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lh-95 t1_jednbxm wrote

I first listened to Focal Clears auditioning them next to HD800S and Hifiman Arya Stealths.

They did not stand out to me for any particular aspect whilst the HD800S had that grand soundstage and the Aryas were great in their all round technicalities.

Unfortunately the HD800S were not suited to my music choices and I experienced sibilance with the Aryas and ended up not buying any of them.

I then realised that whilst the Clears didn’t “stand out” there wasn’t anything wrong with them. Technically great, with an enjoyable sound signature (for me) and available at a discounted price (in Australia) I bought them on a whim thinking I was “settling”.

Now after several months of living with them, I’ve become very appreciative of them. With great dynamics, a fun tuning and good levels of comfort without being too picky with sources they truly a jack of all trades, master of none.

In my mind they’re basically a direct upgrade to my HD6XXs and I don’t find the compulsion to buy anything else dynamic driver based. I have become cautious about the headband but no issues have developed with my manhandling and was a bit peeved about the cost of the pads (ZMF to the rescue) but am definitely a fan of Focal now and would look towards a newer Clear Mg or perhaps a Utopia if I decided to full send.

I love them and don’t feel like I’m missing out on much (except for maybe having a planar for the sake of having a planar)

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jumboshrimp93 t1_jeeg441 wrote

I have the same feeling towards the Clear and ultimately felt that while I might be missing out on the soundstage of the HD800S and the planar bass of the Arya or LCD-X, I’d just be getting a damn good all-rounder headphone that doesn’t do anything wrong. And coming from the Sennheiser family yes, it’s a great upgrade.

I’ve had mine for 2 years now and still love them. Add in the fact that you can get a new pair for $900 in the US now, or even less open box or used, you’re getting an end-game headphone for a really good price.

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1trickana t1_jedvd8e wrote

Clear Mg isn't an upgrade at all, it's pretty much a Clear with less metallic timbre

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lh-95 t1_jedxoxw wrote

You pulled my arm, I’ll buy the utopia lol

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