Focal Unveils Mainstream Ear/Headphones

Focal, the French maker of stylish high-performance speakers, today announced mainstream-priced wired and wireless earphones and headphones to join last year’s high-end Utopia and Elear models, the latter of which received Sound & Vision’s Top Pick designation.

The expanded line includes two wired and two wireless models at prices ranging from $70 to $300.

The flagship model of the new line, the closed-back Listen Wireless ($299), is the wireless version of Focal’s closed-back Listen, which has been reduced to $249. The ear cups, which house 1.6-inch Mylar-titanium drivers, were redesigned to integrate aptX-enabled Bluetooth 4.1 technology and an “ultra-flexible,” lightweight headband was added to increase comfort and durability. For added comfort and isolation, the ear cushions are made of memory foam covered in fabric and leatherette. Focal retained the foldable design of the Listen for portability.

Battery life is rated for 20 hours on a full charge, which is said to take less than 3 hours; the battery is designed to provide power for up to 240 hours in its automatic standby mode. The Listen Wireless has a wireless reception range of up to 60 feet and incorporates an omnidirectional dual-microphone system running Clear Voice Capture software for improved voice clarity, even in noisy environments. Controls for music, calls, and Bluetooth (on/off) are positioned on the ear cups for easy access. Voice notifications and different LED colors indicate the status of the headphones.

Up to eight devices can be stored in the memory and two devices can be connected simultaneously allowing listeners to answer calls while listening to music. A carry case and USB charging cable are provided along with an audio cable for converting the headphones for wired use. Finished in scratch-resistant high-gloss black lacquer, the Listen Wireless is expected to be available in mid to late July.

The Spark ($69) and Spark Wireless ($99)—Focal’s first Bluetooth-enabled wireless in-ear model—are more affordable follow-ups to Focal’s Sphear in-ear headphones, featuring silicone ear tips and 0.37-inch Mylar drivers mounted in an aluminum body. The Spark has a flat anti-tangle cable with a three-button in-line remote control and an omnidirectional microphone. Both models are available now in black or silver and include three pairs of silicone tips (small, medium, large) and a rigid carrying case; the Spark Wireless includes a USB cable and battery clip for use during sports activities. The Spark in blue and Spark Wireless in rose gold will be available mid to late July.

The Sphear S ($129) is the updated version of Focal’s first in-ear headphones (launched in 2015), featuring larger 0.42-inch Mylar transducers for “hi-fi sound quality” with extended bass and a black finish. A carrying case is included and silicone and memory-foam tips are provided in small, medium, and large sizes. The Sphear S is expected to be available in mid to late July.

For more information, visit focal.com.

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