Over-Ear
Dan Clark Audio Drop Ether CX
78Great
$900
Full review dataDan Clark Audio Drop Ether CX 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.
Dan Clark Audio Drop Ether CX
Sound8.0
Value6.0
Focal Clear
Sound9.0
Value7.0
Specifications
| Spec | Dan Clark Audio Drop Ether CX | Focal Clear |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Over-Ear | Over-Ear |
| Price (USD) | $900 | $1499 |
| HearWiki score | 78 / 100 · Great | 88 / 100 · Outstanding |
| Released | 2020 | 2017 |
| Audio | ||
| Driver | planar magnetic | dynamic |
| Driver size | - | 40 mm |
| Drivers per side | 1 | 1 |
| Frequency response | 20Hz-20kHz | 5Hz - 28kHz |
| Sound signature | - | Warm neutral |
| Impedance | 23 Ω | 55 Ω |
| Sensitivity | 92 dB/mW | 104 dB/mW |
| Features | ||
| Controls | none | - |
| Design | ||
| Weight | 440 g | 450 g |
| Detachable cable | - | Yes |
| Balanced connection | - | Yes |
What reviewers said
Dan Clark Audio Drop Ether CX
The Dan Clark Audio Drop Ether CX is a closed-back planar headphone that prioritizes clarity, detail, and technical performance. Its sound is generally neutral-to-bright, with good imaging and an open feel for a closed design, though bass quantity is modest and may require EQ or ample power to shine. Overall, it's a well-engineered option that rewards listeners who value precision and are willing to tailor the sound.
- Pro:Exceptionally low distortion for a closed-back design
- Pro:Open and spacious soundstage for closed headphones
- Pro:Detailed and textured midrange with crisp treble
- Con:Bass is light in stock tuning
- Con:Sub-bass and treble energy may be lacking without EQ
- Con:Requires a powerful amplifier to reach full potential
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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