Focal Listen Professional

Spent quite some time researching this headphone, and knew the possible downsides of small ear cups, headband discomfort, but the majority of reviews rated high scores. Without a local distributor and access to demo unit, I trusted in the Focal sound and I would just tolerate minor issues for this headphones intended for my commuting and hands-free calls.

Despite the model name and product description for music production, the sound is quite muffled. My Focal Alpha 50 speakers, AKG K712 Pro and Beyerdynamics DT770 sound similar to each other but this Listen Professional is wayyy different. After reducing around 3dB at the 250 and 500 Hz node, then the sound becomes familiar. However I must say the original mid boost could be useful when on the metro to fight against the noise and rumble.

If you use this for commuting instead of studio, then it is a decent package. The mic and remote are so convenient, while the storage box and cables feel secure and premium. However, my skull top aches quite soon and the side clamp is a bit tight. The isolation is not as good as I imagined, but the harshness of rail screeches do indeed get reduced.