Over-Ear
Focal Clear
88Outstanding
$1499
Full review dataFocal Clear vs STAX SR-507: 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
STAX SR-507
Sound8.5
Value6.5
Specifications
| Spec | Focal Clear | STAX SR-507 |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Over-Ear | Over-Ear |
| Price (USD) | $1499 | $1099 |
| HearWiki score | 88 / 100 · Outstanding | 78 / 100 · Great |
| Released | 2017 | 2010 |
| Audio | ||
| Driver | dynamic | Electrostatic |
| Driver size | 40 mm | - |
| Drivers per side | 1 | 2 |
| Frequency response | 5Hz - 28kHz | 7Hz-41kHz |
| Sound signature | Warm neutral | Neutral |
| Impedance | 55 Ω | 145000 Ω |
| Sensitivity | 104 dB/mW | 118 dB/mW |
| Design | ||
| Weight | 450 g | 533 g |
| Detachable cable | Yes | - |
| 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-507
The STAX SR-507 is an electrostatic headphone that delivers a highly neutral and transparent sound, prioritizing accuracy and detail over coloration. Its technical performance is outstanding, though it demands a dedicated electrostatic amplifier to unlock its full potential, making it a niche choice for serious audiophiles. The sound is fast and precise, with excellent resolution across the frequency range, though the tuning may come across as slightly lean for some listeners.
- Pro:Exceptional detail retrieval and clarity
- Pro:Fast transient response with electrostatic speed
- Pro:Neutral and accurate tonal balance
- Con:Requires a specialized electrostatic amp, adding cost
- Con:Lean tuning may lack warmth for some
- Con:Heavy build at over half a kilogram
Summaries are AI-condensed and paraphrased from published reviews and specs - not original hands-on testing. More on our method.
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