[brokenhat]

Hi all, I have the Focal Clear OG and Celestee and the Mojo 2. The Celestee's sound fantastic with the Mojo 2 but the Clears not as much, not terrible just not quite happy. I'm wondering if there is such a thing as a DAC and pair of headphones not being great together even though both might be great separately? If I wanted to buy another portable DAC that would be a better paring with the Clears with a budget of about $1000 US any suggestions? I did try and returned the iFi Gryphon, found the sound too clinical might be the right word, or no personality another? Also didn't have any use for BT, etc. Thanks.

 

[DarknessEclipse]

Audio gear synergy is definitely a thing. And I think you are right with Focal's closed back, my Focal Elegia with Dekoni Limited Stellia pads sounds amazing with a Mojo 2 and Poly pairing. Focal Clear sounds good but there is something that pushes me off a bit. In fact I always add a Cayin C9 as amplifier (Class A + NuTube).

I would suggest to reach some audio shop and try other DACs or DAPs. From my gear, AK KANN did sound good with the Clear but that's a different sound presentation.