Focal - Clear MG

The Focal Clear MG stands out as an exceptional headphone, delivering both good sound quality and premium build. Featuring an open-back design and full-range 40mm magnesium-coned drivers, the Clear MG provides precise and dynamic audio performance that will satisfy most discerning listeners. With luxurious packaging and a high level of craftsmanship, these headphones offer a truly premium experience from unboxing and looks. 

Build and Comfort

Headband:
The Clear MG boasts a sturdy and aesthetically pleasing design. The headband, while well-crafted and durable, may cause slight discomfort for users sensitive to pressure points on the top of the head. The material is quite stiff, and unlike some other headphones, it cannot be easily replaced. Despite this, the overall build quality is top-notch, with meticulous attention to detail, including the hexagonal metal detailing on the open-backed earcups. This adds a touch of sophistication to the overall look.

Pads:
The ear pads are plush and comfortable, providing a good seal and ensuring that the headphones fit well on both smaller and larger heads. The luxurious feel of the materials contributes to a comfortable listening experience, even during extended sessions. However, due to the open-back design, these headphones do allow for some sound leakage, which might be a concern if you’re in a shared space.

Weight and Clamp Force:
The Focal Clear MG strikes a good balance between weight and comfort. They are not too heavy, and the clamping force is well-distributed, making them suitable for longer listening sessions. However, some users with sensitive scalps might find the headband a bit stiff.

Audio Quality

Treble:
The treble on the Clear MG is detailed and clear, contributing to the headphones’ overall transparency. However, the upper-treble can be a bit fatiguing for younger listeners or those who are still sensitive to frequencies up to 20 kHz. This could lead to some discomfort over extended listening periods without proper EQ adjustment.

Bass:
The sub-bass extension on the Clear MG is quite good, offering punch and texture without overwhelming the rest of the frequency spectrum. The bass is tight and controlled, providing a solid foundation for various genres of music. This bass response is one of the strengths of the Clear MG, ensuring a balanced and detailed sound signature.

Tonality:
The overall tonality of the Clear MG is balanced, with a slight emphasis on clarity and detail. The mids, including vocals, are well-rendered but can feel slightly close, which might not suit everyone’s preference. Despite this, the Clear MG excels in detail retrieval and presents a refined, transparent sound that pairs well with high-quality electronics.

Imaging and Soundstage:
The open-back design of the Clear MG contributes to a spacious and open soundstage. The staging is good, allowing for accurate placement of instruments and vocals within the sound field. However, the timbre could be slightly improved, and some might find the presentation a bit too close for their liking.

Amplification

Power Requirements:
The Clear MG benefits from being paired with high-quality electronics to fully realize its potential. While it can be driven by most amplifiers, using a higher-end setup will enhance its transparency and control, especially in the treble and bass regions.

Price

These can be purchased for around 1.399€~.

Conclusion

The Focal Clear MG is a compelling choice for those seeking a combination of great sound quality, premium build, and luxurious comfort. With its refined detail retrieval, excellent sub-bass extension, and impressive overall performance, it competes with some of the best headphones in its price range. However, potential buyers should consider the slightly fatiguing treble and the potential for discomfort from the headband during extended use.