Focal Listen Professional Review: The Good, the Bad, and the Impressive
As a music lover, you understand the importance of having high-quality headphones that provide crisp and clear audio. With so many options available in the market, it can be hard to differentiate the best from the rest. That’s where the Focal Listen Professional headphones come in. They have been highly rated by users and experts, and have been deemed the ideal headphones for music professionals. But is it all hype? In this review, we will take a deep dive into the Focal Listen Professional headphones to provide an unbiased take on what makes them stand out and where they could improve.
Design and Build Quality
Focal Listen Professional headphones have a sleek design and are made of sturdy metal and plastic materials. The ear cups themselves are large and have a snug fit with plenty of padding. The metal headband has enough tension to hold the headphones in place during regular use, but not too tight that it causes discomfort over long periods. Additionally, the ear cups can swivel and fold for convenient storage. Overall, the design and build quality of these headphones is impressive.
Sound Quality
These headphones offer a full-range sound with an emphasis on bass and mids. The highs are also clear, but not as detailed as some other high-end headphones. The Listen Professional headphones have a slightly warm sound signature that can be suitable for a variety of music genres, especially electronic, pop, and hip-hop. However, audiophiles who prefer more neutral and accurate sound might find the bass too punchy or overwhelming. Nonetheless, these headphones are an excellent choice for music professionals such as sound engineers, producers, and DJs.
Comfort
The snug fit of the Focal Listen Professional headphones might not be suitable for everyone. Those who wear glasses might feel slight pressure on their temples. Still, the ear cups’ ample padding provides excellent passive noise isolation, and the snugness helps keep the headphones in place. The robust construction of these headphones does make them relatively heavy compared to other headphones in their category. But with the weight comes a sense of durability and sturdiness that feels reassuring.
Pros:
One of the standout pros of Focal Listen Professional is its comfort. It’s comfortable to wear for extended periods, and the padding is superb. The headphones are lightweight and easily portable thanks to a foldable design. The headphones come with two detachable cables with a coiled or straight design, making them suitable for a variety of uses. The sound quality is outstanding, and the imaging is precise, resulting in a wide soundstage.
Cons:
As with most products, the Focal Listen Professional headphones have some less impressive aspects. These headphones might not be the best choice for critical listening or recording studio work, where accurate sound reproduction is essential. They also do not come with a carrying case or pouch, which might be necessary for traveling professionals. Additionally, the price point might be considered steep by some, although the quality of these headphones justifies the cost.
Conclusion:
All in all, the Focal Listen Professional headphones deliver an impressive performance to music professionals. The design and build quality are top-notch, the sound signature is warm and well-rounded, and the detachable cables provide flexibility. The only downside is that the bass might not be suitable for those who prefer more neutral sound. If you’re in the market for headphones that deliver excellent value for money, the Focal Listen Professional headphones are a safe bet.
