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Audio-Technica Narukami 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 3 of 4 measures.

  • Audio-Technica Narukami
  • Focal Utopia
HearWiki score
50
81
Sound
6.5
9.7
Value
1.0
5.8
Price (USD)
$4,500
$5,000

Specifications

NarukamiUtopia
Type
Over-Ear
Over-Ear
Price (USD)
$4,500
$5,000
HearWiki score
50
81
Released
2024
2022
Availability
Discontinued
Still sold new
Driver
53 mm dynamic
40 mm dynamic
Driver type
dynamic
dynamic
Driver size
53 mm
40 mm
Drivers per side
-
1
Frequency response
5 Hz - 45 kHz
5 Hz - 23 kHz
Sound signature
-
neutral
Impedance
48 Ω
80 Ω
Sensitivity
102 dB/mW
104 dB/mW
Active noise cancelling
-
No
Weight
390 g
490 g
Water resistance
-
none
Detachable cable
Yes
Yes
USB-C
-
No
Model code
ATH-AWKG
-

What reviewers said

Audio-Technica Narukami

The Audio-Technica Narukami headphones are a premium, wired over-ear model built around a large 53 mm dynamic driver, offering a broad frequency response from 5 Hz to 45 kHz. They are part of an exclusive, high-end system that emphasizes craftsmanship and refined sound, appealing to audiophiles who prioritize luxury performance over budget. With a detachable cable and a 48-ohm impedance, they are designed for serious listening setups rather than everyday portability.

  • Pro:Exceptional build quality and premium craftsmanship
  • Pro:Wide frequency response for detailed high-frequency reproduction
  • Pro:Detachable cable for flexible connection options
  • Con:Very high price point limits accessibility
  • Con:Wired-only design requires a dedicated amplifier or source
  • Con:Impedance may need specific amp settings for optimal pairing

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.

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