In 2024, the Focal Clear vs Clear MG argument will dominate the high-end headphone market as astute listeners try to distinguish the subtle differences between these flagship models.Focal is a brand that is well-known for its outstanding quality and innovation in high-end headphones. The Focal Clear and the Focal Clear MG are two models in its outstanding lineup that have attracted a lot of interest from both audiophiles and casual listeners.
This comparison study carefully looks at the unique features and improvements of the Focal Clear and Clear MG headphones, including information about their overall performance, comfort, sound quality, and design. Knowing the distinctions between the Focal Clear and Clear MG is crucial for enthusiasts looking to make an informed decision in their quest for better sound experiences as technology pushes the limits of audio quality.
This article provides a detailed comparison of these two models “focal clear vs clear mg” and highlights the recent updates that make them unique in the market.
Design and Build Quality
Focal Clear:
The Focal Clear headphones are known for their elegant design and robust build quality. They feature an aluminum yoke, leather headband, and memory foam ear pads covered in microfiber. This combination ensures durability and comfort during extended listening sessions. The headphones also come with a hard carrying case, making them portable and easy to protect.
Focal Clear MG:
The Clear MG builds upon the solid foundation of the original Clear with some notable improvements. One of the most significant changes is the use of magnesium in the driver diaphragm, hence the “MG” in the name. This material is lighter and more rigid, contributing to improved sound quality. The design remains luxurious with a honeycomb pattern on the ear cups, adding a modern touch. The headband and ear pads are covered in perforated microfiber and leather, providing a premium feel.
Sound Quality
Focal Clear:
The Focal Clear headphones are celebrated for their neutral and transparent sound signature. They deliver excellent clarity and detail across all frequencies, making them suitable for various music genres. The bass is tight and controlled, the mids are rich and natural, and the highs are crisp without being harsh. The open-back design contributes to a wide and immersive soundstage, enhancing the overall listening experience.
Focal Clear MG:
The Clear MG takes sound quality to another level with the introduction of magnesium drivers. These drivers offer faster response times and reduced distortion, resulting in even greater clarity and precision. The soundstage is more expansive, providing a more lifelike and engaging experience. The bass is slightly more pronounced and punchy, while the mids and highs maintain their natural and detailed characteristics. The overall sound signature remains balanced, making the Clear MG a versatile choice for audiophiles.
Comfort and Fit
Focal Clear:
Comfort is a crucial factor for high-end headphones, and the Focal Clear does not disappoint. The headphones are lightweight and well-padded, ensuring a comfortable fit for long listening sessions. The clamping force is just right, providing a secure fit without causing discomfort.
Focal Clear MG:
The Clear MG retains the comfort features of the original Clear while making slight improvements. The ear pads are now made with perforated microfiber, which enhances breathability and reduces heat buildup. This makes the Clear MG even more comfortable for prolonged use.
Accessories
Focal Clear:
The Focal Clear comes with a range of accessories, including three detachable cables (balanced, unbalanced, and a portable option) and a sturdy carrying case. This makes the headphones versatile and convenient for different listening environments.
Focal Clear MG:
The Clear MG also includes multiple cables and a premium carrying case. The quality and selection of accessories are on par with the original Clear, ensuring that users have everything they need for a high-quality listening experience.
Price and Value
Focal Clear:
As of the latest updates, the Focal Clear is priced at a premium, reflecting its high-quality design and performance. It offers excellent value for audiophiles looking for a top-tier listening experience.
Focal Clear MG:
The Clear MG is slightly more expensive than the original Clear, justified by the advancements in driver technology and improved sound quality. For those seeking the best possible performance from their headphones, the Clear MG represents a worthwhile investment.
Comparison Table: Focal Clear vs. Clear MG
| Feature | Focal Clear | Focal Clear MG |
| Driver Material | Aluminum-Magnesium Alloy | Pure Magnesium |
| Sound Signature | Neutral, Transparent | Balanced, Slightly More Pronounced Bass |
| Design | Aluminum Yoke, Leather Headband | Magnesium Driver, Honeycomb Ear Cups |
| Ear Pads | Memory Foam with Microfiber | Perforated Microfiber and Leather |
| Comfort | Lightweight, Well-Padded | Enhanced Breathability and Comfort |
| Soundstage | Wide and Immersive | More Expansive and Lifelike |
| Accessories | 3 Detachable Cables, Carrying Case | Multiple Cables, Premium Carrying Case |
| Price | Premium Pricing | Slightly More Expensive |
| Recent Updates | N/A | Optimized Voice Coil Design, New Color |
| Value | Excellent for Neutral Sound Lovers | Worthwhile Investment for Best Performance |
Focal Clear vs Focal Clear MG: Frequency Response Breakdown
Focal Clear and focal Clear MG headphones are both known for their excellent sound quality, but they cater to slightly different preferences. Here’s a breakdown of their frequency response to help you understand the sonic differences:
Focal Clear:
- Bass: The Clear boasts a well-balanced bass response with a slight emphasis on the low-mids, adding warmth and richness to instruments like bass guitars and cellos.
- Mids: The mids are considered the Clear’s strongest point. They are clear, detailed, and present vocals and instruments with exceptional accuracy.
- Treble: The treble is smooth and balanced, extending well without becoming harsh or sibilant. This ensures crisp cymbals and detailed high notes without listener fatigue.
Focal Clear MG:
- Bass: The Clear MG’s bass is slightly more extended than the Clear, offering a fuller and more impactful low-end experience. However, it remains controlled and doesn’t overpower other frequencies.
- Mids: The mids on the Clear MG are slightly less forward compared to the Clear. This can result in a more relaxed and laid-back presentation, especially for vocals.
- Treble: The treble on the Clear MG is generally considered smoother and airier than the Clear. This can enhance the sense of spaciousness and detail in high-frequency instruments.
Why You Should Buy Focal Clear?
The Focal Clear is an excellent choice for audiophiles seeking a neutral and transparent sound signature, offering exceptional clarity and detail across all frequencies. Its lightweight design, combined with memory foam ear pads covered in microfiber, ensures long-lasting comfort for extended listening sessions. The robust build quality, featuring an aluminum yoke and leather headband, provides durability and a premium feel. Additionally, the open-back design delivers a wide and immersive soundstage, enhancing the overall audio experience. The package includes versatile accessories such as multiple detachable cables and a sturdy carrying case, making it suitable for various listening environments.
Why You Should Not Buy Focal Clear?
While the Focal Clear offers many high-end features, its premium price may not be justifiable for casual listeners or those on a budget. The neutral sound signature, while accurate, might lack the punchy bass that some listeners prefer. The open-back design, though excellent for soundstage, results in significant sound leakage, making it unsuitable for noisy environments or public use. Additionally, the headphones are slightly heavier compared to some competitors, which might affect comfort for certain users. Lastly, the Focal Clear has not seen recent updates, meaning it misses out on the latest advancements found in newer models like the Clear MG.
Why You Should Buy Focal Clear MG?
The Focal Clear MG stands out with its magnesium drivers, offering enhanced sound quality with greater clarity, precision, and a more expansive soundstage. The modern design, featuring a stylish honeycomb pattern and premium materials, adds a contemporary touch. Comfort improvements, such as perforated microfiber ear pads, enhance breathability and reduce heat buildup during extended use. Recent updates, including an optimized voice coil design and a new color variant, add extra value to the headphones. The package includes multiple cables and a premium carrying case, ensuring versatility and convenience for various listening needs.
Why You Should Not Buy Focal Clear MG?
Despite its impressive features, the Focal Clear MG is more expensive than the original Clear, which may not fit all budgets. The slightly more pronounced bass, while appealing to some, may not be ideal for purists who prefer a completely neutral sound signature. Similar to the Clear, the open-back design results in sound leakage, making it unsuitable for noisy environments or public use. The newer model may have limited availability compared to the well-established Clear. Additionally, although improvements have been made, the Clear MG is still relatively heavy compared to some other high-end headphones, which might affect long-term comfort for some users.
Recent Updates and Unique Features of Focal Clear and Clear MG:
An improved voice coil design, part of a recent update to the Focal Clear MG model, improves sound reproduction accuracy and efficiency overall. The audiophile community has embraced this upgrade because it offers a discernible boost in audio quality.
Furthermore, Focal has unveiled a chic Chestnut and Mixed-Metal finish on a new color edition of the Clear MG. This style update distinguishes it from other models on the market and adds a hint of refinement.
Conclusion
Both the Focal Clear and the Clear MG are exceptional headphones that deliver outstanding sound quality, comfort, and build. The Clear MG, with its magnesium drivers and recent updates, offers a slight edge in performance and modern features. However, the original Clear remains a solid choice for those who value neutrality and transparency in their audio. Ultimately, the decision between the Focal Clear vs Clear MG comes down to personal preference and budget. Both models exemplify Focal’s commitment to excellence, ensuring that listeners enjoy a truly immersive and high-fidelity audio experience.
FAQS Of Focal Clear vs Clear MG:
Q. Are focal clear mg easy to drive?
A. Yes, the Focal Clear MG are relatively easy to drive, with an impedance of 55 ohms and a sensitivity of 104 dB. They can be powered adequately by most high-quality portable devices and desktop headphone amplifiers.
Q. Do Focal Clear headphones require burn-in?
A. No, Focal Clear headphones do not require burn-in. They are designed to deliver their full sound quality right out of the box.
Q. Are Focal Clear headphones suitable for studio use?
A. Yes, Focal Clear headphones are suitable for studio use due to their neutral and transparent sound signature, which provides accurate monitoring.
Q. How is the comfort level of Focal Clear headphones?
A. Focal Clear headphones are known for their comfort, featuring memory foam ear pads and a well-padded headband designed for long listening sessions.
Q. What accessories come with the Focal Clear headphones?
A. The Focal Clear headphones come with three detachable cables (balanced, unbalanced, and a portable option) and a sturdy carrying case.
Q. What is the difference between Focal Clear and Clear MG headphones?
A. The Clear MG headphones feature magnesium drivers for improved sound quality and come with design enhancements like perforated microfiber ear pads.