Revisiting the Focal Clear: Still a Top Contender in Headphones?

Electronics & Technology Review Joshua Valour Focal Clear

Joshua Valour reviews the classic Focal Clear headphones, discussing its design, sound quality, and how it holds up against newer models.

🔑 Key Takeaways

  • 🎧 Focal Clear remains a favorite in Joshua Valour's personal top headphones, offering a balanced blend of warmth and clarity.

  • 🔊 Highlighting its dynamic sound profile, the Focal Clear presents a 'warm neutral', making it versatile for various music genres.

  • 🤓 The headphone pairs well with high-quality amplifiers like the WA7 from Woo Audio, enhancing its acoustic performance significantly.

  • 🎶 While comparing to newer models like the Clear MG, Joshua prefers the original for its non-neutral, enjoyable music experience, suggesting it hasn't lost its charm.

  • 📦 The unboxing experience remains impressive, including multiple cables and a sturdy carrying case, though Joshua recommends getting spare pads.

📝 Timestamped Summary

00:21 Introduction to Focal Clear:

  • Overview of Joshua's long-term usage and consistent preference for Focal Clear.
  • Thanks to headphones.com for making the review possible.

01:07 Unboxing & Accessories:

  • The Focal Clear comes with three cables and an elegant carrying case.
  • Advice on purchasing spare pads to maintain aesthetic due to wear over time.

02:01 Sound Quality Analysis:

  • Described as having a full, warm neutral sound that complements many music genres.
  • Benefits greatly from pairing with a specific high-quality amplifier, the WA7 from Woo Audio.

03:59 Bass & Environmental Sound:

  • The headphones excel in environmental bass, enhancing the scale and giving a concert-like experience.
  • Compares the bass quality and environmental inclusion to other models like the 109 Pro, highlighting the superior performance of the Focal Clear.

05:00 Why Focal Clear is a Favorite:

  • Discusses how the Focal Clear stands out among newer and other focal models due to its balanced sound and lack of any detrimental characteristics.

06:04 Comparison with Focal Clear MG:

  • Though the MG model is newer and more expensive, Joshua favors the original Clear for its engaging sound over the MG’s focus on neutrality.

09:00 Guest Review by Courtney:

  • Courtney's impressions align with Joshua’s, particularly highlighting the packaging and bass clarity.

❓ FAQ

Can the Focal Clear headphones be paired with any amplifier?

While they can work with various amplifiers, pairing them with a high-quality amp like the WA7 from Woo Audio is recommended to fully experience their sound quality.

Are the additional pads necessary?

If you want to maintain the cleanliness and longevity of the headphones' pads, investing in an additional set is advisable, especially considering their susceptibility to stains from hair oils.

🎬 Conclusion

Joshua Valour's revisit of the Focal Clear highlights its continued excellence in the headphone market. Its superior sound quality, impressive accessories, and lasting appeal make it a worthwhile investment for audio enthusiasts. If you're considering a premium headphone experience, the Focal Clear remains a compelling choice. Watch the full video to dive deeper into its detailed review.