Field Test · Studio Gear Review
Focal Clear MG Professional
In-depth technical assessment of Focal’s Clear MG Professional headset
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Spec Sheet
- Open
- Circumaural
- 40 mm Magnesium drivers
- High dynamics due to optimised dome design
- Very comfortable to wear due to perforated microfibre ear pads and the solid aluminium headband
- Balanced sound across the entire spectrum
- Impedance: 55 Ohm
- Sensitivity: 104 dB SPL / 1 mW @ 1 kHz
- THD: 0.25% @ 1 kHz / 100 dB SPL
- Frequency range: 5 – 28,000 Hz
- Dimensions (W x D x H): 250 x 240 x 120 mm
- Weight: 450 g
- Includes 5 m coiled cable, 1.2 m straight cable, 3.5 mm to 6.35 mm jack adapter, 2 replacement ear pads, and travel bag
Studio Log
| Available since | March 2021 |
|---|---|
| Item number | 512148 |
| Sales Unit | 1 piece(s) |
| Design | Over-Ear |
| System | Open |
| Impedance | 55 Ohms |
| Frequency range | 5 Hz – 28000 Hz |
| Adaptor | Yes |
| Replaceable Cable | Yes |
| Colour | Black/Red |
| Max. SPL | 104 dB |
| Type Of Connector | Jack, mini-jack |
| Weight | 450 g |
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Customer Review Summary
Introduction to the Focal Clear MG Professional
Launched in March 2021, the Focal Clear MG Professional is an open, circumaural headphone designed for critical listening and professional studio applications. With a retail price of £1,139, it occupies the upper tier of dynamic over-ear headphones. Its magnesium drivers and broad frequency range from 5 Hz to 28,000 Hz promise both precision and musicality, setting high expectations for audio professionals and enthusiasts alike.
Design and Build Quality
The Clear MG Pro exhibits a robust construction featuring a solid aluminium headband paired with perforated microfibre ear pads. These materials contribute to a combination of durability and comfort, weighing in at 450 grams. Despite initial impressions of substantial weight, many users report that the headphone becomes unobtrusive over extended listening periods. The design includes an open-back system with a distinctive black and red colour scheme accented by honeycomb grille patterns, which is both aesthetically elegant and practical for reducing heat buildup.
The package is comprehensive, including a 5-metre coiled cable, a 1.2-metre straight cable, two replacement ear pads, and a rigid travel case, providing versatility for both studio and portable use. Notably, the headphone supports replaceable cables and includes a 3.5 mm to 6.35 mm jack adapter, accommodating various professional equipment setups.
Comfort and Wearability
The circumaural design employs ear pads that surround the ears, utilising perforated microfiber that enhances breathability and reduces fatigue. Some users initially noted strong clamping force beneath the ears, which was effectively mitigated by adding foam padding between the ear cups and headband. The adjustable headband offers a secure fit with minimal movement once set, although the ease of swapping the headband itself is limited compared to competitors.
Sound Performance
The Focal Clear MG Professional utilises 40 mm magnesium dome drivers with an optimised design to deliver high dynamic range. Its impedance of 55 Ohms and sensitivity of 104 dB SPL at 1 kHz enables efficient driveability, suitable for many professional amplifiers, though low output impedance amplification is recommended to maintain accurate frequency response and avoid exaggerated bass or diminished detail.
Frequency Response and Tonal Balance
Spanning from an impressively low 5 Hz to 28,000 Hz, the headphone handles the full audible spectrum with notable clarity. The sound signature is characterized by balanced reproduction across lows, mids, and highs, with a slight dip around 3.5 to 6 kHz and a modest elevation near 12 kHz that enhances brightness without sibilance. The bass is articulate and well-defined though not emphasised excessively, providing sufficient depth especially for sub-bass content without becoming overpowering.
Detail and Imaging
Users report remarkable transient response and resolution rivaling planar magnetic headphones, with the ability to discern detailed textures in complex mixes. Vocals stand out as particularly intimate and well-defined, contributing to an immersive listening experience especially suited for vocal-centric genres. Spatial imaging offers a stable and focused soundstage, though some listeners note the stage width is not as expansive as certain headphones priced similarly or higher.
Professional Application
For mixing and mastering, the Focal Clear MG Professional is highly regarded due to its precise and balanced audio reproduction. It is praised for faithfully conveying changes in mixes, allowing producers to make nuanced adjustments with confidence. Custom calibration through software such as Sonarworks can further enhance accuracy, curtailing minor frequency dips and peaks to produce an even more neutral response.
Limitations
- The headphone’s analytical signature might come across as clinical to casual listeners, lacking the warmth or musical coloration some prefer outside professional environments.
- Some users find the red leatherette headband and earpads prone to wear and dirt accumulation, which could be a concern for daily intensive use.
- The relatively rigid build raises concerns regarding durability under stress, even though actual breakage is uncommon.
- The clamping force and weight may require adjustments or breaks during extended use for optimal comfort.
Comparison with Other High-End Headphones
When compared with competitors such as the Audeze LCD-X and Sennheiser HD 800S, the Clear MG Pro holds its ground with superior midrange intimacy and natural tonality. It is often preferred for vocal mixing and detailed sub-bass management. However, some audiophiles appreciate the wider imaging and stronger low-end emphasis of Audeze models. The Clear MG also benefits from being notably lighter than many planar magnetic headphones, enhancing daily usability.
Conclusion
The Focal Clear MG Professional delivers a blend of accurate, linear sound with musical engagement suitable for demanding studio environments. Its construction is premium, with attention to user comfort and accessory provision. While it may not offer the broadest soundstage or the softest clamping force out-of-the-box, its sonic qualities and build quality justify its premium positioning. Professionals seeking a reliable, high-fidelity headphone for mixing, mastering, and critical listening will find the Clear MG a sound investment, provided they use appropriate amplification to unlock its full potential.
