Focal Sopra 2 vs Kanta 2. What does money buy you in HI-FI? (Day 1)

[@jeffkalina7727]

This is why you are my new go-to Audio reviewer. You explain terms and the relevance as it relates to components better than any of the other folks trying to do this. Go Thomas!

[@yvesboutin5604]

That's the most brilliant explanation why an high-end system only works if all the components are in sinergy, espescially amp and speakers. Thank you very much!

[@dougjoha]

"Its all there it's just a question of how much effort you have to put in"....SPOT ON!!! ive been wondering this myself over the last 25+ years and you hit the nail on the head describing the difference between a mass market/mid fi system to a higher end setup. It's all in the details.

[@DHayut]

Excellent review!!! The way this review is structured should be modeled everywhere and it is exemplary and more important extremely helpful. I own the focal kanta 2 and couldn't agree more with Thomas conclusions. Thomas, I think this video is your best yet and I've watched many. Keep it up!

[@shemaya4979]

I am planning to by kenta 2. Can you please tell me the amp and the dac you got. Also are you using a mono blocks? Please let me know. Thanks !!

[@DHayut]

primaluna evo400 pre Amp, luxman m900 Amp, chord qutest dac

[@gwapster13]

I like your review format. Inserting the actual test tracks relevant to the aspect of sound that you are talking about is something all other reviewers should be doing. Kudos.

[@Maxime-ho9iv]

Focal speakers are so underrated on Internet, I’m happy we have such an ambassador for them. (don’t make the mistake to listen to your Sopra with an Accuphase pure Class A amp, your bank account will not thank you).

[@philipgardiner2003]

Maxime I don’t understand why this wouldn’t work.

[@RennieAsh]

@@philipgardiner2003 He means it works so well, that he had to buy the Accuphase = $$$ i.e. your bank account will not thank you

[@wadimek116]

Nothing is underated on the market. People vote with their wallets and focal is not universally best brand. For me its pretty averange, had their aria line but quickly upgraded to sonus faber because of their incredible mids and highs details.

[@Maxime-ho9iv]

@@wadimek116 I mean, it has been better recently, we hear more and more about Focal. They deserve it. They do very well on their headphones lineup too also. I never said Focal was universally the best, but they are definitely with the best. But « average »? Don’t make a fool of yourself. Nobody would call Focal average. The Aria are very nice for their price, but at the end of day you get what you pay for. Same for Sonus Faber. You won’t get high-end sound with a pair of Lumina. Coming back to Focal, their beryllium tweeters are universally acclaimed and the fact that you can get them on the Kanta line for way less than 10k is crazy. I got the Sopra 3, which are like mini Utopia and I can’t be happier.

[@wadimek116]

@@Maxime-ho9iv I still call focal average. I would even consider choosing their products for msrp. The only reason I owned focal clear and aria 906 is because I only paid half for it. There are many better companies than sonus faber to but Im buying sonus faber as best compromise between cabinet quality and sound quality. Focal clear is only focal product I heard that I would recommend on msrp price

[@larrybscott8145]

Not only are you very knowledgeable in hi-fi equipment you are a good man God bless you and your family I don’t know if I’ll ever get to the point that I can afford $10,000 speakers but I’m trying to get there

[@BadMonkeyFinger_Audio]

You are absolutely correct in your statement about higher end gear being much more difficult to get right than lower end stuff. One might think their stereo is broken while trying to get a good setup/synergistic equipment combo/proper positioning, until they get it JUUUSST right. Then all of a sudden - bam! - it all comes together!

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Yup, when it all matches, magic.

[@HumanAction1]

The quality of your videos have significantly jumped. I've always enjoyed your content but I guess I started noticing when you finished your room that you come across with way more confidence and more focus, but still maintaining your personable, down to earth overall presentation. The way you're filming has also taken a huge leap forward and again, looking more sleek and focused, still manages to stay down to earth and engaging. Keep up the great work Thomas!

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Thanks for the comment. I was trying to to improve my presentation but was wondering if it made any difference. I know I should improve the audio by using my better mics too since I have those also.

[@HumanAction1]

@@ThomasAndStereo there's always room for improvements in all aspects of life, but I'm just glad you're able make them and still maintain the core of what makes your channel so unique and engaging -- the reason why I keep watching the videos : the equipment and gear keeps changing, but Thomas can be relied on to stay himself. That's why I watch, as I'm sure a lot of other people do.

[@norbertpolhossy6708]

Yessss. Finally somebody compared them. This was a really useful video. Thanks a lot for it. Stay safe! :)

[@howardskeivys4184]

I don’t claim to be any type of expert, but, I have spent a lot of time, energy, money and experimentation over the last 35 years, building a sound system which reproduces music the way I like to hear it. You talk about one set of speakers producing too much bass energy for your room size of 300 square feet. That figure doesn’t mean a lot, cubic feet is a more accurate measurement, because with room acoustics you must allow for the height of the ceiling. Anyway, your room sounds a very similar size to mine. My solution, is a pair of speakers with an airy clean top end, a smooth, full bodied mid, a fast, tight, accurate and punchy low frequency not worrying too much about how low they go. Then, you add a pair of good musical active subs. This puts you in total control of the amount of bass energy in your room. It also means that you can get away with a smaller amp, as it will not have to meet the demands of a more bass heavy pair of speakers.

[@gerard3797]

I have similar experience. A lot of consumers buying too large speakers with too little control over the bass.

[@SirMountainpass]

Exactly my approach! My room is not big enough to do the Sopra 2 justice. Happy with my decision a few years ago to combine the 1008 BE2 with an active Sopra 1000 SW which I can fully adjust to my requirements 😉

[@thecaptain2000]

Heard the sopra 2 and 3 with a primaluna dialogue premium HP and they were absolutely singing.

[@TheNaboen]

You're a good soul, Thomas. And a true enthusiast.

[@jeromejax8675]

Thank you Thomas for the long awaited review of the two Focals: the Kanta 2 and Sopra 2. And yes it is your fault that I have the Kanta's now but with No regrets. 😉😉 You mentioned your room dimensions as to why you feel the Sopra 2 produces too much bass and the Kanta 3 would be a better fit than Kanta 2? But the Kanta 3's have 8" woofers wouldnt that be too much too? My music room is 20x16x8 opening up to the kitchen which is another 23x20.. The Kanta 2's give me everything I want. And.....from your sound Demo, the Kanta 2's have more clear detailed sound quality in the mids and hi's than the Sopra 2 with enough bass I can live with. Thanks again for your videos keep them coming, MR. Kanta from NY. 😁

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Yeah, I remember you got the Kanta 2 a while ago. I would guess even if they have 8 inch woofers the Kanta 3, the nature of the flax cone compared to the regular Focal woofers is that they produce less visceral bass. So they go for speed instead of weight. Yes, it's normal in the sound demo the Kanta 2 sounds more clear as I mentioned, the midrange has more texture and when there is 'less bass', the top end shines more.

[@Gerryinthewoods]

Good info and questions. I was thinking the same. Thanks Jerome.

[@slidetek]

I just got some Kanta 2's a few weeks ago after I _was_ buying some Electra 1028be's for my new place. I have them in a "great room" that's approx 30 x 20 (fam + kitch) that extends further as it opens to other rooms, staircase, entry etc. with a 20' ceiling. Hardwood over slab floors (a first for me). I'd originally planned to set up the 2 channel in the living room, which is 12x16ish, opens into entry and dining so 60% larger. But I felt it was the more easily tamed room of the 2 as far as acoustic treatments. Honestly, I can't imagine a larger speaker. The bass is ridiculous, almost shocking at times. But never in-your-face. Just sudden "holy $%@&!" I'm so glad I didn't set up in the living, because they'd be way too much. I really wanted the W drivers originally, feeling the flax was a step down to move to mass production. I've totally changed my mind.

[@jeromejax8675]

@@slidetek I too was in the same boat. I thought to myself also the Kanta's should have had the W cone with the 7 in woofers. But to my surprise, the Kanta's have some Thump to them with the 6.5" Flax cone also dependent on the song played. I think once I get the sub(s) I want, it will be game over. Note, the electronics you pair them with also matters. I would also try the Gaia II IsoAcoustics treatments for the feet of your Kanta's too. Believe me they make a Big difference in Bass output and SQ of your speakers. You will be very happy. Happy Listening! 😊

[@Gerryinthewoods]

@Jerome Jax I was all pumped up for the Kanta 2 -same as your beauties...until I see that you’ll be adding a sub. Makes me wonder if I now need a Kanta 3 or Sopra in my 20x20x10 room. I definitely want some low end, but it can be punchy and fast and doesn’t need to shake my walls. Love your setup.

[@AN-ce1nd]

I run mine with a modified 555II with OnSemi transistors. They sound fantastic. But they are exclusively used with my Marantz SR7008 AV RX. I sold my Focal 1028 Be’s and traded for the Sopra 2’s. Honestly, kind of spent several thousands more and it’s not a drastic difference. Live and learn. I’ve also powered them with my VTL-IT85 at 60 watts per channel.

[@CaBdosdos]

So if you went. Acknowledge in time you wouldn't have bought your Sopra?

[@hi-fihaven2257]

Congrats on 30k subscribers, You deserve them all! Thomas great video, awesome work on the commentary. I just received a pair of Emotiva Airmotiv speakers from a giveaway. Have them hooked up to my Parasound Halo P3, and A23. What awesome speakers! Easy to drive, great detail, and clarity. I am rediscovering my music collection, and am really enjoying doing that. Thank you for all that you do, have a great day man!

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Thanks. I am so glad you got the Airmotiv. I am supposed to receive a pair to review too. Can't wait to try them. Thanks for commenting.

[@Audiofreak71]

Thomas your doing a great job and you are one of the few KZbin’ers that has respect for others therefore I have great respect for you . Keep up the great work you’ll be at 100k subs In no time . Excellent review as usual 👍

[@hi-fihaven2257]

Well said Lance!

[@ThomasAndStereo]

I appreciate that

[@keithbertschin1213]

You deserve the followers because you speak with knowledge and honesty and that goes a long way.

[@coleh3711]

Finally the Sopra/Kanta comparison!!! Also love the sound clips, they definitely emphasize your point.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Yeah, I find sound clip fun to include.

[@IKnewMickey]

That grand piano sounds amazing thru my iPad. It sounds even better thru my old well used Technics Mash CD player ($20) Yamaha amp ($1000) Sony sub ($400) and used B&W speakers ($2k) I would never spend more on speakers than I spent on my New Camry but that's just me. Congrats on nearing 30k subs. Great channel Thomas!

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Sounds like you have a nice system there.

[@RennieAsh]

Then again if you didn't buy a new Camry you could buy the speakers instead :)

[@myadventures8]

The fast bass, you are describing, is very similar to how damping factor works. An amplifier damping factor with heavy gauge speaker wires, handles that. The different types of speakers with amplifier combinations changes those numbers. Resulting in fast or slow sounding bass.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Yes, I noticed that we different amps, it makes a big difference. In fact, it will be something I mention in my Q acoustic 3050i video in 2 days.

[@Maxime-ho9iv]

Yes, damping factor is the absolute key spec to look for in an amp.

[@gerritfridericksohn4627]

Wow! Maybe best video yet. I liked the quiet voice. That background looked really good, too. And you had a rabbit and told a story!

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Glad you enjoyed it. That is a wild rabbit! I live in the suburbs so sometimes animals come in my backyard.

[@joekool79]

You do great detail in determining best speakers!

[@alexvanschaik4753]

Hi Thomas, I really love your reviews, they are very informative and helpful when looking for a new set of speakers. This week I sat with a dealer listening to the Focal Kanta 2 speakers. I let him play a few songs, amongst others Fast Car by Tracy Chapman and A Real Mother For Ya by Johnny Guitar Watson. I felt, hmmm, these speakers should sound better. Then the dealer put on Bob Dylan's Man In The Long Black Coat ... and I was stunned. I couldn't believe what I was hearing. The quality of the speakers was immense. Big base, big super broad soundstage, clear mid and high, all was excellent. And then it hit me: great speakers need great recordings to shine. If the recording is mediocre, then that is what the Kanta's will show you. That was my key takeaway that afternoon.

[@arvinawotar4252]

The Sopra 2 sound extremely clean, detailed, precise and you don't hear the box, you just hear the music. The Kanta 2 is muddy all through the mid/lows/highs, has a lot of boxy resonnances and you clearly can hear the box coloration. As someone who use Focal studio monitors SM9, it was very hard to like the Kanta 2, I don't know how they charge this price for something so muddy.

[@biscotti63]

Thanks for a great review, Thomas. I think you bought these at a good time. MSRP on the Focal Sopra 2 is now $23,990.00 CDN.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

I know Focal raised the price but that is insane!

[@gerritfridericksohn4627]

I wonder if some companies will not survive current economic situation. Some of these companies just have to be hurting.

[@liocean8828]

@@ThomasAndStereo why said that?

[@mathieumeyer4869]

I just discovered your channel and it’s been a long time since I wasn’t this astonished. Thank you Sir.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Welcome!

[@Mike82ARP]

I totally get what you're experiencing. My experience with a ultra revealing tweeter was hearing an Accuton ceramic tweeter. Comparing to a good, but not great soft dome the cymbals sound shimmered rather than sizzled. Clearly, the ceramic tweeter handled it better. Same goes with Emmylou Harris, whose voice can come across as harsh with e lesser driver, but sublime with the better tweeter.

[@m.9243]

JM Labs / Focal have a long tradition of speakers with superb detail, thanks to the very high quality twitters they use, either Titanium or Beryllium. One of my pairs of speakers is the *JM Labs "Electra 926* with the titanium twitters. When it comes to Jazz or Classical Music these excell well above speakers that cost much more....and they are no less than 10 years old!.. PS: Sorry to hear about the loss of a family member.. We live in uncertain times indeed!

[@2savetherepublic]

Sir Thomas, you are a refreshing soul.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Wow, thank you

[@TheLarry8888]

I'm still loving my focal 948 aria

[@quattr03]

you're lucky bast* I'm enjoying 926 here ;-)

[@osandawijeratne5455]

@@quattr03 926 is a well rounded speaker very easy to live with. I find the 948 have to be listened to loud or you won't get the bass out of them. Enjoy.

[@jeffgrummons2954]

Great comparison and description of the differences. Did you ever get your hands on a Kanta 3 to see if it truly was the sweet spot between the Kanta 2 and the Sopra 2?

[@chris-ti7pb]

I’m a proud owner of the Kanta 2, but I’m shocked by the difference to the Sopra’s. Those are awesome, could easily hear that through this ugly iPad of mine.. Now I have a new goal in hifi-life.

[@CanadianPonchman]

Been waiting for this one. Thank you Thomas 🙏🏾. Just about to get one of them for my home theatre build

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Yeah, it will shake your house man.

[@CanadianPonchman]

@@ThomasAndStereo I'm excited. So I'm leaning on the sopra because I experienced the b&w lower to high-end difference. Now next thing was what you mentioned was gear to drive the sopras. I'll do research on what focal suggested and I'll keep you posted

[@CanadianPonchman]

@@ThomasAndStereo hello Thomas .I just wanted to let you know because of you have now bought the focal sopra 2 and I don't regret anything. I'm getting rid of my b&w 805s or I'll put in a different room. This is the exact detail I wanted without going into the utopia $$$ range. I really love. I'm only running it with an integrated marantz 8012 for my home theater and music. So now I'll be upgrading the gear slowly. But it still sounds amazing with this marantz Amp. Thanks for the advice. Ps I left Vancouver went to toronto on a business trip and tested And heard lots from B&w 800s Sonus faber Olympics and sonetto Focal kanta and sopra and utopia This was the best 🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾

[@feelgeorge]

I have being waiting for this video to drop for days

[@pharoahamunra]

Thomas good video.good to see you seem healthy.we are all going through crazy times right now.thanks for an entertaining video.gives us folks stuck at home.something to do other than boredom.

[@skipgordon5382]

I know this post was long ago but I wanted to pass on a message. You have owned and spoken highly of Focal for a long time. I just traded my Turnberry GR's for Sopra 2's and the early experience is great. I look forward to getting to know the Focal signature better. What I am hearing at this stage is just more. The Tannoy had a strong mid range presence but not the overall dynamics and full sound stage as I have now. Thanks for the valuable information you share with us. I'm running PrimaLuna EVO 400 pre and monoblocks with twin REL S5 SHO subs so there is a lot to work with. I'm not finding any issue managing the bass either. I have a fair amount of room treatments (absorption & diffusion) so so far all is good. My room is 13 x 21 x 9.5 so this helps.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Nice, congrats on your purchase!

[@gkbbao]

I just had audition of Sopra 3/ Diablo 300/ emmlabs dv2+ns1/ synergistic foundation cable. So basically the feeling is like to listen to a show, rather just the music. The sound is so real and made kinda picture in front of you. You do feel the resistance of the string, and the move of the artists hand. Next audition is Scala with Vitus SIA 030. See if they can make another step up.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Cool, just as I mentioned in my concept 500 video where you feel like you are at a show. kzbin.info/www/bejne/hmfIoaaiiLd-j6c

[@hushpuppykl]

Yeah Thomas ... you used the right term, effortless. I love how you explain things 😬👍👍

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Thanks, I try I try.

[@RLBGM1]

Hello Thomas you are becoming one of my favorite stereo reviewers

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Happy to hear that!

[@AN-ce1nd]

The Electra Be line which I have in two model lines is absolutely the best speaker I have ever had. Sopra to me is the replacement of the Electra line.

[@shemaya4979]

Hey Thomas , What is that two subs next to kanta2 's? What is that model ?

[@kohnfutner9637]

I'm loving these demo cuts, Thomas.

[@donjohnson3701]

Sometimes after watching equipment reviews I get the bug to lust after a new speaker or amp, but, I just remember Thomas saying “good enough”! Yes, good enough, reminds me that there is always something classier or edgier but what I have is good enough for me. So, I go back to listening to my vintage Heresy’s and Marantz 2275. But, those Focals still look good.

[@tee-jaythestereo-bargainph2120]

Thanks Thomas ! The drum demo sounding great on my HPM-100 4way supertweeter 12inch carbon fiber drivers ! I be honest they give the Lsim 703 a serious run for the money depending on amp of course 😆 I can't get over These speakers 775.00US in 1978 and they still rock-out but 150 pounds isn't easy putting on 20 inch end tables lol Yeah this year soon as I get back to work I will get me a refference speaker , Student loans are Payed off !! 😆 😆 😆 Thanks Thomas its awesone what your doing to help those in need , theirs not a better feeling !

[@ThomasAndStereo]

$775 in 1978 is probably $2k in today's money! Yeah, lots of nice speakers you can pick up on the vintage market. Thanks for dropping by.

[@tee-jaythestereo-bargainph2120]

@@ThomasAndStereo Those new speakers look nice ! Thomas i have never owned or heard a beryllium tweeter ! I bet they do sound amazing !

[@budgetaudiophilelife-long5461]

Watching your videos again with my new system and enjoying it😍😍😍 With the wow factor😉. With Out Wife 😂. ENJOYING EVERY MINUTE No one saying turn it down neighbors don’t wanna hear it😂😂

[@kohnfutner9637]

That bass drum test at 9:12 on my Klipsch 280f was intensely masterful. My walls shook with thunderous pounding low bass

[@Velvet_Torpedo]

Another enjoyable video Thomas Was hoping you were gonna do a sound demo between the two. Glad you did. Took me about 3 notes to know that personally I perfer the Sopra 2's. I'm personally willing to give up that extra bit of detail for that extra bit of musicality. The overall sound signature of the Sopra was more to my liking. Shame that you feel their are too boomy for your room, but I know exactly what you mean.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Yeah, maybe if I can get better electronics, it will solve the problem.

[@jansimon1597]

This was à News YT-clip that I’ve not seen from you. Thanks. I use Focal 826w, and I have felt that the top was to hasch. I’ve tried a lot of position change, cables, amplifiers and so on, but the top end to hasch. Then tried to mount some Leather around the tweeter, and boom…. The haschness was gone. Some reflexion/timereflexion I guess. Now I need some time to reaudio my ears 😁 The amplifier by the is Rotel Michigan RHB-10. Thanks for your work.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Thanks for sharing!

[@riceman78]

What an awesome video. Great comparison I also love Focal and have 1028. I would love Sopra 2 but dont have the room or the $$$$ either.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Thanks for the feedback.

[@scarecrow66ab]

I love my legacy signature se. A great speaker for around 7000.00.

[@Cooliewhistles]

scare ive heard great things about legacy signature and the next line up (focus se?)

[@mrkymrk99]

Thank you Thomas! Liked and sub’ed! Now I want to buy the User Audio demo CDs, do you know if they are available in the US?

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Sadly I can't find it myself and it was given to me.

[@CriPPleR_HD]

My journey ended with Focal 1027be and McIntosh gear. Have not felt like I am missing anything to chase. Ignorance is bliss! 😁

[@manbir-vy1vo]

Great one. Love to see ur videos and there is alot to learn out from these videos. Keep going on Thomas. One more question to ask, can you reveiw the KEF BLADE ONE, if you get chance. It will be good to see ur videos in future. Stay safe GBU

[@RigVader]

Great initiative Thomas! ❤️

[@tonys973]

Just received my pair of Kanta 2’s and they’re a fabulous speaker. I can not see parting with them.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Congrats Tony!

[@tonys973]

Thomas & Stereo , thanks I had auditioned them before Covid at my local High End audio store and then put it on the back burner. Then I saw your couple of videos on these speakers and it relit that fire. A store in the US has an offer on a pair for $5600.00 US delivered so I had to jump on it. No regrets at all. Still working through the break in period.

[@garykulhanek701]

@@tonys973 Might I ask where you purchased the Kanta's?

[@tonys973]

Gary Kulhanek , it was at TMR out of Colorado. It was a discounted price on one specific color of the Kanta 2. I believe that they sold out of them shortly after I bought my pair.

[@garykulhanek701]

@@tonys973 😭 thx. Thats an awesome deal

[@sergeykichuk2586]

Thanks for the video! Sopra 2 now cost 20k per pair

[@scottyo64]

Love this take! I had dreamed of the Sopras one day but they are out of my buget. I have BIG muddy as you say bass in my RF7 IIs then quick bass with my LRSs paired with a REL 5i. I have been pretty happy while being locked down moving speakers from system to system. Its been fun trying different set ups.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Thanks, glad you enjoyed it. Never heard the RF7 II, was supposed to get the RF7 III for review , I should follow up with them actually.

[@scottyo64]

@@ThomasAndStereo I tell people that if you like fine wine you won't like RF7's of any series. I also like beer so they fit my lifestyle!

[@kevinl6231]

Thomas, what’s that song at around 11:49? Thanks! Edit: I have the Anthem STR power amp 400 per side. Do you think that would be enough for the Sopra 2? Last thing: I totally understand what you are saying about detail. On my current setup, I’m playing Abba - The Winner Takes it All; she’s singing a sustained note and I can hear her run out of air. 🤣 Best!

[@christianocean8998]

Very good video !!! I was looking for this comparison between the two ! Good job :)

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Glad you liked it!

[@christianocean8998]

@@ThomasAndStereo Thomas what do you think about Musical Fidelity M6si? Is it a good amp for Focal Kanta NO2? Thank you

[@ThomasAndStereo]

@@christianocean8998 It all depends if the top end of the M6Si is bright or not. The Kanta 2 are super easy to drive so most amp will be fine but when you play with Focal, it is always the top end extension that you have to be careful of.

[@christianocean8998]

@@ThomasAndStereo Thank you. I go it !

[@MrBonger88]

I like that the Sopra is front ported. Makes placement So much easier.

[@sergeysmelnik]

Porting direction has no affect on placement as per Genelec.

[@MrBonger88]

Sergey Melnik Tell that to REW in my room. I have to have speakers very close to both front corners. Every rear ported speaker I’ve tried in my room turns into a boom box in the corners. Maybe in an ideal situation there is no difference

[@sergeysmelnik]

@@MrBonger88 unless you have the same exact speaker built twice with on having ports one way and the other having ports the other way. You can't use two different speakers as an example.

[@MrBonger88]

Sergey Melnik obviously. All I’m saying is is that of the dozens of speakers I’ve had in the past , I’ve had less problems with placement of front ported (and sealed) models

[@NateEll]

Several yrs back k listened to the Sopra 1, Sopra 2 and Revel Studio 2. Just didn’t like the Sopra 2, but I liked the 1’s. I went with the Studio 2’s. Then more recently I heard the Kanta 2- excellent! If I were buying speakers today the Kanta 2 would be awfully tempting

[@hassannasir90]

Why not the Sopra 2 in comparison to Kanta 2?

[@NateEll]

@@hassannasir90 I was not thrilled with the Sopra 2’s tonal balance

[@revelationsoundstudio]

I have the Aria 926 and a Focal sub. They have a smooth sound and sound great. Seriously though most of us can't afford or even want to spend 10k for speakers. I have the beryllium tweeters in my Focal Twins in my recording studio. I like them better but the Aria are still great.

[@revelationsoundstudio]

The Aria 926 opened up after playing them for a while. As the bass has a more solid solid that I decided to remove the Focal sub and put it back in my recording studio with the Focal Twins. I use the sub just for playback and not mixing. as for mixing the Twins are great. But when you playback music and you want to feel it more, the sub helps. Oh my home stereo NAD preamp, I put the bass on +1 on the EQ just to add a little more bass. Its perfect.

[@anthonyhopkin]

Hi Thomas. Thanks for another Great review. You seem to have a - possibly unique - way of accurately describing the stuff we dream about and long for. Here's to 100k... and beyond ;¬D} Greetings from the Channel Islands

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Glad it was helpful!

[@planchernewfinish]

Great video , touching, all my condolences to the familly.

[@antunkatona5674]

This is very commendable. Well done!

[@adeelcyril3339]

I’ve just set up my Kef Ref 3, Kef Ref 1 and kef ref center 2c. Of course I blamed you Thomas. Ha ha... just kidding. Loved this video as well as all the others....congrats on nearly 30k subs...well deserved.

[@ricknaish4072]

I just auditioned the Sopra no2 and loved them and have ordered a pair. I could use an opinion from the community on what to drive them with. Which would be the better pairing for the Sopra's, the McIntosh MA352 or the Hegel H390? Or is there something else in that price range to consider (Naim?) The music source will be mostly HiRes streaming, content will be mostly rock and some acoustic music.

[@DHayut]

Luxman 509x

[@nc3419]

Something special about those W drivers. In spite of the AlMg (non Poron) tweeter, my hearing cuts off after 13K Hz and while it can be a bit hot depending on recording, I generally like its' detail, texture, resolution and airiness knowing there is better at a higher price, much higher most likely. My 807W is a big standmount and I've tried to find a smaller replacement that sounds close or at least gives me that emotional high/foot tapping, etc when listening. Tried many under a grand. Considered Triangle Borea 2/3 given the reviews, Monitor Audio Silver 100s on sale now (these might demand more power), even the Golden Ear BRX among others. The synergy of the 807W with its' sensitivity along with a low powered Keces E40 is near perfect for me which makes finding a smaller replacement all the more difficult. Probably the best budget choice are the Borea series. I also found that better resolution such as the Quad S2s I tried lacked the life I was looking for with music, it was good with soundtracks/movies because of the detail but missing alot of what I like for music. The Focal 807W series are really a general, all purpose speaker that's hard to outright beat, let alone match, among many speakers particularly if a more forward sounding speaker is your thing. It's no Harbeth but then again, it can do a few things maybe a Harbeth would struggle with. I also have a Triangle Plasir Zeta (like the Color series) which sound great for their price and being a budget design. I think the fit and finish is a bit better than the Borea series and it has a generally smooth sounding titanium tweeter (which can still show some glare with sibilant passages). If the Borea are a step up, they could work, but given they use a silkdome may not be as airy, wispy with the highs. Some silk domes while detailed show that detail with a heavier emphasis rather than the lighter, wispier metal drivers, in my experience. Perhaps they would have less glare though. Give and take perhaps? While the Zetas lack the texture, dynamics, resolution and detail of the Focals , they aren't so far behind to make them unlistenable. They do alot really well but the Focals give some magic such as wrapping the sound around you at times, more so than the budget designs, some of which just cannot at all. I have Cambridge Minx XLs also and like them for their discounted price-performance. Probably among best speakers around $200 give or take, IMO for a silkdome. Lack the glare you can get with metal drivers but also lack the detail and texure but are easy to drive and can play loud enough. Resolution is at least as good and IMO a small step up from the Zetas, so would make a nice desktop or bedroom speaker. Both the Zetas and Minx XLs work better nearfield. Midfield you lose just a bit, not bad though for their capabilities. If I only listened to the Zetas, I'd adjust and find many recordings enjoyable. but with alot of smaller, budget speakers, you notice big differences in how they handle poorly recorded and/or busy passages. They tend to get hashy while the Focals handle it deftly and minimize problems. If the recording is really bad, they will show it. So many reasons it's so difficult to just outright sell them. Though something between 12 to 14 inches would look a tidier as long as it still produces a nicely sized and accurate soundstage within a budget. I could go higher in price but the choices are still a fairly large standmount 14-15 inches+ and over $2K in price. How much better would I get at the lower SPLs I listen may or may not be worthwhile, but considering the options. For harder to drive options, I do have a Hegel which I could keep, but as one gets older, one perhaps wants lighter and smaller so may sell depending on my speaker decision. System synergy definitely has to be considered. Also, speakers that don't provide good SQ at lower volumes are out. If I really wanted to throw money in the game, I'd get a speaker pair $2K above and perhaps a Benchmark ahb2 (13 lbs) or a Keces S300 (under 30lbs) with a higher end dac with a decent pre section. My Topping D70S may suffice but, if you make that jump to the next level, you don't want any serious bottlnecks. Then there's cables and all. BTW, the D70S and the H160 dac are on par as to level with the D70S being a bit fuller sounding while the internal dac of the H160 is a bit more resolving, with a bit more separation and not as full sounding. I can prefer one over the other depending on music. Both are enjoyable. Could I be happy/satisifed with good enough SQ and even stand pat? Perhaps. Chasing after a unicorn you may end up riding alot of horses. Yea it's fun, but frustrating at the same time. If I stand pat, I'm pretty happy/satisifed with the only caveat being the size of the speakers, maybe wanting a little more of this and less of that sort of thing. Knowing that more expensive gear would add "perhaps" a bit better here and there but could also take away from something I currently like given my listening preferences causes me hesitation. Maybe I'm just talking myself into ending my search. I'm sure I am not the only one going through this. Ah the hours wilted away on reviews...

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Thanks for writing a nice long comment.

[@RennieAsh]

I've had ponies, donkeys and boars too. Maybe a llama and an alpaca.

[@williammorales8204]

Great explanation video! I was curious about these two.

[@DevBone42]

Hi Thomas, thanks to you I've kinda gotten obsessed over getting some Focal speakers. I found some demoed Kanta No.3's for

[@DevBone42]

about the same price as the Sopra No2's. What's your opinion

[@ThomasAndStereo]

The key to the decision for me will be the room and the kind of bass you want. If you room is too small, then the Sopra 2 is a no.

[@Granyala]

Man, I envy people that can afford these kind of setups and have a house to take advantage of them. Oh well, I will continue to enjoy my Aria 906 in my tiny 16m² apartment and leave the rest to my Focal Clear. Nice video though!

[@lumberjaxx3335]

Can you share Your go to amp for Arias 926 ? I am thinking about a Roksan Caspian or an older Accuphase, maybe even an 80s Technics or Yamaha to boost treble, highs, have a lot of details and great dynamics.

[@BijBijTCG]

How is the moon in combination with the Kanta 2? I'm thinking of buying it and using a NAD M33 as preamp

[@ThomasAndStereo]

I like the combo since it is not bright and sharp. But it has to be the older moon.

[@KevinMcGivern1]

At first my Focal Sopra 1 speakers and McIntosh MA252 hybrid amp did not blow me away. However, with more listening I realized why. No exaggerated bass etc. Just clean, balanced, un-colored sound with every detail present. In the studio like experience......so satisfying.

[@slidetek]

I had talked myself into increasing my budget from R7's to pick up some ElectraBe 1028's on closeout. I've _loved_ them for years, and really like the W driver, or (more likely), the technology and labor behind it. But the dealer had a pair of gorgeous oak/ivory Kanta No2's on floor as returns (for Sopra 2's) for _way_ over my budget, but a _great_ price. So I bought them. SMH. They're in approx 540 sq ft area with a 20' ceiling/slab floors that opens to other parts of house. I can't imagine anything larger. Your demo exemplifies what I felt the differences were, the Sopra exemplifies sheer power and weight, but the Kanta is like a sea breeze that occasionally surprises when a wave crashes on the rocks. I think the combination of flax and 3rd gen Be tweeter is magic. *Great comparison!*

[@lancekluemper3708]

I agree with thomas. Biggest difference to me from aria 948 to sopra 3 is the sopra have authority. They have this presence that is hard to explain. The sound is more full and powerful. They sound better for sure but you can definitely get your money's worth in the older chorus/aria models. You'll need a sub with those focal lines. Dont think you need a sub with sopra. Especially in a smaller room. As cheap as arias are these days there hard to beat. If you ever come across a chorus 836v or 836w on the low. Pull the trigger. Thanks for the video thomas, nice to put a video with the words lol

[@kennigt]

Had Sopra no2. Good, punchy kick bass, but not too much at the bottom in my 20m2 (open a bit at the back) . Very fast tweeter. For small rooms I have to recommend Isoacoustic feets or Towhsend Podiums. Latter works well in my room, bass boom is gone with bigger speakers than soprano2.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Yeah, my friends have those, it does tighten up the bass.

[@LuxAudio389]

Well done. I have the Sopra No 3's and yes they can drive you mad in a good or not good way. Definitely game changers. Talk to the chap in London who's system you featured. He looks to have a smaller room with his Focal Sopra No2's. Maybe he can help you get those dialed in for your room. Tx again✌️

[@joachimmagnusson3128]

Kanta no 3 or Sopra no 2. This is my shortlist. Any advise, tips or recommendations?

[@AudiolandCH]

Sopra 3s :-)

[@piker3000]

Strange experience... watching this vid late night on my headphones and was startled at the vocals at 5:50 over my left shoulder...which is where my main 2 channel setup is. The sound came from outside the cans (semi open back) ... had to jump to check if they were on to avoid waking the kids .. but the song is in your video!

[@eastgreenlander5016]

Love the disclaimer in the end 😂

[@dawn-moon]

I have upgraded my Focal Chorus 826W's, to Kanta nr3's 2 months ago, and I confirm, for a smaller room, Kanta nr3 is the better choice over Sopra nr2's. I'm very happy with my choice. Of course Sopra nr3 would be better :) Nice example of this is that I promised my dad he would get my 826W's, but his living room is 2.5 times the size of mine and man ! what a difference hearing my "little" 826W's in his room. At first I told him you'll probably need a sub later on, but honestly after hearing them in his room, for his type of music (pop music), they really came alive in his room. I never knew those 826W's could play that well once they can release their energy... If you want I can send you some pictures of my setup.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Yeah, please do and congrats on your Kanta 3! If you want me to share on my youtube channel, send me a lot of photos and a short video clip. Else it is fine.

[@SzymonMelewski]

Thomas what do you think of Dali Epicon speakers (2, 6, 8) I find them incredible and beautiful. Only one more payday and 6 will be mine :D

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Nice, I never heard them though.

[@larrypupkin]

When I purchased my speakers, I harrowed the filed to Focal Kanta 2, Dali Epicon 6, MA Silver 300, and Opera Seconda. In the end, I splurged for the Kanta's, justifying that I'd used my last speakers for 20 year, so on an annual basis the Kanta's "made sense". In the end, I'm not yet convinced they were the best choice. They do some things marvellously well. But as another commenter mentioned, they can be considered bright and fatiguing, especially with certain types of music. 1970's rock for example. The Dali's offer exceptional value I'd say when compared to the Kanta's. The tweet arrangement of the Dali's are interesting, as they give you the best of both worlds, ribbon plus dome. From an aesthetic point of view, it means you do not need to toe them in. I was initially attracted to them, because I'd loved my ELAC Jet-310's which had air motion tweeters ("ribbon"). But had I'd not gone for the Kanta's, I'd likely have gone for the Monitor Audio Silver 300's. I felt the Dali's in real world terms placed the center voice, too high above me, and the bass was perhaps too tight. But I did love them, and regret not picking g up a pair of bargain 2nd hand ones. In the end, I will never know. Where I live, home demos are difficult to arrange. The showrooms and the amplification where in each case very different. What I feel today, is that perhaps my 20 year old Audiolab's either need to be recapped etc, or I need am amp which delivered more base when the volume is not necessarily that high. My ELAC's live on, now driven my a vintage Sansui AU6500

[@SzymonMelewski]

@@larrypupkin Thanks for your detailed reply, highly appreciate it :D Now I can get Epicon sixes but I'm having second thoughts due to current times...

[@mattil.3678]

Hi Thomas, interesting video and comparisons with the 1028 upgrade. I was wondering if you may have an opinion or comparison of the 1038be vs a Kanata 2. Or Sopra. Best regards

[@scarabeo500gt]

Just my Focal 1008be II and a pair of Subs are "FIRE" and the cost was cheap for those who can't go Kanta and Sopra Yet can get very close!!!

[@CaptainCrunch823]

Love your videos Thomas!

[@godssoldier597]

Amazing video thomas i totally agree with what u said excellent video

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Thanks Sylvain! Hope you are enjoying your Kanta!

[@joekool79]

Can you please tell me the name of the beautiful music playing 15:10?

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Well it is a chinese CD. first song www.amazon.com.au/%E9%A3%8E%E6%9E%97%E5%94%B1%E7%89%87%E2%80%A2%E5%8F%91%E7%83%A7%E7%9B%91%E5%90%AC%E7%A2%9F-HIFI%E6%97%A0%E6%9E%81%E9%99%90-CD-%E6%99%AE%E9%80%9A%E7%89%88/dp/B00E92I8C2 www.ebay.ie/itm/HIFI-IMMENSITY-HIFI-JAMO-TEST-DEMO-CD-Tube-Amp-Showcase-NEW/131872212607

[@jvac138]

Hi Thomas. Where can I get a copy of that chinese HiFi cd that you play at the 15 minute mark? Can you send me a copy? Is it on qobuz? Thanks!

[@BoBxPaiN]

Hello Thomas I believe you have tried the arendal speakers, and I am about to buy a home theater system, what do you think about the focal electra BE VS the arendal 1723 series and the kef r meta serie if you have tried it? Without consideration of the price

[@roytan1479]

Thank you Thomas! Really like this video. How about a video without gears. Can we talk about how you appreciate music as an audiophile/enthusiast?

[@kingtrance307]

Which model number Focal Prestige speaker is in your line up next to the Sopra and Kanta?

[@cyberathlete]

Hi Thomas, I am eyeing a pair of Focal's as my next set of speakers. Between the Electra 1038Be, Sopra No. 2 and Kanta No. 2 which ones would you choose and why? Mostly for pop songs, orchestra, rock music. Audiophile stuff sounds great on all 3, but which one is the friendliest with the most amount of genres played through it? And do prefer a smoother sound. And good fast bass. Also in the used market their prices range $5500-$8500. Thank you! Been waiting for this video for a while.

[@brianso2636]

Have used Sopra 2 come down to $8500?

[@cyberathlete]

@@brianso2636 They were actually $7000-$7500 before Focal jacked up their prices to $15,000. New Sopra No. 2 before March 2020 were $12,000 and that's the price they'd always been. Focal for no reason jacked up the price. Especially on a model this old and now in a pandemic when buying power has gone down for a lot of people. People on the forums had been talking about the price increase coming up. It sucks.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Yup but they have raised the Sopra2 price on the new market so don't know how that affects the used market.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

I have never heard the 1038BE but I would guess the bass power is no where near the Sopra2. I find the 1028 a bit lacking in bass power actually. It really comes down to your room and the sound you are looking for. If you never heard the Kanta 2 before, bring something with you to test the speed between both. Just don't bring vocal tracks. Don't forget you still need to get some serious good front end for the Sopra 2.

[@masciacamaro]

Have you powered them with the pass x150 that’s on your floor? Curious since that’s the amp I’m running

[@rayl7225]

Hi Thomas, I totally concur with your view on the power amps. What has been your (or anyone here) experience with Accuphase gear?

[@ThomasAndStereo]

I had the C266 and C222 I think, love it. My friend just picked up the new integrated amp from them but I have to wait for COVID to be over to go check them out.

[@bernardchesneau3091]

I reckon that the biggest difference between the Kantas and the Sopras is the voicing of the speakers. The sopras are definitely softer, more transparent and more refined on voices and fuller in the bottom. A complete crossover optimisation of the Kantas would get them too sound very close to Sopras. With same " cone radiating area" there is no other reason than the crossover design choice to account for the kantas thinner and sharper sound. Bringing down the mids and tweeter by 1/2 DB or so in the Kantas and removing possible breakup modes in the upper mids would allow the tonal balance to approach that of the Sopras. The Kantas also have very ordinary crossover components, no better than what you would see in a 500 dollar loudspeaker, which tells us that Focal purposely design and voice their speakers according to a price point rather than getting the most out of fabulous quality of the drivers and of the enclosures used.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Well you also have to factor in the material used in building the woofers. Different material should have different sound characteristics. Paper does not sound the same as aluminium for example when it comes to bass. I am just guessing here though.

[@bernardchesneau3091]

@@ThomasAndStereo I think that the Flax cones are just as good as focal's WW cones. At some point I was even wondering if focal themselves thought that the Flax outperform the WW. The WW cone is not in my opinion all that it is cracked up to be. Despite Focal's claims, they have substantial production variations with some units having terrible breakup modes. On their Sopras and Utopia range, Focal selects the best units from their production batch very carefully in order to avoid using units with high breaking. I hear that you like to talk about woofer speed, lots of what you call speed in 3 ways loudspeaker come from the care taken in the crossover between the woofer and the midrange. Phase, delay and time alignement and energy response rather than frequency response have lots to do with "speed" amongst many other things.

[@jcslone1]

Hey Thomas, just came across this video and your channel and I am most thankful someone (you!) compared the Kanta and Sopra...I've been in love with the Sopra ever since I first saw them (and I haven't even heard them yet!), and the used market price is rather good (seen them go for as low as $8k USD)...I saw you had the 836v, and I'm curious if you've heard the 706v (had mine since late 2009, and even repainted the cabinets recently) as well as what amp pairings you recommend for the Focals. Right now I run a Pio Elite VSX-44 AVR (I got it for $43, bargain!) and I also have a Yamaha RX-V465 AVR that I had purchased back in 2009 with my Focals, and a Velodyne DLS-3500R active sub (no room treatment done yet unfortunately).

[@audiophilemusings3530]

Thank you so much for the detailed review. Its fantastic!!😊👍👌💐.

[@IanHolmes]

I greatly appreciate the video. I am sitting here listening to a pair of 826s and really appreciate the commentary on the detail that is found in the upgrade to better speakers. I also happen to be running a pair of JL e12 subs beside them, all off my Cambridge audio evo150. I suspect that the Kanta 2 or 3 is probably the move for me if I have the base covered by the subs? Not to mention the fact that the choral would also demand more power than my Evo would likely deliver. But what is this about the power conditioning??

[@matticeverhoeven6539]

Have you tried the Focal Utopia headphones? The beryllium driver takes care of the entire frequency range so you might be interested to see how beryllium handles mids & bass. I haven't tried Sopra or Kanta but the way you decribe it I'd say they probably sound more like the kanta, the bass is extremely controlled and fast.

[@matticeverhoeven6539]

p.s. where can I get that track! Fight between a bull & tiger. It sounds amazing.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

No, I am not into headphones. One day.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

I don't know, someone gave it to me!