. My main concerns about Clear are clipping issues with songs containing a lot of sub-bass even on medium volumes, movies with great dynamics are problem too judging by my Elex experiences. The two most common things said by owners or reviewers I would LOVE to confirm about HD800S are:
1) The riddiculous resolution these can produce - a lot of reviewers said ANY other headphone in comparison struggles when compared to the HD800/S - Who on earth would not try something like this?...honestly - Any comparison in this regard with Clear ?! Are they ok or much behind?
2) Soundstage - maybe way too big for its own good :)
Edit: What about the scaling capabilities of Clear? I hope they scale well and I will definitely hear difference with my main rig....
@@PassionforSound Nice comparison. Thanks for the info from your perspective. I'm even more tempted to Clears now. However, mechanical clipping is there for all Focal models even on Utopia. It is by a design choice (at least they said something similar). I remember reading an official statement from one of the Focal's representatives. You can check it here:
www.massdrop.com/buy/massdrop-x-focal-elex-headphones/talk/2303349
It is basically a full range speaker housed as headphone. Nothing bad about it because you can't simply fool the basic physics. It is pretty obvious only on a few tracks with combination of very deep bass played loud to the point it's not barable for a few seconds anyway. It literally took me a moth to find out with my pair of Elex (defective bacause of the clipping inbalance with the right driver - replacements are much better with highr tolerances). You can check for your self for example here:
www.audiocheck.net/soundtests_headphones.php
Scroll down to “Quality” section and choose “Bass Shaker” test tone.
A few more songs with heave sub-bass that will cause clipping at loud volumes:
Fifth Of Whiskey - Verse And Bishop (Banshee Soundtrack): ruclips.net/video/xD1Lfnmi0mQ/видео.html (bass tortune for headphones + super compressed track in tearms of dynamic range only 3dB!!!)
DJ Shadow - Three Ralphs: ruclips.net/video/v_Cbfmm-2oE/видео.html
Kendrick Lamar - DNA: ruclips.net/video/uX6uBHPGfSs/видео.html
..and of course the bass drop from Hans Zimmer Dark Knight OST: Why So Serious? timestamp 3:26 and listen to that rumble! wow
ruclips.net/video/1zyhQjJ5UgY/видео.html
I can guarantee they will clip even rattle with ease no matter the model Elex, Elear, Clear, Utopia....btw there is no eq needed and I don't use any. “Usual” headphone designs will distort instead of clipping.....
I managed to get a pair of the Professional version of these at US$800 incl 15% tax, and the accessories are better - extra pad set and two normal terminated cables instead of the XLR connector which most people won't ever use. Fabulous headphones.
Nice deal! I personally love the XLR cable inclusion, but agree it's not necessary for everyone.
In Europe the Pro version is also on sale at €1250 vs €1500 for the normal version, maybe due to Corona and the hit in the pro business. The RSP of the pro is higher than the normal version (€1750). Technically they are identical. And apart from the better price, extra pads and more convenient cables I also prefer the looks of the pro. So win-win for me and perfect 👌 match for the RME ADI-2 😁!
I had to save money for almost a year to finally buy them. I don't regret a single penny. Now only to pick and save for a good amp. Do you have any suggestions? Loved the review btw. I agree with everything you said. You deserve so many more views, keep it up! :)
@@PassionforSound Thank you for your reply. I was thinking about getting 789, but sadly - it's massdrop only and I'm from Europe. I was looking around a bit and I think iFi xCAN should be just what I'm looking for. People say it's even better than iFi Micro or xDSD. Can't wait to hear them through an amp because they sound fantastic even directly from LG V30.
JDS Labs Atom Amp
@@PassionforSound I can only confirm that Jotunheim is not great but fantastic with my Focal Elex (same with HD650 or HD660S if anybody is interested - again balanced) through the balanced output of course. Super fast, great separation even on the most dense parts of the song - I was so amazed when I tried some songs which sounded a little mashed up before in their most complicated parts. For example Garbage - “Push It” from their Version 2.0 album which has very calm intro but literally burst into a huge wall of sound during the chorus part. It totally floored my how efortless the cans sounded in combinantion with the Jot amp even on way too high volumes ....just to test the combo of course. Details are all over the place although you can blame the Yggdrasil dac for it...My point however is this: Elex or Clear are considered pretty much neutral some even suggested Clear is more laid back and smoother (nothing is totally neutral that would kill the fun right?!) so I think it will work just as good or even better with the Jot. That is the main factor why I consider them now maybe a little more over the H800S. I think the synergy would be better this way....
i am atm looking for an upgrade after my Sennheiser HD58X and was thinking about the th900 but wanted something with more mids, now i have to decide between the focal clear and the lcd-x and i think you sold me on the clear's !
The Clears are a great option. I haven't heard the LCD-X, but have owned LCD-2s and they're wonderful, but larger, more difficult to drive well, and less comfortable (due to weight) than the Clears. In terms of sound, I can't compare, but both would be a great upgrade, I believe.
I faced the same decision, and looked to test the LCD-X. I was recommended to listen to the Focal Clears. I bought the Focal Clears, and am amazed at their performance.
They really are excellent. I've recently picked up a pair of Meze Audio Empyreans for review and while they ARE better than the Clears, it's not a huge margin given the massive price difference
HI Lachlan, do you have recommendation for tube DAC/Amp to suit this? I would love to get Mainline but at almost A$2k (with shipping+GST), it's too expensive. Budget is around A$1k.
Or should I just save money for Mainline? I think they normally have one on sale during Black Friday.
Hi Brocco, I haven't tried a lot of different tube amps because I was lucky enough to find Bottlehead really in my journey. The S.E.X. would work very well, but the Mainline is really outstanding and hard to go past. You're getting one of the better amps I've ever heard for that money. So far only the inbuilt TT2 amp and Sparkos Labs Aries have bested it on transparency, but the Mainline beats the Aries on staging. I don't mean to be focussed only on Bottlehead products - I just don't know anything I'd recommend more and don't have enough experience to share any strong tube alternatives. Sorry!
@@PassionforSound Thank you :)
I have HD650, I don't like HD800, I think HD650 is much touch than HD800. Until I have my hand on this first version of Clear (not the MG revision), it is perfect for me, clear, warm, nice base.
I am looking for replace my Mojo now.
Could you please suggest where if Focal Arche or your recent RME ADI-2 fit the best?
I like Chord a lot but can't afford TT2, and I don't like Hugo 2 as the reason I replacing Mojo is because the battery.
Thank you so much!!!
Andy
Hi Andy, I think you'll find the ADI-2 and the Clears to be too bright and edgy if you don't like the HD800. It's difficult to find a really great all-in-one device other than the Hugo 2 or TT2. I'm not really sure what to recommend because you're probably better off getting a separate DAC and amp if you don't like the Hugo 2
We both have similar taste in what we/re looking for in musical presentation. I am not a headphone guy at all but am a dedicated 2 channel audio lover since the seventies. I actually was forced into the headphone scene because my system is in storage at this point due to home construction.To give you a reference point that may be different then most of your followers as I have no doubt they have probably forgotten more about headphones then I have ever known, this may be beneficial. My home system is a pair of Tannoy Churchill Widebands being driven by Air Tight 211 SET amps with a custom built tube active crossover & a Art Audio PX 25 SET Amp driving the super tweeter & pretty much only spin vinyl, the sound is dynamic, revealing, top end extension out past 60 k but not bright at all but it is very revealing of anything you hook up to them, which can be both great & bad at the same time but the most important thing is that they are so musical, they just sound like real music. I can honestly say I see why you guys love the headphone thing, it was never this good when I got into audio, its amazing that at one time headphones was a dying industry only to be reborn better then ever. The one thing that hasn't changed is that quest for striving to get closer to the real thing no matter what your into. I don't know where these ultimately rank but I really agree with your review, they really are superb. & I think the real buy in the Focal line & when it comes to pride of ownership alone, all the Focal's are truly something special' Thank you for your expertise sir.
Thanks for your comment and for sharing that story, Scott - sound like a pretty epic setup! What amp are you driving the Clears with?
@@PassionforSound Thank you for your reply, I found you about 6 weeks ago & have been a follower ever since as I really love your coverage. I haven't bought the clears yet but that is about to change however I heard them for a short period & really thought they were good. I have heard the Utopia's & I can see they are special but in the end I just didn't think you would get lost in the music & I feel very strongly that is what the difference between good & magical. I'm a bit embarrassed to admit that I bought a Schiit Magni just to get rolling but at this point I am really leaning towards the Linear Tube Audio MZ3 but I would love any suggestions you may have as I'm sure you have heard many things. Thanks again.
Nothing wrong with the Magni as a starter - better than the HP out of a standard hifi amp! :) Depending on how deeply you want to get into your headphone listening, I can highly recommend the Massdrop THX 789 amp for a more affordable option, but my favourite of the relatively limited options I've heard (i.e. I have owned a dozen or so amps over the years and auditioned a further 10-20 at a guess) would have to be the Bottlehead Mainline - brilliant, transparent tube amp with just the right amount of tubiness, but no haze / sludge in the sound. It is DIY though. I should do a video review of mine sometime, but never think to because I've had it for years
@@PassionforSound So I did look at the THX 789 with your recommendation & was ready to make the purchase but as you know it is sold out so I signed up & ready to go if they do re- release it. The one thing that immediately jumped out to me & I found a superb design element was the 3 separate jacks, I found the independent 3.5 mm especially appealing as being forced to use a adapter in most other amps I feel could be degrading to the sound. I came to really see this when I went from WBT rca ends which are beautiful to look at but when I compared them to the kinda of generic looking Eichman rca's the difference was shocking. I then watched your review & was more convinced that this was worth having just as a great point of reference product because of its very uncolored presentation that you stressed. Interestingly I bought a pair of the Meze 99 Classics as I thought it was a nice non fatiguing casual listening set of headphones, as I think they lean towards a warm sound I would think the THX 789 would be a great match. I really have been reevaluating my needs in the long term as I tend to go a bit overboard when I get interested in something & as much as I like what's happening in the headphone world the truth is once my 2 channel system is back up that's what I will be listening to. So at this point it probably doesn't make a ton of sense in buying a cost no object headphone amp. I thought it was great to realize I wasn't the only one that obses's over tube life so your not alone my friend. Who would have ever thought some of these NOS tubes would have become so collectable & valuable, boy did I miss that boat. BTW your review of the 789 was superb, thank you for your time.
My pleasure. You'll be well set when you can get a 789 to go with the 99s and a set of Clears (when you get them)
i just bought them, cant wait:) i hope they will be good for rock:)
Hope you love them (I think you will)
@@PassionforSound i hope that too.. my most expensive pair:)
Great review
Please recommend a tube headphone amp for warmer sound
Hi Nathan, what's your budget (and currency) and do you have certain headphones in mind?
Look into the Feliks Audio Echo
Received a pair of clear professional around 3 weeks ago blown away completely with them. Question does the occasional nail in the ear treble spike diminish with burn-in?
Glad you're enjoying them! Sadly, that occasional spike is there to stay - it's in the tuning of the headphone ☹️
they are great with tube amp maybe you should try it
That's a good point
I would love to see you review some Abyss headphones.
Hi Slime, I'm keen to at some point too. I haven't tried to arrange anything yet so hopefully I'll have some success
Great review. How would you compare the Audioquest Nighthawk headphone?
Also, Do you know if the Focal Clear Professional headphone (red and black) audio characteristics differ from the Focal Clear set you reviewed? Many thanks
Hi Keith, my understanding is that the pro version sounds identical and only aesthetics (and cables?) are different.
Compared to the NightHawk, the Clears are brighter and more resolving. The Clears are slightly V-shaped (or U-shaped) whereas the Hawks have a bit more midrange weight to them. They're quite different headphones and I'd have trouble saying which is better because they do things quite differently.
@@PassionforSound Thanks for the info. Much appreciated. Quite a difference in price between the Audioquest Nighthawks and Focal Clear. I like the Nighthawk tuning.
Do you think the Clears are an upgrade?
I am awaiting a reply from Focal to absolutely confirm if the Professional version has any tuning difference from the standard version. The standard version, from reviews anyway, doesn't seem like the type of tuning required for studio /mixing or reference type audio work. Interesting to find out how popular these are with studio engineers outside home listening use. Cheers
I think the Clears are probably a slight upgrade, but also such a different tuning.
If you're looking for mixing headphones, I don't think I'd recommend either. I have two reviews coming up on mastering headphones though. The Ollo S4X is one of them and probably the headphone I'd recommend for mixing rather than the Hawks or Clear.
Actually, 3:40 The HD800s comes with the 1/4 inch cable and a Pentaconn 4.4mm Balanced cable. You can also pay extra for a XLR cable for your HD800s. But i think Focal including the 3rd cable is better.
Thanks Krypto. That's a new addition since the pair I bought quite some time ago.
Hi. Great review. What were the amps you mentioned? and which balanced dac would you pair these lovely clears? Thanks mate!
Hi Billy, the amps I use are the Massdrop (Drop) THX AAA 789 and Bottlehead Mainline (tube amp). I've reviewed the THX 789, but am yet to come back around to review the Mainline on the channel. It's a magnificent tube amp for headphones. I also use the FiiO E12DIY portable amp with a range of op-amps, but I don't think I mentioned that in this review
@@PassionforSound thanks for your suggestions. I have reviewed your thx 789.i think it will suit my budget. I'm using a portable ibasso dx160 dap now with 4.4mm balanced. I'm planning to get either focal clear or denon D7200. Tends towards D7200 may be I used to the dynamics of iem of closed back. I would save money for better dac later. I wonder I can get a cable 4.4mm balanced to dual xlr to input of thx 789? Am I right to connect in this way? Thanks man👌🏻👍🏻
The 789 is great - I'm pretty sure you'll be very happy. As 4.4mm and balanced XLRs (2 x 3-pin) are both industry standard connections, there should be some adapter options floating around. I'd start with a Google search and maybe eBay to see what your options are. Good luck!!
this or present time sennheiser hd 490 pro in terms of price to performance? (no eq)
I haven't tried the HD 490, but from what I've seen/read, the Clear will still be a better headphone unless you're speaking the specific tuning of the 490.
What amp + dac would you recommend for this? Budget under $500. I am leaning towards JDS Element 2
The Element 2 will do well, but I'd recommend saving up for a better system in the future. Something like the Geshelli J2 & Erish or SMSL SU-8s and SH-8s would be a nice upgrade. The Clears will sound better and better with higher quality gear so if you choose to upgrade in the future they'll keep rewarding you.
@@PassionforSound Thank you! I was also looking at ifi Micro iDSD Signature. What's your thought on that?
I haven't heard the signature version. I owned the original some years ago and it was a good device. It's a bit more versatile than the Element 2 and should sound comparably good so perhaps make the decision on features and ergonomics. The Element 2 is slightly better for a desktop device, but the iDSD is portable and versatile.
Wonder what the comparison with the mg model will bring?
Yeah. I need to get my hands on one!
You’ve heard the Arya Stealth, how would you say they compare to the Clear? Had the Clear for a year now and they are fantastic but I see a LOT of people loving the Arya so curious to hear your viewpoint. Will point out that I typically prefer a sound that has a little more weight in the lows and mids as that’s the thing that makes things sound realistic to me, so maybe I wouldn’t like the Aryas as much.
If you like a punchier bass, the Clear's are probably preferable, but the Aryas extend deeper so it depends on your exact bass preferences. The Aryas have slightly smoother treble without that metallic attack of the Clears, but both have a bit of treble emphasis and the Aryas probably sound a bit leaner through the mids due to the greater overall treble amount.
I picked them up for $839 brand new. They sound phenomenal through a tube amp. I loved my DT 880s but these are so far beyond them.
Yes, much better than 880s! Glad you're loving them 🙂
I find the case is good for regular storage rather than for portability - if I'm not listening to the Elex they're in the storage case protecting them. The Elex didn't actually come with a case but that's beside the point. :) I'm hoping to find a good deal on these with the release of the MG and upgrade from the Elex. I heard the MG today and the bass is the most satisfying I've heard.
The MG are great! I've got a pair here now for review
@Passion for Sound I'm looking forward to your review, I almost picked up some nearly new MGs as I loved the sound so much but found the headband too creaky, eg tilting my head to check phone, or bending over to pick something up they made a plastic creak/knocking sound. I'm hoping it's not a common issue as would like to give them another shot.
Thanks for letting me know. I'll see if I notice that (and will try to remember to comment on it)
i like this old set views rather than your new set view,, btw yappp focal clear is beast
Me too, Rizqi. Unfortunately that space for flooded and now is my wife's office since we had a baby and COVID happened. I hope to have a dedicated studio one day...
@@PassionforSound ahhh yesss family first,, hope everything will be better in the future 🙏
Thank you. We're all happy and well - I just don't have a separate office and studio anymore, but there are pros and cons to both 🙂
I have the focal clear worth upgrading to focal mg?
I haven't heard the MG to comment - sorry!
So I just bought these today, I ordered the Bifrost 2, and I plan on getting the SA-1. What is your opinion on this setup?
I think you're in for a treat with that combo of gear 🙂
@@PassionforSound OK cool, that's what I wanted to hear. I paid $990 for the Clears, free shipping and no taxes. I returned the A90, for store credit so I can get the SA-1.
Perfect! Great deal on the Clears!
@@brianisaac1804 where did you buy your clears
@@davidrangel5628 Headphones.com
I just checked, and they're still on sale.
Do you think the Focal clear for 990$ is still worth getting now in late 2021?
It's still a very good headphone so yes, I think it's probably worth it
@@PassionforSound I would like your advice, I pre ordered a Focal Clear for 990$ a few days ago, My question is do you think its worth spending more to get something like a LCD-X or an Arya? or should I just stick with the Clear?
That's a tough one. I haven't tried the LCD-X yet, but I would choose the Arya stealth magnet version of budget allows.
Please review the Massdrop Koss Electrostat.😀
Thanks.
Hi Tigerex, I've finally ordered a set for review. Watch this space!! :D
I noticed you mentioned the 800S alot in this review. How do you think the Clear would stack up to those for gaming as apposed to music. I have had the DT1990 Pro and it was great but the sound staging didn't seem all that great. And I currently am using the Sen HD560S which sounds great but lacks the quality of sound of a more expensive headphone.
The Clear doesn't have as large a soundstage so the HD800S is probably still preferable for gaming (but I'm not a gamer so take that with a grain of salt). Another headphone to consider is the Arya stealth magnet version.
@@PassionforSound I have been looking at that one too. Would the Hifiman Ananda be comparable for gaming even though it is substantially cheaper? I have heard they have a gaming headset kind of like Audeze made.
I'm not familiar with the gaming headset. The Ananda could also be a good option, but it's not as resolving as the HD800S whereas the Arya is on a similar level
@@PassionforSound I am not sure it is a "gaming" headset. But the blue tooth Ananda on the website talks about gaming with the included detachable mic. So I thought maybe it would be tuned more towards games. Thanks for the reply though. I may just go higher end then. :)
Ah, I don't think they'll have tuned it differently (other than the voicing of the Bluetooth module) - it's more likely just the convenience with the mic.
Hmm ... nice review. Not comparable I know - but how does one compare these to the Sennheiser HD 650? Those are my current - and I love them. Just curious.
The HD650 are warmer overall with a more intimate presentation (i.e. less width/size to the soundstage). They're also a bit smoother / more rolled off in the treble and don't have the bass extension or kick of the Clears. That said, they're an excellent headphone still. The HD650s are one of the best options in what I think of as the mid tier of headphones. Clears are one of the best in the high-end tier (then you step up to flagship/aspirational tier where cans cost $3000+)
@@PassionforSound Thanks, mate. You think a Schiit stack (Modi 3/Magni 3+) is enough for the Clear? I am deaf in one ear - so I listen in mono, sadly. Or do I need a beefier Amp/dac setup?
I’ve found for headphones for me - obviously I lose stage, etc going mono - but high quality audio makes a big difference being partially deaf because the clearer the sound, the better I can reconstruct the music, etc.
Sorry to hear, but glad you can benefit from.high end sound. The Clears will definitely benefit from better gear. Something like the Modius (good) or Bifrost 2 (better) and the new Jotunheim 2 will be a great option without spending a fortune.
@@PassionforSound Thanks for the responses. You’ve got a new sub. Very impressed with the content!
Glad I could help. Thanks for subbing!
What pair it could do with my new iBasso DX300?
Sorry, Francois, I don't understand the question... Are you asking if it will work well with the DX300? If so then yes, it should pair well.
clears or sony mdr z1r in terms of sound quality?
I haven't yet tried the Z1R - sorry
@@PassionforSound i got to know focal clear have clipping issues, are your headsets working good without clipping at higher volume on bassy songs?
im planning to buy between z1r and focal clear
thanks
I never experienced any clipping on mine, but I don't listen loud. I'd be concerned that anyone experiencing clipping of bass notes is probably also damaging their hearing.
These run just under $1500 on Amazon. Where did you see $1200, an open-box sale?
Hi Alex, I bought these during a Black Friday special and that was a while back so pricing may well have changed over time.
Do ypu have any knowledge about PHONON SMB-02 ? or Bowers & Wilkins P7 ?
&$ Wilkins
Hi Katzparov. I have heard of the Phonon, but know nothing about it - sorry. I have a passing familiarity with the B&W P7, but not enough to provide any detailed comparison unfortunately. I haven't been blown away by the B&Ws in the past - not to say they sounded bad, they just didn't capture my imagination for better OR worse.
@@PassionforSound Thank you
I have the P7 and have been very happy with them in comparison to Audio Technica ATH M50X which I also enjoyed. I recently purchased the Phonon, (clearer Audio than P7 with good bass and like them more than the Technicas). Technica's have good bass but it doesn't sound natural. Very disappointed with Beyerdynamic dt770 as they distort at higher volumes where other headphones handle it easily. I have two pairs and both distort. I also have Sennheiser hd 598.....poor bass and also distorts very easily............I just want to be sure before I purchase FOCAL Clears.
I should have a chance to hear the P7s next week. If I can, I'll come back here and let you know my impressions with the Clears as a reference point.
As much as I have enjoyed some specific Beyer headphones, I completely understand your impressions of the 770s. I find lots of their models heavy handed with their tuning in either bass, treble or both. The Clears are leagues ahead of the 770s and 598s so no problems there. I just can't compare to P7s yet...
@@PassionforSound I'm almost ready to purchase the Focal Clears right now from Amazon even though I know that I should be patient and wait.
@@PassionforSoundI ended up purchasing the Clears /they do sound incredible BUT they easily distort heavy bass at a higher volume with lots of crackling noises. ATH M50X, Bowers & Wilkins P7 and Phonon SMB-02 easily handle heavy bass. I'm seriously considering returning them. You'd think that a $ 1500.00 headphone would be able to handle Bass better than a $ 300.00 headphone
Do you think the Ananda does sound separation better?
I've not compared them directly, but I don't think so. The Clear is at another level compared to the Ananda I think.
@@PassionforSound People are saying that the new Ananda Stealth Magnet version is better than the original Ananda so a review could be interesting
It's on the way and I do agree that it's better
Would these work OK with my Zen Dac/Can ??
Yes, they should do well with that setup. They can perform even better with higher quality DACs and amps, but no reason not to use them with the Zen stack
@@PassionforSound thank you for your reply
My pleasure
Great review, it's a real pleasure to listen to you, simply perfect! Could I also ask you for a piece of advice - I've recently bought the T1 2nd gen and while they are (together with NightHawk) the best headphones I've ever had (not had anything more expensive than that), I find myself not being able to fully enjoy them because they're a bit too "sterline", the sound it too distant and it feels like there is a sheet of paper between me and the music (probably to tame the Tesla driver) and there is not enough bass (EQ'ing this particular headphones seems to mess up the mid range a little bit). I'm looking for something with similar clarity but more intimate and more punchy/direct. Do you think the Clear could meet my expectations or is its sound stage considerably narrower than the T1's and it might feel like taking one step foward and two steps back?
*I of course meant to write "sterile" :)
Hi Michal, I owned the original T1s years ago and modified them slightly to deal with what you're talking about so I totally understand. The Clears are definitely not as spacious sounding, but the still have an excellent soundstage when paired with a good, spacious setup. I think you'll find them a good alternative to the T1s.
@@PassionforSound Thanks for your reply! Have you had an opportunity to listen to the Klipsch Heritage HP3 headphones? They're supposed to be the most fun-sounding audiophile headphones. I'm wondering if despite the different sound signature they belong in the same category when it comes to sound quality as the T1s and Clears, or if they've had to sacrifice clarity in order to achieve that punchiness.
I haven't heard the Klipsch. They're not particularly prevalent in the headphone world. I've tried 1 or 2 of their IEMs which weren't bad, but not their headphones.
@@PassionforSound Thanks. I've bought the Clears and let me put it this way... I initially missed the T1's wide 3D stage, but after hours of listening to the Clears it's impossible to go back to the T1s! Now I see how bright and sibilant they are (I don't have a tube amp to soften its sound signature up), and your recommendation was spot-on - the Clears have the intimacy and the punchiness that I couldn't get out of my T1s. However cliche it sounds, the best way to describe the way they sound is "clear". Everything sounds so real, I don't know how they've achieved this level of detail without sound colouration and without sacrificing the dynamics in the slightest. The sound is "full", punchy, and powerful but one can tell the headphone is only allowing the music to speak directly to the listener, not via boosted frequencies. So far, apart from the NightHawks (which are different, as they have their unique sound signature) it's the only headphone that I listen to without the need to EQ it at all. Brilliant, I highly recommend it despite its seemingly high price (but when you think about it, it's the same as a new iPhone's, and it'll surely last way longer!).
Hello great review! I bought the Clears and received the Audioquest Red Dac as a gift (I was expecting the cobalt of course lol). Do you think the Red is enough or should I look for something like the Mojo? Kind regards
I actually had this question just the other day and specifically tested it out. The Red will drive the Clears no problems at all (both power and quality). The Mojo will definitely be even better, but less portable so depends on how mobile you want to be when listening.
Clears are fairly amp picky (they sound diff on every amp) I highly recommend picking a good solid state amp(Best will be a true Class A amp) for the clears they scale crazy with high end gear, the dragon fly is very shy for the clear, Mojo is fine but you can find way better amps for the clear you will have a new headphone if you investing into a better amp and/or dac.
I agree that the Clears keep improving with better gear. They're great with tubes or solid state in my experience, but definitely improve with quality sources.
@@PassionforSound hello, could suggest a quality amp. I ordered the clears and I have an apollo twin and a yamaha rx 797 amp, are they enough? Thanks in advance!
Hi Padur, you'll definitely get better sound from a dedicated headphone amp. What sort of budget are you working with?
wow!
I got sick of the spiked (7khz usually) types with the hard treble. I also got tired of the too laid back dark/slight treble types. Too dark is NOT resolve, it's masking- the inverse of the treble spike for faux clarity.My HD800S were just space parlor tricks, and not "more resolving" than other headphones. I sold mine. They are overhyped and not worth it. I want the clears. They are on my shopping list for the very near future.
I tend to agree, Scott. I believe a good headphone should be listenable for extended time across a wide range of genres, not specialised and finnicky.
I like the same kind of headphones you like, warm and musical. Analytical sound headphones bores me a bit. I don't say they are good or bad, simply I don't enjoy them.You have described something crucial, "get involved in the musical experienced and get lost in it". I have to save for those headphones you describe so well which probably will be my next headphones. Great review, thank you so much
By the way, what about a video about the music you listen to with those wonderful Focal Clear?
Regards
Hi Jose, do you mean you'd like me to discuss the music I listen to?
@@PassionforSound Yes, it would be interesting to know what kind of music you listen to with the Focal clear. Any particular records you enjoy a lot with the focal. Just a suggestion, if you feel like it !!😊. I love your channel !!!.
Sure. I'll see what I can do!
@@1964ilovebears perhaps I can start by sharing this link to a Tidal playlist of the test tracks I commonly use. It's a fairly wide mix of tracks, most of which are in my personal collection.
tidal.com/browse/playlist/8cddf553-1cb2-4bd0-9e48-00f6ec2afd29
@@PassionforSound Thanks so much indeed !!!
is the clear professionals the same headphone?
I think except color and cable
That's my understanding too
Sounds like you would love the Campfire Cascade.
Hi Tyler, I did reach out to CA a while back about that, but didn't hear back. I'm big fan of their IEMs so I'd imagine I would like the Cascade.
@@PassionforSound They really get the toes tapping! Hopefully they send you a set.
Thanks for the prompt - I'll ping them again!
I watch this video now to know what headphone I can buy second hand in 10 years
Good plan. They'll still sound great!
Years ago (about 1980) I went into a high-end stereo store in Pittsburgh with $200 in my pocket and ready to spend more on some good headphones. The store had a phone booth with headphones inside. I think they were all Sennheiser but after listening to them all I left with the $40 HD40. They had the best balance overall. I didn't like the brightness of the most expensive ones. I used them for many years but recently replaced them with Grado 125e's. I'm used to listening to full range electrostatic speakers so I imagine electrostatic headphones would be the way to go if I get serious.
The trend in audiophile headphones having boosted treble has thankfully started to wane. Electrostatic headphones are often the first word in speed and transparency, but they tend to lack bass and can therefore sound a both thin and lacking in soul. I'd personally stick to something like the Meze Empyreans with the included velour pads if you're looking for a neutral, transparent and resolving sound that still has excellent bass extension.
So it is 3 years later and you can pick this up right now for $839. Still one of your favorites and a good to grab at this reduced price with 3 years of competition to catch up?
It's still a winner IMO, particularly at that price. I've just finished editing my review of the new, MG, version and it's an upgrade, but only slightly so getting the OG at that price is great!
@@PassionforSound kewl. Ordered. Thx! I like my DT1770 Pros but want and open backed option when listening alone in my office and I think these will work. Seemed like a great deal especially with all the included cable connectivity options for SE and balanced. I did nab an Asgard a few weeks back for now since the DTs are SE only but am hoping we get an upgraded Jotunheim ¿3? next year for the Clears. Man this hobby is fun, I truly had forgotten how much I love intently listening to music.
The Asgard 3 and Jotunheim 2 will be brilliant with the Clears. Enjoy!
@@PassionforSound received. An hour of listening to the orchestral game soundtrack Ori and the blind forest and it’s sequel. Oh my oh my oh my what a whole different level of listening up from the closed 1770 pros. Thank you thank you for the recommendation. Asgard drives them nicely on low gain and I’m looking forward to trying out the Nitsch Piety later tonight.
That's such great news! So glad you're happy with the purchase
Hello there! I'm here after watching your T1 Gen3 review.;)) Before upgrading I'l have to listen to many things, but there is one thing that just struck me watching this review... Reliability. I haven't got a clue about many of the "new" brands, but I just feel, I am unsure shall I dare to change from Beyerdynamic... I just calculated, that I have about 12 000, yes 12.000 listening hours in my T1 first gen. about 48 months, and it's gonna be 3 weeks I have it for 7 years now. I never ever had any issues with it, dropped it a few times, falling off from the desk etc.. will these other brands of headphones last this long and this well? This is the thing that I just cannot get out of my head... other headphones can sound better for the price... but if they die on me... I just don't know... repairs can be expensive, will take long ass time etc...
So yeah, it's funny, till this thing to struck me, reliability... I was happily reading up on other reviews of other brands.. I was playing around the thought to try/get the Sennheiser HD800/820... I honestly don't know...
It was easy to calculate tho hours by the way, because I know where and when I lived and where I was able to use speakers or I had to use headphones and audio was my guilty pleasure when other parts of life was a bitch.
Nice review and thank you for the eye opener!;))
There is just one more thing since you have a fairly different opinion about the 3rd gen compared to a few other reviews that I've read/watched so far, is that our ears had a different story. You worked, lived and went to different places to me, to the other reviewers and so on and so forth... so this too something that needs first hand experience just like with gloves for motorbikes.;))
Thanks again for the food for thought! I just have to get in touch with my "local" dealer... god they are faaaar...
Stay safe in this crazy world that we ended up living in...!
Hi Ferenc, the Focal and Sennheiser headphones are all very durable iny experience. The HD800s will chip if they get dropped, but shouldn't break easily. The Focal Clear are solid metal so you could dent the grilles I guess, but that's no different to the T1.
My only issue with the Clears (I still have them) has been a broken cable despite being very gentle on my gear. It was replaced with no hassles at all.
I think you can safely buy any of these three big brands pretty safely.
You're right about us all hearing differently too. That's why I always suggest watching multiple reviews from reviewers, particularly if they do comparisons so you can get a good sense of how your tastes are the same and different to theirs.
@@PassionforSound Hello!;)) Thank you for your thoughts on the matter!
Glad that you had good experiences with the other headphones.
My main concern lies with the reliability of the internals. 12 000 hours of use without issues...
Haha, funny story about what we hear is different... I had a mate over, he tried my setup he said: Well, it gets loud enough...
Put the headphones on... my ears were bleeding thanks to the near max volume...
What i am curious about though, is it possible to get that special driver cover and put it in the cups of the Gen 1? I know that they are removable... I hope they gonna sell them like the ear pads and head bands...
I am be curious how the gen 1 sounds with them.
All in all, we will see how it goes, but I hope that the Gen3 will be satisfying for me so I can stay with the trusty brand in my experience.
Not sure about the foam insert being removable. The headphones were on loan so I didn't mess with them.
Best of luck with your decisions!
@@PassionforSound Haha, I totally understand it!;)) This guy took it out on head-fi:
www.head-fi.org/showcase/beyerdynamic-t1-3rd-generation.24638/
Thank you!;))
Thanks for sharing the link
In 2023 do you still rate them super highly? they're on addicted to audio for NZ 900 so eyeing them up.
I do still think they are excellent, particularly at that price.
the clears are focals best headphones for pure musical enjoyment. they beat the utopia IMO for just relaxing listening to music
I'm glad you're liking them so much. They're definitely fantastic headphones
100% with you! I sold my HD800 to get the Focal. Ever listened Rammstein with Sennheiser ? 😂😂😂
Yes I have. Sold my focals for the HD800S.
@@scottlowell493 how would you compare hd800s against focal clear? What made you choose hd800s ? Thx..
The HD800s needs the right amp, most decent tube amps will do the trick or a solid state that has a warmer sound signature like the iFi Pro IDSD solid state or tube + mode. They sound really sweet and detailed, even with the new Fiio M17 they sound amazing.
When did Jony Ive start audio review?
if you're trying to post a diss/joke atleast get the grammar correct so we can understand the reference, douche.
probably the easiest to recommend headphone at this price point, only issue is the earpads and headband get dirty quickly
Yeah, I'm noticing some discolouration on mine already. Not dreadful, but definitely a drawback of the grey colourway
@@PassionforSound let me know if you figure out a way to clean them, i'm having no luck
I don’t have a DAC with XLR. If you get the Pro model though it doesn’t come with that connection. I got the black dragon cables and it sounds so much better with them.
Focal tried 3 iterations (elear, clear and elex) and all of them have a bode plot issue in around 5-7khz. I have personally listened to clear as well. If your preference tends towards 90s pop or similar mastering they work just fine (like they sound really fun on Robbie Williams - Rock dj). But the moment you put on something classical violin ensemble or something of that sort, the clears refuse to keep up, despite their low thd and noticeably fast transducers. I can't confirm if it'll be the same on a second audition or with an equalizer, but I have some fair confidence it will be since they do seem to have design limitations. Personally, I like it for what it is, but to me more it's like a higher resolution urbanite xl or Fidelio than something that's very true signal integrity or reference. I don't think the hd800 isn't that reference either (it's got a touch of classical heads tweak over the diffuse field target) , but it's much closer to reference than a clear.
Why I won't buy clear? I personally love using headphones to analyse tracks (sounds from NASA etc), listen to a lot of binaural/live stuff and I personally listen to my own science recordings for spatial analysis, so signal integrity and impulse transients are of high importance to me. Also I prefer a diffuse field response, due to above stated requirements (I dislike unscientific stuff like Harman target). Anyone who has similar requirements as mine could probably not enjoy these much.
That said, if you love some 90s pop, modern masterings like Weeknd etc, the clear are very good and among the best you can get for that kind of an enjoyment.
Thanks for watching Manuel and for sharing your perspective. We all have different tastes and purposes with our headphones. Can I ask what your preferred headphone is?
@@PassionforSound currently the headphone I use for my analysis is shure srh1540. Can't particularly describe the sound of 1540 since they don't particularly have one - they sound a lot like the input spectrogram feels like (maybe a little less so than 940, but 940 is fatiguing with modern compressed music and it's also a little fragile). They don't have a soundstage of their own either. Mostly it feels like two speakers strapped to your ears (which is the case). The moment you put in some binaural (after diffuse field equalizing it, which means bumping 8khz by about 3-5db), it's space completely transforms. You're in the recording ambieance and the headphone completely vanishes.
Here's an example of binaural recording: vimeo.com/184459967
Driven well, they are slightly more impulsive and brighter than hd800, hd800 is actually a fairly thick headphone with an added 10k emphasis (ouch - when playing new jack swing). Driven bad they sound like some cloth over the driver. They are a slightly cd compensated (slighly lower 8khz) variant of their srh940. Whenever I listen to binaural music, I bump back the 8khz up. I plan to buy the etymotic er4b soon which is a true diffuse field tuned earphone with good technicalities. I am looking to get stax lambda pro, unable to find one.
Not at all impressed by modern electrostats. I recently listened to sr009 and it felt really meh. Didn't have the fast transients people tell, it only sounded laggy and incomplete. (Like as if all square waves are blunted to a sine like shape, expected coz it is a capacitive load and does indeed exhibit that behavior). I own the l300 (bought them to tweak my measurement inputs not to listen to them) and technically it's among the lowest fidelity stuff I've heard - high capactive lag, bass roll off from 100hz and also high amplitude displacement issues. Kind of like the worst of all worlds. Is it pleasant, yeah somewhat. Is it correct, nope, not even close.
When possible, try to listen to some binaural stuff on something close to diffuse field like srh940 or atleast a dt880/1990, you might understand what I mean (it is not at all harsh, and it sounds extremely realistic, engaging and immersive). Also try to read through etymotics article on er4b vs er4sr.
I'd definitely not recommend srh1540,940, or er4b for anyone who is not very serious about signal integrity. They can be quite painful with bad mastering.
And this is perhaps the reason why I wanted your input on my kind of music wrt the opamps, before going ahead. Going to buy the burson fun soon. Everyone's definition of detail/compensation will change with reference to the mastering/target of Thier music. What you mentioned as harshness of music might be inherent to the music itself and one of the opamps might be smoothening it.
Preferred headphone: of the stuff I've listen to/own till now - hd800,cd1700,sr225,hd600,hd650,sr009,lcd2,clear,hd598,gr07,sextett,l300,urbanite xl,thx00,he500,hd250,ie800,Andromeda,srh1540,srh940.... My most preferred are srh940 and srh1540 followed by fuzzor modded he500(one of the most engaging lower midrange I've heard yet).
Things I wish to audition/own - stax lambda pro + diffuse field Equalizer, raal sr1a, shure kse1200, Logitech UE flagship ciem, stereopravada sb7, etymotic er4b, hifiman he6, of which, the er4b I might buy soon!
Hi Lachlan, I made a reply to your reply comment. I'm not sure if RUclips shows notifications for comments over comments. Do check it out if you haven't yet.
I also have bought both hd800 and hd700 , and also a vintage hd425 which shall be coming soon, so I'll let you know how my current headphones compare to the above three.
Hi Manuel, I did see your response, but couldn't respond at the time. It sounds like you have a very interesting and specific taste for your headphones. I think you and I are very different in our tastes, but as I have said before that's what makes this hobby and the varied opinions so interesting.
@@PassionforSound I'm ordering the burson fun + V6 vivid amp. I'm wondering if I should add the ss3601 to the mix. Hope you can help me (I made a comment in the other video).
I Got possibility to buy clear mg for like 1200$ and im rly thinking about it
I haven't tried the MG yet, but it's likely to beat great can
@@PassionforSound well I was too late for those MG, bought og Clear for 890$ in perfect shape (used)
Aaaaaaand the new LCD-5 takes that crown. 😊
Which crown exactly?
@@PassionforSound The Best Flagship Headphone. 😃✊
Ah, gotcha. Things have changed a lot since this review, haven't they? LCD-5, Elite, Empyrean, Stealth, etc.
@@PassionforSound and let's not forget the new abyss Diana TC, Diana body with 1266 drivers, looking up to be the new best headphone
Hoping to try some Abyss gear during 2022. Stay tuned... 🙂
I use these with moon audios Silver dragon cables..wow..very close to Focals Utopia at half the price..
I'm glad you're enjoying them with the Moon Audio cable!
Finally a true review of the clear unlike zeos called them a glorified beats!
@@PassionforSound also sick of people saying that the elex is the same as the clears because of the same pads wth .... not the same
Seriously, that review was shameful. He plugged a 55 ohm headphone into some 300 ohm output monstrosity and didn't even consider that he trashed the frequency response in the process.
@@PassionforSound Who said anything about a Bottlehead? I was talking about Zeos' review. Zeos reviewed the Clear on a HPBA-2 whose creator literally says "Minimum load impedance: 200Ω or higher."
Analytical headphones/speakers let you play with your amplifiers to hearts content
It's all personal preference in the end because less analytical headphones and speakers do the same - it's just the end result that's different
I found that focal headphones are all mid forward headphones . So what is wrong with this review ? It's the typical comparing apples to oranges .
If you own a amplifier that performs better at 50 ohms you too will find the Clear sounding better than the 300 ohm HD800 /800s .
If you own an amplifier that at least allows the headphones equal advantage you might think differently .
I need more information than what you are providing . I need to know what amp you used on the HD-800/800s in comparison to the Focal's and genre.
I had a guy tell me he needed a system that gave his Norah Jones albums more wow factor . He didn't need a system he needed a miracle. Great voice, hot ass but no wow factor. I don't know why ?
I have personally demoed all three models and found starting from Utopia to Elear one less irritating that the other .
Best way to describe Focals is like Audeze LCD series . LCD-2 being the best then you buy the LCD-3 and say wow more revealing and then buy LCD-4 and say a lot more revealing but not in a good way .
For me it was Elear good, clear less good and utopia even less good , because each layer of the onion revealed more forced mid range .
I gave your review a thumbs up but you really need to fill in the blanks .
Hi Charlie, I use a range of gear to test from mobile equipment to a full desktop setup with Schiit Gumby and Bottlehead Mainline as the DAC and amp. The Mainline is designed with switchable impedance for low and high impedance headphones so the comparison is fair with HD6xx and HD8xx headphones.
I'll always call out any significant issues if the headphones don't play well with a certain device, but I also have to balance the level of detail with the length of the video.
Thanks for the thumbs up. I hope you enjoy future reviews.
@@PassionforSound
I would agree if you were comparing the HD6drop against the HD800 that would be fair . The moment you drop impedance as in the case of the 55 ohm focals , comapring the HD800 against the Focals becomes uneven . The amp also has a strong signature that is unfavorable to the HD800. It is the very reason I sold mine .
My first headphone amp was a bottlehead they were built back when Low impedance headphones were more common . The switch makes listening to high impedance more enjoyable not for analytical comparisons .
You have really earned my respect for whatever that is worth . I always speak highly of those reviewers that defend their reviews and provide additional information .
Thank you
Hi Charlie, I'm always happy to discuss my reviews and totally ok if we don't agree at the end. I did also use the Massdrop THX 789 amplifier for listening which will perform the same regardless of impedance. That said, I don't find the Mainline to be strongly coloured (for a tube amp). Was it a Mainline you had our one of Bottlehead's other amps like the Crack or SEX?
Ultimately, audio will always come back to personal preference and also our personal hearing sensitivities. I tend to like a warmer presentation which is why the HD8xx are not my cup of tea and the Clears are right on the line of having enough bass and warmth while staying relatively neutral. It may be that your perception of sound and your personal preferences are a bit different from mine so hopefully as you watch a few of my reviews (if you choose to) you'll get a sense of how your tastes compare to mine and will then know which products you will like even if I don't. I have found this over the years with Tyll's reviews. His and my tastes were different in some ways, but I came to understand what I would like based on what he sometimes did not.
Thanks again for watching and commenting!
@@PassionforSound
The point is I don't disagree . My point was and is that some equipment favors one product versus another . I just was curious .
I have a new rule I no longer keep unwanted headphones and amplifiers . if the store doesn't allow returns I shop elsewhere .
I'm not brand or model loyal . Why is it that after 10 years and 2-3 years after the HD800S release are people still comparing headphones to the HD800 ?
My issue with this hobby at this time is it hasn't gone forward an inch . Why because there's more money in revisions than forward progress .
Tyll was a great reviewer but he broke the golden rule ... He finally told the truth, LCD-4 review he said it made him go back and rethink and take back and lower his opinions about Audeze . Hello Fed Ex truck let's go see the country . A sad moment for the headphones community. I purchased MY LCD-2 LCD-3 LCD-XC and LCD-X because he recommended them .
@@charliedavidson3878 I like your holistic view of audio and fully agree.
The LCD-X is at the top of my list for purchse but from my experience with planars, they only blossom with tubes. Have you listened to an lcd from a tube amp?
I'm late but I might stop dicking around a get a high end pair of headphones and they stop buying stuff lol
It's often a good decision. I've got friends who constantly buy lower end gear and are never fully satisfied. They must spend more on all the flipping than one good piece would cost them.
@@PassionforSound yeah I'm going to think about it more and figure out what headphone I want
Great! Good luck with the decision making process 🙂🙂
@@PassionforSound thanks
Completely agree with you on the analytical clarity point. It may be to audophile tastes, but it always sounds unnatural and not pleasing to my ears.
DT 1990 Pro: yes
Hi! We'd love for you to try and review some of our audio products( headphones, iems, etc) for affiliation. Kindly share your email so we can collaborate for affiliation. Thanks.
Hi John, sure thing - I'd love to chat more. You can contact me at passionforsound@lachlanfennen.com
@@PassionforSound thank you. We'll get in touch via email. More power to your passion :)
Best flagship? It's not even Focal's flagship. Great headphones though.
I'd call the Utopia more of a statement headphone than a flagship.
Yes, that's correct Jon
@@jameslee123 Utopia is much faster and more detailed than Clear. It require top of the line electronics to perform. Clear has a neutral tuning and is less picky about electronics. It's designed to be a workhorse for mixing and mastering.
Good review, but please, lower down your transitional music, or volume up your voice. It startled me so bad,,,
Yeah, I'm sorry about that. It's fixed in my later videos. I've been working to find the right mix of elements (and the right levels)
Great 'phones yes but the Stellia's shave them (just)!
Hi Andrew, I'm looking forward to trying the Stellias one day soon...
Wasnt impressed with the stellias at all, their tonality is just wierd. The clear is far better in my opinion.
Interesting! I recently picked up the Utopias and love them. I thought the Stellias were meant to sound similar.
@@PassionforSound if you look at the frequency response graph, you can see, that the clear and the utopia are almost exactly the same (the clear has a bit more bass though) but the stellias graph is just a mess. It sounds quite wonky, i didnt like them. But i love how the clear sounds!
@@Florianski Ears=elephant in the room? had both 'phones at the same time and even with my old timer ears could hear a difference also found the bass clipped on the Clears
The cables are bad; they're stiff with kinks that won't be straightened out. It irritates me that manufacturers ship cables wrapped like that.
@@PassionforSound I use them at a desk.
@@PassionforSound There's nothing else to say. It's a $1500 headphone, goddammit.
Clear is not the flagship
Wtf this isn't impractical jokers
Haha. I get that quite a lot 😉