At Audio Advice Live 2026, Focal and Naim's Chris Shaw talks about the gear in this room at the show, which includes the North American debut of Focal's Scala Utopia Evo M loudspeakers, in an interview with Ken Micallef that's now posted on our YouTube channel.
Sometimes, I must admit, mega-luxury components really are all they're cracked up to be. However, these beautiful Focal behemoth Scala Utopia Evo M speakers, connected to classic Naim electronics in this room at Audio Advice Live 2026, created a palpable sense of synergy, flow, and projection that was undeniable.
The sonic signature was one of extended, non-hashy, non-fatiguing, brilliant treble that first found full expression on Rhye's "Come in Closer" (originally from 2021's Home). Music poured out of these Focals—coherent, refined, and effortless.
James Newton Howard's soundtrack soirée (remember his classic 1983 release, James Newton Howard & Friends, on Sheffield Labs?) was equally effortless, possessing silken treble and a smoothness that never blunted transients or dynamic punch. The Focal Scala Utopia Evo M is a smooth operator, but is also capable of raising a ruckus.
Finally, Duke Ellington & John Coltrane's "In a Sentimental Mood" played grand and propulsive, with limber acoustic bass, Elvin Jones's roaring ride-cymbal beat, and Trane's ornery, beautiful sustain. This Focal/Naim rig made big promises—and kept every one of them.
Equipment list: Digital source: Naim NSS 333 streamer ($10,999). Streaming preamplifier: Naim NSC 222 ($8999). Amplifier: Naim NAP 350 ($8499). Speakers: Focal Scala Utopia Evo M loudspeakers ($56,000/pair); Focal Diva Alta Utopia ($210,000/pair); Focal Mu-so Hekla 7.1.2 all-in-one home theater system ($3600).
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