Even though value is ultimately a subjective assessment, what I can tell you is that the Scala Utopia Evo’s three-piece cabinet and Gamma Structure bracing technology are neither cheap nor easy to engineer and build. The attention to detail in the hand assembly of all Utopia drivers and crossovers, the skill that goes into the installation of those components, and the care taken in the finish of each cabinet is staggering. The result is a very expensive—dare I say exotic—product that is as beautiful to look at as it is to listen to. And I enjoyed both the aesthetic and the sound—for hours on end. Highly recommended!

Even though value is ultimately a subjective assessment, what I can tell you is that the Scala Utopia Evo’s three-piece cabinet and Gamma Structure bracing technology are neither cheap nor easy to engineer and build. The attention to detail in the hand assembly of all Utopia drivers and crossovers, the skill that goes into the installation of those components, and the care taken in the finish of each cabinet is staggering. The result is a very expensive—dare I say exotic—product that is as beautiful to look at as it is to listen to. And I enjoyed both the aesthetic and the sound—for hours on end. Highly recommended!

It has taken a while, but finally Focal has not only tamed its beast but taught it some seriously impressive musical tricks. It might just be the smallest really big loudspeaker out there.

For me, I have found the right speaker for my office. These speakers have the sound, the engineering, the industrial design and the profile to look and sound absolutely stunning. Do yourself a favor and go out of your way if you have to hear the Focal Diablo Utopia speakers. Even if you are in the market for speakers that cost one tenth the price, you need to know what Focal can do because they are as good as it gets when it comes to loudspeaker designers. You will not be disappointed. I promise.

Yet putting it all in perspective, and that’s kind of a wacky thing for speakers that cost a lot more than most cars, the Focal Stella EMs deliver amazing performance. Take your breath away performance.

When it comes to levels of insight, little at this price even comes close

This 5.2 system grasped me by the kidneys, by my very heart and soul. It ranks at least as fabulous as Bowers & Wilkins’ Diamond-tweeter touting 800 Series and, sadly for KEF, is more amazing even than its exceptional Reference system. And that’s saying something.