Meze POET vs. Focal Clear Mg Comparison Review

At the $2,000 price point, audiophiles have a wealth of high-end headphone options. Deciding whether to upgrade can be challenging, especially when you already own a top-tier model. With the release of the Meze POET, many are wondering: is this the right time to make a change? For those who already own the Focal Clear Mg, upgrading requires careful consideration. Today, we put these two premium headphones head-to-head to determine if the transition is worth it.

What Comes in the Box

Aesthetics and Functionality

The Meze POET features an intricate, high-quality design that might make you mistake it for a closed-back headphone. The craftsmanship is exceptional, and the build quality feels premium. Comfort is well-balanced, with an over-ear design that provides a secure fit without excessive clamping force. The adjustability ensures long listening sessions remain fatigue-free. In contrast, the Focal Clear Mg offers a comfortable fit but is noticeably heavier. Despite the weight, it remains wearable for extended periods. The earpads provide decent comfort, though they lack significant adjustability beyond the headband. The side grille pattern gives these headphones a unique, eye-catching appearance. However, the design may trigger trypophobia in some users. Additionally, the proprietary cable system limits compatibility with non-Focal cables.

Technical Specifications

Listening Review

Soundstage

The Meze POET has a surprisingly narrow soundstage, resembling that of a closed-back headphone rather than an open-back design. Despite this limitation, the imaging is highly precise, creating an immersive depth with well-layered positioning. This model deviates from Meze’s traditionally warm sound, leaning toward a sharper and more detailed presentation. On the other hand, the Focal Clear Mg excels in soundstage width, offering exceptional separation and spatial expansion. The sound remains frontal and close yet avoids feeling suffocating. Height expansion adds further depth, allowing instruments to maintain distinct placement without blending together.

Low Frequencies

The low-end response of the Meze POET is more reserved compared to other Meze headphones. While jazz tracks reveal a solid body in drums and bass, the overall bass presence is more controlled rather than dominant. In contrast, the Focal Clear Mg provides a more impactful bass response, offering punchy, well-textured lows across various genres. Unlike many open-back headphones, the Clear Mg retains significant low-end weight, ensuring sub frequencies remain rich and well-defined.

Midrange Frequencies

The midrange of the Meze POET delivers impressive detail but lacks the natural separation expected at this price point. The layering appears slightly disorganized, making certain elements feel out of place. The Focal Clear Mg, on the other hand, presents an exceptionally detailed midrange with rich textures across vocals and instruments. The natural tonality enhances immersion, ensuring a pleasurable listening experience with excellent instrument separation.

High Frequencies

Treble presentation is where the Meze POET takes a more aggressive stance, sometimes excessively so. In tracks from Tears for Fears, high frequencies can become shrill to the point of discomfort, occasionally requiring a break from listening. Meanwhile, the Clear Mg provides a more balanced and airy treble response. It avoids excessive sharpness, delivering clarity and detail without becoming fatiguing. The treble complements the impactful bass, ensuring a refined and enjoyable listening experience.

Summary

Both the Meze POET and Focal Clear Mg offer premium sound signatures, but they cater to different listener preferences. The POET delivers a sharper, more analytical sound with precise imaging and a controlled low end, making it ideal for those who appreciate detail over spaciousness. Meanwhile, the Clear Mg excels in providing a wider soundstage, immersive midrange, and a balanced yet impactful bass response, making it a compelling option for those who prioritize an engaging and natural listening experience.

For current Clear Mg owners, the POET presents a different tuning but may not be a clear-cut upgrade; it depends on your preference for a refined sharpness or an immersive presentation. The choice will depend on what you like best, so try both headphones to see which is the best match for you!

Both the Meze POET and the Focal Clear Mg are available at Audio46.