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Audeze LCD-GX vs Focal Clear: which should you buy?

On aggregated review scores the Focal Clear comes out ahead with an HearWiki score of 88. The full breakdown - sub-scores, specs and what reviewers actually said - is below.

Our pick: Focal Clear - Outstanding overall at around $1499.

Score breakdown

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

Audeze LCD-GX
Sound9.0
Calls7.5
Value6.0
Focal Clear
Sound9.0
Value7.0

Specifications

Specification comparison of Audeze LCD-GX vs Focal Clear
SpecAudeze LCD-GXFocal Clear
TypeOver-EarOver-Ear
Price (USD)$899$1499
HearWiki score82 / 100 · Great88 / 100 · Outstanding
Released20192017
Audio
DriverPlanar-Magneticdynamic
Driver typePlanar Magnetic-
Driver size106 mm40 mm
Driver size90mm-
Drivers per side11
Frequency response10 Hz - 50,000 Hz5Hz - 28kHz
Sound signature-Warm neutral
Impedance20 Ω55 Ω
Sensitivity100 dB/mW104 dB/mW
Wireless
Bluetooth5.3-
Codecsnone-
Multipoint pairingNo-
Battery
Battery life80 h-
Wireless chargingNo-
Features
Active noise cancellingNo-
Design
Weight461 g450 g
Water resistancenone-
Detachable cable-Yes
Pad materialProtien Leather-
Clamp force749 g-
Balanced connectionYesYes

What reviewers said

Audeze LCD-GX

The Audeze LCD-GX is a premium open-back planar magnetic gaming headset that prioritizes audiophile-grade sound over gaming gimmicks. It features a 90mm driver, low impedance for easy driving, and a detachable boom mic, making it a niche choice for enthusiasts who value reference-style audio in a wired setup. Its high price, heavy build, and open-back design limit its appeal to a specific audience.

  • Pro:Outstanding clarity and detail across the frequency range
  • Pro:Low distortion and wide 10 Hz–50 kHz response
  • Pro:Comfortable protein leather pads with solid clamp
  • Con:Very expensive for a gaming headset
  • Con:Heavy at 461 g and bulky on the head
  • Con:Open-back design leaks sound and lets noise in

Focal Clear

The Focal Clear is a wired, open-back-style over-ear headphone with a warm-neutral tuning that balances musicality and accuracy. Its dynamic driver delivers rich, natural timbre and strong technical performance, making it a versatile choice for critical listening across genres. The build is solid yet comfortable, with a detachable cable and balanced connection support for audiophile setups.

  • Pro:Natural, engaging warm-neutral sound
  • Pro:Excellent detail retrieval and imaging
  • Pro:Comfortable fit for long sessions
  • Con:Heavier than some competitors at 450g
  • Con:Pricey despite discounts
  • Con:Open-back design leaks sound

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

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