Focal Unveils Bathys MG: Wireless Luxury Gets the Magnesium Treatment
Focal has dropped something special for the discerning ears of audio enthusiasts everywhere. The Bathys MG wireless headphones have arrived, bringing serious audiophile credentials to the portable listening game. These premium cans hit the market May 2025, carrying a price tag of $1,299 USD ($1,699 CAD) that reflects their high-end positioning.
The real magic happens inside those elegant earcups. Focal equipped the Bathys MG with their exclusive full-range drivers featuring magnesium “M” shape domes – the exact same technology powering their revered Clear MG reference headphones. These drivers deliver sound with startling clarity, capturing both thunderous bass notes and delicate high-frequency details with remarkable precision. The technical specifications reveal an impressive frequency response of 10Hz to 22kHz with harmonic distortion kept below 0.2% at 1kHz – figures that approach wired headphone performance. Every driver comes from Focal’s workshops in France, where their acoustic engineers maintain fanatical attention to manufacturing standards.
Noise cancellation receives a substantial upgrade through completely redesigned digital microphones. The new ANC system incorporates eight microphones to handle ambient noise with impressive effectiveness while specifically targeting improved voice isolation. Imagine sitting in a bustling café with music flowing purely into your ears while conversations around you fade into obscurity. The system offers three distinct modes through the companion app: Silent for maximum isolation, Soft for moderate filtering, and Transparent when you need environmental awareness.
Battery life impresses even for power users. Expect 30 hours of wireless listening with noise cancellation active, extending to 35 hours in wired mode. The USB-DAC mode pushes runtime further to 42 hours. Forgot to charge overnight? A quick 15-minute connection delivers 5 additional hours of listening time – enough for most commutes or flights.
Speaking of USB-DAC functionality, audiophiles will appreciate how this feature handles high-resolution audio up to 24-bit/192kHz. This bypasses the typically mediocre conversion in smartphones and laptops, letting the Bathys MG’s superior internal DAC and amplifier handle the critical digital-to-analog conversion process. The difference becomes immediately apparent on well-recorded tracks, revealing subtle details and spatial cues previously masked by inferior conversion.
Focal crafted these headphones with materials that feel genuinely luxurious against the skin. The elegant Chestnut finish showcases genuine leather across the headband. Magnesium components in the yoke provide strength without excess weight, while aluminum structural elements ensure long-term durability. The newly designed memory foam cushions create an effective acoustic seal while distributing pressure evenly. Hours into a listening session, your ears remain comfortable rather than fatigued. Despite the premium materials, Focal has managed to keep the weight to a reasonable 350g (0.77lbs), balancing durability with all-day wearability.
The subtle backlit Focal flame logo provides a distinctive visual signature without crossing into ostentatious territory. These headphones communicate sophistication rather than shouting for attention.
Connectivity options remain comprehensive with Bluetooth 5.2 featuring multipoint technology for simultaneous connection to multiple devices. The Bathys MG supports multiple codecs, including SBC, AAC, aptX™ Adaptive, and aptX™, ensuring compatibility across various devices with optimal transmission quality. Bluetooth range extends beyond 15 meters, providing freedom of movement around your home or office. For wired connections, both a standard 3.5mm jack cable and a USB-C cable come included, each measuring 1.2m (3.9ft) in length.
Control comes through the thoughtfully designed Focal & Naim application. Beyond standard playback controls, the app offers customization options that audiophiles crave. Adjust equalization with predefined curves or create personalized settings for different musical genres. Select between noise cancellation modes based on your environment. The app even includes a hearing test function that tailors sound reproduction to your specific hearing profile, acknowledging that our ears perceive frequencies differently. Google Fast Pair functionality simplifies the initial connection process with compatible Android devices.
The included accessories enhance the overall package value. The Bathys MG comes with a rigid carrying case measuring 24 x 21 x 7cm (9½” x 8¼” x 2¾”), providing secure protection during travel. The aforementioned cables and quick start guide round out the package contents.
Even the packaging reflects thoughtful design. The Bathys MG arrives in FSC-certified bamboo pulp packaging derived from plant fibers, including bamboo and sugar cane bagasse. This 100% natural material meets rigorous environmental standards while properly protecting your investment during shipping.
Audiophiles seeking high-quality sound in wireless form will find that the Bathys MG addresses many traditional compromises. Focal’s decision to incorporate its magnesium driver technology represents a technical achievement rarely seen in portable audio. The sonic benefits become apparent when revisiting familiar recordings – subtle details in complex passages, spatial positioning of instruments, and tonal accuracy all benefit from the advanced driver design. The technical specifications suggest these headphones will satisfy listeners who previously remained skeptical about wireless audio reproduction capabilities.
