Over-Ear
Focal Clear
88Outstanding
$1,500
Full review dataFocal Clear vs STAX SR-009D: 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
STAX SR-009D
88Outstanding
$2,640
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
STAX SR-009D
Sound9.5
Value5.5
Specifications
| Spec | Focal Clear | STAX SR-009D |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Over-Ear | Over-Ear |
| Price (USD) | $1,500 | $2,640 |
| HearWiki score | 88 / 100 · Outstanding | 88 / 100 · Outstanding |
| Released | 2017 | 2024 |
| Audio | ||
| Driver | dynamic | push-pull electrostatic circular sound element |
| Driver size | 40 mm | - |
| Drivers per side | 1 | 2 |
| Frequency response | 5Hz - 28kHz | 5Hz-42kHz |
| Sound signature | Warm neutral | - |
| Impedance | 55 Ω | 145000 Ω |
| Sensitivity | 104 dB/mW | - |
| Wireless | ||
| Bluetooth | - | none |
| Multipoint pairing | - | No |
| Battery | ||
| Wireless charging | - | No |
| Features | ||
| Active noise cancelling | - | No |
| ANC type | - | none |
| Transparency mode | - | No |
| Companion app | - | No |
| Custom EQ | - | No |
| Wear detection | - | No |
| Design | ||
| Weight | 450 g | 594 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
STAX SR-009D
The STAX SR-009D is a premium electrostatic over-ear headphone that pushes the boundaries of high-fidelity audio with an exceptionally wide frequency response and transparent, detailed sound. Its open-back design and push-pull driver technology deliver a refined, airy presentation, but it demands a dedicated amplifier and a significant investment. This is a statement piece for audiophiles seeking the utmost in technical performance, not a casual listening device.
- Pro:Exceptional clarity and detail retrieval
- Pro:Very wide frequency range (5Hz-42kHz)
- Pro:Premium build quality with detachable cable
- Con:Requires specialized electrostatic amplifier
- Con:Very high price point
- Con:Open-back design leaks sound and offers no isolation
Summaries are AI-condensed and paraphrased from published reviews and specs - not original hands-on testing. More on our method.
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