Focal Bathys Over-Ear Hi-Fi Bluetooth Wireless Headphones with Active Noise Cancelation
The Focal Bathys is designed for audiophiles seeking the pinnacle of wireless and wired headphone technology. Combining high-fidelity sound with advanced active noise cancellation (ANC), these headphones promise an unparalleled listening experience whether you’re commuting, working, or relaxing. With versatile connectivity options and customizable sound profiles, the Bathys stand out as a premium choice in the crowded headphone market.
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Features & Functionality
Image credit: Focal
The Focal Bathys blends versatility with high-fidelity audio, offering multiple ways to connect to your music source. The standout feature is its ability to play music via Bluetooth, USB-C, or a 3.5mm cable. Notably, the USB-C connection allows for digital audio transfer, bypassing Bluetooth compression for superior sound quality. The Bathys supports high-resolution audio up to 24-bit/192kHz when connected via USB-C, making it ideal for audiophiles who demand the best possible sound fidelity.
Active noise cancellation (ANC) is another key feature, providing a serene listening experience by minimizing ambient noise. The Focal Bathys offers two levels of ANC: a standard mode for everyday environments like offices or home, and a stronger mode for louder settings like public transportation or busy streets. Additionally, the transparency mode allows external sounds to pass through, which is useful for maintaining awareness of your surroundings or having a quick conversation without removing the headphones.
The customizable sound profiles accessible through the Focal-Naim app add another layer of personalization. Users can adjust the EQ settings to suit their listening preferences, whether they prefer a bass-heavy sound or a more neutral profile. The app also provides firmware updates, ensuring the headphones remain up-to-date with the latest improvements and features.
Design & Build Quality
Image credit: Focal
The design of the Focal Bathys is both elegant and functional, reflecting Focal’s commitment to premium craftsmanship. The headphones feature a combination of black resin, magnesium yokes, and an aluminum band, creating a durable yet stylish build. The ear cups are adorned with a sophisticated honeycomb pattern, and the backlit Focal logo on each ear cup adds a touch of modern elegance, illuminating when the headphones are in use.
Despite their weight of 350 grams, the Bathys are designed for comfort. The headband is generously padded with memory foam, distributing weight evenly across the head and reducing pressure points. The ear cups are similarly cushioned with plush memory foam, covered in soft leather, which not only enhances comfort but also contributes to effective passive noise isolation.
However, the black-on-black buttons on the ear cups can be hard to distinguish in low light, which might pose a challenge for some users. The buttons are tactile and responsive, but their placement requires a bit of getting used to. The carrying case is thoughtfully designed, providing a practical solution for travel. It features a mesh pocket for storing cables and accessories, ensuring everything you need is organized and within reach.
Power & Performance
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Battery life is a significant strength of the Focal Bathys. The headphones boast up to 31.5 hours of playback on a single charge with ANC activated, which exceeds the manufacturer’s claim of 30 hours. This impressive battery life ensures that you can go a full week of commutes or several long-haul flights without needing to recharge. Even with the USB-C connection, which typically demands more power for high-resolution audio playback, the Bathys maintain a strong battery performance.
Charging the Bathys is quick and convenient, with a fast charge feature providing up to 5 hours of playback from just a 15-minute charge. This is particularly useful for users who need a quick power boost before heading out. The headphones also feature an auto-off function to conserve battery when not in use, further extending the overall battery life.
In terms of audio performance, the Focal Bathys excels. The 40mm aluminum-magnesium “M”-shaped dome drivers deliver a precise and dynamic sound. The frequency response is well-balanced, with deep, controlled bass, clear mids, and detailed highs. The slightly emphasized treble enhances the detail and clarity of instruments and vocals, creating a lively and engaging listening experience. The angled drivers and spacious ear cups contribute to a wide soundstage, offering an immersive audio experience that rivals many high-end wired headphones.
Compatibility & Connectivity
Image credit: Focal
The Focal Bathys offers robust connectivity options, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of devices and use cases. The headphones support Bluetooth 5.1, which provides a stable and reliable wireless connection with low latency. This makes them suitable for a variety of activities, from listening to music and podcasts to watching videos and playing games. The Bathys are compatible with popular Bluetooth codecs, including SBC, AAC, aptX, and aptX Adaptive, ensuring high-quality audio transmission across different platforms and devices.
The ability to connect via USB-C is a standout feature, allowing for high-resolution digital audio playback up to 24-bit/192kHz. This connection bypasses the potential quality loss associated with Bluetooth compression, delivering uncompressed audio that’s ideal for audiophiles. The USB-C connection also enables the use of the Bathys with devices that lack a headphone jack, such as many modern smartphones and laptops.
For traditionalists, the 3.5mm analog connection provides a reliable wired option. However, it’s worth noting that the headphones require battery power even when using the 3.5mm cable, which might be a drawback for some users. The multifunction buttons on the right ear cup allow for easy control of playback, volume, and calls, while the left ear cup houses the ANC/transparency mode switch, making it simple to adjust settings on the go.
Conclusion: Should You Buy the Focal Bathys?
The Focal Bathys is a top-tier choice for audiophiles looking for premium sound quality, robust connectivity options, and effective noise cancellation. Its high price point might be a barrier, but for those who value audio fidelity and luxurious design, it’s worth the investment. The Bathys is particularly suited for users who need versatile headphones that perform excellently in both wired and wireless modes. If you’re looking for a combination of exceptional sound, comfort, and cutting-edge features, the Focal Bathys is an excellent choice.
