PLEASE READ *before commenting*! 1) All comments here are moderated by a third party 2) Polite comments that advance the conversation are most welcome 3) No URLs, racist/sexist remarks or conspiracy theories, please CORRECTION: the Focal Bathys sell for €799 (and not €699). Apologies.
What I love about your videos, even if I'm not in the market for whatever product is being reviewed, is that I'll always get some nice, new-to-me tunes out of it when the intermissions come up. ♥️
Personally I am quite interested in the dac mode feature. Wireless on the go and extra sound quality with the cable where you can… In theory at least, a really nice feature!
Yeah, I think the point is for someone to be able to Bluetooth on the commute and plug into a laptop or something in the office. As John says, it is an edge case but for some people getting rid of an extra dongle may be worth the price. I’d definitely use this function if it made its way onto a Sony or something priced in that ballpark.
People forget ANC started with wired headphones. I still have a pair of the excellent PSB M4U2 which, despite the dreadful name, still sound very good. The Focals, however, tempt me. I have a pair of Elegia which are great so going wireless might be the next step.
Thanks for this - next closed-back I buy will be these bad boys. Just got the Clears and my life is forever changed lol. I really appreciate that Focal took everything into account here - controls/features, aesthetic, comfort, and of course sound/ANC quality. Nothing was compromised, and it still comes in at a fair (albeit expensive) price. Leave it to Focal to set a new standard for the audio market :)
To be honest wireless headphones especially those 399.99 and up should support lossless over Bluetooth. Bluetooth 5.3 should be the standard along with Qualcomm lossless audio. No ifs and buts about it. Too much money for not having the latest technology.
I was thinking the same but I imagine since this is a first gen product so they had to launch the design they had ahead of the new fixed lossless BT. Hopefully there will be an firmware update to make them competitive when more products support it.
The Sony's are really rather bad if one is used to even good sub-$100 wired headphones. They are made to sound as inoffensive as possible so anyone CAN listen to them, but they lack highs, are overly warm and the bass is mush. In the normal price ranges Anker has a few good cheap options and AKG N700NC M2 is in general pretty good sound. Bathys is certainly several steps further.
I found had the same opinion with my pair. They have crushed mids and boosted bass. Which creates a muddy sound. Its an easy fix with the inbuilt app eq. +4 on 2.5k +4 on 6.2k and tune clear bass to taste. Mine is -3. Makes it much closer to natural harmon sound.
I have the XM5 the Panda the Momentum 4 and the Airpods Max and had the Ananda BT. (Ignoring wired and true wireless). Ask away in case it helps with your Bathys decision in any way: The sound quality winner: The Momentum 4 even with APTX ( thus missing AptxHD/Aptx lossless for now). The Anc winner: the XM5 and Airpods. The biggest waste: The Drop Panda. The shallowness earcups: The Xm5. The quickest degrading/dirt gathering case : the XM5. The lightest : Xm5. The most premium feeling but heaviest: Airpods Max. The second most premium feeling: Momentum 4 The highest bitrate codec stably streaming: The Xm5 with LDAC manually set to 990Kbps. The battery that already died in less than a year with no company support: The Pandas. The best imaging Momentum 4. The most natural timbre: The momentum4 The softest most comfortable best sealing earpads: The Momentum 4. The most breathable feeling/lowest heat: The Airpods Max The best transparency mode: The airpods max. Best background noise cancelling in the mics so that others hear my voice easily: The Xm5 and Airpods Max The goofiest still can't answer a call all the time: Momentum 4 but it's probably my own user error haha The one I reach for the most: Momentum 4. Something about the sound and those soft plush earpads The one whose sound quality will improve a lot if you have the new 2023 Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 plus chip that supports the new Aptx Lossless codec such as the 2022 Asus Rog 6 or any flagship android in 2023: Momentum 4 and Focal Bathys What sounds better: Almost any wired headset over $300 if you even have a cheap dac Amp such as the bang for buck dual dac Fiio Btr5 or 7 Bathys vs Momentum 4 sound quality over Bluetooth on the same codec: many have noted the Bathys is way better than the airpods max in terms of sound quality. I conclude it sounds better than the Momentum 4 (Ignoring price differences) as well as the Momentum 4 sounds better than the Xm5 and Airpods Max. The bass winner: Sony Xm5 and Sennheiser Momentum 4 The clearest sounding withiut siblance or eq: Momentum 4 even with only Aptx (not Aptx lossless or Aptx HD enabled) and Airpods Max even though it's AAC The easiest to lock in the highest bandwidth codec: Sony Xm5 since you can EASILY TURN ON DEVELOPER OPTIONS and lock LDAC 990Kbps as long as your device can push it without stuttering. HINT TURN OFF POWER SAVING AND turn on overdrive if you have it on your android. P.s. For reference on sound conclusions above here are my wired cans: I have an HE1000SE, HD800, Clear with a D90 A90 stack so I am knee deep in the addiction/hobby.
Great review , I have the bathys and I’m very happy with them , I like the dac mode wired to my iPhone , Would I say the dac mode beats the Bluetooth mode , blows it out the water , night and day !!!! Well slightly better but Bluetooth is getting closer and closer which can only be good news
Haha, I am always amused by the focus on phone calls. I hardly ever talk on the phone in private and when I did, sound quality isn't so important that I would consider these product at these price points at all. To me it is all about music quality, comfort and controls.
Mate you got it all spot on , I'm a jock for 38 years and I have touched head phones fir these silly so called extras for me it's for listing to music full stop , my head is spinning now on what to choose just for clean power sounds , and most of us are buying blind as we can hear them all , as most are never in stock or is broken , I have 3 in mind , please throw me a few models you think I might like price range I will got up to 600 Australia for comfort and clean powerful sound good battey life is a bonus , going shopping tomorrow or if I have to get online I like to think you pick out what I might like I got a pair of sinhizer 650 on hold even tho ther wired , any thoughts cheers Mike 🎧🎧🎧🎧🎧🎧
Thanks for recording such a thorough review. If I was an android user I'd be strongly tempted by the Bathys. System integration is probably going to keep me with my Airpods Max (which I love) but strong competition is only a good thing.
fantastic review we are all waiting for that of the new Bowser & wilkins px8 fantastic review we are all waiting for that of the new Bowser & wilkins px8 😎👍
Apple gets more revenue from airpods alone than B&W, Focal and ML get for all their products combined lol. If anyone could run away with it, then its apple, but the APM were not impressive sound wise or visually imo. I'm not expecting big things.
Thank you for this nice video. I dont see myself wearing this kind of product (nor any other all ear headphones) in the street. But your videos are always very pleasant. So I did enjoy. Take care. E
I think the DAC mode is aimed at folks who might use the Bathys as a replacement for the wired headphones/dongle DAC/Schiit stack combo that some people use at the office or in a secondary listening area.
Would love to hear the comparison of the 5909, the PX8, and the new T+A Solitaire T coming out in a week or so (~$1800), and you're right there in Germany!
I think the Focal are shouting "I'm a rich bitch" a bit too much. I mean they do look cool, but as you said, walking around with them I imagine I'd feel a bit... showy? I feel a little self conscious walking around with my Dali IO-4 (which you might want to have a look at as well, though they REALLY need a good seal. Anything less than perfect (say if you wear glasses) mean the sound is suffering quite a bit). And the Dalis look a bit cheap. The Focals do not. I think it also depends on what else you wear and where you are. Wearing flashy Balenciaga and Gucci stuff as well as a Panerai watch in Cannes? Yeah, the Focals will work. Walking around in a poor neighborhood? Nah? One of the announcement videos / ads they made clearly shows who Focal is thinking of. There's a woman who just can't be bothered with work in her stylish luxury flat, so she decides to go on a weekend trip... with her private jet, to her luxury mansion with massive pool. And then she goes on her yacht. Also I wish they had 2 sound profiles... linear and fun. I mean why not? There's a DSP in there anyway...
I have Sony XM5 and just recently the Bathys (Dune). To me, and I think many others, the Sony noise cancellation is better. However, the Bathys certainly sounds better. I also appreciate the multiple connectivity choices. DAC mode is great with my Android phone, Dell laptop & PC. I don't think you mentioned the hearing test and sound personalization feature. Maybe it has only recently become available in the app. As I have some high frequency hearing loss, this feature is fantastic for me and absolutely makes a difference that sets the Bathys ahead of every other headphone I have used.
I use the Bathys in an office environment day to day and I always use it in DAC mode. But then I'm one of those audiophankers that used a portable DAC/AMP and wired headphones.
Love your review style. It is honest and well articulated. You also somehow make it both raw and well polished. Just the right balance of objective and subjective, and we really get the sense of how these make you feel. With audio equipment that is really what it is all about; how it makes you feel. Thank you. Subscribed.
I hate the touch control on Sony. When I want to change volume or pause I try to touch it and nothing happens, but the accidental touches work like charm, skipping to the next song or podcast, annoying me to death.
With a name like Bathys (Greek for Deep), the size and bling, it looks like they may be marketed as "lifestyle" ANC rather than gear for "audiophiles". Maybe Focal will do Ads/Sponsorships with Euro-Sport celebrities.....similar to the way Beats Headphones featured US Sports figures (?)
Great review, and agree with all as a Bathys and sony owner. Dac mode for me has had fair amount of use in office as I travel to work, and do notice a good improvement in sq once switched. It's a good "ace" for us niche peeps. Soft setting in NC is niche as well but helpful in office.
As always, an excellent video, John. I have already made my decision regarding noise cancelling headphones: Sennheiser Momentum 4. I am fully aware that you can not cover every single relevant headphone that is being released, and I recognise that for this specific video, the price tags for the headphones in question is well above the Momentum 4, but since Sennheiser is such a well known brand, and the headphones have generally been well received, I am surprised that they have not been mentioned...not even in the comment section (only twice so far). Have they accidentally slipped under the radar?
Hi, are you going to review the KEF MU7 anytime soon Darko? I have pre-ordered and I have high hopes for this headset, not to mention it comes with 3.5mm cable which makes it still useable when the battery dies lol
Hey! I've listened them hor an hour in another Focal/Naim salon, and i'm totally agree on everything, but! wired connection, the DAC mode - seemed giving much more than just 'slightly better'. The clarity, sure, but what the most interesting - spacial information about "where" musicians are playing. they now play not in the box, but in the hall or somewhere else. this is why for me DAC mode is far superior sounding than BT
Cool video , I tried to listen to these at the weekend in Selfridges in London unfortunately they wouldn’t connect to my Sony WM1Z via Bluetooth, however I had no problem with the new Bowers & Wilkins P8. Try and go and have a listen to one you will be very surprised with the sound quality, it’s a great fun sounding headphone. I will have to go to a audio shop and have a long listening session to compare the Bathys against the PX8.
Just purchased a pair today on the strength of your review. I have a NAIM Uniti Headphone Edition and don't have any high-end headphones yet. These fit the "Wait until I can afford those" category. Managed to get them during a 50% off Sale here in Australia so only paid $649:00AUD (Not the full $1349:00AUD RRP). Looking forward to trying them out after your great review.
I have been used Bathys for a month now. I can tell they need a burn in period for at least 300h. After that Focal start to sort things out. More pin point picture than ML 5909 and way better PX7ii. Use S22 Ultra and the sound is fast, dynamic, very transparent and tight bas. Resolution got much better too.
The DAC mode is why I gave my wife the H95s. The audio output options led me to believe that these headphones aren't for the airpods max crowd. The look is far to overt whilst the airpods are trendy and minimalist.
Your thoughts on these Focal are very similar to mine. I’ve heard the Mark Levinson but I ended up purchasing the Focal. I really enjoy them. Thanks for the review!!
John, you really to spend more time in DAC mode. I can’t listen to the Bathys in Bluetooth mode for long periods of time. That lossy harshness creeps up when I listen for about an hour and I can’t get that out of my head for the rest of the day. In DAC mode connected to a clean USB source, in my case, Holo Audio Titanis, the Bathys sound so smooth and spacious that I wonder why I still keep my Stellia. edit: more details of my setup: the USB cable that I use is the stock one, it is better than AudioQuest Carbon. The USB A male to female C adaptor is from my Zorloo Ztella DAC. I have two pairs. One of the pair sounds spot on and the other sounds too dry, both have been used for over 50 hours.
The PX7 headphone (original version) was recently selling for $200 new. At that price, it's hard to justify many of these other options, let alone the Bathys. Unless I am on a flight, I don't see the value of noise cancelling headphone tech yet, as it degrades sound quality so much. At least for the headphones I've used. It is good that there are high end options pushing sq at the end of the market, but are people really going to spend $800 on great BT headphones? I doubt it.
One important point of the Bathys is it can play losslessly via a USB cable to your phone - up to 24/192 although even redbook sounds better over the cable than BT. So you can use it over BT and when you really want to sit down and listen in better quality, you can too without toting around a DAC.
Man, being a EU radio kid in the late 90s, Sweet Harmony was playing absolutely non stop. Good times, I will get into their other works you mentioned, John.
For me, it’s a question of balance. Whilst I want great sound quality on the go, I have to consider that anything over £500 to be worn outside would freak me out. I’m too OCD to wear them facing the elements - it rains a lot in Europe. Also, in terms of knocks and scratches, I’d rather wear something less bulky and less expensive such as the Sony WH 1000 mk3 or Sony WF1000 mk4. Then, I have to consider that I’d only wear something more expensive if I’m out of the home but indoors such as on a train or coffee shop. Also, I’d need to think why I should spend more on a powered headphone that at some point will loose it’s functionality because of the battery dying eventually, when I can buy a pair of better sounding quality open back headphones such as the Focal Clear MG that can upscale with a good amp/dac.
I am looking for a pair of passive noise isolating headphones because ANC unfortunately makes me dizzy and nauseated. I also hear a high pitched whine after using ANC. I really wish ANC worked for me. I wonder if there are good options for passive noise isolating headphones.
Have you tried different brands and generations of ANC? I had some older Bose QC35s and their ANC felt like wax shoved into my ears. Then moved to Sony XM3s and it was a whole different ballgame - better!
I agree it should be pronounced similar to a bathysphere. Also, I find it very curious that reviewers will try so hard to pronounce the name of focal headphones correctly in the way that respect their origin. However, if you look at hi-fi man which uses Sanskrit names for all of their products, every reviewer just butchers the pronunciation and does not care at all.
The look and feel of this Focal I would compare to a rich rosé champagne while the Sony, Apple and B&W is giving apératif and lacking occasion for that certain person.
What a roundup. Thanks for all your good work. With Focal and Apple you've already covered my potential candidates. Now I have to go out and try them for myself. 😀
The sound on these was indeed superb, but I found that when they got loud enough they lost their footing. Also, back to back with the old B&W P7 Wireless, they are, for me(!), not worth it. Beyerdynamic Amiron Wireless are the only headset I have heard with better lows, presence and fun-factor than the P7's, and they are both without ANC. Hm.. I'll admit the soundstage was wiiiiiiide on the Bathys. Was picking out instruments left and right. Ane Brun - These Days made my heart smile with the Bathys. KAS:ST - Road To Nowhere also, but only up to that critical volume point. I would much rather spend my money on the Bang & Olufsen BeoPlay H95. They had incredible everything.
Those Focal look nice, years ago I used to wear my Grado Labs SR325i in public, it felt like having Princes Leia’s blond buns on the side of my face, not a good look for a South Asian man. Thinking about it, as they are open back headphones, I even had passive transparency mode before transparency mode was a thing. Those guys were definitely ahead of there times
I walk my Dog 3.5 miles every day while wearing my Apple iPod Max....I simply do not notice the weight and they do stay still while I'm walking....Plus I love their integration with my Apple iPhone 14 Pro......How do you like Roon ARC? Do you use it while walking with your Headphones? Also did you have to pay to use Seinfeld"s Sound Effect (pop pop) for your opening logo?
This well into some people's only headphone territory. Say I'm at my PC/laptop, why not use the wired mode if it's better? Also, it's either charging or not losing battery when I do this. Say I'm a gamer, you said this has a decent mic, if it's good enough why not use it? Yes some people use bluetooth for that as well but that has lag and does not sound as good. I'm glad to see you at least mentioned the wired use, it's really annoying looking at a review and seeing a feature you care about not covered because "it's missing the point" or it's not the future. Yes it won't be used much but some people watching the review care about it and you could full well go the other way and say the review for the average user might as well be "headphone good, go buy!".
Hated the Sony. Now I'm looking for a new pair. They were the most uncomfortable headset I've ever worn. Poor hard band design with it being just a bar type style. Point off contact is very minimal and that pressure point is harsh.
Also didn’t love the Sonys. Landed on Bose QC ultra after a dozen others, just bout 2nd pair from Bose direct refurb for $259 deal & are immaculate same warranty. Will be tough to beat at that price
OK, first thing, your channel is brilliant,accurate and joyful to hear your detailed description, on headphones.... different ears different opinion's but nevertheless I'm on agreement but I didn't rate my old px7s sound as I do the lovely rounded px7 s2s signature, interestingly the next step up in comparison is the Bathys or px8s , double the price! so this could actually point out how good the 350 price range is, I also have the Dali io-6s which might be a cat among the pigeons in terms of there neutral ability and sheer scale of detail but maybe slightly clinical for some but a much different sound to the Bowers's warmth and Richness the Dali's sound more fun with certain music and slightly addictive dare I say! Definitely worth a review!
What I loved about the Focal Listen headphones was how good they sounded with music that was badly recorded, like MUSE. What about the Bathys in that respect?
WOOP WOOP, another notch on Focal's gun! They look amazing, yes they are bulky but man are they comfy and sound so good. It's a lot of money but when uou want the very best...
If anyone has heard either of them in person, would you purchase a pair of Bathys or Celestee?? Been looking for a closed dynamic headphones with good spaciousness, separation and rich timbre but still has a bit of slam when required (am I asking for too much? 😂)
Phenomenon review!! I’m not afraid to admit I watched it 3 times 😂 and every time there was a new information nugget for me. Rich content! I’m in the market for new headphones and after your review I’m thinking about the Bathys Focal. Hoping the price drops lol
PLEASE READ *before commenting*!
1) All comments here are moderated by a third party
2) Polite comments that advance the conversation are most welcome
3) No URLs, racist/sexist remarks or conspiracy theories, please
CORRECTION: the Focal Bathys sell for €799 (and not €699). Apologies.
What I love about your videos, even if I'm not in the market for whatever product is being reviewed, is that I'll always get some nice, new-to-me tunes out of it when the intermissions come up. ♥️
Agreed… I often go look up the various artists John mentions.
I actually have a playlist in both Apple Music and Spotify named “recommended by John”.
Same for me! ;)
Omg. I'm not the only one adding his music to their list. Lol.
CORRECTION: the Focal Bathys sell for €799 (and not €699). Apologies.
Personally I am quite interested in the dac mode feature. Wireless on the go and extra sound quality with the cable where you can… In theory at least, a really nice feature!
How do the Bathys compare to the Bowers & Wilkins PX8? NOT the PX7 S2, but the PX8.
Bathy's v PX8, that's the shoot out we want to see
You need to do a FOCAL Bathys vs. B&W Px8 which are closer priced. This would be very helpful to decide which higher price one to go with.
Or Mark Levinson No5909
Now add B&W PX8 to the mix!
would love to see your thoughts on B&W PX8 VS. Focal Bathys
The DAC via USB isn’t missing the point. It IS the point. Wired lossless active noise cancelling? The Sony and Apple can’t do that.
Sennheiser can. Wow I thought that was standard features but guess not
Yeah, I think the point is for someone to be able to Bluetooth on the commute and plug into a laptop or something in the office. As John says, it is an edge case but for some people getting rid of an extra dongle may be worth the price. I’d definitely use this function if it made its way onto a Sony or something priced in that ballpark.
People forget ANC started with wired headphones. I still have a pair of the excellent PSB M4U2 which, despite the dreadful name, still sound very good.
The Focals, however, tempt me. I have a pair of Elegia which are great so going wireless might be the next step.
Wait, so when I use AirPods max with the optional wired adapter, it’s still lossy?
I would definitely use this feature as well as the wireless 👍
could you rewiew the Bang & Olufsen H95 and see if the Bowers & Wilkins PX8 is better?😀
Great review! (as usual)
Sorry for the side question, but since you have close access to a Naim dealer, how about a review of the Supernait3?
Curious to hear what you think about the PX8, no pun intended. 🙂
And now the elephant in the room - B&W PX8…..
I know you’re not a wireless headphones channel, but the PX8 is the natural final piece to this puzzle.
Fully agree! I’d also say the H95 would be great, especially because they are foldable. Do it for us Darko ❤
It’s almost like you didn’t watch to the end of the video…
Yes!
@@willarthur4846 it’s almost like you didn’t, perhaps watch his follow up video, you might be surprised at your lack of awareness.
What about momentum 4?
Thanks for this - next closed-back I buy will be these bad boys. Just got the Clears and my life is forever changed lol. I really appreciate that Focal took everything into account here - controls/features, aesthetic, comfort, and of course sound/ANC quality. Nothing was compromised, and it still comes in at a fair (albeit expensive) price. Leave it to Focal to set a new standard for the audio market :)
To be honest wireless headphones especially those 399.99 and up should support lossless over Bluetooth. Bluetooth 5.3 should be the standard along with Qualcomm lossless audio. No ifs and buts about it. Too much money for not having the latest technology.
I was thinking the same but I imagine since this is a first gen product so they had to launch the design they had ahead of the new fixed lossless BT. Hopefully there will be an firmware update to make them competitive when more products support it.
I'd be interested in your opinion on the B&W PX8 when you get to demo a pair.
I purchased a pair of Sony whm1000x4 was not impressed muddy and lacked db. Anyone else underwhelmed?
The Sony's are really rather bad if one is used to even good sub-$100 wired headphones. They are made to sound as inoffensive as possible so anyone CAN listen to them, but they lack highs, are overly warm and the bass is mush.
In the normal price ranges Anker has a few good cheap options and AKG N700NC M2 is in general pretty good sound. Bathys is certainly several steps further.
I found had the same opinion with my pair. They have crushed mids and boosted bass. Which creates a muddy sound. Its an easy fix with the inbuilt app eq. +4 on 2.5k +4 on 6.2k and tune clear bass to taste. Mine is -3. Makes it much closer to natural harmon sound.
I have the XM5 the Panda the Momentum 4 and the Airpods Max and had the Ananda BT. (Ignoring wired and true wireless). Ask away in case it helps with your Bathys decision in any way:
The sound quality winner: The Momentum 4 even with APTX ( thus missing AptxHD/Aptx lossless for now).
The Anc winner: the XM5 and Airpods.
The biggest waste: The Drop Panda.
The shallowness earcups: The Xm5.
The quickest degrading/dirt gathering case : the XM5.
The lightest : Xm5.
The most premium feeling but heaviest: Airpods Max.
The second most premium feeling: Momentum 4
The highest bitrate codec stably streaming: The Xm5 with LDAC manually set to 990Kbps.
The battery that already died in less than a year with no company support: The Pandas.
The best imaging Momentum 4.
The most natural timbre: The momentum4
The softest most comfortable best sealing earpads: The Momentum 4.
The most breathable feeling/lowest heat: The Airpods Max
The best transparency mode: The airpods max.
Best background noise cancelling in the mics so that others hear my voice easily: The Xm5 and Airpods Max
The goofiest still can't answer a call all the time: Momentum 4 but it's probably my own user error haha
The one I reach for the most: Momentum 4. Something about the sound and those soft plush earpads
The one whose sound quality will improve a lot if you have the new 2023 Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 plus chip that supports the new Aptx Lossless codec such as the 2022 Asus Rog 6 or any flagship android in 2023: Momentum 4 and Focal Bathys
What sounds better: Almost any wired headset over $300 if you even have a cheap dac Amp such as the bang for buck dual dac Fiio Btr5 or 7
Bathys vs Momentum 4 sound quality over Bluetooth on the same codec: many have noted the Bathys is way better than the airpods max in terms of sound quality. I conclude it sounds better than the Momentum 4 (Ignoring price differences) as well as the Momentum 4 sounds better than the Xm5 and Airpods Max.
The bass winner: Sony Xm5 and Sennheiser Momentum 4
The clearest sounding withiut siblance or eq: Momentum 4 even with only Aptx (not Aptx lossless or Aptx HD enabled) and Airpods Max even though it's AAC
The easiest to lock in the highest bandwidth codec: Sony Xm5 since you can EASILY TURN ON DEVELOPER OPTIONS and lock LDAC 990Kbps as long as your device can push it without stuttering. HINT TURN OFF POWER SAVING AND turn on overdrive if you have it on your android.
P.s. For reference on sound conclusions above here are my wired cans: I have an HE1000SE, HD800, Clear with a D90 A90 stack so I am knee deep in the addiction/hobby.
thank you so much dude for your detailed comparison
Thanks for your comparison. I’ve got the xm5 and 3 other headphones/earbuds, it’s hard to stay strong and not get more 😂
Great review , I have the bathys and I’m very happy with them , I like the dac mode wired to my iPhone , Would I say the dac mode beats the Bluetooth mode , blows it out the water , night and day !!!! Well slightly better but Bluetooth is getting closer and closer which can only be good news
Haha, I am always amused by the focus on phone calls.
I hardly ever talk on the phone in private and when I did, sound quality isn't so important that I would consider these product at these price points at all.
To me it is all about music quality, comfort and controls.
Mate you got it all spot on , I'm a jock for 38 years and I have touched head phones fir these silly so called extras for me it's for listing to music full stop , my head is spinning now on what to choose just for clean power sounds , and most of us are buying blind as we can hear them all , as most are never in stock or is broken , I have 3 in mind , please throw me a few models you think I might like price range I will got up to 600 Australia for comfort and clean powerful sound good battey life is a bonus , going shopping tomorrow or if I have to get online I like to think you pick out what I might like I got a pair of sinhizer 650 on hold even tho ther wired , any thoughts cheers Mike 🎧🎧🎧🎧🎧🎧
Thanks for recording such a thorough review. If I was an android user I'd be strongly tempted by the Bathys. System integration is probably going to keep me with my Airpods Max (which I love) but strong competition is only a good thing.
I have the Focal Bathys headphone about 2 weeks. It's a fantastic and beautiful 😍. The sound are awesome 👌. If you have the money. Buy it.
fantastic review we are all waiting for that of the new Bowser & wilkins px8 fantastic review we are all waiting for that of the new Bowser & wilkins px8 😎👍
Kef also came out with a new Mu7 wireless headphones 😂 final headphone comparison just started
This feels like just the pressure we need for Apple to get on with some H2 Bluetooth 5.3 AirPods Max gen 2. By mid 2023 it will really be high time.
Apple gets more revenue from airpods alone than B&W, Focal and ML get for all their products combined lol. If anyone could run away with it, then its apple, but the APM were not impressive sound wise or visually imo. I'm not expecting big things.
Thank you for this nice video. I dont see myself wearing this kind of product (nor any other all ear headphones) in the street. But your videos are always very pleasant. So I did enjoy. Take care. E
Please try out the B&W Px8. To me these sound better and more comfortable than the Apple Airpod Max and even the (wired) Focal Celestee.
I think the DAC mode is aimed at folks who might use the Bathys as a replacement for the wired headphones/dongle DAC/Schiit stack combo that some people use at the office or in a secondary listening area.
Exactly my use case and main reason I went for these
Would love to hear the comparison of the 5909, the PX8, and the new T+A Solitaire T coming out in a week or so (~$1800), and you're right there in Germany!
I think the Focal are shouting "I'm a rich bitch" a bit too much. I mean they do look cool, but as you said, walking around with them I imagine I'd feel a bit... showy? I feel a little self conscious walking around with my Dali IO-4 (which you might want to have a look at as well, though they REALLY need a good seal. Anything less than perfect (say if you wear glasses) mean the sound is suffering quite a bit). And the Dalis look a bit cheap. The Focals do not. I think it also depends on what else you wear and where you are. Wearing flashy Balenciaga and Gucci stuff as well as a Panerai watch in Cannes? Yeah, the Focals will work. Walking around in a poor neighborhood? Nah? One of the announcement videos / ads they made clearly shows who Focal is thinking of. There's a woman who just can't be bothered with work in her stylish luxury flat, so she decides to go on a weekend trip... with her private jet, to her luxury mansion with massive pool. And then she goes on her yacht.
Also I wish they had 2 sound profiles... linear and fun. I mean why not? There's a DSP in there anyway...
I have Sony XM5 and just recently the Bathys (Dune). To me, and I think many others, the Sony noise cancellation is better. However, the Bathys certainly sounds better. I also appreciate the multiple connectivity choices. DAC mode is great with my Android phone, Dell laptop & PC. I don't think you mentioned the hearing test and sound personalization feature. Maybe it has only recently become available in the app. As I have some high frequency hearing loss, this feature is fantastic for me and absolutely makes a difference that sets the Bathys ahead of every other headphone I have used.
I use the Bathys in an office environment day to day and I always use it in DAC mode. But then I'm one of those audiophankers that used a portable DAC/AMP and wired headphones.
Look forward for your comparison against Bower & Wilkins PX8
Please compare them to the new PX8 🙏🙏
It’s pronounced faux-cal? I’ll be damned.
Mark Levinson headphones. Would be cool to get that review
What about bower and Wilkins px8 vs focal bathys ???
Mmmm, time to get hold of the new B&W PX8 now then!
Love your review style. It is honest and well articulated. You also somehow make it both raw and well polished. Just the right balance of objective and subjective, and we really get the sense of how these make you feel. With audio equipment that is really what it is all about; how it makes you feel. Thank you. Subscribed.
Bowers and Wilkins PX8 Vs Focal Bathys 🔥🔥
Nice review! Would be awesome to see B&On H95 vs Bowers & Wilkins PX8 vs FOCAL Bathys
Don't by airmax, they're not worth the price😅
I hate the touch control on Sony. When I want to change volume or pause I try to touch it and nothing happens, but the accidental touches work like charm, skipping to the next song or podcast, annoying me to death.
could you possibly look into master and dynamics mw75 as they are in the same price range as the focal here. they look sweet.
I'm becoming more and more guilty of not pickup the Bathys at a local sale for 499€ (returned product).
dont be lol i can get a new one with that price in my place
With a name like Bathys (Greek for Deep), the size and bling, it looks like they may be marketed as "lifestyle" ANC rather than gear for "audiophiles". Maybe Focal will do Ads/Sponsorships with Euro-Sport celebrities.....similar to the way Beats Headphones featured US Sports figures (?)
Hey john, great review as always! Are you gonna try out the new kef Mu7?
haha, I know its never gonna stop. We will always request even more then what you are already giving us❤
I’m going to roll my socks down relax put on my Nora Bathys & give my music a listen! 😏
Great review, and agree with all as a Bathys and sony owner. Dac mode for me has had fair amount of use in office as I travel to work, and do notice a good improvement in sq once switched. It's a good "ace" for us niche peeps. Soft setting in NC is niche as well but helpful in office.
“Hello Darkness my ole’ friend 🎼 “ LETS PARTY 🎉!!!
Love these reviews. Darko audio are the very best on the web IMHO.
As always, an excellent video, John. I have already made my decision regarding noise cancelling headphones: Sennheiser Momentum 4. I am fully aware that you can not cover every single relevant headphone that is being released, and I recognise that for this specific video, the price tags for the headphones in question is well above the Momentum 4, but since Sennheiser is such a well known brand, and the headphones have generally been well received, I am surprised that they have not been mentioned...not even in the comment section (only twice so far). Have they accidentally slipped under the radar?
Hi, are you going to review the KEF MU7 anytime soon Darko? I have pre-ordered and I have high hopes for this headset, not to mention it comes with 3.5mm cable which makes it still useable when the battery dies lol
Hey! I've listened them hor an hour in another Focal/Naim salon, and i'm totally agree on everything, but! wired connection, the DAC mode - seemed giving much more than just 'slightly better'. The clarity, sure, but what the most interesting - spacial information about "where" musicians are playing. they now play not in the box, but in the hall or somewhere else. this is why for me DAC mode is far superior sounding than BT
Cool video ,
I tried to listen to these at the weekend in Selfridges in London unfortunately they wouldn’t connect to my Sony WM1Z via Bluetooth, however I had no problem with the new Bowers & Wilkins P8. Try and go and have a listen to one you will be very surprised with the sound quality, it’s a great fun sounding headphone.
I will have to go to a audio shop and have a long listening session to compare the Bathys against the PX8.
I found the px8 to be more lively
Just purchased a pair today on the strength of your review. I have a NAIM Uniti Headphone Edition and don't have any high-end headphones yet. These fit the "Wait until I can afford those" category. Managed to get them during a 50% off Sale here in Australia so only paid $649:00AUD (Not the full $1349:00AUD RRP). Looking forward to trying them out after your great review.
I am waiting eagerly
I have been used Bathys for a month now. I can tell they need a burn in period for at least 300h. After that Focal start to sort things out. More pin point picture than ML 5909 and way better PX7ii. Use S22 Ultra and the sound is fast, dynamic, very transparent and tight bas. Resolution got much better too.
The DAC mode is why I gave my wife the H95s. The audio output options led me to believe that these headphones aren't for the airpods max crowd. The look is far to overt whilst the airpods are trendy and minimalist.
Who cares, anyone with a brain and experience of both would attest the better sound quality beats everything else.
I would put the Sennheiser Momentum 4 in the mix just to complicate... 😉
Will you be doing a review of the Kef Mu7 headphones. No reviews anywhere.
I’m planning on using these at work, plugged into laptop with ANC and the DAC mode. How does that DAC compare to say a Dragonfly Red + wire?
This is a great question. I hope someone will review.
But what about the new KEFS? ;-p
Great video as always - If you are looking for high end Bluetooth i would love to hear your thoughts on B&O H95 headphones
Px8, Airpods Max, H95 and Bathys
Please finish this streak of premium wireless headphones with the final piece de resistance: the Bowers & Wilkins Px8
Your thoughts on these Focal are very similar to mine. I’ve heard the Mark Levinson but I ended up purchasing the Focal. I really enjoy them. Thanks for the review!!
John, you really to spend more time in DAC mode.
I can’t listen to the Bathys in Bluetooth mode for long periods of time. That lossy harshness creeps up when I listen for about an hour and I can’t get that out of my head for the rest of the day.
In DAC mode connected to a clean USB source, in my case, Holo Audio Titanis, the Bathys sound so smooth and spacious that I wonder why I still keep my Stellia.
edit: more details of my setup: the USB cable that I use is the stock one, it is better than AudioQuest Carbon. The USB A male to female C adaptor is from my Zorloo Ztella DAC.
I have two pairs. One of the pair sounds spot on and the other sounds too dry, both have been used for over 50 hours.
You look like a cyberman from doctor who with the focals on lol
That's not a bad thing though :)
The PX7 headphone (original version) was recently selling for $200 new. At that price, it's hard to justify many of these other options, let alone the Bathys. Unless I am on a flight, I don't see the value of noise cancelling headphone tech yet, as it degrades sound quality so much. At least for the headphones I've used. It is good that there are high end options pushing sq at the end of the market, but are people really going to spend $800 on great BT headphones? I doubt it.
One important point of the Bathys is it can play losslessly via a USB cable to your phone - up to 24/192 although even redbook sounds better over the cable than BT. So you can use it over BT and when you really want to sit down and listen in better quality, you can too without toting around a DAC.
Man, being a EU radio kid in the late 90s, Sweet Harmony was playing absolutely non stop.
Good times, I will get into their other works you mentioned, John.
For me, it’s a question of balance. Whilst I want great sound quality on the go, I have to consider that anything over £500 to be worn outside would freak me out. I’m too OCD to wear them facing the elements - it rains a lot in Europe. Also, in terms of knocks and scratches, I’d rather wear something less bulky and less expensive such as the Sony WH 1000 mk3 or Sony WF1000 mk4. Then, I have to consider that I’d only wear something more expensive if I’m out of the home but indoors such as on a train or coffee shop. Also, I’d need to think why I should spend more on a powered headphone that at some point will loose it’s functionality because of the battery dying eventually, when I can buy a pair of better sounding quality open back headphones such as the Focal Clear MG that can upscale with a good amp/dac.
Thanks for your detailed and well-rounded information. Clear pronunciation and a sympathetic voice.
Gotta see comparisons with the Kef Mu7s
Sony XM5 sounds crappy and it distorts beyond 80% volume ! I’ve bought it and returned it !
If your going over 80% volume your already in hearing damaga territory anyway.
I am looking for a pair of passive noise isolating headphones because ANC unfortunately makes me dizzy and nauseated. I also hear a high pitched whine after using ANC. I really wish ANC worked for me. I wonder if there are good options for passive noise isolating headphones.
I got the Focal Celestee myself, and they are great with passive noise cancellation
Have you tried different brands and generations of ANC? I had some older Bose QC35s and their ANC felt like wax shoved into my ears. Then moved to Sony XM3s and it was a whole different ballgame - better!
Sennheiser momentum 4? Perhaps best compromise between costs, anc, looks, comfort, sound quality and call quality. So many choices....
I agree it should be pronounced similar to a bathysphere. Also, I find it very curious that reviewers will try so hard to pronounce the name of focal headphones correctly in the way that respect their origin. However, if you look at hi-fi man which uses Sanskrit names for all of their products, every reviewer just butchers the pronunciation and does not care at all.
The look and feel of this Focal I would compare to a rich rosé champagne while the Sony, Apple and B&W is giving apératif and lacking occasion for that certain person.
At this stage, headphones should start implementing Aptx Lossless!
What a roundup. Thanks for all your good work. With Focal and Apple you've already covered my potential candidates. Now I have to go out and try them for myself. 😀
The sound on these was indeed superb, but I found that when they got loud enough they lost their footing.
Also, back to back with the old B&W P7 Wireless, they are, for me(!), not worth it. Beyerdynamic Amiron Wireless are the only headset I have heard with better lows, presence and fun-factor than the P7's, and they are both without ANC. Hm.. I'll admit the soundstage was wiiiiiiide on the Bathys. Was picking out instruments left and right. Ane Brun - These Days made my heart smile with the Bathys. KAS:ST - Road To Nowhere also, but only up to that critical volume point.
I would much rather spend my money on the Bang & Olufsen BeoPlay H95. They had incredible everything.
Those Focal look nice, years ago I used to wear my Grado Labs SR325i in public, it felt like having Princes Leia’s blond buns on the side of my face, not a good look for a South Asian man. Thinking about it, as they are open back headphones, I even had passive transparency mode before transparency mode was a thing.
Those guys were definitely ahead of there times
Please do a review/comparison with the B&W PX8!!
I walk my Dog 3.5 miles every day while wearing my Apple iPod Max....I simply do not notice the weight and they do stay still while I'm walking....Plus I love their integration with my Apple iPhone 14 Pro......How do you like Roon ARC? Do you use it while walking with your Headphones? Also did you have to pay to use Seinfeld"s Sound Effect (pop pop) for your opening logo?
This well into some people's only headphone territory. Say I'm at my PC/laptop, why not use the wired mode if it's better? Also, it's either charging or not losing battery when I do this. Say I'm a gamer, you said this has a decent mic, if it's good enough why not use it? Yes some people use bluetooth for that as well but that has lag and does not sound as good. I'm glad to see you at least mentioned the wired use, it's really annoying looking at a review and seeing a feature you care about not covered because "it's missing the point" or it's not the future. Yes it won't be used much but some people watching the review care about it and you could full well go the other way and say the review for the average user might as well be "headphone good, go buy!".
Hated the Sony. Now I'm looking for a new pair. They were the most uncomfortable headset I've ever worn. Poor hard band design with it being just a bar type style. Point off contact is very minimal and that pressure point is harsh.
Also didn’t love the Sonys. Landed on Bose QC ultra after a dozen others, just bout 2nd pair from Bose direct refurb for $259 deal & are immaculate same warranty. Will be tough to beat at that price
OK, first thing, your channel is brilliant,accurate and joyful to hear your detailed description, on headphones.... different ears different opinion's but nevertheless I'm on agreement but I didn't rate my old px7s sound as I do the lovely rounded px7 s2s signature, interestingly the next step up in comparison is the Bathys or px8s , double the price! so this could actually point out how good the 350 price range is, I also have the Dali io-6s which might be a cat among the pigeons in terms of there neutral ability and sheer scale of detail but maybe slightly clinical for some but a much different sound to the Bowers's warmth and Richness the Dali's sound more fun with certain music and slightly addictive dare I say! Definitely worth a review!
What I loved about the Focal Listen headphones was how good they sounded with music that was badly recorded, like MUSE. What about the Bathys in that respect?
The ostentatious comment is valid. I use the AKG N90Q, which are large and a bit flashy. Luckily I’m a giant so they kind of fit. 😎
WOOP WOOP, another notch on Focal's gun! They look amazing, yes they are bulky but man are they comfy and sound so good. It's a lot of money but when uou want the very best...
If anyone has heard either of them in person, would you purchase a pair of Bathys or Celestee?? Been looking for a closed dynamic headphones with good spaciousness, separation and rich timbre but still has a bit of slam when required (am I asking for too much? 😂)
I couldn’t find Happiness
Studio album by The Beloved in the Qobuzz in the Netherlands 😖😫😫😫😫😫
I love "Bathysphere." Can't believe you mentioned it.
Good work as always. Hope your health is continually improving.
Thanks Mr. Darko. I’m not currently a big headphone person - but I’m really enjoying this series and curious to try.
Phenomenon review!! I’m not afraid to admit I watched it 3 times 😂 and every time there was a new information nugget for me. Rich content! I’m in the market for new headphones and after your review I’m thinking about the Bathys Focal. Hoping the price drops lol