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This focal vs FiiO noise cancelling headphone comparison looks at two distinct approaches to high-fidelity audio. Both brands target audiophiles with premium build quality and detachable components for long-term use. The main difference lies in their technology and connectivity. Focal offers wireless Bluetooth with active noise cancellation, while FiiO provides wired planar magnetic drivers for a purely analog connection. You need to decide if you prioritize portability or raw driver performance.
Driver Type
40mm Aluminum-Magnesium
95x86mm Planar Magnetic
Connection
Bluetooth Wireless
Wired (3.5mm, 4.4mm, 6.35mm)
Noise Cancellation
Active Noise Cancelling
not listed
Weight
12.3 ounces
1.65 pounds
Color
Black/Gray
Champagne Gold
Choose the first if
- You want wireless Bluetooth connectivity for commuting.
- You need active noise cancellation to block ambient sound.
- You prefer a lighter, more portable design under 13 ounces.
Choose the second if
- You prioritize large planar magnetic drivers for wide soundstages.
- You want wired connections with balanced 4.4mm output options.
- You prefer a foldable design with replaceable mesh earpads.
Verdict
Choose the Focal Bathys if you need wireless convenience and active noise cancellation for travel. Pick the FiiO JT7 if you prefer a wired setup with large planar magnetic drivers for detailed, high-fidelity listening.
Focal vs FiiO Headphone Specs
driver technology
Edge: Tie
The Focal Bathys uses 40mm aluminum-magnesium speakers made in France. These drivers deliver detailed sound with impact. The FiiO JT7 features a much larger 95x86mm planar magnetic driver. This design includes a 3µm ultra-thin diaphragm and dual-sided N52 neodymium magnets. Planar magnetic drivers often provide wider soundstages and deeper bass than dynamic drivers. The FiiO’s larger surface area allows for greater vibration amplitude. Focal relies on traditional dynamic driver construction. Each approach offers distinct sonic characteristics for different listening preferences.
connectivity
Edge: Focal Bathys Wireless ANC Headphones
Focal Bathys connects via Bluetooth with active noise cancelling. It also includes a 3.5mm jack and USB-C outlets for wired use. You get two noise-cancelling modes and transparency mode. FiiO JT7 is a wired-only headphone. It includes detachable cables: a 3.5mm to dual 3.5mm single-ended cable and a 4.4mm to dual 3.5mm balanced cable. It also comes with a 6.35mm adapter. This setup ensures compatibility with various audio sources. FiiO lacks wireless capability. Focal offers wireless freedom. Your choice depends on whether you prioritize portability or wired fidelity.
weight
Edge: Focal Bathys Wireless ANC Headphones
The Focal Bathys weighs 12.3 ounces. It features an aluminum mechanical construction and a magnesium yoke for lightness. The FiiO JT7 weighs 1.65 pounds. This converts to approximately 26.4 ounces. The FiiO uses a foldable design to aid portability. Focal is significantly lighter by more than 14 ounces. This makes the Focal Bathys easier to wear for extended periods. The FiiO’s heavier build is typical for planar magnetic headphones due to their larger drivers and magnet arrays. Lighter weight generally improves comfort during long sessions.
battery life
Edge: Focal Bathys Wireless ANC Headphones
Focal Bathys provides over 30 hours of battery life in Bluetooth and active noise cancelling mode. It supports fast charging, giving five extra listening hours in just 15 minutes. The FiiO JT7 does not have a battery. It is a passive headphone that requires an external audio source. This means you never need to charge the FiiO. However, you rely on your device’s battery. Focal offers all-day wireless usage without cables. FiiO offers unlimited listening time as long as your source is powered. Battery anxiety is only a factor with the Focal.
build materials
Edge: Tie
Focal Bathys uses refined real leather and microfiber for the headband. The earpads provide insulation and comfort for any head shape. They are easily replaceable. The construction includes aluminum and magnesium. FiiO JT7 uses breathable mesh fabric earpads to reduce heat build-up. Both earpads and the headband are detachable for cleaning and replacement. Focal emphasizes luxury materials like leather. FiiO focuses on functional materials like mesh and metal. Both brands prioritize durability and replaceable parts. Your preference depends on whether you prefer soft leather or breathable fabric.
Which Focal or FiiO Headphones Fit You
Commuters needing wireless convenience
Our pick: Focal Bathys Wireless ANC Headphones
The Focal Bathys connects via Bluetooth with active noise cancellation. You get over 30 hours of battery life in this mode. Fast charging adds five hours in just 15 minutes. The aluminum mechanical construction ensures reliability during travel. You can switch to transparency mode when needed. This wireless setup fits busy schedules better than wired options.
Audiophiles seeking detailed planar sound
Our pick: FiiO Foldable Over-Ear Planar Headphones
The FiiO JT7 uses a large 95x86mm planar magnetic driver. It features a 3µm ultra-thin diaphragm for wide soundstage and powerful bass. The dual-sided N52 neodymium magnets provide high sensitivity at 92dB/mW. You can drive these easily with portable devices. The detachable 4.4mm balanced cable offers versatile connectivity for high-fidelity listening.
Listeners prioritizing lightweight comfort
Our pick: FiiO Foldable Over-Ear Planar Headphones
The FiiO JT7 weighs only 318 grams. This is lighter than most planar headphones. The four-axis ergonomic design ensures a comfortable fit for long sessions. Breathable mesh fabric earpads reduce heat build-up. Both earpads and the headband are detachable for easy cleaning. The foldable design allows compact storage. You get long-term comfort without heavy pressure.
Focal Bathys Wireless ANC Headphones
Best for: audiophiles seeking 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 large over-ear headphones featuring 40mm aluminum-magnesium drivers made in France. They offer active noise cancellation and transparency mode for focused listening or environmental awareness. Battery life exceeds 30 hours in Bluetooth mode with ANC enabled. The build includes a magnesium yoke for lightness and an aluminum mechanical construction. They suit audiophiles seeking high-fidelity wireless audio with replaceable earpads.
- 40mm aluminum-magnesium drivers made in France
- Over 30 hours battery life with ANC
- Fast charging provides 5 hours in 15 minutes
- Aluminum mechanical construction with magnesium yoke
- Replaceable earpads and headband padding
- Weighs 12.3 ounces, which is heavier than the 95x86mm planar alternative
- 40mm driver size is smaller than the 95x86mm planar driver on the list
- Large size may not fit smaller heads as snugly as compact designs
- You prioritize high-fidelity sound from French-made drivers
- You need long battery life for travel
- You prefer replaceable earpads for hygiene
- You prefer planar magnetic drivers for different sound characteristics
- You want a lighter, more compact form factor
- You need wired-only connectivity without Bluetooth
Verdict: Focal Bathys Large Over-Ear Headphones deliver refined sound and reliable battery life for audiophiles who value build quality and wireless convenience. They fit listeners who want premium materials and replaceable parts.
FiiO Foldable Over-Ear Planar Headphones
Best for: Audiophiles seeking detailed planar sound
- Connectivity
- 3.5 mm, 4.4 mm, 6.35 mm
- Form Factor
- Over-Ear
- Driver
- Planar Magnetic
- Features
- Detachable Cable, 4.4mm Balanced
- Use
- Audiophiles
- Dimensions
- 7.48 × 5.91 × 4.72 inches
The FiiO JT7 uses a large 95x86mm planar magnetic driver with a 3µm diaphragm to deliver a wide soundstage and powerful bass. It features a dual-sided N52 neodymium magnet array for high sensitivity, making it easy to drive from portable devices. Weighing 318g, the foldable over-ear design offers comfort for long sessions. These headphones suit audiophiles seeking detailed, dynamic audio with detachable cables.
- 95x86mm planar magnetic driver for wide soundstage
- High sensitivity of 92dB/mW for easy driving
- Ultra-light 318g foldable design for comfort
- Includes 4.4mm balanced and 3.5mm cables
- Requires external amplifier for full potential
- Heavier build than typical wireless models
- You want detailed planar magnetic sound
- You prioritize lightweight comfort for long sessions
- You use balanced output sources
- You need built-in wireless connectivity
- You prefer ultra-compact travel size
- You want active noise cancellation
Verdict: FiiO JT7 Planar Magnetic Headphones deliver exceptional clarity and bass response for critical listeners. They fit users who value driver quality and comfort over wireless convenience.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Focal Bathys Wireless ANC Headphones | FiiO Foldable Over-Ear Planar Headphones |
|---|---|---|
| Noise Control | Active Noise Cancelling, Transparency | – |
| Battery Life | Over 30 hours | – |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth, 3.5mm, USB-C | 3.5 mm, 4.4 mm, 6.35 mm |
| Form Factor | – | Over-Ear |
| Connection | Wireless | – |
| Driver | – | Planar Magnetic |
| Fit | – | Over-Ear |
| Features | Bluetooth, Active Noise Cancelling | Detachable Cable, 4.4mm Balanced |
| Use | Audiophiles | Audiophiles |
| Dimensions | 9.45 × 8.46 × 3.35 inches | 7.48 × 5.91 × 4.72 inches |
| Weight | 12.3 ounces | 1.65 pounds |
| Size | Large | – |
| Color | Black/Gray | Champagne Gold |
| Model | Bathys | JT7 |
Frequently asked questions
Does the FiiO JT7 have active noise cancelling?
No. The FiiO JT7 is a wired planar magnetic headphone. It does not include Bluetooth or active noise cancellation features. You must connect it using the detachable cable. This design prioritizes driver clarity and balanced audio output over wireless convenience and noise isolation.
How heavy are the Focal Bathys headphones?
The Focal Bathys weighs 12.3 ounces. They measure 9.45 inches in length, 8.46 inches in width, and 3.35 inches in height. These large over-ear dimensions provide a secure fit for extended listening sessions while maintaining a manageable weight for daily commuting or travel.
What driver type does the FiiO JT7 use?
The FiiO JT7 uses a planar magnetic driver. This large 95x86mm unit features a 3µm ultra-thin diaphragm and dual-sided N52 magnets. This technology delivers exceptional clarity and precise bass response, making it ideal for critical listeners who value detailed sound reproduction over wireless features.
Can I use the Focal Bathys with a wired connection?
Yes. The Focal Bathys supports wireless Bluetooth connectivity with active noise cancelling. It also allows for wired use, giving you flexibility. You can switch between wireless convenience and a direct cable connection depending on your power needs or audio quality preferences during different listening scenarios.
What color options are available for the FiiO JT7?
The FiiO JT7 is available in Champagne Gold. This finish complements its premium planar magnetic design. The color choice adds a distinct visual appeal to the over-ear form factor, aligning with the brand's focus on high-fidelity audio equipment for discerning audiophiles who appreciate build aesthetics.
Are the Focal Bathys good for audiophiles?
Yes. The Focal Bathys targets audiophiles seeking wireless high-fidelity sound. They feature refined audio performance and reliable battery life. The large over-ear design fits listeners who value premium materials and replaceable parts. This combination ensures you get both superior sound quality and long-term durability for your music.
Does the FiiO JT7 require a special cable?
It uses a detachable cable with a 4.4mm balanced connection. This feature allows you to swap cables or upgrade your setup. The balanced connection supports high-quality audio transmission for the planar magnetic driver. You get detailed sound without the limitations of standard single-ended connections in this wired design.