Focal
Focal Clear Open Circumaural High-Fidelity Headphones
Best open-back headphones for audiophiles seeking professional-grade, natural sound.
Experience the Focal Clear Headphones, designed for audiophiles seeking high-quality sound. These open-back, over-ear headphones feature Focal's proprietary 40mm aluminum/magnesium 'M'-shaped dome drivers for fast transients and a natural soundstage. With a frequency response of 5Hz - 28kHz and an impedance of 55 ohms, they offer detailed and dynamic audio. Crafted with an aluminum frame and comfortable leather headband with memory foam earcups, they weigh 450 grams for extended listening. This bundle includes the Capra Comfort Strap for superior weight distribution and headband protection.
$1266.50
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
74
/ 5520
#74 in Headphones
Price vs Category Average
+115%
Above average
Driver
40
/ mm aluminum/magnesium 'M'-shaped dome
Who it's for
- Listeners seeking an energetic, punchy, and highly responsive sound
- Audio engineers and producers needing precise, neutral sound for mixing
- Audiophiles planning long, fatigue-free listening sessions at home
Who should skip it
- Commuters or office workers needing privacy and noise isolation
- Casual listeners wanting a simple plug-and-play mobile setup
- Budget-conscious buyers looking for entry-level high-fidelity gear
Performance breakdown
Soundstage Accuracy
Open-back design creates an expansive, lifelike sense of spatial imaging.
Transient Response
Aluminum-magnesium drivers deliver lightning-fast, precise audio reproduction.
Source Versatility
Low 55-ohm impedance ensures compatibility with a wide range of devices.
Long-term Comfort
Memory foam and suspension straps mitigate fatigue during extended listening sessions.
Build Integrity
Premium materials and French craftsmanship ensure professional-grade durability.
Frequency Detail
Wide 5Hz-28kHz range captures nuanced textures across the entire sonic spectrum.
Key Specs
Driver
40mm aluminum/magnesium 'M'-shaped dome
Impedance
55 ohms
Sensitivity
104 dB SPL/1mW @ 1kHz
Frequency Response
5Hz - 28kHz
Weight
450 grams
Type
Open-back dynamic
Cable
Detachable with multiple terminations
Made in
France
Features
- Proprietary 'M'-shaped driver technology
- Aluminum/magnesium dome construction for fast transients
- Open-back design for natural soundstage and imaging
- Comfortable leather headband with memory foam
- Multiple detachable cables with different terminations
- Easy 55-ohm impedance works with any source
- Professional reference quality for critical listening
- Suspension strap technology for even weight distribution
- Premium perforated microfibre construction
- Maintains original sound profile
What customers say
The Focal Clear headphones offer an elite audio experience centered on remarkable neutrality and clarity across all frequencies. Listeners consistently note the controlled, impactful bass, which is impressive for an open back design. The precise imaging creates a soundstage that is both expansive and intimate, revealing subtle recording details beautifully. While the build quality feels premium, the core value is undeniably the superior sound performance. This elite performance strongly justifies the investment, positioning the Clear competitively against much more expensive models.
Know before you buy
The open-back design allows sound to pass through the earcups, which prevents pressure buildup and creates a wider, more natural soundstage. This makes the music feel like it is happening around you rather than inside your head, though it does mean sound will leak out to those nearby.
Yes, with an impedance of 55 ohms and high sensitivity, the Focal Clear headphones are relatively easy to drive. While they will work with a phone or laptop, using a dedicated DAC or amplifier will help you get the most out of their dynamic range and detail.
The Capra Comfort Strap is designed to improve weight distribution across the top of your head. Given the 450-gram weight of the headphones, this accessory helps reduce pressure points, making them more comfortable for longer listening sessions.
Absolutely. The Focal Clear is engineered for professional reference quality, offering a neutral, highly detailed sound profile that reveals subtle nuances in your audio. They are a popular choice for producers and engineers who need an honest representation of their mix.
The microfibre earcups are designed for breathability and comfort, but they can collect dust or oils over time. It is best to gently wipe them with a soft, dry cloth after use and store them in a clean, dust-free environment to maintain their texture and performance.
The proprietary 'M'-shaped dome design increases the rigidity of the aluminum/magnesium driver. This allows the headphones to move faster and more accurately, resulting in cleaner transients and less distortion at high volumes.
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