Focal Alpha-80 (c. 2015)
Little is documented about the Focal Alpha-80. The most substantial record is Steve La Cerra's review in Mix Magazine (November 2015, p.62). It identifies the Alpha-80 as a two-way active near-field monitor, priced at £599 each at the time. The review's headline credits it with strong imaging and an extended low end.
La Cerra drove the speakers over XLR from a Dangerous Monitor ST or MOTU Traveler interface, with the EQ trims at 0. He noted the curved side panels, which rule out horizontal placement, and the dual ports at the bottom of the front panel. The company logo doubles as a power indicator. He also liked the restraint of the HF control. It works over only ±3 dB, which he considered a good thing, since even a maxed-out setting won't produce harsh highs. Mix Magazine (November 2015, p.63) lists the price and confirms the Alpha-80's position as an active near-field monitor.
Beyond that review, surviving information is thin. No factory spec sheet has surfaced in this archive's research. What the record shows:
- Two-way active near-field monitor
- £599 each (November 2015)
- XLR inputs; EQ trims; HF control limited to ±3 dB
- Curved side panels — vertical placement only
- Dual ports at the bottom of the front panel; logo doubles as power indicator
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