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Audeze CRBN2 vs Focal Utopia: which should you buy?

On aggregated review scores the Focal Utopia comes out ahead with a HearWiki score of 81. The full breakdown - sub-scores, specs and what reviewers actually said - is below.

Our pick: Focal Utopia - Outstanding overall at around $4999.

Score breakdown

Each axis is a 0–10 blend of what reviewers scored, not a lab measurement.

Focal Utopia leads on 4 of 4 measures.

  • Audeze CRBN2
  • Focal Utopia
HearWiki score
75
81
Sound
9.3
9.7
Value
4.0
5.8
Price (USD)
$6,000
$5,000

Generation & platform

The scores rank quality. This is the other question: is the newer one actually newer technology, or the same platform in a new shell?

Same generation

Both shipped in 2022. These are the same generation of hardware - nothing in the radio, the codecs or the noise cancelling separates them. Nothing separates them on convenience features either, so the choice comes down to tuning and price.

  • CRBN22022
  • Utopia2022

Specifications

CRBN2Utopia
Type
Over-Ear
Over-Ear
Price (USD)
$6,000
$5,000
HearWiki score
75
81
Released
2022
2022
Availability
Still sold new
Still sold new
Driver
2× 120 mm electrostatic
40 mm dynamic
Driver type
electrostatic
dynamic
Driver size
120 mm
40 mm
Drivers per side
2
1
Frequency response
10 Hz - 40 kHz
5 Hz - 23 kHz
Sound signature
-
neutral
Impedance
580 Ω
80 Ω
Sensitivity
100 dB/mW
104 dB/mW
Active noise cancelling
No
No
Weight
480 g
490 g
Water resistance
-
none
Detachable cable
Yes
Yes
USB-C
-
No
Model code
217-EX-1121-00
-

What reviewers said

Audeze CRBN2

The Audeze CRBN2 is a premium open-back electrostatic headphone that builds on its predecessor with enhanced low-end impact and a smoother, more refined tonal balance. It requires a powerful dedicated energizer to perform at its best, and its treble is slightly laid-back rather than aggressive. This wired, high-end model is aimed at serious listeners seeking top-tier resolution and comfort in a reference-grade setup.

  • Pro:Improved bass impact and slam
  • Pro:Smooth, refined tonal balance
  • Pro:Excellent comfort for long sessions
  • Con:Requires a powerful external energizer
  • Con:Treble presence is somewhat relaxed
  • Con:Very high price point

Focal Utopia

The Focal Utopia is a premium open-back wired headphone engineered for audiophiles seeking reference-grade neutrality. Its 40mm beryllium driver delivers exceptional detail, low distortion, and a finely tuned high-frequency response, making it a top-tier choice for critical listening. While its performance is class-leading, the steep price positions it as a luxury investment rather than a practical everyday option.

  • Pro:Outstanding resolution and micro-detail retrieval
  • Pro:Very low distortion with a neutral, accurate sound signature
  • Pro:Premium build quality and detachable cable design
  • Con:Extremely high price point
  • Con:No active noise cancellation or wireless connectivity
  • Con:Heavy weight (490g) may be tiring during long sessions

Summaries are AI-condensed and paraphrased from published reviews and specs - not original hands-on testing. More on our method.

Compare something else

Swap either side out, or start again from the picker.

New comparisonAudeze CRBN2Focal Utopia