ULTRASONE Founders Series Closed vs. Focal Utopia
High-End Comparison: Closed vs. Open Headphones
Comparing the ULTRASONE Founders Series Closed with the Focal Utopia is, strictly speaking, a somewhat uneven comparison. After all, it is a classic case of apples versus oranges—or more precisely, closed-back versus open-back headphones.
Both headphones represent the high-end segment of the audiophile market, and their sound quality is at such a high level that any final judgment will inevitably depend on personal taste.
Sound Philosophy
While tonal preferences can be subjective, each model follows a distinct acoustic philosophy.
Ultrasone integrates its proprietary S-Logic technology, which is designed to create a natural and immersive spatial soundstage. This approach not only enhances perceived realism but is also intended to reduce listening fatigue, allowing users to enjoy music longer and more comfortably.
The Founders Series Closed has been tuned with a slightly emphasized bass response, which many listeners find adds excitement and emotional impact to the listening experience.
By contrast, the Focal Utopia focuses on highly balanced and neutral sound reproduction. Some listeners, however, perceive its presentation as slightly less dynamic compared with the more energetic tuning of the ULTRASONE.
Comfort and Weight
One of the most noticeable differences between the two headphones is weight, which has a significant impact on long listening sessions.
The Focal Utopia uses premium materials such as carbon fiber, yet it still weighs about 490 grams without the cable.
In comparison, the ULTRASONE Founders Series Closed weighs only 264 grams, making it almost twice as light.
This difference plays a major role in overall comfort. Even though the Utopia received improved comfort refinements starting in 2022, it still does not reach the same level of lightweight wearing comfort as the ULTRASONE.
Price Comparison
A similar contrast appears when comparing the price of both models.
The Focal Utopia is consistently priced at around €4,999, placing it firmly in the top tier of audiophile headphones.
The limited-edition Founders Series Closed from Ultrasone is priced significantly lower at €2,222.
How each customer interprets this price difference—and whether the added cost of the Utopia is justified—is ultimately a personal decision.
My Perspective
In terms of overall value for money, the ULTRASONE offers more headphone for the price. It combines premium materials, excellent craftsmanship, and a timeless, understated design.
The Focal Utopia, however, comes from a period when flagship headphones were pushing the boundaries of pricing. To Focal’s credit, they have maintained the price consistently, reinforcing its flagship positioning.
What I personally appreciate most about the ULTRASONE Founders Series Closed is its excellent passive noise isolation.
Without any electronics, it achieves isolation levels close to those of good ANC headphones. The advantage is clear:
No electronic sound coloration
No background noise from ANC systems
No battery limitations
This makes the Founders Series not only an exceptional listening tool, but also an ideal—albeit very luxurious—travel companion.
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