I think Tyll really nailed it with his review of the Utopia. I completely agree with everything he had to say about them.
Hopefully, Focal will eventually offer a leather version of the Elear earpads so that those who want a little more bass can easily get it without having to use an EQ. They would just need to switch earpads.
Also, they should offer (or just include) a shorter 1.5m-2m cable. Only including a 4m cable is a little ridiculous.
But all in all, I agree with Tyll that the Utopia is pretty much the best overall headphones currently available.
I (like everybody else) just wish that they weren't so frickin' expensive. But the best always is. C'est la vie.
Hopefully, Focal will eventually offer a leather version of the Elear earpads so that those who want a little more bass can easily get it without having to use an EQ. They would just need to switch earpads.
If I am in the Focal Marketing dept., I will not let consumers have that option. Change the Elear pads to a leather type so to make consumers more happy. No way.
I would think of that new leather pads and minor changes to the cosmetic look of the outside of Elear and make it a gen 2. Make more money that way by forcing consumers to buy another set. That's how Sens came out with HD800S, cost more---minor adjustment--- added different color, and call it a newer package.
I am not surprise if Focal already follows Sens direction by next year Gen 2.
Call me absurd, but it can happen that way. New technology just doesn't pop up like an overnight. Focal said 4 years in the making of these HPs?
I said IF I am in the Focal Marketing Dept. This is the idea to sell.
$999 x 100 ~ $100K
$3999 x 100 ~ $400K
Very fast to get your money back and profit.
I just don't think big consumers or clients pay $200K plus for THE UTOPIA II loudspeaker from an overnight audition. It will take many events to hear and think hard before placing the money. Take longer to build big speakers too. More time for QC check and further testing before box it up.
HP is much easy and faster to do that.
I think Focal just tab the HP market for hi-fi & ultimate consumers, and they know consumers will like or even love the Elear/Utopia based on SQ.
I assume a lot of people already made the decision overnight to pre order these HPs.
I've made one.
I hope I don't offend anyone. Just take it like a grain of salt.
This is just a thought/idea/imagination/ unrealistic sell?
Just my 2 cents.
It's all good.