Is the HiFiMAN Edition X V1 worth the upgrade from the Focal Utopia 2022?
Verdict
Downgrade
The HiFiMAN Edition X V1 actually scores 10.0 points below the Focal Utopia 2022, so on aggregate review consensus this is a step backwards. The gains are concentrated in value (6.0 to 6.5). You do give up ground on sound (9.5 to 8.5). On paper: weight 490 g to 399 g and driver size 40 mm to 131.2 mm. It is at least $3200 cheaper, so the lower score comes with a saving. Only worth it if a specific feature above matters more to you than overall quality does.
What actually changes
Sub-scores both products have, on the same 0-10 scale. Bars extend right for a gain, left for a loss.
- Sound9.58.5
- Value6.06.5
Spec differences
Only where the two genuinely differ - everything they share is omitted.
| Spec | Utopia 2022 | Edition X V1 | Direction |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | 490 g | 399 g | |
| Driver size | 40 mm | 131.2 mm | |
| Driver | 40 mm dynamic | 131.2 mm planar magnetic | |
| Frequency response | 5 Hz - 23 kHz | 8 Hz - 50 kHz |
About this verdict
Direction matters here: this page answers "Utopia 2022 to Edition X V1". The other direction is a separate question with a different answer. Scores blend published review verdicts across over-ear and shift as new reviews land, so a marginal call today may not be one next quarter.