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You might be considering focal stellia audiophile circum aural closed back alternatives if you need different specs or features. The Focal Stellia Closed-Back Headphones deliver precise audio isolation for discerning listeners who value build quality and sound accuracy. They feature a closed-back design and over-ear fit, weighing 5.95 pounds. This substantial weight and specific size may not suit everyone. Some users prefer lighter options or different connection types. The Stellia is designed for home and on-the-go use, but its physical dimensions and material choices might not align with your specific needs.
We selected 6 alternatives because their specifications overlap with the original product. These options include closed-back and open-back designs, wired and wireless connections, and various driver technologies. You can find models with built-in microphones, detachable cables, or active noise cancellation. The list covers brands like MEZE Audio, HIFIMAN, Beyerdynamic, and Sennheiser. Each product offers distinct advantages for audiophiles, studio professionals, or casual listeners. You can compare these specs to find the best fit for your listening habits and environment.
How these alternatives compare
Meze 99 Classics Walnut Gold
The Meze 99 Classics Walnut Gold weighs just 9.2 ounces, significantly lighter than the Focal Stellia’s 5.95 pounds. It includes a built-in microphone for calls, which the Stellia lacks. Both are closed-back over-ear headphones for audiophiles. The Meze uses wired connection and wooden construction. You should choose this if you need communication tools and portability. You give up the Stellia’s massive build quality and specific tonal balance for easier driving impedance and a compact form factor.
MEZE Audio Strada 50mm Wood Headphones
The MEZE Audio Strada features a 50 mm driver size and detachable cable, offering precise wired fidelity. It is a closed-back over-ear design for audiophiles, similar to the Focal Stellia. However, the Strada lacks the Stellia’s substantial 5.95 pound weight and large dimensions. You gain durable wooden construction and cable flexibility. You lose the Stellia’s specific acoustic tuning and carrying case inclusion. Select this if you prioritize build materials and wired precision over the Stellia’s heavier, more comprehensive package.
HIFIMAN Sundara Closed-Back Planar Headphones
The HIFIMAN Sundara Closed-Back Planar Headphones use planar magnetic drivers, differing from the Stellia’s dynamic setup. It weighs 15.2 ounces, much lighter than the Stellia’s 5.95 pounds. Both are closed-back over-ear headphones for audiophiles with detachable cables. The Sundara offers studio-grade detail and imaging. You give up the Stellia’s specific tonal balance and substantial build. Choose this if you need precise audio for mixing or critical listening with a lighter, planar magnetic driver system.
Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO 80 Ohm Headphones
The Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO 80 Ohm is an open-back design, contrasting with the Focal Stellia’s closed-back isolation. It weighs 9.5 ounces, far lighter than the Stellia’s 5.95 pounds. Both are over-ear headphones for audiophiles and studio use. The Beyerdynamic provides a wider soundstage for mix decisions. You sacrifice audio isolation and the Stellia’s specific tonal balance. Pick this if you need accurate mix decisions in a stationary setting. You give up the closed-back benefits for open-back precision and lighter weight.
MMWOWARTS Foldable Over-Ear ANC Headphones
The MMWOWARTS Foldable Over-Ear ANC Headphones offer wireless Bluetooth connectivity and active noise cancelling, unlike the wired Focal Stellia. They target casual listeners needing portability and noise reduction. The Stellia is a heavy, closed-back audiophile headphone. You gain long battery life and noise cancellation. You lose audiophile precision, closed-back isolation, and the Stellia’s substantial build quality. Choose this if you value wireless convenience and noise reduction over the detailed, wired fidelity and heavy construction of the Focal Stellia.
Sennheiser HD 560 S Open-Back
The Sennheiser HD 560 S Open-Back uses an open-back design, unlike the Focal Stellia’s closed-back isolation. It weighs 8.48 ounces, significantly lighter than the Stellia’s 5.95 pounds. Both are over-ear headphones for audiophiles with detachable cables. The Sennheiser provides a wide soundstage and neutral sound. You give up audio isolation and the Stellia’s specific tonal balance. Select this if you prioritize acoustic accuracy and a wide soundstage in a stationary setting. You lose the closed-back benefits for open-back precision.
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Focal Stellia Closed-Back Headphones Best overall | Audiophiles needing closed-back isolation | |
| 2 | Meze 99 Classics Walnut Gold Best microphone | Wired listening with microphone needs | |
| 3 | MEZE Audio Strada 50mm Wood Headphones Best premium | Audiophiles seeking wired closed-back precision | |
| 4 | HIFIMAN Sundara Closed-Back Planar Headphones Best budget | audiophiles seeking closed-back planar detail | |
| 5 | Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO 80 Ohm Headphones Also great | critical listening and studio mixing | |
| 6 | MMWOWARTS Foldable Over-Ear ANC Headphones Best wireless | Wireless commuters needing long battery life | |
| 7 | Sennheiser HD 560 S Open-Back Also great | neutral sound and wide soundstage |
Focal Stellia Closed-Back Headphones
Best for: Audiophiles needing closed-back isolation
- Form Factor
- Circum-aural Closed-back
- Fit
- Over-Ear
- Use
- Audiophiles
- Dimensions
- 13.7 × 10.5 × 12.9 inches
- Weight
- 5.95 pounds
The Focal Stellia is a closed-back, over-ear headphone designed for audiophiles. It weighs 5.95 pounds and measures 10.5 inches wide. The design prioritizes acoustic precision, aiming to deliver high and low-frequency details without tonal compromise. This model includes a carrying case for portability. It suits listeners who need isolation while maintaining high-fidelity sound reproduction in various environments.
- Closed-back design provides acoustic isolation
- Over-ear fit for comfortable extended listening
- Includes a dedicated carrying case
- Optimized for high and low-frequency detail
- 5.95 pounds weight is substantial for daily carry
- 10.5 inches width requires significant headspace
- Closed-back nature limits soundstage width compared to open models
- You need isolation from external noise
- You prioritize tonal balance over portability
- You want a premium build with a case
- You prefer lightweight wireless headphones
- You need an open-back soundstage
- You prioritize budget over audiophile specs
Verdict: Focal Stellia Closed-Back Over-Ear Headphones deliver precise audio isolation for discerning listeners. They fit users who value build quality and sound accuracy over weight and size.
Meze 99 Classics Walnut Gold
Best for: Wired listening with microphone needs
- Connectivity
- Wired
- Form Factor
- Over-Ear
- Back Design
- Closed-Back
- Features
- Microphone
- Use
- Audiophiles, Gaming, Work
- Dimensions
- 9.45 × 8.67 × 4.33 inches
The MEZE Audio 99 Classics are closed-back, over-ear headphones with a 32 Ohm impedance. This low impedance allows you to drive them with any device without needing an amplifier. They feature genuine walnut wood earcups and a self-adjusting headband for comfort. The package includes detachable Kevlar cables with a built-in microphone, making them suitable for audiophiles, gaming, and work.
- 32 Ohm impedance for easy driving
- Genuine walnut wood earcups
- Includes detachable cable with microphone
- Self-adjusting manganese steel headband
- 9.2 ounces weight is heavier than lighter alternatives
- Wired connection limits mobility compared to wireless models
- You need a microphone for calls or gaming
- You want a unique wood grain finish
- You prefer a low-impedance driver
- You require wireless Bluetooth connectivity
- You need active noise cancellation
- You prefer lightweight plastic builds
Verdict: MEZE Audio 99 Classics Walnut Wood suits listeners who value natural materials and built-in communication tools. You will appreciate the easy-to-drive impedance and durable wooden construction.
MEZE Audio Strada 50mm Wood Headphones
Best for: Audiophiles seeking wired closed-back precision
- Connectivity
- 3.5 mm, 4.4 mm
- Form Factor
- Over-Ear
- Back Design
- Closed-Back
- Connection
- Wired
- Features
- Detachable Cable
- Use
- Audiophiles
The MEZE Audio Strada is a closed-back, over-ear headphone designed for audiophiles. It features a 50 mm driver and a balanced tuning with tight bass. The build uses Macassar ebony wood ear cups and includes detachable magnetic earpads. You get two 1.8m cables with 3.5mm and 4.4mm connections. It suits listeners who want precise sound and replaceable components.
- 50 mm dynamic driver size
- Macassar ebony wood ear cup covers
- Detachable magnetic earpad mounting system
- Includes 3.5mm and 4.4mm balanced cables
- Closed-back design limits soundstage width compared to open alternatives
- 50 mm driver is smaller than some planar magnetic competitors
- Wired connection restricts movement compared to wireless models
- You prefer closed-back isolation for home listening
- You want replaceable earpads and cables for longevity
- You value wood finishes and premium build materials
- You need active noise cancellation for travel
- You require wireless Bluetooth connectivity
- You prefer open-back headphones for a wider soundstage
Verdict: MEZE Audio Strada Closed-Back offers precise sound and durable construction for audiophiles. It fits listeners who prioritize build quality and wired fidelity over wireless convenience.
HIFIMAN Sundara Closed-Back Planar Headphones
Best for: audiophiles seeking closed-back planar detail
- Connectivity
- Wired, 3.5mm, 6.35mm
- Form Factor
- Over-Ear
- Back Design
- Closed-Back
- Driver
- Planar Magnetic
- Features
- Detachable Cable
- Use
- Audiophiles, Studio, Mixing
The HIFIMAN SUNDARA uses a planar magnetic driver with stealth magnet design to reduce sound reflections. Its beechwood ear cups and detachable 3.5mm cable offer audiophile-grade clarity for studio mixing. Weighing 15.2 ounces, it provides a closed-back over-ear fit. This wired headphone suits listeners seeking detailed, full-range sonics from a lightweight, ergonomic build.
- Planar magnetic driver with stealth magnet design
- Hand-assembled beechwood ear cups
- Detachable dual-sided 3.5mm cable
- Lightweight ergonomic headband
- Heavier at 15.2 ounces compared to lighter alternatives
- Closed-back design limits natural soundstage width
- Wired connection restricts movement
- You want planar magnetic detail in a closed-back form
- You prefer wired connections for studio work
- You value wood-grain ear cup aesthetics
- You need wireless Bluetooth connectivity
- You require active noise cancelling
- You prefer ultra-lightweight under-ear designs
Verdict: HIFIMAN SUNDARA Planar Magnetic Headphones deliver precise audio for studio professionals who prioritize wired fidelity and detailed imaging over wireless convenience.
Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO 80 Ohm Headphones
Best for: critical listening and studio mixing
- Connectivity
- Wired, 3.5 mm
- Form Factor
- Over-Ear
- Back Design
- Open-Back
- Use
- Audiophiles, Studio, Mixing, Gaming
- Color
- Black
- Dimensions
- 8.7 × 4.7 × 9.1 inches
These open-back headphones deliver a natural soundstage with a 5–35,000 Hz frequency response. The 80-ohm impedance suits studio outputs and home audio. They feature replaceable ear pads and a 3-meter cable. The lightweight build aids comfort. This model offers detailed spatial imaging for critical listening tasks.
- Open-back design provides natural soundstage
- 80-ohm impedance for versatile use
- Replaceable circumaural ear pads
- 5–35,000 Hz frequency response
- Open-back design leaks sound
- Wired connection limits mobility
- You need detailed spatial imaging
- You prefer open-back acoustics
- You use studio outputs
- You require wireless connectivity
- You need noise isolation
- You want closed-back design
Verdict: beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO 80 Ohm Open-Back headphones suit professionals seeking accurate mix decisions. They fit listeners who prioritize soundstage width over isolation.
MMWOWARTS Foldable Over-Ear ANC Headphones
Best for: Wireless commuters needing long battery life
- Noise Control
- Active Noise Cancelling
- Battery Life
- 35 hours
- Connectivity
- Bluetooth 5.4, Wired
- Form Factor
- Over-Ear
- Connection
- Wireless
- Features
- Bluetooth, Active Noise Cancelling, Active Noise Cancellation, Long Playtime
The MMWOWARTS H02 offers wireless over-ear comfort with Bluetooth 5.4 connectivity. It features active noise cancellation and 40mm drivers for immersive sound. A 400mAh battery provides 35 hours of playback. You can switch to wired mode via the included cable. The foldable design aids portability. This option suits those prioritizing battery life and wireless convenience over studio-grade fidelity.
- Bluetooth 5.4 chip for stable connection
- 35 hours of continuous playback on a single charge
- Active noise cancellation for low and mid-frequency noise
- Foldable, lightweight design for easy storage
- Switchable wired mode via included audio cable
- 40mm driver size is smaller than planar magnetic drivers in competitors
- Plastic build may feel less durable than metal frames
- ANC targets low and mid frequencies rather than full spectrum
- You need long battery life for travel
- You prefer wireless convenience over wired fidelity
- You want active noise cancellation for commuting
- You require studio reference accuracy
- You prefer planar magnetic driver technology
- You want premium metal construction
Verdict: MMWOWARTS H02 Bluetooth ANC Headphones deliver solid wireless performance and long battery life. They fit casual listeners who value portability and noise reduction over audiophile precision.
Sennheiser HD 560 S Open-Back
Best for: neutral sound and wide soundstage
- Connectivity
- 3.5 mm, 6.3 mm
- Form Factor
- Over-The-Ear
- Back Design
- Open-Back
- Features
- Detachable Cable
- Use
- Audiophiles
- Color
- Black
The Sennheiser HD 560 S are open-back over-ear headphones designed for audiophiles seeking neutral sound. They feature E.A.R. technology that tilts drivers to match your ear angle, creating a wide soundstage. The build weighs 8.48 ounces with dimensions of 6.06 x 5.67 x 3.07 inches. A detachable cable offers connection flexibility via a 6.3mm jack with a 3.5mm adapter. This design prioritizes acoustic refinement and realistic depth for home listening.
- Open-back earcups allow sound waves to expand naturally
- E.A.R. Technology tilts drivers to the natural angle of your ears
- Detachable cable includes a 3.5mm jack adapter
- Extended low-end reach provides clear bass performance
- Open-back design does not isolate sound from the environment
- Weight of 8.48 ounces is heavier than many competitors
- Includes only a 6.3mm jack termination by default
- You want a neutral frequency response for accurate music reproduction
- You prefer an open soundstage for immersive listening experiences
- You need an over-ear fit with ergonomic driver alignment
- You require closed-back headphones for noise isolation
- You need wireless connectivity for portable use
- You prefer lightweight headphones under 7 ounces
Verdict: Sennheiser HD 560 S Open-Back Headphones suit listeners who prioritize acoustic accuracy and a wide soundstage in a stationary setting. The open-back construction and specific driver angle make it ideal for critical home listening rather than noisy environments.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Focal Stellia Closed-Back Headphones | Meze 99 Classics Walnut Gold | MEZE Audio Strada 50mm Wood Headphones | HIFIMAN Sundara Closed-Back Planar Headphones | Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO 80 Ohm Headphones | MMWOWARTS Foldable Over-Ear ANC Headphones | Sennheiser HD 560 S Open-Back |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Noise Control | – | – | – | – | – | Active Noise Cancelling | – |
| Battery Life | – | – | – | – | – | 35 hours | – |
| Connectivity | – | Wired | 3.5 mm, 4.4 mm | Wired, 3.5mm, 6.35mm | Wired, 3.5 mm | Bluetooth 5.4, Wired | 3.5 mm, 6.3 mm |
| Form Factor | Circum-aural Closed-back | Over-Ear | Over-Ear | Over-Ear | Over-Ear | Over-Ear | Over-The-Ear |
| Back Design | Closed-Back | Closed-Back | Closed-Back | Closed-Back | Open-Back | – | Open-Back |
| Connection | – | Wired | Wired | Wired | Wired | Wireless | – |
| Driver | – | – | – | Planar Magnetic | – | – | – |
| Fit | Over-Ear | Over-Ear | Over-Ear | Over-Ear | Over-Ear | Over-Ear | Over-Ear |
| Features | – | Microphone | Detachable Cable | Detachable Cable | – | Bluetooth, Active Noise Cancelling, Active Noise Cancellation, Long Playtime | Detachable Cable |
| Use | Audiophiles | Audiophiles, Gaming, Work | Audiophiles | Audiophiles, Studio, Mixing | Audiophiles, Studio, Mixing, Gaming | Audiophiles | Audiophiles |
| Color | Cognac | Gold | Green/Copper | black&orange | Black | Pink | Black |
| Ear Style | – | – | – | – | – | Stereo | – |
| Dimensions | 13.7 × 10.5 × 12.9 inches | 9.45 × 8.67 × 4.33 inches | 5.31 × 9.65 × 11 inches | 12.4 × 10 × 7.05 inches | 8.7 × 4.7 × 9.1 inches | – | 6.06 × 3.07 × 5.67 inches |
| Weight | 5.95 pounds | 9.2 ounces | – | 15.2 ounces | 9.5 ounces | – | 8.48 ounces |
| Size | Headphones | one size fits-all | 50 mm | adjustable | 80 OHM | – | size |
| Model | FSTELLIA-FBA | M99C-WG | STRADA | SUNDARA Closed-Back | DT 990 PRO-cr | H02 | 615104356146 |
Frequently asked questions
Are there lighter alternatives to the Focal Stellia?
Yes, several options weigh significantly less. The Meze 99 Classics Walnut Gold weighs only 9.2 ounces, while the HIFIMAN Sundara Closed-Back Planar Headphones tip the scales at 15.2 ounces. In contrast, the Focal Stellia is much heavier at 5.95 pounds. These lighter models suit users who prioritize comfort during extended listening sessions over the substantial build of the Stellia.
Which closed-back headphones include a microphone?
The Meze 99 Classics Walnut Gold is a strong choice for this need. It features a built-in microphone, allowing you to handle calls directly. Most other closed-back audiophile options, including the Focal Stellia and MEZE Audio Strada, do not list this feature. If you need wired listening with communication tools, the Meze model fits your requirements.
What are the best planar magnetic closed-back options?
The HIFIMAN Sundara Closed-Back Planar Headphones are the primary option in this category. They use planar magnetic drivers for detailed imaging and precise audio. This technology appeals to studio professionals and audiophiles seeking wired fidelity. Unlike dynamic driver headphones, these deliver a distinct sound signature that prioritizes detail over wireless convenience.
Can I find wireless alternatives to the Stellia?
The MMWOWARTS Foldable Over-Ear ANC Headphones offer wireless performance with Bluetooth connectivity. They include active noise cancelling and long playtime for commuters. However, they target casual listeners rather than audiophiles seeking precision. The Focal Stellia and other audiophile picks in this list remain wired, focusing on sound accuracy rather than portability or wireless features.
Are there open-back alternatives for wider soundstages?
Yes, if you prioritize soundstage width over isolation. The Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO 80 Ohm Headphones and Sennheiser HD 560 S Open-Back Headphones both feature open-back designs. These models suit critical listening and studio mixing in stationary settings. They provide a wider acoustic experience compared to the closed-back isolation of the Focal Stellia.
Which headphones feature wooden construction?
The Meze 99 Classics Walnut Gold and MEZE Audio Strada 50mm Wood Headphones both utilize wood in their build. The Meze 99 Classics features walnut wood and a gold finish. The Strada offers a green and copper color scheme with durable wooden construction. These materials appeal to listeners who value natural aesthetics and specific build qualities alongside audio performance.
Do any models have detachable cables?
The MEZE Audio Strada and HIFIMAN Sundara Closed-Back Planar Headphones both include detachable cables. This feature allows you to replace or upgrade the cable if it becomes damaged. It also adds versatility for different connection needs. The Focal Stellia and Meze 99 Classics do not list this feature in their specifications, meaning their cables are fixed.