The renowned French brand Focal which has recently impressed with its design and performance of Bathys, introduces the Focal Clear MG, a headphone that prioritizes comfort. Here are my brief initial impressions. In the full review, it will examine it through different power scenarios. This will be a unique experience for me since, apart from the HD600/650 and Fidelio X2/SH9500, I’ve only listened to planar over-ear headphones. Anyway, let’s dive in.
First, I notice a wide and spacious soundstage. This is partly due to the semi-open design and partly because the R4’s power can only go so far. At 50/100 H gain, the volume is just slightly above moderate. The instruments are positioned close to my left and right. I’m curious to see how the N8ii will perform in the full review. I have to admit, listening to Riverside and the 80s-inspired “Friend or Foe” has been a delightful experience. I hear a large, full-bodied playback filling both my auditory hemispheres. From a technical perspective, there’s no lack of detail – transparency stands out, and the rest doesn’t fall behind. My goodness, can the R4 really handle this? 🙂
Unboxing:
I can’t comment about anything, as this one was a loaner
disclaimer
• 15/8” (40mm) Magnesium ‘M’-shaped dome
• Frequency response (+/- 3dB): 5 Hz – 23 kHz
• Harmonic distortion rate: 0.25% @ 1 kHz / 100 dB SPL
• Impedance: 55 Ω
• Maximum SPL (peak@1m): 104 dB SPL
Focal Clear MG Performance:
Clear MG offers a wide soundstage and a rich, full sound, thanks to its semi-open design. However, to unlock its full potential, it requires a powerful DAP or a DAC/AMP combo. While it provides adequate transparency with portable sources like the Samsung A54 and iPad Pro, it quickly reaches its limits in depth and detail. When paired with a more powerful source like the R4, instrument separation and technical performance improve noticeably. Still, for optimal performance, it’s best to use Focal Clear MG with a high-end source such as the Cayin N8ii or any pro grade desktop amp, and the screws at its stock output cable is a proof. With the N8ii, 3D imaging and precise instrument positioning become much more defined.
Source: Samsung A54
I didn’t expect this at all. With Dolby and various sound enhancements active, I got airy, detailed, and transparent sound, though a bit thin, even at 70/100 volume. However, when I turned off all enhancements, the transparency diminished, and the sound became flat.
On tracks by Shaka Ponk, a French rock band, it struggled across all parameters. It only improved slightly at 90/100 volume, but not enough to be enjoyable. Protect your ears – it’s not worth it.
Source: iPad Pro 2024
I was even more surprised here. The A54 seemed more powerful, but upon close listening, the iPad delivered a wider and deeper playback. Unfortunately, neither came close to the R4.
This was evident with Jethro Tull, and when I revisited Shaka Ponk, the A54 only provided a comparable playback when all enhancements were enabled – and only partially so, both technically and musically. However, the iPad impressed me with its transparency, allowing the Clear MG to perform closer to its true potential. Yet, none of these sources could match the R4. It might be time to call in the flagship.
Source: Cayin N8ii
As Toto’s Africa began on Qobuz, the performance felt more effortless and distant compared to Deezer’s version. The 3D imaging was stunning, with every delicate high note coming through. However, I struggled to catch the seconds featuring trombone or a similar brass instrument at the end of the second chorus. Why? Because the Focal Clear MG is a semi-open headphone focused on musicality.
Following that, Russian Circles – Harper Lewis began playing. Compared to the Fiio FT3 (350 ohms), which I reviewed earlier today, the playback felt far more refined.
And quieter. So quiet, in fact, that after the 2-minute mark, during a transition, I could hear the rhythmic tapping of wooden drumsticks in the dark, followed later by the metallic sticks’ strikes. I won’t elaborate further. But the Clear MG’s layering capabilities are exceptional, especially for a musically focused over-ear headphone rather than a monitor.
Switching to pop music also maintained the 3D imaging, creating pop moments that felt like music videos. The rhythm was so full that it made me want to move. But of course, being a semi-open headphone, it won’t deliver the same punch as a closed-back model.
Comparison With Fiio FT3 350 ohm
The Fiio FT3 and Focal Clear MG offer distinct listening experiences, each excelling in specific areas. The FT3 leans towards an analytical, neutral sound signature, with tight, controlled bass and a focus on precision. In contrast, the Clear MG delivers a warmer, more musical tonality with a wider soundstage, making it more immersive and engaging for casual listening. Both excel in detail retrieval, but the FT3 prioritizes accuracy, while the Clear MG emphasizes naturalness and musical flow.
When it comes to imaging and soundstage, Clear MG’s semi-open design provides a more spacious and airy presentation, ideal for genres like symphonic metal and acoustic. On the other hand, the FT3, with its closed-back design, offers sharper instrument separation and pinpoint imaging, making it better suited for complex tracks like jazz and progressive rock. However, the FT3’s more confined soundstage can feel limiting compared to the open and expansive feel of the Clear MG.
In terms of usability, the FT3’s 350-ohm impedance makes it highly dependent on powerful amplification, performing best with high-end DAPs or desktop amps. Meanwhile, the Clear MG, with its 55-ohm impedance, is easier to drive and more versatile with portable sources, though it still benefits from good amplification. Ultimately, the Clear MG is the better all-rounder for those seeking musical enjoyment across genres, while the FT3 will appeal more to listeners who enjoy precise, analytical playback with complex music.
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Lastly, I revisited Shaka Ponk, which I had also tested with the A54. With its fast, romantic, and aggressive flow, it filled the space with remarkable separation and volume, as if I could open my arms and embrace it all.
Pros:
• Semi-open design offering a spacious and full soundstage
• High-level transparency and detailed technical performance
• Comfortable design suitable for long listening sessions
• Premium packaging with high-quality connection cables
Cons:
• Cannot reach its full potential with low-powered portable sources
• Bass performance is less impactful compared to closed-back headphones
• Requires a high-end DAC/AMP to achieve the best performance
• Price point may be higher than some competing models
Focal Clear MG Review Conclusions
Focal Clear MG offers an enjoyable listening experience with its wide soundstage, excellent transparency, and comfortable design. When paired with a powerful DAP or DAC/AMP, it delivers impressive instrument separation, layering, and 3D imaging. Its semi-open design provides a spacious and balanced stage, though the bass performance is somewhat behind closed-back headphones.
Clear MG strikes a fine balance between technical performance and musical enjoyment, performing well across various music genres. However, it struggles to reach its full potential with portable, low-powered sources. Its premium design, long-lasting comfort, and high-quality accessories enhance the sense of quality it offers. While the price point may seem high, the performance justifies the investment. With the right source, Focal Clear MG has the potential to deliver a truly reference-level musical experience.
