Focal Diva Utopia Offers $40K Wireless Audiophile Experience
Focal has officially unveiled their first active speaker in the Utopia range—the Diva Utopia. This release showcases their commitment to innovation and signals a modernization of their product lineup. By integrating Naim electronics and embracing wireless technology, Focal is stepping into the active speaker market with confidence.
A Closer Look at the Diva Utopia
Let's delve into the specifications. The Diva Utopia is a 3-way active wireless loudspeaker, featuring Focal's proprietary beryllium tweeters, mid-bass drivers, and side-mounted woofers. It delivers 400 watts of Class AB amplification, supporting high-resolution audio playback at 192kHz/24-bit. For audiophiles seeking exceptional sound quality, this speaker promises precision and detail across all frequencies.
Wireless connectivity is a key feature. The Diva Utopia supports Bluetooth, AirPlay 2, and Google Cast, allowing seamless streaming from various sources. Integration with Naim electronics brings access to popular services like Spotify Connect, TIDAL, and Qobuz. Control options include the Focal & Naim app, a dedicated remote control, and compatibility with voice assistants like Google Assistant and Siri.
In terms of inputs, the speaker includes eARC for TV integration and optical inputs. However, it notably lacks a balanced analog input, which might be unexpected for an active speaker at this level. This design choice suggests Focal is focusing on a streamlined, modern system that prioritizes wireless and digital connections.
Design Choices: A Matter of Taste
The design of the Diva Utopia is distinctive and has sparked discussion among enthusiasts. The speaker features floating side panels made from OEKO-TEX®-certified felt material. This choice gives it a modern aesthetic, but also raises practical considerations—particularly for pet owners, as the material could attract unwanted attention from cats.
The tweeter design is visually striking, with a yin-yang formation wrapped in a metallic ribbon, adding to the speaker's futuristic appearance. The overall design is bold and unique, aiming to make a statement in any home audio setup.
Target Audience and Market Position
At a price point of $40,000 per pair, the Diva Utopia is positioned firmly in the ultra-high-end segment of the audio market. While this places it beyond the reach of most consumers, it aligns with the expectations for Focal's Utopia range. The speaker is aimed at audiophiles and luxury buyers who prioritize both performance and exclusivity.
This move appears to be a direct response to other high-end brands entering the premium wireless space, such as KEF with their LS60, as well as offerings from Sonus Faber and Dynaudio. Focal is clearly aiming to assert its presence in this market by delivering a product that combines advanced technology with their established reputation for acoustic excellence.
The Significance of Active Technology
The introduction of the Diva Utopia represents more than just a new product—it's indicative of Focal's strategic direction. Historically, Focal has focused on passive designs, even in their studio monitors. By embracing DSP-based active systems, they're signaling a shift towards integrating modern technologies across their lineup.
There's speculation that features introduced with the Diva Utopia will eventually trickle down to more accessible models. This could include advancements in wireless connectivity, streaming capabilities, and perhaps future developments in room correction technology.
Considerations and Omissions
Despite its impressive specifications, the Diva Utopia lacks certain features that some might expect at this price point. For instance, there's no mention of room correction capabilities, which are increasingly common in high-end speakers. Additionally, the speaker is not Roon Ready certified, an omission that might surprise those who use Roon as part of their audio ecosystem.
Final Thoughts
The Focal Diva Utopia is more than just a new speaker—it's a significant statement from Focal about their vision for the future of high-fidelity audio. By combining their acoustic expertise with modern wireless technology and distinctive design, they're offering a product that aims to meet the demands of discerning listeners who value both form and function.
Whether this approach resonates with the broader audiophile community remains to be seen. However, it's clear that Focal is committed to pushing the boundaries of what's possible in home audio, and the Diva Utopia is a bold step in that direction.
What are your thoughts on Focal's move into the active speaker market with the Diva Utopia? Do you see this as a positive development for high-end audio, or are there aspects that give you pause? Share your perspectives below.
