Focal Clear MG Wired Openback or Focal Bathys MG Bluetooth ANC? Which Focal Model to Buy

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This comparison covers the focal clear mg wired openback vs bathys mg bluetooth anc. Both models use magnesium drivers for high-fidelity audio. They share a focus on sound quality but serve different listening environments. One is a wired open-back design for stationary use. The other is a wireless model with active noise cancellation for on-the-go listening. You need to decide which form factor fits your daily routine.

Connection

Wired

Wireless (Bluetooth 5.2)

Back Design

Open-Back

Closed (implied by ANC)

Noise Control

Not listed

Active Noise Cancellation (Silent, Soft, Transparent modes)

Battery Life

Not listed

Up to 30 hours (ANC on)

Weight

7.07 pounds

12.3 ounces

Choose the first if

• You prefer a wired connection for zero-latency audio.
• You want an open-back design for a wider soundstage.
• You listen in a quiet, controlled environment.

Choose the second if

• You need active noise cancellation for travel or noisy spaces.
• You want wireless freedom with Bluetooth multipoint support.
• You need long battery life for extended use away from power.

Verdict

Choose the Clear MG if you prioritize an open soundstage and wired reliability in a quiet setting. Pick the Bathys MG if you require noise cancellation and wireless convenience for mobile use. The decision rests on whether you need isolation or acoustic openness.

Focal Clear MG vs Bathys MG Specs

back design

Edge: Tie

The Focal Clear MG features an open-back design with a honeycomb grille. This construction allows for a more extended soundstage and even more open sound reproduction. You will hear more of your room, which suits stationary listening. In contrast, the Focal Bathys MG is a closed design. It blocks outside noise and prevents sound leakage. This makes the Bathys MG suitable for travel or noisy environments where you need isolation. The open-back Clear MG prioritizes acoustic space, while the Bathys MG prioritizes privacy and noise isolation.

connection

Edge: Focal Bathys MG Wireless ANC Headphones

The Focal Clear MG relies on a wired connection. This ensures a stable, uncompressed audio signal without the need for batteries. You must stay near your audio source. The Focal Bathys MG offers wireless connectivity via Bluetooth 5.2. It supports multipoint connections, allowing you to switch between devices. It also includes a USB-DAC mode for high-resolution playback up to 24-bit/192 kHz. If you want freedom of movement, the Bathys MG is the clear choice. If you prefer a direct cable link, the Clear MG is the only option.

drivers

Edge: Tie

Both headphones utilize magnesium drivers for high-fidelity audio. The Focal Bathys MG specifies 40 mm pure-magnesium M-profile drivers. These deliver detailed sound across its wireless range. The Focal Clear MG also uses magnesium drivers, though the exact diameter is not listed in the provided data. It features an 'M'-shaped grille that follows the driver curve for better high-frequency reproduction. Both models share the core technology of magnesium diaphragms. This material choice helps reduce distortion and improve transient response in both products.

features

Edge: Focal Bathys MG Wireless ANC Headphones

The Focal Bathys MG includes active noise cancellation with Silent, Soft, and Transparent listening modes. It also offers up to 30 hours of Bluetooth ANC playback. A 15-minute charge adds 5 hours of use. The Focal Clear MG lacks electronic features. Instead, it focuses on physical design elements like perforated microfibre earpads for extended soundstage and a solid aluminum yoke. The Bathys MG provides modern convenience and noise management. The Clear MG provides passive acoustic benefits through its build materials.

fit

Edge: Focal Clear MG Open-Back Wired Headphones

The Focal Clear MG is an over-ear headphone with a headband covered in leather and microfibre. It features a solid aluminum yoke that molds to your face shape. The Focal Bathys MG is also an over-ear design, though specific padding materials are not detailed in the provided data. The Clear MG is sized Medium. The Bathys MG is lighter at 12.3 ounces compared to the Clear MG's 7.07 pounds. Both offer over-ear comfort, but the Clear MG specifies materials that adapt to your head shape for a secure fit.

Which Focal headphones match your setup

Home listeners wanting wide soundstage

Our pick: Focal Clear MG Open-Back Wired Headphones

The Clear MG uses an open-back design with a honeycomb grille. This setup creates an extended soundstage and open reproduction. You will hear more of your room, which suits stationary listening. The perforated microfibre earpads enhance this spaciousness. The solid aluminum yoke molds to your face for comfort during long sessions.

Commuters needing noise isolation

Our pick: Focal Bathys MG Wireless ANC Headphones

The Bathys MG includes active noise cancellation with Silent, Soft, and Transparent modes. It blocks outside noise for focused listening. The wireless Bluetooth 5.2 connection offers multipoint support for multiple devices. You get up to 30 hours of playback with ANC on. A quick 15-minute charge adds five hours of use.

Users wanting wireless convenience

Our pick: Focal Bathys MG Wireless ANC Headphones

The Bathys MG connects via Bluetooth with support for AAC, aptX, and aptX Adaptive codecs. It also features USB-DAC mode for high-resolution playback up to 24-bit/192 kHz. The 40 mm pure-magnesium drivers deliver detailed sound. This model offers flexibility for both wireless and wired high-fidelity listening without a permanent cable.

Specifications side by side

Spec	Focal Clear MG Open-Back Wired Headphones	Focal Bathys MG Wireless ANC Headphones
Noise Control	–	Active Noise Cancellation, Transparent
Battery Life	–	Up to 30 hours
Connectivity	Wired	Bluetooth 5.2, USB
Form Factor	Over-Ear	–
Back Design	Open-Back	–
Connection	Wired	Wireless
Fit	Over-Ear	–
Features	–	Bluetooth, Active Noise Cancelling, Active Noise Cancellation
Use	Audiophiles	–
Dimensions	12.5 × 12.1 × 9.4 inches	3.15 × 8.66 × 12.6 inches
Weight	7.07 pounds	12.3 ounces
Size	Medium	–
Color	Copper	Graphen Grey
Model	FCLEARMG	BATHYS-MG-GREY

Frequently asked questions

Are Focal Clear MG headphones wireless?

No. The Focal Clear MG uses a wired connection. This design prioritizes signal integrity for stationary listening. You must connect them to a source via cable. They do not support Bluetooth or battery power. This setup suits audiophiles who prefer fixed setups over portable convenience.

Does the Focal Bathys MG have noise cancellation?

Yes. The Focal Bathys MG includes active noise cancellation. This feature helps block external sound in noisy environments. It allows you to focus on high-fidelity audio while traveling or commuting. The open-back Clear MG lacks this capability due to its design.

Which Focal headphone is lighter?

The Focal Bathys MG is lighter. It weighs 12.3 ounces. The Focal Clear MG weighs 7.07 pounds. The significant weight difference reflects their different use cases. The Bathys is built for portability. The Clear is designed for stationary use where weight matters less.

Can I wear Focal Clear MG headphones outdoors?

It is not recommended. The Focal Clear MG has an open-back design. This construction allows sound to escape and external noise to enter. You will hear your surroundings clearly. It suits stationary listening in quiet rooms. The Bathys MG is better for outdoor use with its closed design and ANC.

What color is the Focal Bathys MG?

The Focal Bathys MG is available in Graphen Grey. The Focal Clear MG comes in Copper. These colors are part of their specific model designs. Choose based on your aesthetic preference alongside your functional needs for wireless versus wired audio.

Which model is better for audiophiles?

The Focal Clear MG is best for stationary audiophiles. It offers precise audio and an extended soundstage. The open-back design reveals fine details. The Bathys MG suits listeners who want high-fidelity audio but need portability and noise cancellation. Your choice depends on your listening environment.

See also

• best focal noise cancelling headphones with active noise cancellation
• focal vs HIFIMAN noise cancelling headphone