Focal Chorus 700

I've heard the following Focal speakers: 706v (father-in-law owns a pair), 806v, 807v (friend owns a pair), 726v (very limited listening experience), 816v (almost purchased them for myself), and 836v (what I own).

The 836v is the flagship Chorus series speaker and I absolutely love the sound of the Focal tweeter. They are all about the same size as far as floorspace from the 706v on the Focal stand all the way up to the 836v. I'd recommend the 816v as an option if you liked the 726v.

I listened to a few B&W products and they also sound great, but the Focal really blew me away. It was the 706v that peaked my interest and I ended up spending a lot more than I ever had any plans to do.

I didn't realize that the B&W 804D was a $7,500 speaker so I can't say that I've ever heard a similarly priced Focal speaker. My local dealer only has the Chorus and Utopia lines in the store. I saw an Electra floorstander in the store once, but before I had time to go back for a listen it was gone. The Diablo Utopia is probably my favority speaker that I've ever heard.

I've not heard a B&W speaker in the range that you're looking at, but would agree that the cabinets are sharp!

I find it impressive that a $1,700 Focal speaker peaked your interest enough to warranty a post when you're looking at speakers that are much more expensive.

It was the 706v ($695) that caught my attention because it sound so good compared to my more expensive Infinity speakers. I was a slipperly slope from there for me.

Thanks for the input. I too was surprised as I had been looking and listening to the $7500 B&W. Then when I happened to hear the Focals (not aware of the price) I was impressed. Then I asked how much and they said something like $1800. I asked "each?" and they said no for the pair! I have found over the years that just because it cost more, doesn't mean it will be that much better. In fact I have heard some very expensive systems (I heard Wilsons with Naim) in NY once I thought my stereo was far more enjoyable to listen too. So thats why I am now curious with the Focal line and wondering what is gained when moving up the line. ie from 700 to 800 . Is it just cabinet finishes or are there sound improvements as well. Thanks

The main difference between the 700 and 800 series Chorus speakers is the thickness of the cabinets. In addition, the 800 series floorstanding models sit on a raised platform and have a bottom port to provide additional low end bass. Also, the 800 series stands actually have some sand in them and have more substantial spikes, but I think either stand will work on either series.

I've heard the 700v and 800v and even at that level the 800 series speaker does sound better.

The dealer that I work with has indicated that they think the 836v is one of the best overall values so they tend to either sell the Chorus series or convince the buyer to make the jump into the Utopia line. They indicated that the Electra series was more about appearance than sound quality in their opinion. The more I've listened to their speakers the happier I am with my 836v's.