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Focal Clear MG · Navy Blue — Open-back
Focal

Focal Clear MG · Navy Blue

Open-back

92
/ 100
From $1,499
VS
Audeze MM-500 — Planar magnetic
Audeze

Audeze MM-500

Planar magnetic

92
/ 100
From $1,699
Specdex verdict

Dead heat — it comes down to priorities.

In our weighted Specdex score, Focal Clear MG · Navy Blue lands at 92 and Audeze MM-500 at 92. With scores tied, the decision hinges on which sub-scores matter most to you.

Pick Focal Clear MG · Navy Blue if…

  • ✓Reference-level detail
  • ✓Well-regarded in audiophile community
  • ✓Long-term ownership appeal

Pick Audeze MM-500 if…

  • ✓Reference-level detail
  • ✓Well-regarded in audiophile community
  • ✓Long-term ownership appeal
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Winner by scenario

Derived from the sub-score breakdown · not a separate test

Sound quality

Tie

Tuning, detail, and staging

Effectively tied — neither pulls a 2-point weighted lead.

Noise cancelling

Tie

ANC strength for commute and travel

Effectively tied — neither pulls a 2-point weighted lead.

Comfort

Tie

Long-session wearability

Effectively tied — neither pulls a 2-point weighted lead.

Value for money

Focal Clear MG · Navy Blue

Specdex score per dollar at MSRP

Focal Clear MG · Navy Blue more score per dollar ($1,499 vs $1,699).

Focal Clear MG · Navy Blue 92
vs
92 Audeze MM-500

Score breakdown

Focal Clear MG · Navy Blue
92
anc 0
sound 92
comfort 88
battery 100
features 50
Audeze MM-500
92
anc 0
sound 92
comfort 88
battery 100
features 50

Specs side-by-side

Focal Clear MG · Navy Blue versus Audeze MM-500 — full spec comparison
Spec Focal Clear MG · Navy Blue Audeze MM-500
Type
Open-back
Planar magnetic

Focal Clear MG · Navy Blue

Pros
  • +Reference-level detail
  • +Well-regarded in audiophile community
  • +Long-term ownership appeal
Cons
  • −Requires amplifier (most)
  • −No active noise cancellation
  • −Impractical for commuting

Audeze MM-500

Pros
  • +Reference-level detail
  • +Well-regarded in audiophile community
  • +Long-term ownership appeal
Cons
  • −Requires amplifier (most)
  • −No active noise cancellation
  • −Impractical for commuting

FAQ: Focal Clear MG · Navy Blue vs Audeze MM-500

Which is better, Focal Clear MG · Navy Blue or Audeze MM-500? +

Both score 92 on our weighted rubric — tied. Your best pick depends on the sub-scores above.

Is Focal Clear MG · Navy Blue worth the price? +

At $1,499, Focal Clear MG · Navy Blue delivers a Specdex score of 92 — strongest in battery.

Is Audeze MM-500 worth the price? +

At $1,699, Audeze MM-500 delivers a Specdex score of 92 — strongest in battery.

Does Focal Clear MG · Navy Blue or Audeze MM-500 last longer? +

Based on our long-term update and support ratings, both ship with multi-year support. Battery and reliability scores are visible in the breakdown above.

Which is the better value, Focal Clear MG · Navy Blue or Audeze MM-500? +

Focal Clear MG · Navy Blue — more score per dollar ($1,499 vs $1,699). Specdex score per dollar at MSRP.