The Sennheiser HD 660 S and Focal Elear are two of the most popular high-end headphones on the market. They both offer excellent sound quality, comfortable fits, and durable construction. However, there are some key differences between the two models that may make one a better choice for you than the other.
Sound Quality
The Sennheiser HD 660 S and Focal Elear both offer excellent sound quality, but they have different sound signatures. The HD 660 S has a more neutral and balanced sound profile, while the Elear has a more V-shaped sound profile with boosted bass and treble.
The HD 660 S is known for its excellent soundstage and imaging. It is able to accurately reproduce the spatial relationships between instruments in a recording, creating a very immersive listening experience. The Elar also has a good soundstage, but it is not as wide as the HD 660 S’.
The HD 660 S has slightly better bass response than the Elear. The HD 660 S’s bass is more extended and has more impact. The Elear’s bass is still good, but it is not as deep or powerful as the HD 660 S’s.
The HD 660 S has slightly better treble response than the Elear. The HD 660 S’s treble is more detailed and airy. The Elear’s treble is still good, but it is not as extended or detailed as the HD 660 S’s.
Comfort and Fit
Both the Sennheiser HD 660 S and Focal Elear are comfortable to wear for long periods of time. The HD 660 S has slightly larger ear cups and a more padded headband, which makes it slightly more comfortable than the Elear. However, the Elear is lighter and more portable than the HD 660 S.
Durability
Both the Sennheiser HD 660 S and Focal Elear are well-built headphones. The HD 660 S has a metal frame and construction that can withstand years of use. The Elear also has a well-built frame, but it is made of plastic instead of metal.
Features
The Sennheiser HD 660 S and Focal Elear both come with a detachable cable and a carrying case. The HD 660 S also comes with a pair of extra ear pads.
Price
The Sennheiser HD 660 S is slightly more expensive than the Focal Elear. The HD 660 S typically retails for around $500, while the Elear typically retails for around $450.
Conclusion
Both the Sennheiser HD 660 S and Focal Elear are excellent high-end headphones. The HD 660 S has a more neutral and balanced sound profile, a wider soundstage, and slightly better bass and treble response. The Elear has a more V-shaped sound profile with boosted bass and treble, a slightly smaller soundstage, and slightly less bass and treble response.
The HD 660 S is also slightly more comfortable and durable than the Elear. However, the Elear is lighter and more portable than the HD 660 S.
Ultimately, the best way to decide which headphones are right for you is to try them out for yourself and see which ones you prefer.
Which One Is Right for You?
If you are looking for the best possible sound quality and comfort, and you are willing to pay for it, then the Sennheiser HD 660 S is the better choice. However, if you are on a budget or need a lighter and more portable pair of headphones, then the Focal Elear is a great option.
Here is a table that summarizes the key differences between the two models:
| Feature | Sennheiser HD 660 S | Focal Elear |
|---|---|---|
| Sound signature | Neutral and balanced | V-shaped with boosted bass and treble |
| Soundstage | Wider | Slightly smaller |
| Bass response | Slightly better | Slightly less |
| Treble response | Slightly better | Slightly less |
| Comfort | Slightly more comfortable | Slightly less comfortable |
| Durability | Slightly more durable | Slightly less durable |
| Features | Detachable cable, carrying case, extra ear pads | Detachable cable, carrying case |
| Price | Slightly more expensive | Slightly less expensive |
