Focal Clear MG Headphones Review

Introduction

Focal, a brand synonymous with luxury and precision in audio craftsmanship, has long been revered by audiophiles and professional sound engineers alike. It's a company that has consistently pushed the boundaries of acoustic excellence, and with the release of the Focal Clear MG Headphones, they've once again set the bar for high-end personal audio gear. These headphones, which blend meticulous engineering with artisanal design, promise an unparalleled auditory experience.

Design and Build Quality

The Focal Clear MG Headphones are a testament to the brand's commitment to aesthetics and durability. Available in a sophisticated chestnut brown for the consumer edition and a sleek black with red earpads for the professional variant, these headphones exude a sense of luxury that's as much about visual appeal as it is about auditory excellence. Crafted with precision in France, the build quality is nothing short of impressive. The magnesium used in the M-shaped dome drivers not only adds to the sound quality but also to the structural integrity of the headphones. Despite their weight of 451 grams, which is on the higher side, the distribution is so well-executed that the headphones maintain a sense of balance, reducing the strain on the listener's head. Compared to previous models and other offerings in the industry, the Focal Clear MG stands out with its combination of high-quality materials and finish. However, the weight might be a drawback for some users, particularly during marathon listening sessions.

Earpads and Headband

The earpads and headband are crafted from premium materials that are meant to last. The comfort level they provide is exceptional, allowing for hours of uninterrupted listening. Yet, the clamping force, due to the spring-back mechanism of the ear cups, may be too tight for some, potentially causing discomfort over time. Fortunately, both the earpads and the headband are replaceable, which is a nod to the product's longevity and the user's long-term comfort.

Cables and Connectivity

The stock cables of the Focal Clear MG are a bit of a letdown considering the overall quality of the headphones. They may not match the expectation set by the rest of the product and could be seen as the weakest link in the chain. The cables are practical in length, with a 1.2m TRS cable suitable for desktop use and a 3m XLR cable for a more professional or home studio setup. The dual-entry cabling with a 3.5mm jack recessed into each cup offers a secure connection, but audiophiles may opt to upgrade these cables to ensure the best possible sound transmission.

Features

The Focal Clear MG Headphones are not just about looking good; they are packed with features that enhance the listening experience. The open-back design, while not conducive to noisy environments, provides a natural soundstage and allows for a degree of airiness in the sound that closed-back designs can't match.

Driver Technology

The M-Shaped Magnesium dome drivers are the heart of these headphones. Magnesium is known for its excellent damping and rigidity, which translates into a more precise transient response and a detailed sound. The choice of material here is crucial, as it allows the headphones to reproduce the nuances of music with exceptional clarity and control.

Open-Back Design

The open-back design of the Focal Clear MG offers an authentic and spacious sound but does so at the expense of isolation. This design choice means that these headphones are best suited for quiet environments where the listener can immerse themselves in the purity of sound without external interruptions.

Accessories

Included with the headphones is a smart fabric carrying case, which complements the overall premium feel of the product. It's a thoughtful addition that ensures the headphones are protected while on the move, even if their open-back design and size make them less than ideal for portable use.

Performance

The Focal Clear MG Headphones are a powerhouse in terms of performance. They deliver a sonic clarity and detail that is rare, with a sound signature that is both dynamic and nuanced.

Bass Response

The bass response is well-contoured and controlled. It's punchy when it needs to be, providing a solid foundation for the music without ever becoming overpowering or muddy. However, some users might find the bass response lacking, particularly if they are accustomed to headphones with a more exaggerated low-end.

Midrange Presentation

The midrange is where the Clear MG truly shines. Vocals come through with lifelike clarity, and the instrument separation is superb. That said, the mid-forward tuning can result in vocals that sound shouty or instruments that have a honky or hollow quality for some listeners. This is highly subjective and will greatly depend on individual sensitivity to midrange frequencies.

Treble Quality

The treble is detailed and refined, but some may find it a tad blunted or warm, lacking the airiness and shimmer that some other high-end headphones provide. It's a fine line between a treble that's detailed but not fatiguing and one that lacks excitement, and the Clear MG walks this line with careful balance.

Soundstage and Imaging

The soundstage is expansive for an open-back headphone, and the imaging is precise, offering an impressive sense of depth and positioning. This creates an immersive experience that allows listeners to pinpoint the location of instruments and performers within a three-dimensional space.

Dynamics and Detail Retrieval

Dynamics are another strong point for the Focal Clear MG. They respond well to volume changes and can reveal the subtlest details in music, from the softest whisper to the most thunderous crescendo, with ease and finesse.

User Experience

In day-to-day use, the Focal Clear MG Headphones offer a luxury experience for the discerning listener. They do not require an external amplifier, which adds to their versatility, but pairing them with a quality amp can enhance their performance, particularly in terms of equalization and dynamic range.

Comfort Over Extended Periods

Comfort is a subjective metric, but the Focal Clear MG Headphones are designed to be comfortable even over long periods. However, some users may find the weight and clamping force to be an issue after several hours of use.

Isolation and Leakage

Given the open-back design, isolation is not one of the strengths of the Clear MG. They are not suitable for environments where noise isolation is critical, and they will also leak sound, which could disturb those around you.

Comparison to Competitors

When compared to competitors in the same price range, the Focal Clear MG Headphones hold their own with their unique sound profile and luxurious design. They are a strong contender for anyone looking for a detailed and dynamic sound signature, though some competitors may offer a different balance that might be more appealing to certain listeners.

Final Thoughts

The Focal Clear MG Headphones are a remarkable achievement in high-end audio. They deliver an exquisite listening experience that is both immersive and emotional. The build quality, design, and performance are what you would expect from a product at this price point. Despite some minor drawbacks like the weight, cable quality, and potential comfort issues over extended periods, these headphones are a testament to Focal's dedication to audio excellence. The Clear MG stands as a compelling option for those seeking a premium open-back headphone that offers a harmonious blend of aesthetics, comfort, and sound quality.