Over-Ear
Focal Clear
88Outstanding
$1499
Full review dataFocal Clear vs STAX SR-L500: which should you buy?
Specs, scores and condensed review verdicts for the Focal Clear vs STAX SR-L500, side by side. Where a product has no HearWiki score yet, not enough reviews have been aggregated to rate it.
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-L500
No sub-scores yet - not enough rated reviews.
Specifications
| Spec | Focal Clear | STAX SR-L500 |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Over-Ear | Over-Ear |
| Price (USD) | $1499 | $830 |
| HearWiki score | 88 / 100 · Outstanding | Not scored |
| Released | 2017 | 2016 |
| Audio | ||
| Driver | dynamic | electrostatic |
| Driver size | 40 mm | - |
| Drivers per side | 1 | - |
| Frequency response | 5Hz - 28kHz | 7Hz-41kHz |
| Sound signature | Warm neutral | - |
| Impedance | 55 Ω | 145000 Ω |
| Sensitivity | 104 dB/mW | 101 dB/mW |
| Design | ||
| Weight | 450 g | 339 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-L500
The STAX SR-L500 is an open-back electrostatic headphone that delivers exceptionally detailed and transparent sound, thanks to its ultra-thin diaphragm and precision-engineered electrodes. Its lightweight frame and adjustable headband provide a comfortable fit for extended listening sessions, while the high-quality cable ensures minimal signal interference. However, it requires a dedicated electrostatic amplifier, making it a significant investment for audiophiles seeking reference-grade clarity.
- Pro:Exceptional transient response and micro-detail retrieval
- Pro:Comfortable, adjustable headband with lightweight build
- Pro:Low-capacitance cable for clean signal transfer
- Con:Requires a separate electrostatic amplifier (not included)
- Con:Open-back design leaks sound and offers no isolation
- Con:High impedance limits compatibility with standard gear
Summaries are AI-condensed and paraphrased from published reviews and specs - not original hands-on testing. More on our method.
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