jellofund
500+ Head-Fier
By all accounts (I own the Classics and from what I've read about the Pros) Focal nailed the sound but have shot themselves in the foot with some poor materials (esp. on the Pros), headband design, comfort and QC issues.
I returned my first pair of Classics as the metal plate (with Focal name on it) on the left earcup was fitted squint and rubbed against the plastic shell shaving off a fine layer of plastic whenever I adjusted the headphones whilst wearing them. The replacements don't have that issue but did arrive with a small scratch (not enough to bother returning them) on one of the metal hinges which is just another sign of sloppy workmanship & QC.
I love the sound though and am sorely tempted to order some Pro's from Amazon.es but reading reports here (which proportionately seem quite high considering people aren't posting to report issues but to show their appreciation) of creaking cups, off kilter headbands and cracking plastic really doesn't inspire confidence and I'm sure many prospective customers feel the same. Even if it meant a bit more cost to the customer I wish Focal had invested a bit more time, money and effort getting the build spot on - even if they charged an extra £30/$50 I think they'd sell plenty are there aren't many comparably priced 'phones that hold a candle to them sound wise.
It's a shame really as I think Focal got the hard part right but have likely hurt sales by cutting some corners
I returned my first pair of Classics as the metal plate (with Focal name on it) on the left earcup was fitted squint and rubbed against the plastic shell shaving off a fine layer of plastic whenever I adjusted the headphones whilst wearing them. The replacements don't have that issue but did arrive with a small scratch (not enough to bother returning them) on one of the metal hinges which is just another sign of sloppy workmanship & QC.
I love the sound though and am sorely tempted to order some Pro's from Amazon.es but reading reports here (which proportionately seem quite high considering people aren't posting to report issues but to show their appreciation) of creaking cups, off kilter headbands and cracking plastic really doesn't inspire confidence and I'm sure many prospective customers feel the same. Even if it meant a bit more cost to the customer I wish Focal had invested a bit more time, money and effort getting the build spot on - even if they charged an extra £30/$50 I think they'd sell plenty are there aren't many comparably priced 'phones that hold a candle to them sound wise.
It's a shame really as I think Focal got the hard part right but have likely hurt sales by cutting some corners
)))
