Over-Ear
Focal Clear
88Outstanding
$1499
Full review dataFocal Clear vs HiFiMAN HE 6: 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.
Score breakdown
Each axis is a 0–10 blend of what reviewers scored, not a lab measurement.
Focal Clear
Sound9.0
Value7.0
HiFiMAN HE 6
Sound8.5
Value6.0
Specifications
| Spec | Focal Clear | HiFiMAN HE 6 |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Over-Ear | Over-Ear |
| Price (USD) | $1499 | $893 |
| HearWiki score | 88 / 100 · Outstanding | 78 / 100 · Great |
| Released | 2017 | 2010 |
| Audio | ||
| Driver | dynamic | planar |
| Driver size | 40 mm | 60 mm |
| Drivers per side | 1 | - |
| Frequency response | 5Hz - 28kHz | 8Hz-65kHz |
| Sound signature | Warm neutral | Bright neutral |
| Impedance | 55 Ω | 50 Ω |
| Sensitivity | 104 dB/mW | 83.5 dB/mW |
| Design | ||
| Weight | 450 g | 502 g |
| Detachable cable | Yes | Yes |
| Balanced connection | Yes | Yes |
What reviewers said
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
HiFiMAN HE 6
The HiFiMAN HE 6 is a demanding planar headphone that rewards owners with a bright, detailed, and highly resolving sound. It offers exceptional technical performance, especially in clarity and speed, but requires a powerful amplifier to reach its full potential. Its neutral-bright tuning and heavy build make it a niche choice for serious listeners who prioritize precision over warmth.
- Pro:Outstanding resolution and micro-detail retrieval
- Pro:Fast, precise transient response typical of top-tier planars
- Pro:Balanced connection option for improved channel separation
- Con:Very low sensitivity demands a powerful dedicated amp
- Con:Bright treble can be fatiguing on poorly mastered tracks
- Con:Heavy and bulky, lacking comfort for long sessions
Summaries are AI-condensed and paraphrased from published reviews and specs - not original hands-on testing. More on our method.
Compare something else
Swap either side out, or start again from the picker.