Over-Ear
Audio-Technica Awkt
78Great
$1999
Full review dataAudio-Technica Awkt 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 Awkt
Sound8.0
Value6.0
Focal Clear
Sound9.0
Value7.0
Specifications
| Spec | Audio-Technica Awkt | Focal Clear |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Over-Ear | Over-Ear |
| Price (USD) | $1999 | $1499 |
| HearWiki score | 78 / 100 · Great | 88 / 100 · Outstanding |
| Released | 2019 | 2017 |
| Audio | ||
| Driver | dynamic | dynamic |
| Driver size | 53 mm | 40 mm |
| Drivers per side | 1 | 1 |
| Frequency response | 5Hz-45kHz | 5Hz - 28kHz |
| Sound signature | - | Warm neutral |
| Impedance | 48 Ω | 55 Ω |
| Sensitivity | 102 dB/mW | 104 dB/mW |
| Design | ||
| Weight | 405 g | 450 g |
| Detachable cable | Yes | Yes |
| USB-C | No | - |
| Balanced connection | Yes | Yes |
What reviewers said
Audio-Technica Awkt
The Audio-Technica ATH-AWKT is a premium closed-back headphone that pairs large 53 mm dynamic drivers with dense kokutan wood housings for a refined, detailed sound. Despite its substantial 405 g weight, it stays comfortable, and its 48-ohm impedance and 102 dB sensitivity make it easy to drive even from modest sources. The package includes both balanced and unbalanced cables, adding flexibility for different setups.
- Pro:Large 53 mm drivers deliver rich, detailed audio
- Pro:Easy to drive thanks to efficient tuning
- Pro:Premium build with dense kokutan wood cups
- Con:Hefty at 405 g, which may tire some listeners
- Con:Closed-back design limits soundstage width
- Con:High price tag limits accessibility
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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