Focal

History of Focal Loudspeakers and Headphones

Focal, a French company founded in 1979 by Jacques Mahul, has been a leading name in the world of high-fidelity audio for more than four decades. Known for their exceptional loudspeakers and headphones, Focal has consistently pushed the boundaries of audio technology, resulting in numerous innovations and patents.

Early Years

In the beginning, Jacques Mahul, an engineer and audiophile, started manufacturing speaker drivers under the brand name "JMlab." These drivers were used by various high-end audio companies to create their own loudspeakers. Mahul's passion for quality sound and commitment to research and development quickly earned JMlab a reputation for producing some of the finest speaker drivers in the industry.

The Birth of Focal

In 1990, JMlab decided to branch out and create their own line of loudspeakers. To mark this new direction, the company was rebranded as Focal. Focal's first loudspeaker, the DB13, was a compact bookshelf model that showcased the company's commitment to innovation and quality. The DB13 featured a unique inverted dome tweeter, which would become a hallmark of Focal's designs.

Technological Innovations

Over the years, Focal has introduced numerous technological advancements that have shaped the audio industry. Some of their most notable innovations include:

Inverted Dome Tweeters: Focal's unique inverted dome tweeter design allows for better dispersion of high frequencies, resulting in a more precise and detailed soundstage.

W Sandwich Cones: Introduced in the 1990s, Focal's W sandwich cones use multiple layers of materials to create a rigid yet lightweight cone, resulting in improved bass response and overall sound quality.

Beryllium Tweeters: In the early 2000s, Focal began using beryllium, an extremely lightweight and rigid material, for their tweeters. This allowed for even greater detail and accuracy in high-frequency reproduction.

Expansion into Headphones

In 2012, Focal expanded their product line-up to include high-end headphones. Their first model, the Spirit One, was a closed-back, over-ear design that quickly gained popularity among audiophiles. Focal continued to develop and refine their headphone offerings, with models like the Elear, Clear, and Utopia earning praise for their exceptional sound quality and comfort.

Present Day and Beyond

Today, Focal continues to be a driving force in the audio industry, offering a wide range of products, including loudspeakers, headphones, and car audio systems. Their commitment to innovation, quality, and the pursuit of the ultimate listening experience has solidified Focal's position as a leader in high-fidelity audio. With each new product release, Focal pushes the boundaries of what is possible in audio reproduction, ensuring that their legacy of excellence will continue for years

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