{"product_id":"focal-open-box-bathys-mg-wireless-over-ear-active-noise-cancelling-headphones-graphen-grey-a-grade","title":"Focal OPEN BOX Bathys MG Wireless Over-Ear Active Noise Cancelling Headphones - Graphen Grey - A Grade","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"col_narrow\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the world of high-end wireless \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.audioadvice.com\/collections\/headphones-portables\"\u003eheadphones\u003c\/a\u003e, few brands carry the same weight as \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.audioadvice.com\/collections\/focal\"\u003eFocal\u003c\/a\u003e. Known for their uncompromising attention to detail and signature sound, the French audio company set a high bar with the original \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.audioadvice.com\/products\/focal-bathys\"\u003eBathys headphones\u003c\/a\u003e back in 2022. Now, in 2025, Focal has returned with a new wireless flagship: the \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.audioadvice.com\/products\/focal-bathys-mg-wireless-over-ear-active-noise-cancelling-headphones\"\u003eBathys MG\u003c\/a\u003e. These headphones aim to improve on every aspect of the original model, promising better sound, upgraded materials, more refined active noise cancellation, and an even more luxurious feel. Priced at $1,299, the Bathys MG is positioned as a premium addition to the lineup, not a replacement for the original Bathys, which still remains available and continues to be an excellent choice at its price point.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"col_full\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Man wearing a pair of Focal Bathys MG headphones in front of a mirror\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0572\/3281\/8260\/files\/FOCAL-MG-SYLVIE-BESSOU_0113_39f2a403-60b0-45ec-8613-0cf75138ff30.jpg\" style=\"display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; max-width: 100%;\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"col_narrow\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"hp-title\"\u003eDesign \u0026amp; Build Quality\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt first glance, the Bathys MG exterior looks extremely similar to the original Bathys. While the overall shape and design language remain similar, the finish and materials tell a different story. The original Bathys incorporated a combination of high-grade plastic and aluminum, but the MG steps things up with a gorgeous Chestnut color scheme paired with magnesium yokes, aluminum grilles, and a genuine leather headband. The result is a headphone that not only feels more premium but also fits more comfortably over long sessions thanks to softer memory foam earpads and a better-distributed clamping force.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 class=\"subhead margin\"\u003eWhat “MG” Means\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThat \"MG\" in the name isn’t just a styling choice—it stands for magnesium, and it's one of the key upgrades that sets the Bathys MG apart from the original. Focal fans might recognize the use of magnesium from the acclaimed Clear MG open-back headphones. In the Bathys MG, the new 40mm dynamic drivers feature pure magnesium diaphragms crafted in Focal’s French workshop. Magnesium is lighter and more rigid than the aluminum-magnesium blend used in the original Bathys, which results in better speed, control, and overall precision. That difference may sound subtle on paper, but in practice, it opens up a world of improved dynamics, lower distortion, and more accurate transients. These drivers are capable of revealing layers of detail that most wireless headphones simply can’t touch.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"hp-title\"\u003eSound Quality\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe frequency response has also been extended on the low end, now reaching down to 10Hz compared to the 15Hz limit of the original Bathys. Bass is not only deeper but also tighter and more dynamic. Genres like hip-hop, electronic, and cinematic soundtracks benefit greatly from the improved sub-bass presence. Yet despite this enhanced low-end energy, the overall tonal balance remains consistent with Focal’s house sound: lively and engaging, with sparkling highs and well-defined mids.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOne of the most impressive aspects of the Bathys MG is that this sound quality remains consistent across all modes. Whether you're using Bluetooth, analog input, or the USB-DAC mode, the tuning doesn’t change. Even with ANC on or off, the frequency response remains stable. That’s a big deal, because many ANC headphones suffer from tonal shifts when noise cancelling is enabled. Focal has managed to avoid that by carefully compensating for any impedance or feedback changes with digital signal processing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe soundstage has also seen noticeable improvements. For a closed-back design, the Bathys MG offers an impressive sense of space. Instruments feel more layered and easier to separate, with vocals remaining locked in place while ambient effects and background elements spread out convincingly to the sides. Compared to the original Bathys, the MG feels more immersive, placing you closer to the performance rather than observing from a distance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"col_full\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Hand holding Focal Bathys MG headphones against a grey background\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0572\/3281\/8260\/files\/FOCAL-MG-SYLVIE-BESSOU_0970_e1fe4581-7182-4155-93b2-d0b23cfdbf9b.jpg\" style=\"display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; max-width: 100%;\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"col_narrow\"\u003e\n\u003ch2 class=\"subhead margin\"\u003eActive Noise Cancellation \u0026amp; Call Quality\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAll this audio performance wouldn’t mean much without solid noise cancellation. Here, too, the Bathys MG delivers. It retains the original three ANC modes: Silent, Soft, and Transparent. Silent is designed for loud environments like airplanes or trains, Soft is meant for quieter spaces like offices or cafes, and Transparent lets you hear your surroundings clearly without taking the headphones off. What’s new is the improved microphone array and updated ANC processing. The digital microphones in the MG do a noticeably better job of cutting out midrange noise, like human voices or inconsistent background chatter. That’s something the original Bathys didn’t handle quite as well.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCall quality has also been improved. The Bathys MG uses dual beamforming microphones with noise suppression to isolate your voice from ambient sounds. Whether you're on a work call or chatting with a friend in a noisy environment, your voice comes through clearly and naturally. Voice assistant integration is smooth and flexible, supporting Google Assistant, Alexa, and Siri, depending on your device and preference.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"hp-title\"\u003eBattery Life \u0026amp; Charging\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBattery life holds steady at 30 hours with ANC and Bluetooth enabled, 35 hours when using the 3.5mm analog input, and up to 42 hours in USB-DAC mode. That’s more than enough for long trips or days of work without charging. And if you do need a quick top-off, a 15-minute fast charge gives you about five hours of listening time. The headphones charge via USB-C and support simultaneous playback and charging when using DAC mode, which is helpful when traveling or working.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOne important note: even in analog (3.5mm) mode, the headphones still require power. There is no fully passive listening mode on the Bathys MG—they must be powered on for any audio to play.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"hp-title\"\u003eControls \u0026amp; Usability\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eControls on the Bathys MG are entirely physical, with no touch-sensitive surfaces. That may sound old-school in a world of swipe gestures, but it actually makes for a much more reliable and tactile user experience. On the right earcup, you'll find a multi-function button for playback control and call handling, volume up and down buttons, and a three-position switch to toggle between Bluetooth, DAC, and analog modes. There's also a dedicated button on the left earcup to activate your chosen voice assistant. Everything is easy to locate by feel and provides a satisfying click.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOne small but meaningful improvement over the original Bathys is in the volume adjustment. Focal has fine-tuned the steps between volume levels on the MG, giving users more granular control. On the original, volume jumps felt a bit too large, which made it tricky to find the perfect listening level. With the MG, volume adjusts in smaller increments, which may seem minor but actually adds up to a smoother and more precise listening experience.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"col_half\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Focal Bathys MG Headphones\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0572\/3281\/8260\/files\/SOCIALS-_13.jpg\" style=\"display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; max-width: 100%;\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"col_half col_last\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Detailed view of controls on Focal Bathys MG\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0572\/3281\/8260\/files\/SOCIALS-_14.jpg\" style=\"display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; max-width: 100%;\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"col_narrow\"\u003e\n\u003ch2 class=\"subhead margin\"\u003eFocal \u0026amp; Naim App Features\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Bathys MG also pairs with the Focal \u0026amp; Naim app, which unlocks additional functionality. From the app, you can switch between ANC modes, view exact battery percentage, adjust the logo backlight brightness, and customize the sound with a five-band EQ. There are also a couple of sound profile presets, including a \"Dynamic\" mode that offers a more neutral tuning closer to a reference target. The app even includes a built-in hearing test powered by Mimi, allowing you to tailor the sound to your own hearing profile.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOne thing worth noting is codec support. The Bathys MG supports SBC, AAC, aptX, and aptX Adaptive—but \u003cstrong\u003enot LDAC\u003c\/strong\u003e. That may be a consideration if you prioritize high-res Bluetooth streaming. However, for most people using aptX Adaptive with a modern Android device, the performance will still be excellent.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"hp-title\"\u003eComfort \u0026amp; Fit\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDespite their size and weight (350g), the Bathys MG headphones feel surprisingly comfortable over long periods. The memory foam pads conform to your head and ears without creating pressure points, and the genuine leather headband adds a touch of luxury while helping to distribute weight evenly. Glasses-wearers will also appreciate the softer, more forgiving pads that maintain a good seal without extra pressure on the temples.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"col_full\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Man wearing Focal Bathys MG headphones with a city backdrop\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0572\/3281\/8260\/files\/FOCAL-MG-SYLVIE-BESSOU_1379_db598afa-ee91-4a3a-937a-5efd42eae4d2.jpg\" style=\"display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; max-width: 100%;\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"col_narrow\"\u003e\n\u003ch2 class=\"subhead margin\"\u003eComparing to the Original Bathys\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCompared to the original Bathys, the MG version represents a significant leap forward in several key areas. The new magnesium drivers provide more clarity, more impactful bass, and a wider soundstage. The updated ANC system cancels out more noise, particularly in the midrange. The upgraded build quality gives the MG a more refined, premium feel, and small usability improvements like better volume step control and refined app integration make day-to-day use more pleasant.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThat said, the Bathys MG is not without its caveats. At $1,299, it costs nearly twice as much as the original Bathys, which still holds up as one of the best-sounding wireless headphones in its price range. If you're more budget-conscious or you just want something that sounds great, feels good to wear, and still cancels out noise well enough for most situations, the original Bathys remains a fantastic option. It’s the kind of headphone that we still recommend all the time here at Audio Advice because it hits that sweet spot of performance, design, and value. For many people, it’s everything they need in a high-end wireless headphone, but for those who want to squeeze out every last drop of performance, enjoy more luxurious materials, and push closer to true audiophile sound in a wireless format, the MG version delivers on that next-level experience.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"hp-title\"\u003eFinal Thoughts\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you want to learn more about the original, we have a full written and video review of the Focal Bathys you can check out as well. It’s a great way to see how the two compare and decide which model is right for your needs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt Audio Advice, we test everything we recommend, and our goal is always to help you find the perfect gear for the way you listen. What makes our approach different is that we aren’t just spec-sheet readers—we spend time with these products, in real-world environments, with real music. The Bathys MG isn’t just good on paper. It actually delivers when you put it on and press play. And that’s exactly what we look for.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFocal has taken what was already a strong product and elevated it to something truly special. The Bathys MG is a wireless headphone that doesn’t compromise. It offers audiophile-grade sound, a premium build, effective noise cancelling, intuitive controls, and thoughtful extras that make it a pleasure to use. For anyone who values sound quality above all else but still wants the freedom of wireless, the Bathys MG is hard to beat.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch2 class=\"subhead margin\"\u003eWe’re Here to help!\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you have further questions, contact our experts via \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.audioadvice.com\/pages\/contact\"\u003echat, phone, or email\u003c\/a\u003e. Or simply visit one of our \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.audioadvice.com\/pages\/locations\"\u003eworld-class showrooms\u003c\/a\u003e to experience speakers, projectors, TVs, and everything in between for yourself before you make a purchase!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you’re planning your home theater or media room, check out our \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.audioadvice.com\/pages\/home-theater-design\"\u003eHome Theater Design page\u003c\/a\u003e, where we have everything Home Theater related, including our \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.audioadvice.com\/pages\/home-theater-design#shopify-section-template--15579935178836__custom_liquid_tXCbWJ\"\u003eFREE Home Theater Design Tool\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen you buy from Audio Advice, you’re buying from a trusted seller since 1978. We offer \u003cstrong\u003eFree Shipping\u003c\/strong\u003e, \u003cstrong\u003eLifetime Expert Support\u003c\/strong\u003e, and our \u003cstrong\u003ePrice Guarantee\u003c\/strong\u003e. We look forward to serving you!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Focal","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47645610278996,"sku":"FOCAL:BATHYS-MG-GRY-BSA","price":1249.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0572\/3281\/8260\/files\/Bathys_MG_Graphen_Grey_34_Lum_100_web_6b00525b-270c-4531-9f21-89a2c4dca7ec.jpg?v=1788890052","url":"https:\/\/www.audioadvice.com\/products\/focal-open-box-bathys-mg-wireless-over-ear-active-noise-cancelling-headphones-graphen-grey-a-grade","provider":"Audio Advice","version":"1.0","type":"link"}