Focal has introduced its first-ever pair of wireless headphones featuring Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) technology. The Focal Bathys deliver hifi sound, says Focal, via Bluetooth 5.1 multipoint, or you can leverage a wired connection using the USB-DAC mode.
The headphones boast Focal speaker drivers made in France. With their Aluminum/Magnesium dome, the Bathys speaker drivers deliver a deep bass, soft trebles and a clear mid-range, says Focal. The integrated USB-DAC mode offers a resolution of up to 24 bit / 192kHz.
With 30+ hours of rated battery life, and fast-charging that provides five extra listening hours in 15 minutes, there are two noise canceling modes. “Silent” mode allows you to fully immerse in music, blocking out all ambient sounds. This is ideal when in settings with a lot of background noise, such as on a plane or train. The “Soft” ANC mode, meanwhile, is designed when you just want to focus at home or the office. There’s also a “Transparency” mode for letting in certain sounds when needed, such as when a flight attendant is talking to you or you want to listen to a PA announcement.
With easily accessible control buttons and Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant voice assistants, the Focal Bathys also have adjustable EQ to customize the sound. The voice assistants, EQ, and other settings are available in the dedicated app developed by Focal.
Compatible with SBC, AAC, Apt-X, and Apt-X Adaptive codecs, Bathys can connect via Bluetooth, USB, as well as audio jack. Clear Voice Capture microphone technology makes the headphones suitable for audio and video conversations as well.
The Bathys design is inherited from Focal’s open- and closed-back headphones. These ergonomic headphones combine refined materials, such as magnesium on the yokes, real leather on the headband and aluminum. The earcup grilles reflect aesthetic curves while Focal’s flame symbol features at the centre of the earcup, incorporating a white backlight system to be activated if desired.
Finished in a black silver colourway, they are designed to be light and compact, making them ideal for travel. They also come with a carrying case as well as a four-foot 3.5mm jack and four-foot USB-C cable.
If you’re wondering about the name, Bathys comes from the word ‘bathyscaphe,’ the first submarine exploration vehicle. The idea is that it is the “embodiment of calm, depth, and absolute silence.”
The Focal Bathys will be available in Canada this month for $999.