Focal Bathys Review: The Headphones Worthy of the Hype
Focal has long been a brand synonymous with audio excellence with their roots in HiFi. In recent years, they made impressive inroads with the expansion into the HeadFi category, making waves with the flagship Utopia headphones launch within the audiophile community. This was followed up with another impressive and groundbreaking move into the premium, high-end wireless headphone category - The Bathys wireless headphones.
But do these premium noise-cancelling headphones truly live up to the hype? We think it is a resounding yes, giving traditional competitors much to think about in this nascent high-end wireless headphones market space.
Let us delve into why these headphones are worth the investment by reviewing their sound quality, noise cancellation, comfort, design, features, and battery life.
1. Sound Quality
The Focal Bathys deliver an audio experience that truly lives up to the Focal name.
Besides, these aren't your average noise-cancelling headphones—they're engineered to provide a nuanced and immersive listening experience that will satisfy even discerning audiophiles.
The overall sound profile is well-balanced, with a slight emphasis on clarity and detail. So, you can expect crisp highs, a smooth midrange, and a controlled low-end that avoids excessive boominess.
But what truly sets the Bathys apart is how well they handle different genres. Whether you're immersed in the intricate layers of classical music, grooving to the rhythmic pulse of electronic beats, or rocking out to your favourite guitar riffs, the Bathys present each genre with remarkable fidelity.
One of the most unique features that the Bathys possess is the built-in DAC mode. Unlike the vast majority of wireless headphones, the DAC mode allows the Bathys to be plugged into your desktop. The benefit? Rather than using the basic in-built DAC of your desktop like most other wireless headphones, it uses the Bathys’ DAC, providing an even more incredible audio playback experience. Supporting audio resolutions up to 24-bit/192kHz, the Bathys ensure that you're hearing your music as close as possible to the artist's intention.
In comparison to other popular noise-cancelling headphones, the Bathys definitely offers a more refined and detailed presentation, making them a top choice for serious music lovers.
2. Noise Cancellation
The Focal Bathys similarly offers impressive noise cancellation capabilities. Whether you're battling through the crowd during your morning commute, trying to focus in a busy office, or seeking tranquillity on a long-haul flight, the Bathys' active noise cancellation (ANC) has you covered.
Bathys offers impressive noise cancellation capabilities across a broad spectrum of ambient frequencies. For instance, the "Silent" mode is ideal for those times when you need maximum isolation, while the "Soft" mode lets you enjoy your audio without completely disconnecting from the world around you.
There's also a "Transparency" mode that allows you to hear external sounds clearly, useful for conversations or announcements. This versatility makes the Bathys a great choice for noise-cancelling headphones that adapt to your needs throughout the day.
3. Comfort and Design
The Focal Bathys are not only a sonic delight but also a visual treat. Focal envisioned wireless headphones to be both of high quality audio-wise, and at the same time fashionable. Sporting a sleek and modern aesthetic that moved away from very traditional colours and design, these Focal headphones exude sophistication.
Great care was given to the build quality, with the use of magnesium for the chassis that provides both a luxurious feel and enhanced durability.
But good looks are nothing without comfort, and the Bathys deliver on that front as well. The earcups, for example, are generously padded with plush memory foam, providing a comfortable and snug fit even during extended listening sessions. The headband, also padded with real leather as opposed to PU leather, distributes weight evenly, therefore preventing pressure points from forming.
While not the most compact wireless headphones on the market, the Bathys fold neatly into a travel case, making them reasonably portable for those on the go. Whether you're enjoying music at home or exploring the vibrant streets of Singapore, the Bathys offer a comfortable and stylish companion for your audio adventures.
4. Features and Battery Life
The Focal Bathys are packed with features that enhance your listening experience. Beyond the excellent sound quality and noise cancellation, these headphones offer seamless Bluetooth 5.1 connectivity with multipoint pairing, allowing you to effortlessly switch between devices. What’s more, the intuitive touch controls on the earcups provide easy access to playback, volume, and ANC adjustments.
One standout feature is the Clear Voice Capture microphone technology, which ensures crystal-clear call quality, even in noisy environments. As such, Bathys is an excellent companion for both work and leisure.
And speaking of long hours, the Bathys boast an impressive battery life that can last up to 30 hours with ANC enabled, ensuring your music keeps flowing throughout your day. Even if you do need a quick top-up, a mere 15-minute charge provides an extra 5 hours of listening time.
These features, combined with the exceptional audio performance, make the Focal Bathys a compelling option in the competitive world of best noise-cancelling headphones.
The Verdict: The Focal Bathys Is Absolutely Worth It
The Focal Bathys impress with exceptional sound, effective noise cancellation, and a comfortable design. Ultimately, the Bathys are a fantastic choice for discerning listeners who prioritise audio quality and a refined listening experience. And while the price is premium, the performance justifies the investment for those seeking top-tier audio in Singapore.
Ready to experience the Focal Bathys for yourself? Visit Zeppelin & Co.’s headphone shop and cafe at Sim Lim Square to try them out, or browse our selection of Focal headphones online!