Over-Ear
Audio-Technica Adx5000
82Great
$2199
Full review dataAudio-Technica Adx5000 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.
Over-Ear
Focal Clear
88Outstanding
$1499
Full review dataScore breakdown
Each axis is a 0–10 blend of what reviewers scored, not a lab measurement.
Audio-Technica Adx5000
Sound8.5
Value6.5
Focal Clear
Sound9.0
Value7.0
Specifications
| Spec | Audio-Technica Adx5000 | Focal Clear |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Over-Ear | Over-Ear |
| Price (USD) | $2199 | $1499 |
| HearWiki score | 82 / 100 · Great | 88 / 100 · Outstanding |
| Released | 2017 | 2017 |
| Audio | ||
| Driver | dynamic | dynamic |
| Driver size | 58 mm | 40 mm |
| Drivers per side | 2 | 1 |
| Frequency response | 5Hz-50kHz | 5Hz - 28kHz |
| Sound signature | - | Warm neutral |
| Impedance | 420 Ω | 55 Ω |
| Sensitivity | 100 dB/mW | 104 dB/mW |
| Wireless | ||
| Multipoint pairing | No | - |
| Features | ||
| Active noise cancelling | No | - |
| Design | ||
| Weight | 270 g | 450 g |
| Detachable cable | Yes | Yes |
| USB-C | No | - |
| Balanced connection | Yes | Yes |
What reviewers said
Audio-Technica Adx5000
The Audio-Technica ADX5000 is a high-end open-back flagship that pairs an ultra-light frame with a large 58mm dynamic driver, delivering an airy, transparent sound with strong resolution and an immersive stage. Its demanding 420-ohm impedance and 100 dB sensitivity require quality amplification to shine, and while its tuning has strong subjective appeal, it comes with a few practical compromises. Overall, it's a serious all-rounder for listeners who can match it with the right gear and appreciate its distinctive character.
- Pro:Exceptionally light and comfortable for a flagship
- Pro:Transparent, airy sound with excellent detail retrieval
- Pro:Immersive soundstage and strong midrange technicalities
- Con:Requires powerful, high-quality amplification
- Con:Stock cable is stiff and microphonic
- Con:No balanced cable included
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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