Focal Sopra N°1 Review: A Masterpiece of Compact Hi-Fi Excellence

Focal Sopra N°1: A Masterpiece of Compact Hi-Fi Excellence

The Focal Sopra N°1 is a bookshelf speaker that defies its modest size, delivering a sonic performance that rivals many floor-standing models. As part of Focal's esteemed Sopra series, it embodies the brand's relentless pursuit of acoustic perfection, combining cutting-edge technologies with exquisite craftsmanship. This review delves into the design, technical innovations, and listening experience of the Sopra N°1, offering insights that resonate with audiophiles and music enthusiasts alike.  

Design and Build: A Fusion of Art and Engineering

The Sopra N°1 is a visual and structural marvel. Its compact dimensions (425mm x 279mm x 396mm) and elegant curves make it a perfect fit for both small and medium-sized rooms, up to 50 square meters. The cabinet, available in a range of sophisticated finishes including Carrara White, Electric Orange, and Macassar Ebony, is a testament to Focal's dedication to aesthetics. Each unit is meticulously crafted in France, ensuring that it is as much a piece of art as it is a high-performance audio device.  

The speaker's construction incorporates advanced materials and technologies. The "W" sandwich cone, a hallmark of the Sopra series, is employed for the midrange and bass drivers, offering exceptional rigidity and damping properties. The tweeter features a pure beryllium inverted dome, renowned for its lightweight and high stiffness, enabling it to reproduce frequencies up to 40kHz with remarkable precision.  

Innovative Technologies: Redefining Acoustic Excellence

The Sopra N°1 introduces several groundbreaking technologies that set it apart from its competitors. The Neutral Inductance Circuit (NIC) and Tuned Mass Damper (TMD) suspension system are standout features. The NIC ensures a stable magnetic field, minimizing harmonic and intermodulation distortions, while the TMD optimizes the linearity of the frequency response between 1kHz and 4kHz. These technologies collectively contribute to a more neutral and transparent sound signature, allowing the speaker to faithfully reproduce the nuances of the original recording.  

Another notable advancement is the Infinite Horn Loading (IHL) technology, which enhances the performance of the beryllium tweeter. By gently absorbing the rear wave, the IHL system reduces distortion and improves clarity, particularly in the critical 1.5kHz to 4kHz range. This results in a more detailed and lifelike high-frequency response.  

Sonic Performance: A Journey Through Sound

Listening to the Sopra N°1 is an immersive experience that transcends the ordinary. The speaker's frequency response of 45Hz to 40kHz (±3dB) ensures that no detail is lost, from the deepest bass notes to the most delicate high-frequency harmonics.  

Bass: Despite its compact size, the Sopra N°1 delivers a bass performance that is both powerful and refined. The 6.5-inch "W" sandwich cone, combined with the NIC and TMD technologies, produces tight, controlled bass that is free from distortion. Whether it's the thunderous impact of a orchestral timpani or the subtle resonance of an upright bass, the low-end reproduction is articulate and dynamic.  

Midrange: The midrange is where the Sopra N°1 truly shines. The "W" sandwich cone, combined with the TMD suspension, produces a midrange that is lush, detailed, and incredibly natural. Vocal performances are rendered with stunning clarity, allowing listeners to perceive the subtle inflections and emotions of the artist.  

Highs: The beryllium tweeter is a marvel of engineering, offering a high-frequency response that is both extended and smooth. The treble is airy and detailed, without any hint of harshness or sibilance. This makes the speaker particularly well-suited for genres that demand precision, such as classical and jazz.  

Listening Experience: A Symphony of Emotions

During my listening sessions, the Sopra N°1 consistently delivered a performance that was nothing short of breathtaking. Playing Hans Zimmer's "Time" from the *Inception* soundtrack, the speaker effortlessly conveyed the emotional weight of the composition. The deep, resonant bass underpinned the soaring strings, while the intricate details of the piano melody were rendered with crystalline clarity.  

Switching to Diana Krall's "The Look of Love," the speaker's ability to reproduce the warmth and texture of her voice was remarkable. The subtle nuances of her phrasing, combined with the rich timbre of the accompanying instruments, created an intimate and lifelike listening experience.  

Conclusion: The Pinnacle of Compact Hi-Fi

The Focal Sopra N°1 is a masterpiece that redefines the boundaries of compact hi-fi audio. Its combination of cutting-edge technologies, exquisite craftsmanship, and unparalleled sonic performance makes it a worthy investment for those who demand the very best. While its price tag may be prohibitive for some, it is a testament to the adage that true excellence comes at a cost. For the discerning audiophile, the Sopra N°1 is not just a speaker—it is an experience, a journey, and a celebration of the art of sound.  

In the realm of high-end audio, the Sopra N°1 stands as a beacon of what is possible when passion, innovation, and artistry converge. It is, without a doubt, a loudspeaker that will be remembered as a milestone in the history of acoustic engineering.