Welcome to our comparison of focal clear vs mg.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | focal clear | mg |
|---|---|---|
| Driver Type | 40mm dynamic | 40mm dynamic |
| Impedance | 55 Ohms | 32 Ohms |
| Sensitivity | 104dB SPL/1V @ 1kHz | 100dB SPL/mW |
| Frequency Response | 5Hz – 23kHz | 20Hz – 20kHz |
| Weight | 450g | 250g |
| Connectivity | Wired (detachable cable) | Wired (detachable cable) |
| Open/Closed Back | Open-back | Closed-back |
| Build Material | Aluminum, Leather | Plastic, Faux Leather |
| Comfort | Plush earpads, good clamping force | Lightweight, decent padding |
| Portability | Less portable due to size and open-back design | More portable due to closed-back design and lighter weight |
| Noise Isolation | Minimal | Good |
| Soundstage | Wide and immersive | More intimate |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Audio Quality
- Focal Clear: Known for its incredibly detailed and natural sound reproduction, the Clear offers a wide soundstage and precise imaging. Its beryllium drivers provide exceptional clarity and a balanced frequency response, making it a favorite for audiophiles.
- Mg: These headphones deliver a powerful and engaging sound profile with a strong emphasis on bass. While exciting, the bass can sometimes overpower the mids and highs, and the overall detail might not match the finesse of the Clear.
- Winner: focal clear
Comfort and Design
- Focal Clear: Featuring plush memory foam earcups and a well-padded headband, the Clear prioritizes long-listening comfort. The open-back design contributes to a spacious feel, though it can be heavier than some competitors.
- Mg: Designed for a secure and comfortable fit, these headphones often utilize lighter materials and ergonomic earcups. The closed-back nature can lead to more heat buildup during extended use compared to open-back alternatives.
- Winner: focal clear
Noise Isolation
- Focal Clear: As an open-back headphone, the Clear offers virtually no passive noise isolation. Sound leaks in and out significantly, making them unsuitable for noisy environments or shared spaces.
- Mg: The closed-back design of these headphones provides excellent passive noise isolation, effectively blocking out external distractions. This makes them ideal for commuting, office use, or anywhere you need to focus on your audio.
- Winner: mg
Portability
- Focal Clear: Due to their open-back nature and often larger size, the Clear are not designed for portability. They are best suited for stationary listening in a quiet environment.
- Mg: The closed-back design and often more compact build make these headphones more portable. They are generally easier to travel with and use on the go.
- Winner: mg
Soundstage and Imaging
- Focal Clear: The Clear excel in creating a vast and immersive soundstage, giving instruments and vocals distinct spatial placement. Imaging is exceptionally precise, allowing for easy identification of individual elements within the audio.
- Mg: While still competent, the soundstage on these headphones is typically more intimate and less expansive than the Clear. Imaging is good but may not offer the same level of pinpoint accuracy.
- Winner: focal clear
Bass Response
- Focal Clear: The bass on the Clear is well-defined, controlled, and extends deep without being boomy. It complements the rest of the frequency spectrum rather than dominating it.
- Mg: These headphones are known for their impactful and prominent bass. It provides a satisfying thump for genres like electronic and hip-hop, though it can sometimes bleed into the midrange.
- Winner: mg
Midrange and Treble Clarity
- Focal Clear: The midrange is beautifully rendered with excellent vocal presence and instrumental texture. Treble is clear and detailed without being sibilant or fatiguing, offering a smooth yet revealing presentation.
- Mg: The midrange can be slightly recessed due to the bass emphasis. Treble is generally present but may lack the same level of refined detail and airiness found in the Clear.
- Winner: focal clear
Value for Money
- Focal Clear: Positioned at a premium price point, the Clear offer exceptional performance for those willing to invest in top-tier audio. The sound quality and build justify the cost for dedicated enthusiasts.
- Mg: These headphones often provide a compelling balance of performance and price, offering a great listening experience for a wider audience. They deliver a strong sonic impact and good features for their cost.
- Winner: mg
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Soundstage | focal clear |
| Detail & Clarity | focal clear |
| Bass Impact | mg |
| Noise Isolation | mg |
| Comfort (Long Sessions) | focal clear |
| Portability | mg |
| Build Quality | focal clear |
| Value (Performance for Price) | mg |
What They Have in Common
- Driver Technology: Both headphones utilize 40mm dynamic drivers, which are a common and effective choice for delivering a broad range of frequencies and impactful sound. This indicates a similar underlying approach to audio reproduction.
- Detachable Cables: A shared feature is the use of detachable audio cables. This is a significant advantage for longevity and customization, allowing users to easily replace damaged cables or upgrade to different types for improved sound or functionality.
- Wired Connectivity: Both models are primarily wired headphones, meaning they rely on a physical connection to the audio source. This generally ensures a stable and high-fidelity audio signal without the potential compression or latency issues associated with wireless connections.
- Focus on Sound Quality: While their specific sound signatures differ, both the Focal Clear and the “mg” headphones are designed with a strong emphasis on delivering a high-quality audio experience for discerning listeners. They are not entry-level consumer headphones.
- Premium Build (to an Extent): Both headphones feature robust construction, though the materials and execution differ. They are built to last and feel substantial in hand, suggesting a commitment to durability beyond typical mass-market headphones.
Focal Clear Vs Mg Buying Guide
Sound Quality & Signature
The Focal Clear headphones are renowned for their incredibly detailed and transparent sound. They offer a neutral, analytical soundstage with precise instrument separation, making them ideal for critical listening and audiophiles who crave accuracy. Expect a balanced presentation across the frequency spectrum, with sparkling highs and well-defined bass.
On the other hand, the Meze Empyrean (often referred to as “Mg” due to its magnesium driver diaphragm) presents a warmer, more romantic, and slightly more forgiving sound signature. While still highly detailed, it prioritizes musicality and an engaging listening experience. The bass is often perceived as more impactful and resonant, with a smoother treble response.
Comfort & Design
Focal Clear headphones are built with premium materials, featuring plush leather earcups and a comfortable headband. Their open-back design contributes to an airy and expansive soundstage, but also means sound isolation is minimal. They are generally considered comfortable for extended listening sessions, although some users might find the clamping force slightly firm initially.
The Meze Empyrean stands out with its striking aesthetic and exceptional comfort. The unique ear cup shape and soft earpads, often made with Alcantara, provide a luxurious feel and excellent long-term wearability. Their open-back nature also contributes to a wide soundstage, and the build quality is exceptional, exuding a premium feel in every detail. (See Also: Demeyere 5 Plus Vs Atlantis )
Build Quality & Materials
Focal has a reputation for robust build quality, and the Clear headphones are no exception. They feature a durable metal frame and high-quality earcup materials. The overall construction feels solid and built to last, reflecting their premium price point. The attention to detail in their manufacturing is evident, contributing to their longevity.
Meze Audio is celebrated for its artisanal craftsmanship, and the Empyrean showcases this beautifully. The use of premium materials like magnesium, aluminum, and high-grade leather results in a headphone that is both visually stunning and incredibly durable. The unique driver technology and aesthetic design elements further enhance its perceived value and build integrity.
Price & Value Proposition
The Focal Clear headphones sit at a high-end audiophile price point. Their value lies in their exceptional transparency, detail retrieval, and neutral sound signature, making them a top choice for mastering engineers, producers, and serious music lovers who prioritize sonic accuracy above all else. They offer a benchmark for open-back headphones in their class.
The Meze Empyrean also commands a premium price, positioning itself in the ultra-high-fidelity category. Its value is derived from its unique blend of breathtaking aesthetics, supreme comfort, and a rich, engaging, yet detailed sound. For those seeking a headphone that offers both a luxurious experience and a deeply satisfying musical journey, the Empyrean presents a compelling, albeit expensive, proposition. (See Also: Nikon 50 1 8 Vs 1 4 )
Who Should Buy What?
Buy focal clear If…
- You prioritize an expansive and natural soundstage for critical listening, mixing, or enjoying orchestral and acoustic music.
- You need exceptional detail retrieval and clarity across the entire frequency spectrum for professional audio work or audiophile enjoyment.
- You are looking for a comfortable, open-back design for long listening sessions in a quiet environment.
- Budget is less of a concern, and you are willing to invest in a premium listening experience.
Buy mg If…
- You need effective noise isolation to block out ambient sounds for listening in noisy environments like offices or public transport.
- Portability and a lighter weight are important for on-the-go listening or frequent travel.
- You prefer a more focused and immediate sound presentation, perhaps for genres like rock, electronic, or pop music where impact is key.
- You are looking for a capable closed-back headphone that offers good value for its performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary difference in sound signature between Focal Clear and Meze Empyrean?
The Focal Clear is known for its analytical and neutral sound, emphasizing detail and precision across all frequencies. It’s ideal for critical listening where accuracy is paramount. The Meze Empyrean, conversely, offers a warmer, more romantic, and engaging sound. It prioritizes musicality and a slightly more forgiving presentation, with a focus on an immersive and enjoyable listening experience.
Which headphone is more comfortable for long listening sessions?
Both headphones are generally comfortable, but the Meze Empyrean often receives slightly higher praise for long-term comfort. Its unique ergonomic ear cup design and plush Alcantara earpads provide a luxurious and secure fit that many find exceptionally comfortable for extended periods, even surpassing the already good comfort of the Focal Clear.
Are Focal Clear or Meze Empyrean better for gaming?
For gaming, both can be excellent due to their open-back nature and wide soundstage, which aids in positional audio. The Focal Clear’s precision might offer an edge in pinpointing subtle in-game sounds. However, the Meze Empyrean’s immersive sound can enhance the overall gaming atmosphere and engagement, making it a strong contender for a more cinematic gaming experience.
Which headphone has better bass response?
The Meze Empyrean is generally considered to have a more impactful and resonant bass response. While the Focal Clear’s bass is tight, accurate, and well-defined, the Empyrean’s bass often feels deeper, warmer, and more natural, adding a satisfying punch to music without becoming overwhelming or muddy. This is partly due to its unique driver technology. (See Also: Samsung Pro Vs Evo 850 )
Which headphone is a better all-rounder for various music genres?
While both are highly capable, the Meze Empyrean might be considered a slightly better all-rounder for a wider range of music genres due to its engaging and forgiving sound signature. Its warmth and musicality make it enjoyable across genres like rock, pop, and electronic music, whereas the Focal Clear truly shines with classical, jazz, and acoustic music where its detail retrieval is paramount.
Final Verdict
The Focal Clear and Meze Empyrean represent the pinnacle of open-back headphone design, each excelling in different areas. The Clear offers unparalleled detail and a neutral, analytical soundstage, perfect for critical listening. The Empyrean, however, provides a more engaging, warmer, and comfortable experience with stunning aesthetics and a musical presentation that captivates. For pure sonic dissection, the Clear is superb; for an immersive, luxurious, and exceptionally musical journey, the Empyrean takes the lead.
Winner: Meze Empyrean