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What You Need to Know
What Is the Focal Bathys?
The Focal Bathys is Focal’s first wireless headphone with active noise cancelling (ANC). It’s a closed-back, over-ear design that combines Bluetooth wireless listening, noise cancellation, and a feature you won’t find on most wireless headphones: a built-in USB-DAC mode that lets you plug in via USB-C for hi-res wired audio up to 24-bit/192kHz.
The Deep Black edition is the same headphone in a new all-black colorway, launched in November 2025. The drivers, electronics, and performance are identical to the original Bathys—the only difference is the finish. If you prefer a stealthier, darker look, this is the one.
Focal is a French audio company with over 40 years of experience building high-end speakers and headphones. The Bathys uses the same 40mm Aluminum-Magnesium “M”-shaped dome drivers found in Focal’s acclaimed Elear and Celestee wired headphones—and those drivers are made in Focal’s own factory in Saint-Étienne, France. This is not a lifestyle brand putting its logo on commodity parts. Every driver is designed and manufactured in-house.
What Makes It Special?
Most wireless noise-cancelling headphones are designed for convenience first and sound quality second. The Bathys flips that priority. The 40mm Aluminum-Magnesium “M”-shaped dome driver is a patented Focal design that produces a naturally detailed, precise, and dynamic sound. According to Audioholics, the Bathys in USB-DAC mode gives high-end wired headphone setups “a serious run for its money.”
The built-in USB-DAC mode is the feature that sets the Bathys apart from almost every other wireless headphone on the market. Connect via USB-C to your computer, phone, or tablet, and the Bathys bypasses Bluetooth entirely—using its internal DAC and amplifier to decode hi-res audio up to 24-bit/192kHz. This is lossless, wired-quality sound without needing a separate DAC or amp.
You also get a 3.5mm wired input for analog sources, though the Bathys must be powered on to use it (there is no passive mode—the internal amplifier is always active).
Active noise cancelling comes with three modes: Silent (maximum noise cancellation), Soft (moderate cancellation for quieter environments), and Transparent (lets ambient sound through so you can hear your surroundings). Eight microphones handle both the ANC and call quality.
Battery life is over 30 hours in Bluetooth mode with ANC active, 35 hours via the 3.5mm jack, and up to 42 hours in USB-DAC mode. Fast charging gives you 5 extra hours of listening from just 15 minutes of charging.
What Are Reviewers Saying?
Stereophile — 2024
Stereophile honored the Focal Bathys with Recommended Component status for 2024 and named it a Headphone Product of the Year Finalist. This is one of the most respected endorsements in the audio industry, reserved for products that meet Stereophile’s rigorous performance standards.
Audioholics — 2024
Audioholics praised the Bathys extensively, noting that its USB-DAC mode gives high-end wired headphone setups a serious challenge. They described the sound as packed with punch and slam, with terrific detail. They called it one of the most volume-capable wireless headphones available.
Audio46 — 2025
Audio46 praised the Bathys as a top-of-the-line contender for those seeking a versatile, high-quality wireless headphone. They highlighted the warm, soothing tone combined with consumer convenience, noting Focal did not sacrifice accuracy or quality in the move to wireless.
Who Is This Best For?
You want wireless noise-cancelling headphones that sound like a serious hi-fi product, not just a convenience device.
You travel frequently and want one pair of headphones that handles commutes, flights, office, and dedicated listening at your desk—all at a high level.
You want a built-in USB-DAC so you can get lossless, hi-res audio from your laptop without carrying a separate DAC and amp.
You value premium materials—real leather, aluminum, magnesium, French-made drivers—and want headphones that feel as good as they sound.
You prefer an all-black finish over the original Black/Silver colorway.
How Does It Connect?
The Bathys gives you three ways to listen:
Bluetooth 5.1 Multipoint — Connects wirelessly to your phone, tablet, or laptop. Supports SBC, AAC, aptX, and aptX Adaptive codecs. Multipoint means you can stay connected to two devices at once (like your phone and laptop) and switch between them seamlessly.
USB-C (USB-DAC Mode) — Plug in via the included USB-C cable and the Bathys acts as its own DAC and headphone amp, decoding hi-res audio up to 24-bit/192kHz. This is the best-sounding mode and bypasses Bluetooth entirely.
3.5mm Wired — Use the included 3.5mm cable for a wired analog connection to any headphone jack. The Bathys must be powered on for this to work—there is no passive mode.
The Focal & Naim companion app (iOS and Android) lets you adjust EQ settings, switch ANC modes, and customize the headphone experience. Your EQ settings are saved on the headphone and apply across all listening modes.
What’s in the Box
- Focal Bathys Deep Black wireless headphones
- Rigid carrying case
- USB-C cable (1.2m / 4 ft)
- 3.5mm jack cable (1.2m / 4 ft)
- Quick start guide
Pairs Well With
The Bathys is designed to be a complete solution—it has its own DAC, amp, and noise cancelling built in. But here are some useful companions:
- Replacement Earpads — The Bathys earpads are replaceable. Over time, leather pads can wear—replacements are available from Focal.
- USB-C Cables — A longer or higher-quality USB-C cable can be useful for desktop USB-DAC listening. Browse our Digital Cables.
- Headphone Stands — Give your Bathys a proper home when not in use. Browse our Headphone Stands.
Features & Specifications—Benefit-Driven
Sound Quality
40mm Aluminum-Magnesium “M”-Shaped Dome Drivers — Focal’s patented driver design, made in their Saint-Étienne, France factory. The same driver family found in Focal’s acclaimed Elear and Celestee wired headphones. It delivers detailed, precise, and dynamic sound with deep bass, smooth treble, and a clear midrange.
Built-In USB-DAC Mode — Connect via USB-C and the Bathys becomes its own hi-res DAC and headphone amplifier, decoding audio up to 24-bit/192kHz. This bypasses Bluetooth for lossless-quality wired sound—no external DAC needed.
Three Listening Modes — Bluetooth wireless, USB-C DAC wired, or 3.5mm analog wired. One headphone covers every situation.
Noise Cancelling
Three ANC Modes — Silent mode for maximum noise cancellation. Soft mode for moderate cancellation. Transparent mode to let ambient sound through. Eight microphones analyze and cancel unwanted noise while keeping your music intact.
Comfort & Build
Premium Materials — Aluminum construction, magnesium yokes, real leather and microfiber headband, and soft earpads that conform to any head shape. Earpads are replaceable.
Deep Black Finish — A new all-black colorway that’s sleeker and more understated than the original Black/Silver.
350g (12.3 oz) — Substantial enough to feel premium, light enough for extended wear.
Battery & Convenience
30+ Hours Battery Life — Over 30 hours in Bluetooth + ANC mode, 35 hours in 3.5mm jack mode, 42 hours in USB-DAC mode.
Fast Charging — 15 minutes of charging gives you 5 extra hours of listening. Full charge in about 1.5 hours.
Bluetooth 5.1 Multipoint — Connect to two devices simultaneously and switch between them seamlessly. Supports aptX Adaptive for the best Bluetooth audio quality.
Voice Assistants & App — Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa built in. Google Fast Pair for quick setup. Focal & Naim app for EQ, ANC modes, and settings.
Quick-Reference Specifications
| Sound | |
| Drivers | 40mm Aluminum-Magnesium “M”-shaped dome, made in France |
| Frequency Response | 15 Hz – 22 kHz |
| THD | <0.2% @ 1 kHz |
| USB-DAC Resolution | Up to 24-bit / 192 kHz |
| Noise Cancelling | |
| ANC Modes | Silent, Soft, Transparent |
| Microphones | 8 (ANC + calls) |
| Connectivity | |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 Multipoint |
| Codecs | SBC, AAC, aptX, aptX Adaptive |
| Bluetooth Range | ~50 ft / 15 m (open field) |
| USB-C | USB-DAC mode (up to 24-bit/192kHz) + charging |
| 3.5mm Jack | Wired analog input (active mode only) |
| Battery | |
| Battery Life (Bluetooth + ANC) | 30+ hours |
| Battery Life (3.5mm Jack) | 35 hours |
| Battery Life (USB-DAC) | 42 hours |
| Battery | 1,060 mAh lithium-ion |
| Fast Charging | 5 hours in 15 minutes |
| Full Charge Time | ~1.5 hours |
| Design | |
| Type | Closed-back, over-ear, wireless ANC |
| Materials | Aluminum, magnesium yokes, real leather, microfiber |
| Finish | Deep Black |
| Weight | 350 g (12.3 oz) |
| Case Dimensions | 240 × 210 × 70 mm (9.4″ × 8.25″ × 2.75″) |
| Earpads | Replaceable |
| Voice Assistants | Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa |
| App | Focal & Naim (iOS / Android) |
| Warranty | 2 years |
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between the Deep Black and the original Bathys?
The Deep Black is the same headphone in a new all-black colorway. The drivers, electronics, sound quality, and features are identical to the original Black/Silver Bathys. If you want a more understated, stealthier look, the Deep Black is the way to go.
What is USB-DAC mode and why does it matter?
When you plug the Bathys into a computer or phone via USB-C, it bypasses Bluetooth and uses its built-in DAC (digital-to-analog converter) and amplifier to decode hi-res audio up to 24-bit/192kHz. This gives you lossless, wired sound quality without needing a separate DAC or headphone amp. Multiple reviewers, including Audioholics, consider this the Bathys’ standout feature.
Can I use the Bathys with the headphones turned off?
No. The Bathys does not have a passive mode. Whether you’re using Bluetooth, USB-C, or the 3.5mm cable, the headphones must be powered on. The internal amplifier is always active.
How is the noise cancelling compared to Sony or Bose?
The Bathys offers three ANC modes (Silent, Soft, Transparent) with solid performance. Most reviewers note that dedicated ANC headphones from Sony and Bose cancel slightly more noise, but the Bathys sounds significantly better as a headphone. The Bathys is designed for listeners who prioritize sound quality and want good (not best-in-class) noise cancelling on top of it.
Does it support LDAC?
No. The Bathys supports SBC, AAC, aptX, and aptX Adaptive codecs. It does not support LDAC. For the highest-quality audio, use USB-DAC mode via USB-C, which supports up to 24-bit/192kHz—better than any Bluetooth codec.
How does the Bathys compare to the Bathys MG?
The Bathys MG (launched 2025) is a higher-end model at roughly double the price. It uses full-Magnesium drivers (from Focal’s Clear MG wired headphones) instead of Aluminum-Magnesium, and upgrades to Bluetooth 5.2. If you want the very best Focal wireless sound and budget isn’t the top concern, the MG is the step up. The standard Bathys (including Deep Black) delivers excellent sound at a more accessible $699 price point.
How comfortable are they for long listening sessions?
At 350g, the Bathys is heavier than mainstream wireless headphones from Sony or Bose, but lighter than many audiophile wired headphones. The clamping force is firm (good for noise isolation), and the earpads use soft leather and microfiber. Most reviewers find them comfortable for extended use, though some note the pads run slightly warm after a while. Earpads are replaceable when they wear out.
What comes in the box?
The Bathys Deep Black ships with a rigid carrying case, a 1.2m USB-C cable (for USB-DAC mode and charging), a 1.2m 3.5mm jack cable (for analog wired listening), and a quick start guide. Everything you need is included.
Can I customize the sound?
Yes. The Focal & Naim app (iOS and Android) includes an EQ that lets you adjust the sound to your preference. Your EQ settings are saved directly on the headphone and apply across all listening modes (Bluetooth, USB-C, and 3.5mm).
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