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We compared 14 Focal models to find the best focal noise cancelling headphones for your needs. The list includes wireless ANC options, open-back studio monitors, and closed-back portable sets. The Focal Bathys Wireless ANC Headphones lead the ranking. They offer high-fidelity sound with active noise cancellation and long battery life. These picks are based strictly on the specifications published on the listings. You can choose based on connection type, driver material, and physical dimensions.
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Focal Bathys Wireless ANC Headphones Best overall | Audiophiles needing wireless high-fidelity sound | |
| 2 | Focal Listen Professional Best budget | Studio monitoring and portable isolation | |
| 3 | Focal Clear MG Open-Back Wired Headphones Best wired | audiophiles seeking open-back fidelity | |
| 4 | Focal Bathys Wireless ANC Headphones Also great | travelers needing long battery and ANC | |
| 5 | Focal Azurys Closed-Back Headphones Best blue | Audiophiles seeking wired, closed-back comfort | |
| 6 | Focal Bathys MG Wireless ANC Headphones Best premium | High-fidelity wireless listening with magnesium drivers | |
| 7 | Focal HADENYS Open-Back Headphones Also great | audiophiles seeking open-back detail | |
| 8 | Focal Stellia Closed-Back Headphones Also great | Audiophiles needing closed-back isolation | |
| 9 | Focal Celestee Navy Closed-Back Also great | portable listening with isolation needs | |
| 10 | Focal Lensys Closed-Back Headphones Also great | Users needing a carrying case | |
| 11 | Focal Clear Mg Open-Back Headphones Also great | studio mixing and critical listening | |
| 12 | Focal Utopia Open-Back Over-Ear Headphones Also great | quiet listening environments | |
| 13 | Focal Clear MG Open-Back Headphones Also great | Audiophiles seeking magnesium driver clarity | |
| 14 | Focal Elear Open-Back Headphones Also great | quiet listening environments |
Focal Headphones Ranked by Specs
Focal offers distinct categories based on back design and connection type. The Bathys Wireless ANC Headphones appear twice, providing Bluetooth and active noise cancellation for travelers. The Azurys Closed-Back Headphones deliver wired isolation for audiophiles who prefer stability. These wireless and closed-back options suit users needing portability or distraction-free listening.
Open-back models like the Clear MG Open-Back Wired Headphones and Utopia Open-Back Over-Ear Headphones prioritize soundstage over isolation. They fit listeners in quiet environments who value fidelity. The Listen Professional and Celestee Closed-Back provide studio monitoring and portable use. You should choose open-back for home listening and closed-back for travel or studio work.
Focal Bathys Wireless ANC Headphones
Best for: Audiophiles needing wireless high-fidelity sound
- Noise Control
- Active Noise Cancelling, Transparency
- Battery Life
- Over 30 hours
- Connectivity
- Bluetooth, 3.5mm, USB-C
- Connection
- Wireless
- Features
- Bluetooth, Active Noise Cancelling
- Use
- Audiophiles
The Focal Bathys are high-fidelity wireless headphones with active noise cancellation. They feature 40mm aluminum-magnesium drivers made in France. Battery life exceeds 30 hours with ANC on. The build includes a magnesium yoke for lightness and real leather headband. You get two noise-cancelling modes and transparency mode. These specs make them suitable for audiophiles seeking portable, high-quality sound.
- 40mm aluminum-magnesium drivers made in France
- Over 30 hours battery life with ANC
- Magnesium yoke for increased lightness
- Real leather and microfiber headband
- Fast charging: 5 hours in 15 minutes
- Heavier at 12.3 ounces compared to lighter models
- Larger dimensions at 9.45 x 8.46 x 3.35 inches
- Only two optimized noise-cancelling modes available
- You want high-fidelity sound in a wireless format
- You need long battery life for travel
- You prefer premium materials like leather and magnesium
- You need open-back design for room sound
- You prefer wired-only connectivity
- You want ultra-lightweight headphones under 10 ounces
Verdict: Focal Bathys Wireless ANC Headphones suit audiophiles who prioritize sound quality and battery life in a portable package. They are ideal for travelers who want premium build and effective noise cancellation.
Focal Listen Professional
Best for: Studio monitoring and portable isolation
- Color
- Black
- Dimensions
- 4.72 × 3.94 × 4.33 inches
- Weight
- 2.5 pounds
The Focal Listen Professional are closed-back headphones designed for studio monitoring. They feature a rigid carrying case and specific dimensions of 4.72 by 3.94 by 4.33 inches. Weighing 2.5 pounds, they offer isolation and comfort for extended sessions. The black finish suits professional environments. They provide precise audio control for critical listening tasks.
- Closed-back design for isolation
- Includes rigid carrying case
- Weight of 2.5 pounds
- Dimensions of 4.72 x 3.94 x 4.33 inches
- Weight of 2.5 pounds is heavier than lighter consumer models
- Closed-back construction limits soundstage width compared to open-back options
- You need isolated monitoring in noisy environments
- You require a portable carrying case for transport
- You prioritize physical isolation over open soundstage
- You prefer open-back headphones for natural imaging
- You need ultra-lightweight wearability under 2 pounds
- You want wireless Bluetooth connectivity
Verdict: Focal Listen Professional headphones deliver solid isolation and portability for studio use. They fit professionals who need reliable monitoring and a protective case for their gear.
Focal Clear MG Open-Back Wired Headphones
Best for: audiophiles seeking open-back fidelity
- Connectivity
- Wired
- Form Factor
- Over-Ear
- Back Design
- Open-Back
- Use
- Audiophiles
- Dimensions
- 12.5 × 12.1 × 9.4 inches
- Weight
- 7.07 pounds
The Focal Clear MG is a wired, open-back headphone designed for audiophiles. It features a solid aluminum yoke and perforated microfibre earpads to extend the soundstage. The M-shaped grille and honeycomb design aim for better high-frequency reproduction. Weighing 7.07 pounds, this medium-sized copper model suits listeners who prioritize open sound and build quality over wireless convenience.
- Open-back design for an extended soundstage
- Solid aluminum yoke molds to face shape
- Perforated microfibre earpads enhance audio space
- Honeycomb grille supports even, open sound
- Heavy 7.07 pounds build requires more support
- Wired connection limits movement and portability
- Open-back design offers less noise isolation
- You want an open, spacious soundstage
- You prefer wired connections for fidelity
- You need a durable aluminum frame
- You need wireless Bluetooth connectivity
- You require active noise cancellation
- You want lightweight portable headphones
Verdict: Focal Clear MG Open-Back Wired Headphones suit listeners who value open sound and durable aluminum construction. You should choose this if you prioritize fidelity over portability.
Focal Bathys Wireless ANC Headphones
Best for: travelers needing long battery and ANC
- Noise Control
- Active Noise Cancelling, Transparency
- Battery Life
- Over 30 hours
- Connectivity
- Bluetooth, 3.5mm, USB-C
- Connection
- Wireless
- Features
- Bluetooth, Active Noise Cancelling
- Use
- Audiophiles
These Focal Bathys headphones feature 40mm aluminum-magnesium drivers and active noise cancellation. They offer over 30 hours of battery life in Bluetooth mode with ANC enabled. The build uses aluminum mechanical construction and a magnesium yoke for lightness. You get two noise-cancelling modes plus a transparency mode. The design includes a refined leather and microfiber headband with easily replaceable earpads for comfort.
- Over 30 hours of battery life with ANC on
- 40mm aluminum-magnesium drivers for detailed sound
- Aluminum construction with magnesium yoke for lightness
- Fast charging provides 5 extra hours in 15 minutes
- Heavier at 12.3 ounces compared to lighter models
- Larger size with 8.46 inch width and 9.45 inch length
- Only two optimized noise-cancelling modes available
- You want high-fidelity sound with wireless convenience
- You need long battery life for travel
- You prefer a lightweight magnesium yoke build
- You need wired-only connectivity without Bluetooth
- You prefer open-back designs for room sound
- You want more than two ANC modes
Verdict: Focal Bathys Wireless ANC Headphones fit listeners who value premium driver materials and long battery life in a portable package.
Focal Azurys Closed-Back Headphones
Best for: Audiophiles seeking wired, closed-back comfort
- Back Design
- Closed-Back
- Use
- Audiophiles
- Color
- Blue
- Dimensions
- 9.45 × 8.46 × 3.35 inches
- Weight
- 10.9 ounces
The Focal Azurys are closed-back headphones featuring aluminum and magnesium "M" dome speakers for clear sound. They weigh 10.9 ounces and measure 9.45 inches in length. The design includes a magnesium yoke, genuine leather headband, and memory foam earpads. These specs make them a comfortable option for audiophiles who prefer a secure fit and high-fidelity audio reproduction.
- Aluminum and magnesium "M" dome speakers
- Genuine leather headband and memory foam earpads
- Magnesium yoke for lightweight balance
- Closed-back design for insulation
- Heavier build at 10.9 ounces
- Larger length at 9.45 inches
- You want a closed-back design for noise insulation
- You prefer genuine leather and memory foam comfort
- You like the deep blue azurite-inspired finish
- You need active noise cancellation
- You prefer wireless Bluetooth connectivity
- You want the lightest possible headphones
Verdict: Focal Azurys Closed-Back Blue Headphones suit audiophiles seeking a wired, closed-back experience with premium materials. They are ideal for listeners who prioritize sound clarity and comfort over wireless convenience.
Focal Bathys MG Wireless ANC Headphones
Best for: High-fidelity wireless listening with magnesium drivers
- Noise Control
- Active Noise Cancellation, Transparent
- Battery Life
- Up to 30 hours
- Connectivity
- Bluetooth 5.2, USB
- Connection
- Wireless
- Features
- Bluetooth, Active Noise Cancelling, Active Noise Cancellation
- Dimensions
- 3.15 × 8.66 × 12.6 inches
The Focal Bathys MG uses 40 mm pure-magnesium drivers for high-fidelity audio. It offers Bluetooth 5.2 with multipoint and three active noise cancellation modes. You get 30 hours of playback with ANC on. USB-DAC mode supports 24-bit/192 kHz files. This model weighs 12.3 ounces. It suits listeners who want premium wireless sound with detailed magnesium driver performance.
- 40 mm pure-magnesium M-profile drivers
- 30 hours Bluetooth ANC playback
- USB-DAC mode up to 24-bit/192 kHz
- Bluetooth 5.2 Multipoint support
- 12.3 ounces weight is heavier than many competitors
- 30 hours battery life is lower than some wired or non-ANC alternatives
- Only three ANC modes available
- You want high-resolution wireless audio via USB-DAC
- You prefer magnesium drivers for detailed sound
- You need multipoint Bluetooth connectivity
- You want the lightest possible headphones
- You prefer wired-only connections
- You need more than three noise cancellation modes
Verdict: Focal Bathys MG Wireless ANC Headphones deliver premium magnesium driver sound in a wireless package. They fit audiophiles who value high-resolution playback and multipoint connectivity over minimal weight.
Focal HADENYS Open-Back Headphones
Best for: audiophiles seeking open-back detail
- Back Design
- Open-Back
- Use
- Audiophiles
- Dimensions
- 9.45 × 8.46 × 3.35 inches
The Focal HADENYS are open-back headphones featuring 40mm aluminum and magnesium drivers. These M-dome drivers provide detailed, dynamic sound. The build includes a lightweight magnesium yoke and memory foam cushions for comfort. They are designed for audiophiles who want high-fidelity audio. You should allow a running-in period for optimal performance. The brown design offers a natural aesthetic.
- 40mm Aluminum/Magnesium M-dome drivers
- Lightweight magnesium yoke
- Memory foam ear cushions
- Open-back design
- Requires a running-in period for full performance
- Open-back design limits noise isolation
- You prioritize driver material and acoustic openness
- You want lightweight comfort for long sessions
- You prefer a natural brown aesthetic
- You need active noise cancellation
- You want immediate peak performance without break-in
- You require closed-back isolation
Verdict: Focal HADENYS Open-Back Headphones suit listeners who value the warmth of magnesium drivers and open acoustics. They fit those who prioritize driver composition and build weight over isolation.
Focal Stellia Closed-Back Headphones
Best for: Audiophiles needing closed-back isolation
- Form Factor
- Circum-aural Closed-back
- Fit
- Over-Ear
- Use
- Audiophiles
- Dimensions
- 13.7 × 10.5 × 12.9 inches
- Weight
- 5.95 pounds
The Focal Stellia is a closed-back, over-ear headphone designed for audiophiles seeking high-fidelity sound. It features a circum-aural fit and delivers dynamic range across high and low frequencies. The unit weighs 5.95 pounds and measures 10.5 inches wide. It includes a carrying case for transport. This model suits listeners who prioritize tonal balance and detail retrieval in a portable, closed design.
- Closed-back design for sound isolation
- Over-ear circum-aural fit
- Delivers detailed sound at high and low frequencies
- Includes a carrying case
- Heavier build at 5.95 pounds
- Larger footprint with 13.7-inch length
- You want closed-back isolation for travel
- You prioritize tonal balance and detail
- You prefer an over-ear circum-aural fit
- You need lightweight wireless headphones
- You prefer open-back designs for natural sound
- You want a compact, lightweight travel option
Verdict: Focal Stellia Closed-Back Over-Ear Headphones is a heavy, high-fidelity choice for audiophiles who need closed-back isolation and detailed sound reproduction on the go.
Focal Celestee Navy Closed-Back
Best for: portable listening with isolation needs
- Form Factor
- Over-Ear
- Back Design
- Closed-Back
- Dimensions
- 12.5 × 12 × 7.5 inches
- Weight
- 5.64 ounces
The Focal Celestee are closed-back, over-ear headphones designed for home and on-the-go use. They feature a low impedance of 35 Ohms, making them suitable for portable audio players. The build includes soft copper details and a navy blue finish. Weighing 5.64 ounces, they offer a compact medium size. These headphones prioritize tonal balance and bass extension for a practical listening experience.
- Closed-back design for noise isolation
- Low 35 Ohm impedance for portable use
- Over-ear fit for comfort
- Lightweight 5.64-ounce build
- Closed-back design limits soundstage width compared to open-back models
- 35 Ohm impedance is higher than ultra-low-impedance portable options
- Over-ear form factor is bulkier than on-ear styles
- You want closed-back isolation for travel
- You use portable audio players with moderate power
- You prefer over-ear comfort for long sessions
- You need open-back soundstage for critical listening
- You require ultra-low impedance for weak sources
- You prefer on-ear portability over over-ear comfort
Verdict: Focal Celestee Closed-Back Over-Ear headphones suit listeners who need isolation and portable compatibility. They are a solid choice for daily use with moderate-power devices, rather than for critical studio work or maximum portability.
Focal Lensys Closed-Back Headphones
Best for: Users needing a carrying case
- Form Factor
- Circumaural
- Back Design
- Closed-Back
- Color
- Black
- Dimensions
- 9.55 × 8.6 × 3.25 inches
The Focal Lensys Professional headphones are closed-back circumaural models designed for focused listening. They feature aluminum and magnesium speaker drivers for clear audio reproduction. The earpads use memory foam for comfort during extended sessions. These headphones come with a carrying case for portability. They are a practical option for users who need reliable, high-fidelity sound in a portable package.
- Aluminum and magnesium speaker drivers
- Memory foam earpads
- Includes carrying case
- Closed-back design
- Closed-back design may limit soundstage width compared to open-back models
- Dimensions of 9.55 x 8.6 x 3.25 inches may be bulky for some users
- You want closed-back isolation
- You prefer aluminum and magnesium drivers
- You need a carrying case
- You need open-back soundstage
- You want wireless connectivity
- You prefer lightweight designs
Verdict: Focal Lensys Professional Closed-Back Headphones suit users who prioritize driver material and portability. They fit those who need a carrying case and closed-back isolation.
Focal Clear Mg Open-Back Headphones
Best for: studio mixing and critical listening
- Connectivity
- 6.5 mm
- Form Factor
- Circum-aural
- Back Design
- Open-Back
- Fit
- Over-Ear
- Color
- Black
- Dimensions
- 11.5 × 10.3 × 4.15 inches
The Focal Clear Mg are professional circum-aural open-back headphones designed for precise sound reproduction. They feature magnesium drivers that deliver remarkable tonal balance and exceptional dynamics. With a wide spatialization and precise soundstage, they suit critical listening. The package includes two cables for mixing consoles, interfaces, or laptops, along with a rigid carrying case. You get a medium-sized, ergonomic fit for extended sessions.
- Open-back design for wide spatialization
- Magnesium drivers for tonal balance
- Includes two cables for various uses
- Rigid carrying case included
- Open-back design offers no passive noise isolation
- Requires an external amplifier or audio interface
- No built-in battery for wireless use
- You need precise sound staging for mixing
- You prefer open-back acoustics
- You have a dedicated audio setup
- You need noise cancellation
- You want wireless Bluetooth connectivity
- You need portable standalone use
Verdict: Focal Clear Mg Open-Back Headphones are a solid choice for studio professionals who prioritize accuracy. They fit users with fixed listening environments who value driver material and spatial imaging.
Focal Utopia Open-Back Over-Ear Headphones
Best for: quiet listening environments
- Form Factor
- Over-Ear Open-Back
- Use
- Audiophiles
- Color
- Black
- Dimensions
- 12 × 9 × 16 inches
- Weight
- 5.95 pounds
The Focal Utopia (2022) are high-fidelity, open-back headphones designed for audiophiles. They feature a large, over-ear fit with a distinctive M-shaped grille to improve high-frequency linearity. The build uses forged, recycled carbon yokes and honeycomb grilles for driver decompression. At 5.95 pounds, they are substantial. You should choose these if you prioritize sound purity and comfort for long listening sessions in quiet environments.
- M-shaped grille improves high-frequency linearity
- Forged, recycled carbon yokes mold to the face
- Honeycomb grille ensures full driver decompression
- Perforated lambskin memory foam ear pads
- Heavy 5.95-pound build
- Large dimensions (9x12x16 inches)
- Open-back design limits sound isolation
- You want high-fidelity open-back sound
- You prefer over-ear comfort for long sessions
- You listen in quiet, controlled environments
- You need portable, noise-isolating headphones
- You prefer lightweight gear for travel
- You want closed-back design for privacy
Verdict: Focal Utopia Open-Back Over-Ear Headphones suit audiophiles seeking precise sound in a quiet space. Their heavy, large frame demands a stable listening spot.
Focal Clear MG Open-Back Headphones
Best for: Audiophiles seeking magnesium driver clarity
- Form Factor
- Circumaural
- Fit
- Over-Ear
- Use
- Audiophiles
- Dimensions
- 10 × 10 × 5 inches
- Weight
- 5.65 pounds
The Focal Clear MG are open-back, over-ear headphones made in France. They use magnesium dome drivers for lightness and damping. The low 55-ohm impedance allows good performance with portable players. Weighing 5.65 pounds, they offer ergonomic comfort for audiophiles seeking high-fidelity sound and balance.
- Magnesium dome drivers for lightness and damping
- Low 55-ohm impedance for portable player use
- Open-back design for natural soundstage
- Ergonomic over-ear fit
- Heavy 5.65-pound build compared to lighter models
- Open-back design offers no passive noise isolation
- You prioritize high-fidelity sound quality over noise isolation
- You want magnesium drivers for improved damping
- You plan to use them with portable players
- You need active noise cancellation
- You require a lightweight design for travel
- You want closed-back isolation for noisy environments
Verdict: Focal Clear MG Open-Back Headphones suit audiophiles who value magnesium driver technology and low impedance for portable use. They are ideal for quiet listening sessions where sound fidelity matters more than isolation.
Focal Elear Open-Back Headphones
Best for: quiet listening environments
- Form Factor
- Circum-Aural
- Back Design
- Open-Back
- Fit
- Over-Ear
- Use
- Audiophiles
- Color
- Black
- Dimensions
- 5 × 5 × 5 inches
The Focal Elear are high-fidelity, open-back circum-aural headphones designed for low-noise environments. They feature a solid aluminum yoke and a leather headband for durability and comfort. Weighing 5.65 pounds with dimensions of 5 by 5 by 5 inches, they offer a substantial build. These headphones suit audiophiles seeking precise sound reproduction in quiet settings.
- Open-back design for natural soundstage
- Solid aluminum yoke for structural integrity
- Leather headband for comfort
- Designed and manufactured in France
- Heavy 5.65 pounds build
- Open-back design limits noise isolation
- You listen in quiet, controlled environments
- You prioritize open-back soundstage
- You want durable French engineering
- You need active noise cancellation
- You travel frequently on public transit
- You prefer lightweight headphones
Verdict: Focal Elear Open-Back Headphones deliver a heavy, durable build for audiophiles who value open-back acoustics in quiet spaces. They fit users who prioritize soundstage over portability.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Focal Bathys Wireless ANC Headphones | Focal Listen Professional | Focal Clear MG Open-Back Wired Headphones | Focal Bathys Wireless ANC Headphones | Focal Azurys Closed-Back Headphones | Focal Bathys MG Wireless ANC Headphones | Focal HADENYS Open-Back Headphones | Focal Stellia Closed-Back Headphones | Focal Celestee Navy Closed-Back | Focal Lensys Closed-Back Headphones | Focal Clear Mg Open-Back Headphones | Focal Utopia Open-Back Over-Ear Headphones | Focal Clear MG Open-Back Headphones | Focal Elear Open-Back Headphones |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Noise Control | Active Noise Cancelling, Transparency | – | – | Active Noise Cancelling, Transparency | – | Active Noise Cancellation, Transparent | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – |
| Battery Life | Over 30 hours | – | – | Over 30 hours | – | Up to 30 hours | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth, 3.5mm, USB-C | – | Wired | Bluetooth, 3.5mm, USB-C | – | Bluetooth 5.2, USB | – | – | – | – | 6.5 mm | – | – | – |
| Form Factor | – | – | Over-Ear | – | – | – | – | Circum-aural Closed-back | Over-Ear | Circumaural | Circum-aural | Over-Ear Open-Back | Circumaural | Circum-Aural |
| Back Design | – | – | Open-Back | – | Closed-Back | – | Open-Back | Closed-Back | Closed-Back | Closed-Back | Open-Back | Open-Back | – | Open-Back |
| Connection | Wireless | – | Wired | Wireless | – | Wireless | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – |
| Fit | – | – | Over-Ear | – | – | – | – | Over-Ear | Over-Ear | – | Over-Ear | Over-Ear | Over-Ear | Over-Ear |
| Features | Bluetooth, Active Noise Cancelling | – | – | Bluetooth, Active Noise Cancelling | – | Bluetooth, Active Noise Cancelling, Active Noise Cancellation | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – |
| Use | Audiophiles | – | Audiophiles | Audiophiles | Audiophiles | – | Audiophiles | Audiophiles | – | – | – | Audiophiles | Audiophiles | Audiophiles |
| Color | Black/Gray | Black | Copper | Dune | Blue | Graphen Grey | Brown | Cognac | Navy | Black | Black | Black | Brown | Black |
| Dimensions | 9.45 × 8.46 × 3.35 inches | 4.72 × 3.94 × 4.33 inches | 12.5 × 12.1 × 9.4 inches | 9.45 × 8.46 × 3.35 inches | 9.45 × 8.46 × 3.35 inches | 3.15 × 8.66 × 12.6 inches | 9.45 × 8.46 × 3.35 inches | 13.7 × 10.5 × 12.9 inches | 12.5 × 12 × 7.5 inches | 9.55 × 8.6 × 3.25 inches | 11.5 × 10.3 × 4.15 inches | 12 × 9 × 16 inches | 10 × 10 × 5 inches | 5 × 5 × 5 inches |
| Weight | 12.3 ounces | 2.5 pounds | 7.07 pounds | 12.3 ounces | 10.9 ounces | 12.3 ounces | – | 5.95 pounds | 5.64 ounces | – | – | 5.95 pounds | 5.65 pounds | 5.65 pounds |
| Size | Large | Medium | Medium | Large | Unique | – | 40 millimeters | Headphones | Medium | – | Medium | Large | – | – |
| Model | Bathys | 3544056725045BL001 | FCLEARMG | FBATHYS – Dune | FAZURYS | BATHYS-MG-GREY | FHADENYS | FSTELLIA-FBA | FCELESTEE | RM | 3544053727165BL001 | FUTOPIA2020 | FCLEARMG | EELECAS1 |
Who Focal Headphones Suit
Focal serves audiophiles across varied form factors. You can choose from large wireless models like the Bathys, medium studio monitors like the Listen Professional, or unique wired designs like the Azurys. The range spans from portable closed-back sets to heavy, open-back reference cans like the Utopia. Colors include black, copper, blue, and brown. None of these products offer color-changing lighting or compact on-ear shapes. You should pick based on whether you need isolation for travel or open acoustics for a fixed listening spot.
To compare beyond this brand, you can evaluate specifications for the best headphones with active noise cancelling.
How to choose Focal headphones
Pick the right back design
Your listening environment dictates whether you need open or closed-back designs. Open-back models, such as the Focal Utopia or Elear, provide a wide soundstage but leak sound. You should avoid these in noisy offices or on public transit. Closed-back options, like the Focal Celestee or Stellia, offer isolation by blocking external noise. They are heavier and create a more intimate soundstage. Choose open-back for quiet home listening. Select closed-back for travel or shared spaces where privacy matters.
Choose wireless or wired
Connection type affects convenience and audio fidelity. Wireless models like the Focal Bathys use Bluetooth for easy pairing with phones. They include active noise cancellation for travel. Wired options, such as the Focal Azurys or Listen Professional, connect directly to sources. They eliminate battery concerns and often provide consistent power delivery. If you prioritize portability and noise isolation, select wireless. If you prefer a stable connection without charging, choose wired. Your source device determines which interface suits your daily routine best.
Check driver material
Driver composition influences tonal character and detail. Magnesium drivers appear in models like the Focal Bathys MG and HADENYS. They offer clarity and speed for high-resolution audio. Beryllium drivers are common in studio monitors like the Listen Professional. They provide accurate monitoring for professionals. You should check the driver material if you have specific tonal preferences. Magnesium suits listeners who want warmth and detail. Standard materials work well for general studio work. Match the driver tech to your critical listening needs.
Evaluate weight and fit
Weight impacts comfort during long sessions. The Focal Stellia weighs 5.95 pounds, which is substantial for daily wear. The Focal Celestee is lighter at 5.64 ounces. Large models like the Utopia require a stable desk setup. Medium sizes, such as the Listen Professional, offer better portability. You should consider your wearing habits. If you travel often, choose lighter, compact models. For stationary listening, heavier builds may offer better durability and sound quality. Check the weight spec to ensure it matches your comfort threshold.
Match features to use
Features should align with your primary activity. The Focal Bathys includes active noise cancellation and Bluetooth for travelers. The Focal Listen Professional focuses on studio isolation without wireless distractions. You should verify if you need ANC for commutes or quiet focus. Wireless convenience suits mobile users. Wired simplicity benefits studio engineers. Consider whether you need multipoint connectivity or just basic pairing. Select features that support your specific use case, whether it is commuting, mixing, or critical listening at home.
Frequently asked questions
Which Focal headphones have active noise cancellation?
The Bathys Wireless ANC Headphones and the Bathys MG Wireless ANC Headphones feature active noise cancellation. Both models also include Bluetooth connectivity for wireless use. The Bathys MG adds magnesium drivers for high-fidelity playback. These options suit travelers who need to block out ambient noise while listening to music on the go.
Are there any wireless Focal headphones available?
Yes, the Bathys and Bathys MG models are wireless. They connect via Bluetooth and include active noise cancellation. These headphones are large and weigh 12.3 ounces. They are designed for audiophiles who want high-fidelity sound without cables. Other Focal models, like the Azurys and Clear MG, are wired only.
Which Focal headphones are best for travel?
The Bathys Wireless ANC Headphones are ideal for travel. They offer active noise cancellation and Bluetooth connectivity in a portable package. The Bathys MG variant provides similar features with magnesium drivers. These models are large and weigh 12.3 ounces, making them sturdy for transport. They suit listeners who prioritize sound quality while moving.
What is the difference between open-back and closed-back Focal headphones?
Open-back models, like the Clear MG and Utopia, provide a wider soundstage but leak sound. They are best for quiet listening environments. Closed-back options, such as the Azurys and Celestee Navy, offer isolation. This makes them suitable for noisy offices or portable use. Your choice depends on whether you prioritize spatial imaging or noise blocking.
Do Focal headphones come with a carrying case?
The Focal Listen Professional headphones include a protective case for portability. The Lensys Professional Closed-Back Headphones also come with a carrying case. Most other models, such as the Bathys and Utopia, do not mention a case in their specifications. You may need to purchase a separate protective sleeve for those models.
Which Focal headphones use magnesium drivers?
The Bathys MG Wireless ANC Headphones and the HADENYS Open-Back Headphones use magnesium drivers. The Clear MG models also feature this technology for clarity. Magnesium drivers provide high-fidelity sound reproduction. These headphones suit audiophiles who value driver composition and build weight. They are often paired with open-back designs for detailed audio performance.