Focal’s Bathys, released in 2023, carved a niche in the wireless headphone market, promising a marriage of high-fidelity sound, active noise cancellation (ANC), and luxurious comfort. Let’s delve into the details to see if it lives up to the hype.

Design and Build (2024 Update)

Even in 2024, the Bathys’ design exudes a timeless elegance. The black-on-black aesthetic is accented by the Focal logo on the ear cups, which illuminates for a touch of sophistication. Build quality remains excellent, with a combination of premium plastic and aluminum ensuring durability. While not the most flamboyant design, the Bathys feels well-made and substantial.

Comfort and Functionality

Focal prioritizes comfort with the Bathys. The plush memory foam ear cups and headband, even in 2024, provide a secure yet gentle fit, ideal for long listening sessions. The controls are conveniently located on the right ear cup, allowing easy access to volume, playback, ANC, and transparency mode. The included carrying case is a nice touch, offering protection for on-the-go use.

Sound Quality (As Relevant in 2024)

Focal’s reputation for audiophile sound continues to shine through in the Bathys. Here’s a breakdown of its strengths and weaknesses:

  • Strengths: The Bathys delivers exceptional clarity and detail across the frequency spectrum, holding its own against many 2024 offerings. Instruments are well-defined, vocals are clear and present, and the bass response is impactful without being overpowering. The soundstage, while not the widest, offers a good sense of separation between instruments, creating a satisfyingly immersive experience.

  • Weaknesses: While the ANC is decent, it doesn’t quite match some of the best in class released in 2024. For users prioritizing absolute noise cancellation, there might be better options. Additionally, some reviewers found the sound signature a touch on the warm side, which might not suit listeners who prefer a perfectly neutral sound profile.

Battery Life and Connectivity (2024 Update)

The Bathys’ battery life remains a strong point in 2024. Focal claims 30 hours with ANC enabled, and user reports suggest it can even exceed that depending on usage. Wireless connectivity is solid via Bluetooth 5.1, and the Bathys supports the high-quality aptX codec for improved audio transmission. The option to use a wired connection (3.5mm jack or USB-C) is also available, further enhancing versatility.

Value Proposition (Considering 2024 Market)

The Bathys comes with a premium price tag, which feels more relevant to consider in the context of the 2024 market. While the sound quality is exceptional, the ANC performance doesn’t quite justify the cost compared to some newer competitors offering similar or even better noise cancellation.

Who Should Consider the Focal Bathys in 2024?

The Bathys remains a strong contender for audiophiles seeking a luxurious wireless headphone experience. If you prioritize exceptional sound quality, comfortable design, and long battery life, the Bathys is a fantastic option. However, budget-conscious buyers or those prioritizing absolute best-in-class ANC might find better value elsewhere in the ever-evolving headphone market of 2024.

 Verdict

The Focal Bathys remains a relevant choice in 2024. Its exceptional sound quality, luxurious comfort, and long battery life are undeniable strengths. However, the ANC performance doesn’t quite match the price tag when compared to some newer options. If you prioritize audiophile sound and comfort above all else, the Bathys is a fantastic option. Otherwise, it’s wise to consider alternatives that might offer a better balance of features and value in the dynamic headphone landscape of 2024.