Over-Ear
Focal Utopia
88Outstanding
$4999
Full review dataFocal Utopia vs HiFiMAN HE 1000se: which should you buy?
On aggregated review scores the Focal Utopia 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 Utopia - Outstanding overall at around $4999.
Over-Ear
HiFiMAN HE 1000se
88Outstanding
$1699
Full review dataScore breakdown
Each axis is a 0–10 blend of what reviewers scored, not a lab measurement.
Focal Utopia
Sound9.5
Value5.0
HiFiMAN HE 1000se
Sound9.5
Value6.5
Specifications
| Spec | Focal Utopia | HiFiMAN HE 1000se |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Over-Ear | Over-Ear |
| Price (USD) | $4999 | $1699 |
| HearWiki score | 88 / 100 · Outstanding | 88 / 100 · Outstanding |
| Released | 2022 | 2018 |
| Audio | ||
| Driver | Dynamic | planar |
| Driver size | 40 mm | - |
| Drivers per side | 2 | - |
| Frequency response | 5Hz-50kHz | 8Hz-65kHz |
| Sound signature | Neutral | Bright neutral |
| Impedance | 80 Ω | 35 Ω |
| Sensitivity | 104 dB/mW | 96 dB/mW |
| Wireless | ||
| Bluetooth | none | - |
| Multipoint pairing | No | - |
| Features | ||
| Active noise cancelling | No | - |
| Design | ||
| Weight | 490 g | 440 g |
| Water resistance | none | - |
| Detachable cable | Yes | - |
| USB-C | No | - |
| Balanced connection | - | Yes |
What reviewers said
Focal Utopia
The Focal Utopia is a flagship open-back dynamic headphone that delivers exceptionally detailed, neutral sound with very low distortion, thanks to its beryllium driver and precise tuning. It is crafted as a luxury audiophile product with premium materials and a high price tag, making it a top-tier choice for those who prioritize ultimate performance over affordability.
- Pro:Exceptional resolution and detail retrieval
- Pro:Very low distortion across frequencies
- Pro:Natural, accurate timbre and neutral signature
- Con:Extremely high price point
- Con:Open-back design offers no isolation
- Con:Heavy weight may cause fatigue during long sessions
HiFiMAN HE 1000se
The HiFiMAN HE1000se is a high-end planar magnetic headphone that delivers exceptional detail retrieval and a spacious, airy soundstage. Its bright-neutral tuning offers strong bass and treble extension, though the prominent treble can become harsh with lower-quality recordings. While its 35-ohm impedance and 96 dB sensitivity make it moderately easy to drive, it still benefits from quality amplification to perform at its best.
- Pro:Outstanding resolution and micro-detail clarity
- Pro:Wide, airy soundstage with excellent instrument separation
- Pro:Strong extension at both frequency extremes
- Con:Bright, peaky treble can fatigue on poorly mastered tracks
- Con:Requires a decent amp despite moderate sensitivity
- Con:Midrange lacks warmth and body for some tastes
Summaries are AI-condensed and paraphrased from published reviews and specs - not original hands-on testing. More on our method.
Compare something else
Swap either side out, or start again from the picker.