If sound is your main concern, you can't go wrong with the Focal Listen headphones. They sound great.

Sound quality; Good noise isolation

Lackluster design; Awkward audio cable

In the era of bass-boosted headphones, it's always refreshing to see a pair that can reproduce deep low-end when necessary, but avoid embellishing it to a fault. The Focal Listen, a $249 over-the-ear model, delivers rich, deep lows when they're in the mix, and doesn't invent them when they're not. The result is a compelling listen. Deep bass fiends might not find what they're looking for here, but audiophiles in favor of a balanced, crisp, clear frequency response that can reach down to the deepest lows when called for will be quite happy. That earns the Focal Listen our Editors' Choice award. DesignVisually, the mostly black design isn't our favorite—it's not ugly, but it looks a tad uninspired, utilizing lightweight plastic instead of more alluring materials. The Listen's circumaural (over-the-ear) design is exceptionally comfortable, however, even during long listening sessions. The earpads are very well cushioned, as is the underside of the headband. Inside the earcups, behind...

The Focal Listen is a no-frills pair of over-the-ear headphones with an accurate, balanced sound signature sure to delight audiophiles.

Balanced, accurate audio performance with rich bass and clear highs; Removable cable with inline remote; Comfortable

Remote can't control volume; Not for those seeking booming bass response

You may not have heard of French audio company Focal, but they're actually a highly regarded speaker manufacturer . The company has since branched off to create headphones, sound bars and even car audio systems.

It seems like every speaker company on the planet makes headphones these days. In fact, there are even a few non-speaker companies out there making headphones. It's a crowded space already. Does the world need a new headphone line?

Excellent sound quality; Good bass; Sturdy build; Can block out noisy distractions

A little hot and heavy; No volume controls; Could use a makeover (or at least a few color options

You'll love the Listen headphones by Focal, whether you're on the move or just sitting at home. Great sound, comfort, and style. If you've never heard of Focal, you owe it to yourself to check them out - your ears will thank you.

Amazing sound; superb comfort; beautiful design

Could use just a little bit more bass

With so many sound technologies now available in headphones, lots of over-ear models cram in all the bells and whistles features - which typically sees the price skyrocket. Not so the Focal Listen.

Vocal tracks have best potential; good sound isolation without active cancellation; comfortable to wear

Design feels plasticky; neutral profile ultimately lacks bass and sounds too thin and without drive; no Bluetooth or noise-cancellation

It's not everyday that a non-audiophile headphone peaks my interest as much as the Listen by Focal has. While is historically a audiophile speaker system company, with a few headphones here and there, they have been gaining press and momentum with their grand entrance into the headphone market as a...

Listen features exclusive cone technology, with 40mm large driver made of Mylar and Titanium offering remarkable neutrality and sound quality. For optimal performance, a Mylar sheet is used on the driver, while a Titanium coating is applied to the dome only.

Minimalistic and slightly industrial design; The large ear cups block out a lot of ambient noise when music is playing; Headphones are comfortable enough to wear all day; Huge sound that is rich, full, and immersive

No wireless option

You may not have heard of French audio company Focal , but among audiophiles its speakers and headphones stand in high regard. The Listen Wireless is the company's first crack at a full-size premium Bluetooth headphone.

The Focal Listen Wireless has a sturdy design, fits comfortably and snugly, and sounds excellent for a Bluetooth headphone; It folds up to fit in an included neoprene case and comes with a cable for wired listening; It also works well for making calls

The sound is a tad bright, which can make some music sound harsh; Heavier than some competing models; Lacks active noise cancellation

If you're looking for huge bass or completely flat response, the Focal Listen Wireless headphones satisfy neither criteria. Instead, they will appeal to listeners who want something closer to flat response, but are happy to receive some extra richness and boosting in the lows.

Balanced, rich, crisp sound signature; Comfortable earpads; Includes cable for passive listening

Cable lacks inline remote control; Not for those seeking huge bass response