Over-Ear
Dan Clark Audio Noire X
84Great
$1100
Full review dataDan Clark Audio Noire X 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 Noire X
Sound8.5
Value7.5
Focal Clear
Sound9.0
Value7.0
Specifications
| Spec | Dan Clark Audio Noire X | Focal Clear |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Over-Ear | Over-Ear |
| Price (USD) | $1100 | $1499 |
| HearWiki score | 84 / 100 · Great | 88 / 100 · Outstanding |
| Released | 2024 | 2017 |
| Audio | ||
| Driver | planar | dynamic |
| Driver size | 62 mm | 40 mm |
| Drivers per side | 2 | 1 |
| Frequency response | 20Hz-20kHz | 5Hz - 28kHz |
| Sound signature | - | Warm neutral |
| Impedance | 13 Ω | 55 Ω |
| Sensitivity | 94 dB/mW | 104 dB/mW |
| Wireless | ||
| Multipoint pairing | No | - |
| Features | ||
| Active noise cancelling | No | - |
| Design | ||
| Weight | 385 g | 450 g |
| Detachable cable | Yes | Yes |
| Balanced connection | Yes | Yes |
What reviewers said
Dan Clark Audio Noire X
The Dan Clark Audio Noire X is a closed-back planar headphone that offers a refined, dynamic sound with strong imaging and a neutral-leaning tuning that suits many genres. It improves on older models with better comfort and a lighter build, though it demands a capable amplifier and can be sensitive to source pairing to reach its full potential. Its modern driver technology and balanced design make it a compelling option in the premium closed-back category.
- Pro:Excellent imaging for a closed-back design
- Pro:Lightweight and comfortable for long sessions
- Pro:Refined treble control with strong dynamics
- Con:Requires a powerful desktop amplifier
- Con:Potential treble peak in upper frequencies
- Con:Folding mechanism and finish could be more robust
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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