Last year, I reviewed the Focal Listen Headphones; even though they were wired, I thought they were excellent. It was only a matter of time before Focal introduced a Listen wireless version, and now it is here. They’ve also added two in-ear headphones to their line-up: Spark and Spark Wireless.
Focal Listen Wireless
Let’s start with Listen Wireless; they build upon what was already a very good set of headphones, adding Bluetooth 4.1, they are compatible with aptX and offer 20 hours listening time.
Designed for all sorts of set-ups, these wireless headphones can also be used with a traditional audio cable. When connected to a DAC, they will deliver all the power and scale worthy of a high-end hi-fi product.
Focal Listen Wireless Headphones have an automatic standby feature which makes a charge last up to 240 hours, and they have a range of up to 60 feet
Listen Wireless is equipped with a dual omnidirectional microphone system running Clear Voice Capture software for improved voice clarity while talking, even in noisy environments. It also uses the NFC technology available on some smartphones equipped with an NFC module for an easy and quick connection.
You’ll get voice notifications and different LED colors to tell you the status of the headphones, their battery level, pairing, and on it goes. You can pair the headphones with up to eight devices, and two can be connected at the same time.
The Listen Wireless headphones will come with a USB cable for charging and an audio cable for wired use when the battery is dead or BT use isn’t possible.
Focal Listen Wireless headphones will be available mid to late July, and they will have a black high gloss finish; you’ll be able to get them for $299.00. If you don’t mind wired headphones, you’ll be glad to know that the price on the wired Listen headphones will drop from $299 to $249 beginning on June 21.
Focal Spark and Spark Wireless
We reviewed the Focal Sphear in-ear headphones last year, and the Spark and Spark Wireless in-ear headphones are their follow-ups.
Focal created the new Spark line to provide the mobile and connected consumer access to the exceptional Focal sound and performance at an affordable price.
Focal Spark in-ear headphones have an aluminum body and a three-button remote control with an omnidirectional microphone; they also feature silicone earplugs and a soft-touch, flat anti-tangle cable with a rigid carrying case so that they are completely portable and convenient to keep handy.
Spark Wireless will come with “three pairs of silicone tips (size S, M, L), a USB cable, a battery clip for sports activities and a rigid carrying case. Included with each pair of Spark are three pairs of silicone tips (size S, M, L) and a rigid carrying case.”
You can buy the Focal Spark and Spark Wireless in-ear headphones in black and silver now for $69.00 and $99.00. We’ll have our review on both the Spark and Spark Wireless in-ear headphones soon, but in the meantime, you can learn more about all three headphones on the Focal site.