- TL;DR:
- tuning-wise the Clear and the Elear are basically the same headphone
- the two measuring extremely close with the same pads
- Caveat:
- build quality differs though, the Clear is better built and does not suffer from driver failure issues
- the issue on the Elear can be fixed by resoldering the connection wire to the drivers though
Let’s first take a look at both Elear and Clear measured with the Utopia pads. This gives us a clear idea of driver tuning differences (if any).
As you can see the two measure close to identical with the same pads (Utopia pads). I have tried to allow both to be measured under the same volume and position on the measurement rig. There’s a sensitivity difference though, not shown on the graph because I adjusted them to allow comparison of the FR. The raw difference is 0.9db, that the Clear is 0.9db more sensitive than the Elear. Focal also states there’s a difference, but less due to different stock pads used.
Also note that there’s a 6khz peak in both. This peak is extremly sensitive to positioning on the rig, and will be less significant when moved to other positions. I personally tried to see if there is indeed such a 6khz peak by doing a sine sweep, and it is indeed audible but not too bad.
Some have complained about a kind of ‘metalic hue’, and the 8.5khz peak is arguably the main culprit. The peak is likely to be driver-based as they remain after pad swapping. Personally I find them acceptable, but others may be more sensitive in these regions.
With the Utopia pads the Elear/Clear sound a bit brighther than stock pads. Vocals are more forward and less full, but still very enjoyable. Treble is more even albeit less smooth than stock.
Ok, let’s get into the pad rolling of the Elear (LEGACY MEASUREMENTS BELOW):
Very similar sonically between the Clear and Elex pads, as can be anticipated. Some difference between 6-9khz but this area is also very sensitive to positioning on the rig. There should be some actual differences though, as the above graph is from each 5 positional averages.
Sonically I quite enojoyed them. The Elear with Clear/Elex pads is essentially the Clear. Balanced with a warmish tilt. Vocals are full, forward and smooth. Bass is punchy, dynamic and impressively deep especially for open-back dynamic driver cans. Most of similar type of headphones don’t have this level of bass extension, only TOTLs like HD800S/T1/ADX5000 etc. Treble is mostly smooth, though some may report peakiness in specific areas. This has largely to do with how you wear them as well. Generally speaking I find treble quite pleasing too, and the dip around 7-9khz renders almost a kind of ‘velvety’ feeling, in the sense treble is clear but not sharp. Instruments still maintain realism though you can tell they are slightly coloured.
Dekoni pads are not bad with the Elear! Same applies to the Clear too. The Elite Velour pads are darker, but also with the most linear and smooth treble. I don’t have the stock Elear pads with me but these measure close to them. Great for a sit back and relax moment. For those who complain about metallic/peaky treble these are worth a try.
The Fenenstrated sheepskin pads are not bad either. Although the 6khz peak remains, the more linear treble even that out a little. Quite a bit brigher than the Elite Velour, but still within the range of neutral/warm tilt. I personally quite enjoy them. Also feels nice and cool on the face.
Finally, a comparison of all pads.
the unheard of headphone lab 