Verdict: HiFiMan Susvara wins on raw technical performance with deeper bass and wider soundstage as noted in Head-Fi threads, but Focal Utopia is easier to drive and scores higher on value. Utopia trails in sensitivity-adjusted detail but leads in natural timbre per user comparisons on r/audiophile. Susvara requires a dedicated amp while Utopia pairs well with mid-tier gear.
Our take: In practice the Susvara reveals micro-details in complex tracks that the Utopia smooths over, though the Utopia's punchier dynamics make vocals more immediate without extra power. Setup quirks include the Susvara's need for a warm-up period on the amp while the Utopia sounds consistent from cold start.
Winner: HiFiMan Susvara
Focal Utopia: 8.5/10
HiFiMan Susvara: 9/10
| Focal Utopia | HiFiMan Susvara | |
|---|---|---|
| Driver Type | Dynamic | Planar Magnetic |
| Impedance | 80 Ω | 60 Ω |
| Sensitivity | 104 dB | 83 dB |
| Weight | 490 g | 450 g |
Our pick: HiFiMan Susvara.
Focal Utopia offers superior resolution and dynamics over the Sennheiser HD 800 S in direct comparisons. The HD 800 S provides a larger soundstage at a lower cost.
The Audeze LCD-5 uses 90 mm planar magnetic drivers and weighs 420 g. The Focal Utopia uses dynamic drivers, weighs 490 g, and both models list near $4500.
Focal Utopia 2022 uses dynamic drivers while HiFiMan Susvara uses planar magnetics. The Susvara demands more amplification power due to its lower sensitivity.
View full comparison on GoodPickr
Affiliate disclosure: GoodPickr may earn a commission from qualifying purchases made through partner links on this page. Verdicts are editorially independent and never influenced by affiliate relationships.
GoodPickr · Data-backed product comparisons · Built by Golden Consulting Partners