Focal Utopia Review - Is Focal's ultra flagship really that good?

[@aldphillip2003]

I am a professional symphonic musician. No headphone I've ever tried or owned comes closer to recreating the sound of "being there" than the Focal Utopia. The things I feel and hear when I'm listening with my Utopia are the things I feel and hear when I'm playing in a symphony or on a recording session. They're the one component of my system that I've had the longest. I'm always buying, selling, and trading amps and dacs and cables, but my Focal Utopia always stays. I feel no need to upgrade further. Great video!

[@PassionforSound]

Thanks so much for sharing your experience - that makes total sense. Out of interest, have you tried the Empyreans with velour pads? I have a feeling Utopias will better suit the symphonic content, but still curious if you've tried them.

[@davidpilon9433]

I think you will like the Stax SR-009S, "being there" a step further.

[@PassionforSound]

I really need to revisit stats having only dabbled briefly and at the lower end of things

[@marcfoss7687]

Great review Lachlan, thank you so much. Really appreciate your balance of honesty, personal opinion and respect for each component that you review which comes shining through in your presentation style. Also, liked your comparison with the Meze Empyreans which, in my amateur opinion, seemed spot-on. Thanks largely to your reviews, I'm going ahead with the purchase of the Burson Soloist and the Meze Emps...Looking forward to watching your Subs rise exponentially!

[@PassionforSound]

Thanks so much, Marc! I think you'll be very happy with your decision!

[@anand11235]

Try the Utopia with the focal elear pads - it changes the sound to the warmer and engaging side, with a slight loss of details. I went back and forth between the empyreans and the utopia and ultimately stuck with the utopias, but absolutely agree that both are amazing headphones.. good review.

[@PassionforSound]

Thanks for the tip, Anand - I might give them a go. I do agree that both of these are top tier headphones and are separated but taste more than pure performance.

[@snowrang3r657]

Absolutely amazing review! I loved that you included how they are impacted with output impedance, purists be damned some genres just sound good with a touch more bass! As someone with the Clear’s I’ve always been interested in the Utopia. It’s interesting you describe the Utopia as smoother and less metallic. To me that probably comes down to Beryllium being a self dampening material (if you look up a video of various metal tuning forks, a beryllium fork will stop ringing much faster than other metals), but on the flip side some people still prefer the slight warm tilt the Clear has. So it’s definitely something one has to demo.

[@PassionforSound]

Yeah, that touch of warmth in the Clears is definitely preferable to me, but that's why I love the Utopia / Mainline (high OI) combo!

[@aceofspades6667]

Keep your clears... If you have extra money and want to go flagship I would suggest looking at Final D8000 Pro, LCD4, or 1266 Phi TC. The Utopias just aren't that much better than the Clears. You could also get a set of Verite Closed if you want to go that route.

[@PassionforSound]

I do need to try a few of those options, particularly the D8000 Pro and LCD-4

[@soulfulfool]

I never hear metallic sound of my Clear's they even sound too "sweet" on tubes, prefer my Arya due to biigger sound stage and more precision overall. Clear is reserved for times when I want priivate concert in my head with lush warm sound

[@PassionforSound]

That's a great way to describe their sound and I agree that the tubes work well with the Clears

[@krisrudecki9477]

I have the exact same experience with Empyrean and Utopia. Both amazing, both totally different. Utopia is always jaw dropping for me, but I love the presentation of the Empyrean despite the imperfections.

[@PassionforSound]

Thanks for sharing your experiences, Kris, and sorry that I missed replying when you posted this - it didn't show up in my notifications for some reason

[@audioaficionado9494]

I used to be about high fidelity details first and then maybe enjoy the sound. Now I'm wanting to be engaged with the music and discover the details as a bonus. Both are important. Great review 👍

[@PassionforSound]

Thanks AA. I agree that engagement (for me) should always come first

[@adamgreenhill110]

Thanks for the great review! I'm so glad somebody compared them with Sonarworks, to hear the actual differences, not just in FR

[@PassionforSound]

Glad you found it helpful!

[@aceofspades6667]

I really enjoyed the Utopia but I got a great deal on a some Clears and couldn't be happier for the value! Getting flagships is always very tricky as performance, price, and preferences become super subjective. Thanks for the content!

[@PassionforSound]

The Clears are still brilliant, Ace. And you're right about the price to performance question - always a tricky one.

[@TheProgrn]

I have the HD800s and Clears. I find myself reaching for the Clears again and again. They are overall more enjoyable. They pair really well with my Feliks Elise. I am very interested in the Utopias but I’d like to audition them first

[@yoramdiamand]

I have the Feliks audio Euforia and it matches well with both the Utopia as with the Empyrean, and yes I bought the amp second hand.

[@TheProgrn]

@@yoramdiamand after my experience with the Elise, I already want to try the Euphoria. I find the Elise pairs well with just about everything I own but especially good with the Clears.

[@michaelhohl1167]

I also had the Utopia with the Feliks Euforia. Terrific pairing

[@michaelhohl1167]

@@yoramdiamand I also owned Euforia with Utopias. Beautiful pairing. I remember you from the HeadFi thread!

[@TheProgrn]

@@michaelhohl1167 at the time it seemed like a lot of money (I mean it still is) but I wish I had just jumped straight to Euphoria and Utopia. But hey, clears and Elise and still a great combo.

[@mateuszmorgiel6452]

I like the way you talk about headphones, which distinguishes you (in my opinion) from other reviewers. You speak as a music enthusiast and secondarily as an audio equipment fanatic.

[@PassionforSound]

Thank you, Mateusz! I'm glad you like my approach. It was a love of music that started me off in the hobby so that makes sense

[@akqr8]

Fantastic review Lachlan, and good to see I own a piece of the memorabilia in this video now :-)

[@PassionforSound]

Haha. Yep and I dare say you might have some more in the future... 😉

[@G-entleManAndScholar]

Had the Utopia & can testify how accurate this is. Have the Empyrean, upgraded to a silver cable, & it sounds perfect to me. Like, what I wish the Utopia was. I’ve had the Empyrean 2 years & amazed everyday (I get the pleasure of enjoying them for work). Was thinking to give Abyss AB-1266 Phi TC a try, given they have the highest praises, but thinking of the weight & complex adjustments that’s said need be every time placed in the head (That’s what she said. I know. I know.). But SO curious if it’s delivery. Great review. Subscribed.

[@PassionforSound]

Hi Bobby-James, thanks for sharing your experiences. I agree that the Phi TC is a touch off-putting like that. The Empyreans are so good and so easy to live with that I can't see myself being swayed to something more fiddly unless it sounded truly amazing

[@G-entleManAndScholar]

@@PassionforSound Yeah. 1266 Tempting. But Empyrean’s comfort, with upgraded cable, makes them the total package. I have the Silver Dragon from Moon audio. My suggestion, to unveil them, is to upgrade cable. Even to Meze’s own. Side note: For IEM’s, I have Shure KSE1200. Outstanding! Most people take vacation off work. My work is vacation. 😂 Looking forward to more reviews. #AudiophileUnited

[@PassionforSound]

I agree on the upgrade. I've got a custom copper litz cable for mine. Haven't tried the KSE1200, but they look very interesting! I meant to ask before: what do you do that lets you listen to these headphones for work?

[@G-entleManAndScholar]

@@PassionforSound Truck Driver 😂

[@PassionforSound]

Wow! Empyreans in a truck while driving? That's awesome!

[@MrMeoow91]

Got a chance to demo this headphone last year. Best headphones I had ever listened to. It needs an expensive Tube/Hybrid DAC-AMP to bring the best out of it. You can literally feel like you are in a studio recording or a live performance. I'm from Adelaide btw :)

[@PassionforSound]

I completely agree. The realism it delivers is wonderful on a lot of recordings so long as they don't require too much bass

[@MrMeoow91]

@@PassionforSound I have a ~$2500 setup and around ~15 headphones ranging from $50 to $2000, but this one blew everything out of the water. A true end-game headphone (it was paired with a $3700 iFi Pro iDSD at Addictedtoaudio’s demo room).

[@PassionforSound]

Very nice! Have you tried the Empyreans yet?

[@MrMeoow91]

@@PassionforSound No I haven’t but if I do, I might go broke soon 😅

[@PassionforSound]

Fair point. The Empys don't match the Utopia's detail retrieval and soundstage clarity, but they're not far off and are so engaging. Feel free to not audition them though as the Utopias are spectacular and the Empys aren't better - just different.

[@klaymoon1]

Great review! Very informative and very objective. I hope you will also compare Stellia vs Utopia one day.

[@PassionforSound]

Hi NYCP, if I get the chance to try the Stellias I'll gladly do a comparison

[@marcfoss7687]

@@PassionforSound Yes please, I would second that also!

[@tomgibson1902]

Great review! Note there are also many enthusiasts that prefer the Clears, which are also great, over the Utopias as well. To my preferences, I really like the Utopias.

[@PassionforSound]

I'm surprised by that now that I've compared them. The Utopia, to me, is just the Clear done better although the reduced bass weight might explain the preferences I guess. As someone who generally likes more bass though, I reach for the Utopias every time.

[@MistaLova-Lova]

You are getting better and better, this is a fantastic review from its content to delivery and presentation. Both passionate and matter-of-fact. Well done! How do the Utopias sound on the Topping D90+A90 combo which I know you have?

[@PassionforSound]

Hi Michal, thanks for the kind words. I'm always looking for ways to improve so it's nice to get this feedback (although I have an upcoming review that I feel isn't my best work ☹️) I actually sold off the D90 and A90 because I felt the Bifrost 2 and Soloist were a better setup for me. I wouldn't personally recommend that combo for the Utopias as it's a good sound, but still very midfi (particularly in terms of soundstage) so you're not really going to hear the best of the Utopias.

[@MistaLova-Lova]

Hm, the DAC and amp you mentioned, as far as I know, cost roughly the same as the D90 and A90 combo and the latter is widely considered hard to beat in this price range. How come you consider it lacking in soundstage compared to the combo you use? Or perhaps I misunderstood you and you meant that neither combo would do the Utopias justice and they're only worth buying if one has access to a truly truly hi-fi system (costing many thousands of $, I presume)?

[@PassionforSound]

I think the A90 and D90 are fine, but not great. They both have a tendency to flatten the soundstage and don't have a great sense of dynamics to them. I don think the Utopias are best served by something more like the Hugo TT2, but the Soloist is an outstanding amp, particularly for the price and the Bifrost 2 is about the lowest price DAC I can think of that would begin to do justice to the Utopia's full capabilities. Ideally though, you'd go for maybe a higher end R2R DAC, a Schiit Yggdrasil or a Chord Qutest/TT2.

[@bunozen1]

I love my utopias with Elear pads! You must try it. I find the utopia with original pads sounds a bit thin, less bass, less depth. With the Elear pads it sounds fantastic!!

[@PassionforSound]

Thanks for the tip, Jay. I'll try to give that a go

[@kurthertel4299]

Thank you Lachlan. I enjoy your reviews and greatly appreciate the time and effort you put into them. Even when it comes to something like the Utopia or Empyrean which I will never be able to hear, let alone own. I think you add much of value to the discussion. BTW, I don't know if you remember (why would you?), but I did sell the Jot 1, and am waiting on delivery of the 2. Fingers crossed. Cheers mate.

[@PassionforSound]

Hi Kurt, glad you're enjoying the reviews. That's great news about your upgrade to the Jot 2. I think you'll be thrilled with what you hear!

[@1257wizard]

Hello, I have watched many reviews on headphones and I would LOVE to see reviewer do a tonally BLIND listening test , I mean have someone put the same ear pads on , the tester never touch the headphones, sometimes the neutral person can put the same phones back on, a good amp, the same 2 songs, lossless hi-res audio, and no price discloser till the end, this would be a great test, and fun!

[@PassionforSound]

What would you be hoping to see?

[@1257wizard]

@@PassionforSound How about any brand where you mix the cheapest to the most expensive in the SAME brand ,ear cups the same or... have someone pick from a random selection of entry, middle or top of the line their choice, but you cannot handle the headphones pick 3-4 you must wear a blindfold! and have some fun ! I believe we are all price driven and it would be great to have someone who is well versed do a test like this.

[@1257wizard]

start with Focal

[@PassionforSound]

Having reviewed lots of different headphones across lots of different brands, I think this would actually be quite anticlimactic, I'm afraid. There's good reason for more expensive headphones costing more and, while it doesn't always mean they'll be more enjoyable, it does consistently equate to better technical performance in almost all cases. Thanks for suggesting the idea though!

[@abhishekkeraliya8623]

Nice review! Love to see comparisons between utopia vs abyss 1266 vs audeze lcd 4.

[@PassionforSound]

I'm really hoping to try the LCD-4 soon. Abyss I'm not sure about...

[@fadedlogic1]

Really helpful!!! Now I have it narrowed down to Abyss Diana V2 and the Meze Empyrean for my left big addition!

[@PassionforSound]

Glad it helped. I was keen to try the Abyss too, but I've read and heard some concerning stuff lately about the company and the guy who owns it. It might be 'fake news' but it's left me questioning if I even want to go there...

[@themosyannakou6893]

Don’t skip out on the D8000 pro

[@fadedlogic1]

@@PassionforSound Some of it I think was over blown and an off the cuff response made a mountain out of a mole hill. That being said; proof will be in the listening.

[@PassionforSound]

That's definitely on my bucket list, Themos

[@PassionforSound]

Very true, Hermit! No I just have to get my hands on some...

[@x32i77]

Try the Song Traust from Heilung . Its crazy how the base distorts over 80db. Its a constrcution issue with all focal headphones

[@PassionforSound]

I'll check it out...

[@djhmax09]

Dang, that's loud! lol

[@x32i77]

@@djhmax09 in this song its not that loud at all . actually very pleasing ... but the driver gets crazy ...really broken

[@PassionforSound]

I've added it to my viewer suggested playlist. I'll give it a try when I can. Looking forward to hearing what it does with the Focals

[@Cafienatedman]

@@PassionforSound so where is your viewer suggested playlist?

[@mkemp01]

Really nice review thanks. I have the empyreans and love their sound and comfort. I can’t imagine I would trade them for the focals.

[@PassionforSound]

Hi Monty, I certainly wouldn't. The Utopias are great, but so far only the Empyreans have had me feeling like I'm actually there with the musicians, feeling the bass, hearing all the details, etc.

[@filovirus1]

another fantastic review. can't wait for you to review Abyss and HiFiman headphones

[@PassionforSound]

Glad you liked it! I've got the Aryas happening soonish I think and awaiting word on other HifiMan options. Abyss is a little trickier, but we'll see...

[@Colin-yh7oy]

@@PassionforSound +1 for a review of the Abyss (Diana V2).

[@PassionforSound]

If I can arrange it, I'll gladly provide 🙂

[@ConvinceMeAudio]

Those will be coming in for review in the next couple of weeks, there seems to be a great deal of trade-off with a lot of focal headphones, especially if you’re paying 3 to 4K MSRP. For me personally it’s susvara all the way, even used rather use those then MSRP brand-new utopia. Glad you like the empyrean they are on the review right now, and I absolutely love them, I think they might be one of the only few flag ships in the 2 to 4K range that does everything well maybe not exceptionally, but everything well and is a full package

[@PassionforSound]

I'm hoping to try the Susvara soon. The Empyrean is still my favourite headphone, but maybe the Susvara can dethrone it - we'll see

[@ConvinceMeAudio]

@@PassionforSound susvara, is the only headphones that I would release these back into the wild. after the review period they’ve already been sold. SUS, is on another planet and league, The comfort is on par I would say, design and beauty goes to EMP why. I despise the leather pads on EMPY, I am wondering if you’ve had the same experience, for me it sounds totally incorrect, hazy, and congested, but the Alcanterra pads, is sublime. My SUS will be on the way soon, I think it will reach me by the end of the month, but I already did a review after having a loan of them for 60 hours. Unfortunately they break you, it’s rather difficult listening to other headphones once you’ve had two or three days with them.

[@ConvinceMeAudio]

@@PassionforSound they will be adequate with a topping a90, but you need a proper high-end chain to truly get to their potential. A benchmark a HB2, a gold point stepped attenuator, and a Holo audio DAC will be my chain and a reference for the channel. As the benchmark for excellence, love your channel mate keep up the good work

[@PassionforSound]

I personally LOVE the leather pads on the Empy because I enjoy the warmth and richness of them. I like a sound that resembles live music in an intimate setting (jazz clubs, pub bands, etc.) and that's why I enjoy the Empys so much. I also tend to use them with very neutral sources like the Hugo TT2.

[@valkyr989]

Tyll used to say the bass is too liquid(which I didn't quite get). The Utopia is still way out of my budget and will stick to my Clears... Great content as usual . thanks

[@PassionforSound]

Hi Ray, glad you liked it. I'm not sure how the bass could be too liquid - perhaps not enough punch and weight? That would make sense.

[@valkyr989]

@@PassionforSound All good. Yep I did not get it what bass is too liquid either. Good to see you reviewing the Focals. They have some excellent products.

[@lapuissance7488]

Could you please do a review for the Focal Celestee? Nice review btw!

[@PassionforSound]

I'd love to if I can get my hands on a pair to review... Glad you liked this one. 🙂

[@luisnunomendes416]

Hello, fantastic review! 😀I would like to ask if can i plug, at the same time, two headphones 🎧 🎧 with different impedances (50 an 63 Ohms) to a digital piano? The headphones I expect to buy for simultaneous use, are Sennheiser HD599 and Sony MDR 7506. The piano 🎹Kawai Novus NV5S has amplified sound for headphones, but has only one (and the same) volume button for both headphones. Do you think I,ll have some problems with the volume, feeling one headphone more loud than another👂🥺👂? And what headphones do you recommend🏆? Thank You very much.

[@PassionforSound]

Hi Luis, if it has two outputs you should have no issues and if the impedances and sensitivity figures are similar then the volume should be similar through both. As for recommendations, a digital piano will generally not have a particularly good headphone amp so no need to spend too much on the headphones. As for what to buy, it depends on what you are using them for with the piano. For example, do you need open or closed back? A neutral, reference sound or something a bit easier to listen to for extended sessions?

[@gomez3420]

Great review as always. You allude to the notion that matching the right headphone amp can impart some positive synergy to a particular headphone. Focal recommends using the Felicks Euforia with the Utopia. I have the Euforia along with the Stellia and the Clear along with an RME ADI-2 DAC and really enjoy that combination. Like you I have been looking to purchase a used Utopia and take advantage of the RME parametric EQ to enhance the bass that so many reviewers have found lacking. BTW I hope you get a chance to audition the Euforia and the Utopia together.....a match made in heaven....or so I'm told.

[@PassionforSound]

Thanks gomez. Yes, I definitely think that certain synergies can elevate an amp/headphone pair. Luckily I've just made contact with the local Feliks supplier so stay tuned for future reviews! 😉 Another great synergy piece I've discovered is the Auris Euterpe and the Meze Empyreans. For classical and similar less-bassy content it is simply wonderful. I think you'll really enjoy the Utopia paired with a nice tube amp like the Euphoria.

[@gomez3420]

@@PassionforSound I think you will enjoy it. I would recommend getting the PSVANE Vacuum Tubes KT88-T Mark II Premium Grade. I bought mine second hand and it came with the Silver PSANE, and thought that the Gold Premium (not the Classic, though it looks the same as the Premium) version was worth the upgrade.

[@gomez3420]

Sorry I gave you some misinformation. I meant to say the CV-181-TII tube and not the KT88-T.

[@PassionforSound]

Thanks gomez, I'll see what I can arrange with the review unit when I get it 🙂

[@michaelhohl1167]

I used to own Euforia with Clears, then Utopia. Indeed it was a terrific pairing with both headphones. If you like what it does to the Clears then you’ll enjoy it with Utopia, too.

[@divinecurrent9053]

Excellent review! I think you would enjoy the new Clear MG Pro, they are smoother to me than the original Clear without the metallic timbre, kind of like how you describe the Utopia. They are also warmer in the bass than the original Clears. I really want to audition the Utopia at some point though, to see if I prefer them to the Clear MG. From how you described their smooth tonal presentation, that sounds like it’s my kind of sound.

[@PassionforSound]

Thanks for letting me know about the MG Pro. I'd wondered, but with already owning a well-soiled pair of Clears I don't think I'm up for the cost of the upgrade. I'll see if I can take a listen to the MG Pro at some point though.

[@matthewhilty4209]

I recommend the cardas corpse cable , no microphonics and lightweight, my current daily driver. The stock cable is too heavy for my taste. Comfort is important. Side Note : I never realized how great James Brown's - Night Train (Single Version) was until I heard it on the Utopias.

[@PassionforSound]

Thanks for the cable tip, Matt! The Utopias are one of those headphones that can really open up a recording without tearing it apart.

[@monochromios]

First time I get the "M" shaped thing about Focàl. Thank you for sharing

[@PassionforSound]

Yay! Glad I could help 🙂

[@cassiecat7038]

Wonderful informative, thoughtful, intelligent review; hoping you’ll look at the new Clear Mg; I’ve been debating getting that, vs the Utopia. I suspect I already know the answer, but curious what you think of the sound, Mg vs OG clear.

[@PassionforSound]

Glad you liked the review. Hopefully I can get my hands on the new Focals.

[@douglaspcollins4987]

Your reviews are superbly evocative, clear, engaging, reliable. I have the Utopias, matched with the dcs Bartok. I have the clock as well. Does it matter? The revelation for me--I swapped out the stock Utopia cable for one made by Transparent specially for the Utopia. ENORMOUS, positive difference! And I have bad, old man ears!

[@PassionforSound]

Glad you're enjoying the reviews and your Utopias. Sounds like I should try a better cable for them, but finding manufacturers that work with the Lemho connectors is a bit tricky. I might look into Transparent.

[@simonm8586]

I'd like to make a suggestion for you to try. Use some PEQ on the Utopia to trim the treble peak, and boost the bass to the level of the Empyrean. You "may" lose a tiny bit of precision, but I believe it will give you the enjoyment you're looking for along with the detail and imaging.

[@PassionforSound]

Quite possibly, but I avoid EQ for a couple of reasons (entirely my personal preferences - I don't recommend against EQ): 1) EQ can degrade sound quality in terms of absolute transparency (2) I like to enjoy each headphone for its own character and I do enjoy the Utopia a great deal (3) I am constantly switching between devices for my reviews so applying EQ can get a bit tricky with me having to remember to switch it off or change it every time I plug something different in

[@simonm8586]

@@PassionforSound EQ has long been demonised. However, the loss in absolute purity can be comparable to the differences between headphones, as well as amps and DACs. For different headphones, you can save different EQ profiles. And you can easily switch them in or out, or off. The difficulty is implementation with streaming services, especially high res. I've watched a few of your reviews and see that you have experimented with high impedance output tube amps. These work in a similar but far less targeted approach of reacting with the headphones impedance curve creating a modified response. PEQ is far more targeted, more precise, and more transparent.

[@PassionforSound]

I'm not for a second debating the capabilities of EQ or demonizing it. I personally like to keep the source chain as pure as possible from transport through DAC and then let the amps and headphones bring character to the sound, but that's just my personal preference. I definitely don't recommend high output impedance amps for low impedance headphones and regularly discuss the fact that it's pot luck whether it will sound good with a certain headphone and generally recommend against such amps unless specifically for pairing with high impedance cans.

[@csabaveres3230]

I was surprised to hear your comment about the creaking in the headband. I recently bought a pair of Elears off the shop floor and they’ve started creaking so badly I can’t listen to them. If I got that from the Utopias I’d be pretty pissed off! Someone on the internet suggested using a Teflon based dry lubricant, so my Elears are back in their box until I can get hold of the lubricant.

[@aldphillip2003]

Very interesting. I find my Utopias to creak when I'm handling them, but all creaking stops when they're securely on my head.

[@PassionforSound]

I have the same experience - no creaking at all during use and very minor in handling. My Clears are worse on both fronts, but still not bad enough for concern. Sorry to hear about your Elears, Csaba!

[@robertnoblitt518]

I once had an opportunity to audition a Focal Clear and Utopia at a local dealer. The Clear (which I expected to like based on reviews I had seen) sounded way too aggressive in the highs. I far preferred the headphone I had carried with me, which was the original MrSpeakers Aeon Closed. I auditioned the Utopia only briefly because I didn't want to spend that much. However, I heard a familiar opera recording. I was impressed with the soundstage and level of detail, but felt that orchestral strings sounded unnatural on the Utopia, due to what I perceived as an over-emphasis in the high frequencies. Months later, I purchased a Meze Empyrean and this remains my favorite headphone.

[@PassionforSound]

The Clear definitely has that metallic edge to the sound and I agree that the Utopia lacks the tonal richness to sound as real as it should (even though I like it a great deal). I'm listening to the Aeon 2 Closed at the moment and I think what you're experiencing with the original Aeons and the Empyreans is the same as me, Robert - that planars seem to produce a more natural style of sound in general with better tonal accuracy and note weight.

[@robertnoblitt518]

@@PassionforSound I also now have an Aeon 2 Closed, and have found it to be quite a significant improvement over the original Aeon Closed. Speaking of Focal, I eventually purchased a Focal Stellia and enjoyed it for several months. However, I also had the Empyrean, and gradually played the Stellia less and less. Ultimately I felt perhaps the beryllium driver produced a metallic sound that became more & more intolerable to me. Combined with what I felt was poor bass response (compared to the Empyrean), I finally gave the Stellia to a friend (who really likes it). I'm not keen on selling old gear and prefer to pass them on to friends.

[@PassionforSound]

That's incredibly generous, Robert. I agree (based on my Utopia experience) that the lack of bass from the Focals compared to the Empyreans can make them less engaging and enjoyable

[@20puskinas1992]

@@PassionforSound Yep i think that is a big problem with Most of the open headphones... They simple dont have solid bass foundation. Very few open headphones have good bass.

[@PassionforSound]

Very true, particularly with open dynamic driver headphones.

[@xeniavader]

yeah, they are great... but.... such a narrow stage. bass is a bit lean, mids are amazing with beautiful fleshed out instruments.

[@PassionforSound]

The stage is quite interesting, isn't it? It's not large, but there's a great sense of space between all the instruments. I agree that mids are outstanding

[@mariodrv]

Ok - you gotta try the Verite now - I believe it the to be smack-bang in the middle between the Empyrian and Utopia. :D

[@BopWalk]

I agree, it's a pretty resolving warm sounding headphone with great non metallic treble.

[@PassionforSound]

I might have one coming soon... Stay tuned! 🙂🙂

[@brandonburr4900]

Thank you for another terrific review! Do you have a upcoming review of the switchable high output impedance amp you tested with the utopias? I'm not familiar with that brand or amp and it looks like it would be interesting compared to other high impedance amps like bottlehead. Thanks!

[@PassionforSound]

Hi Brandon, glad you liked it. Yes the Auris Audio Euterpe review is in the pipeline and will include direct comparisons with the Mainline.

[@prabinpaudel5572]

Just started the video. Hoping you talked about playing these via mainline amp. 😁

[@PassionforSound]

Sure did! 😁

[@nkenchington6575]

DMS prefers the Clears, so I got the Clear Pros for just over £1000, and I like them very much.

[@PassionforSound]

I have to disagree with DMS. I've kept my Clears, but they've had zero head-time since the Utopias showed up. The Clear Pros should be great though - nice choice!

[@MistaLova-Lova]

@@PassionforSound I own both Focal Clears and since a few days ago the Utopias as well. I have not done enough listening to make up my mind yet, but the Utopias are certainly different than I expected them to be. In a way, for the better - they are much more engaging, punchy, full-bodied than I thought they might be - because they are hailed by many as "the detail king" I was worried that they would be too analytical. They are the opposite of that. There is so much very strong bass - it is impressive indeed, although it can make relaxing listening sessions a bit of a challenge. The Utopias also have depth and that 3D feeling that the Clears simply do not possess, and that's really impressive. To my ears, they sound a little bit dark and bassy, in a way (different league so of course it's not a direct comparison) they remind me of the Nighthawks. They definitely do not sound lean or analytical - the extra detail is all there but it's not achieved through boosting high frequencies or anything like that; the Utopias sound surprisingly dark to me. I would say that technically they are better than the Clears; however, after a few days of listening I must say that the Clears have a more direct-sounding midrange and are capable of presenting vocals closer to my ears which gives that extra intimate feeling. With the Utopias, everything is slightly further away from me. Also, the Clears, as the name would suggest, actually sound a bit clearer to my ears, the flip-side of that is that they can be a little sharp with certain songs but I have always found that crispness addictive. The Utopias are smoother, more enjoyable with certain songs and harshness-free, but I find myself occasionally missing the Clears' ability to deliver the sound (especially the midrange) to my ears as if there was literally nothing between me and the music (no extra "coating" to make things sound smoother). I am wondering if you have experienced any of the above as well or if the Utopias will sound different once they have burned in.

[@PassionforSound]

Hi Michal, overall I'd say that I experience the Utopias and Clears the same as you. I've not particularly noticed the midrange aspects you mentioned, but it's probably because I like both presentations in their own way. To my ears, the Utopias are the more refined and tonally accurate headphone of the two. I personally don't find them to be warm or dark, but much of that will depend on what our reference points are (i.e. which headphones and equipment we are used to) What DAC and amp are you using with these?

[@MistaLova-Lova]

@@PassionforSound I'm using D90+A90, balanced for all my headphones (Clear, Utopia, Arya). I've got to tell you, the more I listen to the Utopias, the more I begin to understand their nature. Without a doubt I can say that they give me access to the level of detail in music that I have never experienced before. Also, they are a clear upgrade in bass, highs and soundstage over the Clears. Going back and forth between them, they do in fact present sound differently and the Clears sound a bit more analytical, in comparison they seem like a music engineer's tool vs a music lover's tool. Or how about this comparison: monitor speakers vs floorstanding speakers. I have also now realised that the Clears' directness (but also occasional harshness) probably comes from boosted midrange and the Utopias sound like none of the frequencies are pushed towards you, hence my initial impression of less clear/direct sound vs the Clears. My brain was also confused by two hitherto-contradictory things happening at the same time, namely - I'm hearing the most detail I've ever heard but at the same time it is by no means a bright headphone. Until I heard the Utopias (although I had experienced a bit of that with the NightHawks too, many $$$ ago) I had sort of taken it for granted that extra detail comes from either emphasised midrange or boosted highs (the Clears as an example for the former, the Aryas and Beyerdynamic headphones for the latter). I'm still in the process of adjusting to the new sound but at the moment these are my thoughts and if my experience continues to be the same, then it would probably indicate that the Utopias are not only a refined, but also a very mature pair of headphones that offers a crazy amount of detail without sacrificing enjoyment in the slightest.

[@MistaLova-Lova]

I'm listening to music on my Utopias just now and on certain tracks I can't help thinking that their strong bass is not separated from the mids clearly enough...

[@Borednlonely]

Having heard the empyrean only I did not find them anywhere near neutral-linear. Very warm when compared to final d8000 and audeze lcd4

[@PassionforSound]

The Empyreans are a rich, warm headphone for sure so they won't sound like a headphone that measures linearly. What I do find they achieve though is a sound that is fairly natural in the sense that music played back through them is like listening to live music in a small jazz club type venue. Of course, source, music choices and personal preferences all play a part too

[@RX-rd4sc]

Perfect review

[@PassionforSound]

Thank you!

[@ericharrelson2045]

Terrific presentation, you covered both cans I'm interested in. Which do you think would pair up better with the Burson Soloist, the Utopia or Empyrean? Thanks.

[@PassionforSound]

Hi Eric, I'd definitely go for the Empyrean with the Soloist because I find the Utopia needs some help to be fun and enjoyable, but the Empyreans with the suede pads and the Soloist's neutrality will be fun and wonderfully resolving at the same time. Then you can put on the leather pads and really get into some fun listening!

[@ericharrelson2045]

@@PassionforSound Thanks for the advice.

[@geucamole]

Thanks for a very nice review. Are you planning to also review Audeze LCD-4 headphones? 🎧 I recently auditioned Empyreans for 2 weeks they were amazing; but before I pull the trigger I am also curious to hear the LCD-4s and the Utopia. I will be trying LCD-4s this week and I would love see your review on LCD-4s as well!

[@PassionforSound]

Hi Gökhan, I recently contacted Audeze so let's hope I can arrange something! 🤞🤞

[@krisrudecki9477]

Utopia in many ways is a complete opposite of the Empyrean. I would have a really though time trying to decide between the two 😬 I love everything about the Empyrean but the clarity and detail on Utopia is off the charts, completely different presentation to the Empyrean.

[@PassionforSound]

I agree. They're actually a great complement to one another if you're able to justify having both

[@moobear3972]

I love how my Utopias sound, but the headband is fragile so need to be ultra careful, headband cracked recently under gentle care and they are loose now. I am contacting Focal to see if its fixable under warranty. in retrospect a nice sturdy headband would be nice :(.

[@PassionforSound]

Wow. That's not good. It's carbon fibre so should be very strong.

[@velofil6394]

Incredible review, made me want to purchase the Utopia (from a Clear-owner perspective) :) It'd be very interested to see how these compare to the HE1000se from ChinaMan if you could get your hands on these in the future.

[@PassionforSound]

Glad you liked it. I'm hoping to try the HE1000s in the future, but not sure when exactly it will happen 🙂

[@krisrudecki9477]

HEKse has the same level of detail as the Utopia, same light weight effortless detail, but with a much larger, taller sound stage. Also it needs EQ to cut the air out around 2db otherwise it sounds a bit unnatural. Also HEKse is lightning fast, even faster than Utopia, it has this holographic sound quality.

[@PassionforSound]

Thanks for sharing your experiences with the HE1ks, Kris!

[@user-tc2tn2fu8w]

Would you say that the Utopias are worth buying second hand for US $1900?

[@PassionforSound]

I think so. They're a wonderful headphone in their areas of strength (imaging, vocal quality, etc.)

[@jarvinco9993]

Are you going to review the auris audio euterpe also? :)

[@PassionforSound]

I am, Jarvin. It's scheduled for review in the coming weeks.

[@jarvinco9993]

@@PassionforSound nice, looking forward to it

[@rafaelcerantola3288]

Great review! What output impedance do you use with the Utopias for enjoyment?

[@PassionforSound]

I enjoy them on any amp, but an output impedance up around 60-80 ohms seems to sound very good

[@nicemeiko]

Reposting here as I've accidentally left this on your 800s video - thanks so much for an amazing review! What are your thoughts around a Bifrost 2 as a DAC pairing for the Utopias?

[@PassionforSound]

Hi Kevin, it's a great pairing. You can ultimately do better, but you'll be spending at least twice as much in my experience.

[@nicemeiko]

@@PassionforSound That's intriguing! Are there any DACs you have in mind? I, like you, also have a set of Empyreans as well that I share your outlook on - it is absolutely my favorite pair of headphones when I want to enjoy the music :)

[@PassionforSound]

Chord Qutest (maybe) and Chord TT2 are currently the only two DACs I've heard that I'd choose over the Bifrost 2

[@nicemeiko]

@@PassionforSound Thanks so much!

[@PassionforSound]

My pleasure

[@x32i77]

Cant wait for your HE6se review 🙂

[@PassionforSound]

Would love to, but it's a limited edition I believe so not sure I'll be able to get a loan pair 😟

[@x32i77]

@@PassionforSound Sometimes you can get them for 700$ 😃 Mini susvara ftw ( for the win) 🔥🤟

[@PassionforSound]

Wow! At that price I might buy some...

[@linknet904]

Hi, I rediscover this video as the new Utopia 2022 is coming and as there are good deals for the previous model. So thanks👍😀 Just a question : do u think it will work well with the Hifiman EF400 or the Burson Conductor 3x GT ?

[@PassionforSound]

It will be a great match for both. If you go for the Conductor, I'd probably choose the 3GT over the 3XGT

[@xFunTomCZx]

Very well made review man..

[@PassionforSound]

Thanks FunTom!

[@RealHIFIHelp]

Good review.

[@PassionforSound]

Glad you liked it! 🙂🙂

[@manueltrevinochavez2708]

The pads on those Focal Clears dont look too good after being used

[@x32i77]

Thats why I sold that headphone

[@Taladin1234]

Thats why u should get the focal clear pro

[@octavc3414]

Yeah, same here: sold the Clears for the color scheme, but mainly because they actually refused to replace the pads for a pair still in warranty, after these looked like my skin contained radioactive oils. And I refuse, because of this, to use any of their products anymore.

[@PassionforSound]

Yes, certainly makes it hard to onsell them secondhand now that mine look like this!

[@perinkolamanandganesh4226]

If it’s a choice between Bifrost 2 and Topping D90, which DAC would you suggest for the Utopia? The amp is the A90.

[@PassionforSound]

Bifrost 2 for sure. The only reasons to choose D90 would be of you need DSD or MQA playback.

[@perinkolamanandganesh4226]

@@PassionforSound Thank you!

[@soulfulfool]

I'm leaning more to ZMF Atrium or Susvara if perhaps I could arrange that kind of money 😆

[@PassionforSound]

They're incredibly different headphones, but both amazing!

[@mobeen369]

maybe a little late of a comment but, I was looking at utopia as a potential long term upgrade to Arya stealth, was just curious which one is smoother in the treble, and also in the consonants range like S, F, T vocals.

[@PassionforSound]

That's a really interesting question! I think the new stealth magnet version Arya is probably a bit smoother, but they're also very different cans. The Utopias (in the right setup) are magical for vocals and instrumentals. The Arya is a little more balanced across the whole frequency range, but therefore less of a specialist in any particular area

[@mobeen369]

thats quite interesting. Thanks so much

[@mobeen369]

also would u say the utopia is moreforward in its detail presentation or more relaxed

[@PassionforSound]

Probably a little more forward due to the slightly reduced overall bass compared to the Arya

[@mobeen369]

thanks so much

[@blanchedesmas]

I have a new iBASSO DX300. Does the change of the GAIN in the preferences affect the sound quality?

[@marekkouril7134]

Try it.

[@PassionforSound]

Like Marek said, there's only one way to find out and I don't have a DX300 to comment.

[@gli7utubeo]

I really like the Utopia but prefer the ZMF Verite Closed.

[@PassionforSound]

I'm hoping to try the VCs soon!

[@Taladin1234]

"Basically everything audio related except passive speakers" well passive speakers is the biggest part of the industry. JK, I love your videos

[@PassionforSound]

Hopefully there are others covering that because at the moment all the passive speakers I reviewed would have pushed-in domes and scratches 👼😈👼 😉

[@tomgibson1902]

I found the detail in the Utopias to be like switching to a higher resolving power on a microscope.

[@PassionforSound]

Absolutely - they're exceptional like that.

[@krisrudecki9477]

tldr, yes, it’s epic. Needs a great source tho.

[@PassionforSound]

That's it

[@theodorezurla496]

Focal celestee review please 🙏

[@PassionforSound]

If I can get my hands on a pair I'll gladly share a review, but I can't afford to buy all the headphones ☹️

[@theodorezurla496]

@@PassionforSound I really think you should with this one it is making the most noise as of lately very popular headphone selling out everywhere

[@PassionforSound]

It all comes down to the availability of a loaner pair, Theo. I'll do my best

[@theodorezurla496]

@@PassionforSound you're the best 👌

[@songboek]

Nice review but the 800S can be extremely musical and engaging when paired with the right equipment!

[@PassionforSound]

Hi songboek, I've tried them on TT2/M-Scaler, Auris Euterpe, Bottlehead Mainline, Schiit Jotunheim 2, using Bifrost 2 DAC, Darkvoice 336SE, Asgard 3, Topping L30, Topping A90, and probably stuff I don't remember. I don't think it's about the right equipment so much as us all having different tastes and that's part of the joy of this hobby and all the choices we have. If you like the HD800S that's totally cool. There'll be others like you just as there'll be others like me who don't find them musical. To each their own - no right/wrong.

[@songboek]

@@PassionforSound I agree! In the end this hobby is very subjective and comes down to personal taste!

[@PassionforSound]

100%

[@reallyoldcob]

what’s a great tube amp to pair with the Utopia?

[@PassionforSound]

Hi Jake, the Bottlehead Mainline is amazing if you can build it. Otherwise there are great amps from companies like Ampsandsound that are worth considering, but I haven't tried them yet. Just be sure to get something with low output impedance (i.e. not OTL)

[@reallyoldcob]

@@PassionforSound sounds like a fun project! maybe I'll dive in over the holidays 👾

[@PassionforSound]

It's brilliant. Check out my review of the Mainline and also the Euterpe and TU-8200R (Part 2) for more info and comparisons about its sound.

[@BopWalk]

ZMF Verite is better than the Utopias imo

[@PassionforSound]

I hope to find that out for myself very soon. Sorry I missed your comment when it was new!

[@matticeverhoeven6539]

How do you think the utopia pairs with your bottle head amp?

[@PassionforSound]

Wonderfully. That's how I tend to use it quite often

[@matticeverhoeven6539]

@@PassionforSound Have you considering the Feliks Euforia? IndiHifi in Brisbane do in-home trials so you might be able to get a hand on one, I'm interested in how it stacks up with the mainline for Utopias.

[@PassionforSound]

Hi Mattice, Hugo (from IndiHiFi) and I are in touch... Stay tuned... 😉

[@fazzxides8429]

500th like 👍🏼😄

[@PassionforSound]

Thank you!

[@AndJusticeForAll...1985]

I ordered some focal clears and they were popping at moderate volumes. Distorting. I thought I got some duds so got a replacement. They were distorting and popping on my iPad Pro with no amp connected. Idc what everyone says about Focals headphones. If you like to listen at loud volumes you’re out of there. My $14 Apple earbuds go way louder without distortion and I mean that. Focal…. Stick with home audio because your headphones are weak. Especially for 1500$ Msrp$ laughable

[@PassionforSound]

Hi Lance, there is a known issue with the Focal drivers running out of excursion at high volumes. It does require quite a lot of volume to get there though so please take care not to damage your hearing. 🙏

[@vperrykevin]

Totally agree! I tried the focal clear MG and experienced the same thing. My 800s never clip at any level matter of fact none of my headphones clip at all.