Golden Ears: Massdrop x Focal Elex Headphones Review

Golden Ears Unveiled: My Focal Elex Review

Welcome, dear readers, to the world of audio exploration where my discerning ears have embarked on a sonic adventure. Today, I have the pleasure of unveiling my thoughts on the mesmerizing Focal Elex headphones. As an unbiased reviewer, I aim to provide you with an honest evaluation of this collaborative masterpiece between Mshenay and Drop.

First and foremost, I would like to express my gratitude to both Mshenay and Drop for granting me the opportunity to delve into the realm of audio bliss. Their unwavering support has allowed me to experience a multitude of headphones, and the Massdrop x Focal Elex collaboration is one that has truly left an impression.

With every word I pen, please bear in mind that my opinions are my own. No strings attached, no ulterior motives. Just a genuine desire to share my sonic experiences with you, my fellow audio enthusiasts. So, let’s dive into the world of Focal Elex headphones and explore what makes them tick, or rather, sing harmoniously.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Focal Elex headphones offer a captivating blend of design and sound quality.
  • The collaboration between Mshenay and Drop has resulted in a unique audio experience.
  • Throughout this review, expect an unbiased and honest evaluation of the Focal Elex headphones.
  • Prepare to be amazed by the intricate details and sonic nuances these headphones deliver.
  • Stay tuned as we delve into the technical specifications, build quality, comfort, sound performance, and more!

Specifications and Packaging

Now let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of the Focal Elex headphones. These babies come packed with some impressive specifications that make them a force to be reckoned with in the audio world.

Technical Specifications

  • Type: Over-ear, open-back headphones
  • Impedance: 80 ohms
  • Sensitivity: 104 dB SPL / 1 mW at 1 kHz
  • Weight: 450g
  • MSRP: $700

With their open-back design, the Focal Elex headphones offer a wide soundstage and excellent imaging, providing an immersive listening experience.

Packaging

Now, let’s talk about the packaging. The Focal Elex headphones arrive in a sleek and sturdy box that gives you a taste of the premium quality you can expect from these headphones.

Inside the box, you’ll find everything you need to get started on your audio journey. The package includes a detachable 3.5mm cable and a 6.35mm adapter, ensuring compatibility with various audio devices.

However, it’s worth noting that the cables included with the Focal Elex can be a bit stiff, which may raise concerns about their longevity. While they serve their purpose, some users may prefer more flexible options for added convenience and durability.

The Focal Elex packaging oozes sophistication and is a testament to the attention to detail that Focal puts into their products.

Build, Comfort, and Fit

When it comes to the Focal Elex, one can’t help but be impressed by its build quality. The sleek all-black look, complemented by the sturdy metal components, gives these headphones an air of sophistication. However, it’s worth mentioning that the plastic parts can be a tad sharp, which may cause some discomfort during extended use.

Speaking of comfort, I have to be honest and say that my initial experience with the Elex left me feeling a bit awkward. The headband’s weight distribution is inferior, resulting in uncomfortable hotspots on the head. It’s not the most pleasant feeling, especially during longer listening sessions.

Furthermore, there were instances where I noticed occasional creaking sounds coming from the headphones. While it didn’t significantly affect the overall performance, it was a small annoyance that I couldn’t ignore.

Despite these minor setbacks, the Elex remains a solid choice in terms of build quality and design. With a few adjustments to enhance comfort and address the sharpness of the plastic parts, they could truly be a top contender in the headphones market.

Sound Quality

When it comes to sound performance, the Focal Elex headphones don’t disappoint. The bass extension and punchiness are truly impressive, rivaling that of the renowned HE-500. I found myself immersed in deep, detailed basslines that added a new dimension to my music.

Moving on to the mids, the Focal Elex exhibits a forward presentation, particularly in the upper mids. Vocals and instruments in this range are brought to the forefront, providing a captivating listening experience.

However, the treble is where things get a bit tricky. The Focal Elex demonstrates some unevenness, with occasional peaks and dips that result in an odd timbre. There’s a metallic and glare-like quality to the treble, which may not be to everyone’s taste.

On the positive side, the soundstage of the Elex is wider, allowing for a more expansive and immersive listening experience. Instrument placement is well-defined, creating a sense of depth and realism. Additionally, the dynamics of the Elex contribute to the overall excitement and energy of the sound.

Focal Elex Sound Quality

Final Thoughts and Considerations

After thoroughly evaluating the Focal Elex headphones, I must admit that my initial excitement was met with disappointment. Despite the headphones’ sleek design and impressive build quality, the sound quality left much to be desired.

It’s worth mentioning that my review was based on a loaner pair, which had a crumpled ear pad. While I acknowledge that this may have affected my experience, it’s important to consider that potential buyers may encounter similar issues.

One notable drawback I encountered was driver clipping, which significantly impacted the overall audio performance. Additionally, my specific listening habits may have contributed to my dissatisfaction with the Elex’s sound signature.

In conclusion, while I can’t help but love the Focal Elex’s aesthetic appeal, I find the overall sound quality disappointing. It’s crucial for potential buyers to weigh the headphones’ design and build quality against their audio expectations, ensuring they align with their personal listening preferences.

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