Over-Ear
Focal Clear
88Outstanding
$1499
Full review dataFocal Clear vs STAX SR-L700MK2: 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-L700MK2
84Great
$1035
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-L700MK2
Sound9.0
Value7.5
Specifications
| Spec | Focal Clear | STAX SR-L700MK2 |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Over-Ear | Over-Ear |
| Price (USD) | $1499 | $1035 |
| HearWiki score | 88 / 100 · Outstanding | 84 / 100 · Great |
| Released | 2017 | 2016 |
| Audio | ||
| Driver | dynamic | Push-Pull Open Back Oval Electrostatic |
| Driver size | 40 mm | - |
| Drivers per side | 1 | 1 |
| Frequency response | 5Hz - 28kHz | 7Hz-41kHz |
| Sound signature | Warm neutral | - |
| Impedance | 55 Ω | 145000 Ω |
| Sensitivity | 104 dB/mW | 101 dB/mW |
| Wireless | ||
| Multipoint pairing | - | No |
| Features | ||
| Active noise cancelling | - | No |
| Design | ||
| Weight | 450 g | 363 g |
| Detachable cable | Yes | 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-L700MK2
The STAX SR-L700MK2 is an open-back electrostatic headphone that delivers outstanding clarity, transparency, and an expansive soundstage, making it a top-tier choice for detail-oriented listeners. It offers much of the flagship electrostatic character at a more accessible price point, though it requires a dedicated amplifier and may not satisfy those seeking heavy bass or a dramatic presentation. While its sonic performance is exceptional, the build quality is a notable letdown given the premium cost.
- Pro:Exceptional clarity and detail retrieval
- Pro:Impressive soundstage and openness
- Pro:Strong value within the electrostatic lineup
- Con:Lacks bass impact and extension
- Con:Build quality feels subpar for the price
- Con:Needs a dedicated electrostatic amplifier
Summaries are AI-condensed and paraphrased from published reviews and specs - not original hands-on testing. More on our method.
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