What is said about this headset is generally accurate. I don't think I can fully mix a track with it. However, it serves me as a complement to my monitoring system and other headsets because its sound is interesting and unique. It notably has a very pleasant response for recording sessions (precise and not tiring).
After some time using it, I would describe a very defined signature with a very pronounced instrument separation but a softness around 4kHz which, while a blessing for long listening sessions without auditory fatigue, can sometimes create a lack for some (if you listen to metal for example, a little EQ tweak will be welcome to recover aggressiveness on distortions). There is also a slight boost in the highs beyond 8kHz which could bother ears very sensitive to these frequencies (it obviously depends on the track, the listening volume, and how it is mixed/mastered).
The bass response is full of surprises. Generally neutral and balanced, it goes very low (nice for controlling infras). The surprise comes from the fact that when you push it (impact effect tested on Entropy Polychord by Clark for example), it's monstrous, controlled but monstrously powerful without distortion. You can clearly feel that the ears will give out before the headset. The stereo image is wide but lacks air, it's in the good average for a closed headset but obviously far from a premium open headset.
I am 1.90 m tall with a normal head size for my height; I have to adjust the earcups to the last available notch. At first, the pressure on my ears was too strong but by forcing it (which showed me it was very sturdy) I was able to soften it. The pressure remains rather strong but allows moving in all directions without having to reposition it. I can keep it on my head for 2-3 hours without issues; if I had protruding ears, it would probably be a different story.
I like this headset and I think it must be tried to understand if Focal's premise on this product can please you.
There you go, I hope my review will be useful to you!... (Show more)
Verified
Posted on 27/10/2022
By J-g
Bought as a replacement for a BeyerDynamics DT-770, I am really satisfied with the sound quality which allows me to have a good overview of my arrangements. However, for mixing, I find that the bass is still not faithful enough compared to monitoring, sure there is some, but some harmonies don't come through, which leads to some (good or bad) surprises when switching to speakers.
Comfort-wise, it's really top-notch. The DT-770 tended to compress my ears against the arms of my glasses and during long sessions it quickly became unbearable but here, despite the headset gripping the head a bit more, no problem at this level.
I also appreciate the possibility to replace the cable, the fact that there is a coiled cable for the studio and a straight one with a mic for a more "classic" use (let's be honest, given its size and weight, it makes it a very good portable headset without impacting performance).
Only downside: the carrying case is huge and barely fits into a 20L backpack with a few other things. Some optimization on this side would be welcome!
Another downside which is more a personal opinion: when I chose Focal, I thought "made in France" and what a surprise when I saw "made in China" on the box...! For the record, Beyer was "made in Germany", showing that European production is possible without astronomical costs...!... (Show more)
Verified
Posted on 26/01/2022
By Client
Really great headset, I won't talk about the sound because there are already professional reviews online (which are mostly positive) but for me the sound is excellent, the headset is also very nice, much more in real life than in photos, only one point to review: the headband is not comfortable at all, there are worse for sure, and you get used to it, but there are also much better especially since it doesn't seem like Focal really tried to make it comfortable.
Verified
Posted on 14/04/2021
By Thomas Karlowski
I already have Focal speakers and I wanted to continue with this brand, and well I think that in this price category it will be difficult to find better. In fact, you close your eyes and you are at the concert. The sound is simply wonderful with incredible precision and clarity. I think the quality/price ratio of this headset is almost perfect.
Verified
Posted on 29/01/2022
By Bruno Cousin
Perfect from start to delivery, the great price of this Focal headset (-50 e), the order tracking afterwards and the delivery within the announced deadlines, which is normal but often not respected. Really very satisfied.
Certified
Posted on 22/01/2022
By Bruno C.
Really great headphones! In the studio, you can really hear all the frequencies. I can finally work properly on my sounds. The headphones are comfortable, no problem after several hours on the head. I highly recommend!
Certified
Posted on 04/02/2020
By John D.
Great headphones, very good value for money. I use them with my pro piano and I had the impression that the sound was coming from outside, from the speakers. Not the feeling of wearing headphones.
Certified
Posted on 05/05/2021
By John D.
Monstrous helmet!! I call it the "details king". Honestly, easy to drive, comfortable, and it looks like it's built to last!! Especially 1v2cnm1 current promo! At this price, it's unbeatable!!
Verified
Posted on 01/11/2022
By Benjamin Picard
My son (to whom I gave it) told me: if my glasses were as good as this headset, I would see the molecules individually.
Everything is said. Comfort, sound, great value for money.
Certified
Posted on 07/09/2022
By Jean-luc B.
A quality sound with 16 and 24-bit FLAC file as source. Also tested on my Marshall guitar amp.
I recommend this product for sound lovers (quite faithful to the source file)
Verified
Posted on 01/12/2022
By Kévin
An excellent choice in terms of sound, very neutral, perfect for musicians looking for transparency without wanting to flatter the ears.
Verified
Posted on 11/12/2021
By Patrick BOUCHARD
Very good Focal model for the price.
Much better than the colorful competition for a similar price.
This headset seems very sturdy.
Verified
Posted on 01/07/2021
By SYLVAIN COLOMBIé
Excellent product! Sound is top-notch, French manufacturing, nice design. We're approaching perfection. I recommend it!
Certified
Posted on 29/07/2020
By John D.
Very comfortable headset, neat connectivity, generous cable length, and above all very good sound. Typical Focal....
Verified
Posted on 09/03/2022
By patrick raous
Perfect delivery and products completely matching my expectations. Thank you for your professionalism
Certified
Posted on 02/12/2021
By Damien R.