Focal Clear MG

The Focal Clear Mg are audiophile headphones with a very premium design and a comfortable fit. They’re the next generation of the Focal Clear, and unlike their predecessor, their drivers have M-shaped inverted magnesium domes. These are advertised to improve their damping capacities as well as make them lighter and more rigid.

They have a smooth and warm sound profile that reproduces clear and accurate vocals and lead instruments. However, their treble range is a bit recessed, which veils the upper harmonics of vocals while sibilants are dull. Even though their soundstage doesn’t sound as spacious or wide as other open-back headphones, they can still offer an immersive audio experience suitable for studio use.

Build Quality with M-shaped Magnesium Drivers

Build quality describes the sturdiness of the headphones’ design. The materials used and how well the components are assembled together affect the actual and perceived build quality and durability of each headphone.

Although build quality preference varies from listener to listener, headphones designed with a metal frame in the headband, or with heavy-duty plastic materials, feel sturdier and less prone to breaking, especially if they don’t have too many joints or potential weak points. Build quality for in-ear or earbud designs depends on the shape of the tips and thickness of the cable.

The latest version of the award-winning Clear headphones now features 100% magnesium speaker drivers. Lighter than before, the new drivers deliver a faster, even more precise sound than the original Clear headphones. The M-shaped drivers continue to provide an exceptionally accurate and natural sound. If you want to hear through to the heart of the music, these are the headphones for you.

With a new open-back design, the Clear Mg’s let the sound truly ‘breathe’. Although this lets sound leak outside, it also allows the drivers to move with the least resistance possible – less resistance leads to finer detail, especially at lower volume levels. Being able to spread the sound further also gives these headphones a near holographic soundstage. Close your eyes and you could be there.

High-Quality Sound with Optimum Comfort

The Focal Clear Mg is very good for neutral sound. They have a smooth and warm sound profile with a flat mid-range, well suited for accurately reproducing vocals and lead instruments. However, they lack a bit of low-bass, and their underemphasized treble range veils and darkens sibilants.

While they have consistent bass delivery, their treble delivery can vary depending on fit and seal. Although their soundstage doesn’t sound as wide or spacious as other open-back headphones, it still feels like audio is coming from speakers placed around you, rather than as if coming from inside your head.

The solid aluminum yoke provides strong but lightweight support for the speakers. Combined with the leather and microfibre-covered headband and rotating earpiece adjustment, you get the perfect fit for long-term listening pleasure.

Crafted from microfibre fabric, the earpads combine the perfect function of a luxurious feel against your head with a non-sweat design. Combined with the padded headband, it makes these headphones comfortable to listen to for even extended listening sessions. When not in use, you can store them away in their luxurious carrying case.

Last Thoughts about Focal Clear Mg

Focal has done a terrific job with the Clear Mg. They’re talented performers that stay comfortable over extended listening sessions. When you factor in excellent build and finish, they’re right up there with the best at their price.Highly recommended.

Focal Clear Mg’s Specification

• Impedance 35 Ohms
• Sensitivity 105dB SPL / 1 mW @ 1 kHz
• THD 0,1 % @ 1 kHz / 100 dB SPL
• Frequency response 5Hz – 23kHz
• Speaker driver 15/8″ (40mm) Aluminium/Magnesium ‘M’-shaped dome
• Weight 0.95lb (430g)
• Cables supplied • 1 x 4 ft. (1.2m) OFC 24 AWG cable with 1/8″ (3.5mm) unbalanced TRS Jack connector • 1 x Jack adapter, 1/8″ (3.5mm) point socket 1/4″ (6.35mm) point plug
• Semi-aniline leather earpads
• Leather and microfibre headband