Focal Bathys Review: A Dive into High-Fidelity ANC Headphones

Electronics & Technology Review ShortCircuit Focal Bathys

A detailed exploration of the Focal Bathys, delving into their design, audio quality, active noise cancellation, and comparing with other high-end alternatives.

🔑 Key Takeaways

  • 💼 The Focal Bathys boast a stylish and solid build quality, featuring hand-crafted speaker drivers and luxurious materials like real leather and Alcantara.

  • 🎧 Audio performance is excellent, largely adhering to the Harman Target, ensuring a balanced, neutral sound that caters to a wide audience.

  • 🔇 While the ANC is competent, it doesn't match the performance of leaders in the field like Sony or Apple, exhibiting a slight noise floor.

  • 🕒 Battery life is impressive at 30 hours, with fast charging capabilities that provide 5 hours of playback with just a 15-minute charge.

  • 📱 The Focal Bathys come with an accompanying app that allows customization of EQ settings and noise cancellation, although it's noted as somewhat basic compared to competitors.

📝 Timestamped Summary

00:02 Introduction to Focal Bathys:

  • Introduction to the French-designed Focal Bathys, diving into the origins of the name and its significance.
  • Features like hi-fi sound and active noise cancellation are highlighted.

01:53 Unboxing and Accessories:

  • Items included in the box such as cables, case, and the first look at the headphones.
  • Review of the quality of included accessories like the USB-C and 3.5mm cables.

03:43 Design and Materials:

  • Examination of the Focal Bathys' design aesthetics featuring metal and premium materials.
  • Commentary on the comfort provided by the ear cups and headband.

05:28 Audio Quality and Features:

  • Detailed review of sound quality, driver design, and audio codecs supported.
  • Mention of the lack of Sony’s LDAC codec as a notable omission for potential buyers looking for ultimate audio fidelity.

07:09 Performance and Usability:

  • Discussion on user interface, button layout, and practical usability aspects.
  • Explanation of the built-in DAC and its impact on audio performance.

10:04 Battery Life and Charging:

  • Testing of battery life claims and fast charging feature.
  • Limitations when using wired connections with charging.

11:35 Noise Cancellation and App Functionality:

  • Critical review of the ANC capability and comparison with other leading brands.
  • Overview of the app's functionality including customization features for EQ and ANC.

❓ FAQ

What makes the Focal Bathys unique in the high-end headphone market?

They stand out due to their combination of artisanal craftsmanship, premium materials, and excellent sound fidelity adhering to the respected Harman Target curve.

Can the ANC performance of Focal Bathys compete with industry leaders?

While competent, the ANC doesn't reach the performance levels of market leaders like Sony or Apple, mainly due to a slight presence of noise floor under active cancellation.

Are the Focal Bathys suitable for long wearing periods?

Yes, they are designed with comfortable materials and effective clamping force, making them suitable for extended listening sessions without discomfort.

🎬 Conclusion

The Focal Bathys are an exquisite pair of headphones suited for audiophiles and luxury seekers alike. They masterfully combine aesthetic appeal with sonic performance, although they fall short in ANC capability compared to some competitors. If high-fidelity sound and luxurious design are your priorities, and the price isn't a deterrent, the Focal Bathys are an excellent choice. For those curious about these premium headphones, exploring the full video on ShortCircuit will provide deeper insights and practical demonstrations.