Over-Ear
Focal Clear
88Outstanding
$1499
Full review dataFocal Clear vs Meze STRADA: 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
Meze STRADA
72Good
$799
Full review dataScore breakdown
Each axis is a 0–10 blend of what reviewers scored, not a lab measurement.
Focal Clear
Sound9.0
Value7.0
Meze STRADA
Sound7.0
Value6.5
Specifications
| Spec | Focal Clear | Meze STRADA |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Over-Ear | Over-Ear |
| Price (USD) | $1499 | $799 |
| HearWiki score | 88 / 100 · Outstanding | 72 / 100 · Good |
| Released | 2017 | 2026 |
| Audio | ||
| Driver | dynamic | dynamic |
| Driver size | 40 mm | 50 mm |
| Drivers per side | 1 | 2 |
| Frequency response | 5Hz - 28kHz | 5Hz-30kHz |
| Sound signature | Warm neutral | - |
| Impedance | 55 Ω | 40 Ω |
| Sensitivity | 104 dB/mW | 111 dB/mW |
| Features | ||
| Controls | - | buttons |
| Design | ||
| Weight | 450 g | 330 g |
| Detachable cable | Yes | - |
| USB-C | - | No |
| Balanced connection | 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
Meze STRADA
The Meze STRADA is a wired, closed-back over-ear headphone that delivers a lively and spacious sound with strong detail and bass, wrapped in a sturdy, comfortable design. It's easy to drive but performs best with quality amplification or light EQ, as it can sound brittle or peaky when underpowered. While praised for its build and engaging character, it has notable tradeoffs like cable noise and a fit that may not suit smaller heads.
- Pro:Solid and premium build quality
- Pro:Spacious, detailed soundstage for a closed-back
- Pro:Strong bass response and good clarity
- Con:Can sound brittle or peaky without proper amplification
- Con:Cable may transmit noise
- Con:Fit may not work well for smaller heads
Summaries are AI-condensed and paraphrased from published reviews and specs - not original hands-on testing. More on our method.
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