Ear Buds No More: My Review of the Fabulous Focal Spark In-Ear Headphones

After years of using standard issue ear buds, I finally dug through all the drawers of my house a few weeks ago and tossed every last pair in the garbage. I was done. Done with inferior sound quality. Done with the discomfort the hard little buds caused in my ear canals.

I was also absolutely and completely done with the tangled mass that I had to deal with every single time I pulled out a pair of the horrible things. You shouldn’t have to work a puzzle that’s the equivalent of solving a Rubik’s cube before being able to plug in and listen to your music.

Doing My Homework

After getting rid of every last pair of ear buds in my abode, I went about the task of researching a high-quality, user-friendly pair to replace them. I definitely wanted in-ear headphones that would be light and easily portable. I wanted them to look great. I also wanted something that sounded really good. When it comes to headphones, I’m more attracted to quality and function than I am to celebrity endorsements or an overpriced brand name.

spark focal

I started digging into online reviews. Some headphones were uncomfortable, while others sounded tinny. Many still had the problem of cord tangle (really, manufacturers?).

One name I kept seeing mentioned was Focal. Specifically, I read glowing reviews of their Spark in-ear headphones. Convinced that these headphones and I were meant to be together, I ordered a pair in striking cobalt blue.

Initial Impressions

When I took my Sparks out of the package, I was immediately struck by how light they are. Their aluminum construction makes them lightweight, gives them a sleek look, and helps improve the clarity of sound (which I will discuss more later). I pulled them out of their zip-up carry case – another huge plus – and immediately tried to ball them up and tangle them. This is made pretty much impossible due to their flat, anti-tangle cable. So far, so good!

On the cord, Focal installed a 3-button remote and a omnidirectional microphone. Because Spark in-ear headphones are compatible with all smartphones, this makes it easy to use them to have comfortable, hands-free conversations. The manufacturer also included three sets of silicone tips, making the headphones customizable for small, medium, or large ears.

Firing Them Up

I must admit that initially, I was a bit concerned about the sound quality of the Sparks due to them being so incredibly light. Surely, such light headphones would mean equally light and tinny sound, right? Not so! I was amazed at the rich sound and incredible bass that the Sparks could produce.

I must add that I love the multi-function buttons on the remote, as well. The top and bottom buttons control the volume, while the middle button answers/hangs up a phone call and can also start/pause, as well as fast-forward/rewind through music. Fantastic!

For my purposes, which were to find something portable, high-quality, and easy to use, Focal Spark in-ear headphones really fit the bill. You’ll never see me with another pair of ear buds again.

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Chad

Chad is the co-founder of Unfinished Man, a leading men's lifestyle site. He provides straightforward advice on fashion, tech, and relationships based on his own experiences and product tests. Chad's relaxed flair makes him the site's accessible expert for savvy young professionals seeking trustworthy recommendations on living well.

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