De Focal Stellia Sound
Contents
We listened to the Focal Stellia on a couple of sets. Both high-end – the dCS Bartok – as mid-range – Metrum Amethyst – as entry: an Audioquest Dragonfly RED. On all three we hear the same signature, although there are clear differences in definition and especially looseness and imaging.
Gloss
The sound image of the Focal Stellia is tight, open and honest. It definitely shows what the source is capable of and how the recording is doing. But without being too critical. Because the very affordable Audioquest Dragonfly sounds just fine in combination with the Stellia. And that’s quite special when you consider that the Stellia costs 3000 euros. Usually such a combination is not very desirable. Is the Bartok better? Sure… but also with the Dragonfly we enjoy these musical, leather, high-end earmuffs.
Air
What’s clever about the Focal Stellia is that it doesn’t feel like closed headphones at all. By this we mean that we still experience a stereo image. And that there is no extra pressure on the low or middle area. As is the case with the Focal Elegia. This Stelia just feels perfectly balanced and gives the music space.
Is it as good as an open Utopia? This is difficult to assess, because – unfortunately – we have not been able to make a direct comparison. The fact is that they measure differently and probably also experience music differently. The stereo image of an open model remains more spacious and airy than a closed model. But honestly, this Stellia comes damn close. Very handsome.
