Focal Bathys Hi-Fi vs Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black)
For those who crave top-tier sound quality, the Focal Bathys Hi-Fi steals the spotlight with its 24-bit/192kHz audio. However, if you prioritize battery life, the Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) offers an impressive 50 hours of playback, making it a smart choice for long journeys. In real-world use, the Bathys Hi-Fi's premium aluminum/magnesium drivers detail music like no other, but at 12.3 oz, they're bulkier than the 10.8 oz Audio-Technica. So, if you’re looking for audiophile-level sound without needing frequent charges, the Bathys Hi-Fi is worth considering, but if you're after something similar-weight with longer battery life, the ATH-M50xBT2 is a no-brainer.
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Focal Bathys Hi-Fi
Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black)
Only the specs that differ are shown here. Winners are highlighted when the data is clear.
+Full specs, pros, and cons
Everything side-by-side with ratings and the full spec list.
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Full specs, pros, and cons
Everything side-by-side with ratings and the full spec list.
Comparison: Focal Bathys Hi-Fi vs Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black)
Focal Bathys Hi-Fi
Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black)
| Criterion | Focal Bathys Hi-Fi | Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4.2(465)Amazon | ★4.4(3,219)Amazon |
Form Factor | Over-ear (closed-back) | Over-ear (closed-back) |
Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.1 + USB-C DAC (Digital) + 3.5mm Jack (Analog) | Bluetooth 5.0 + USB-C (Charging) + 3.5mm Jack (Analog) |
Bluetooth Version | Bluetooth 5.1 | Bluetooth 5.0 |
Codecs | SBC, AAC, aptX™, aptX™ Adaptive | LDAC, AAC, SBC |
ANC | Yes (2 modes: 'Silent' for high noise, 'Soft' for focus) | No (Passive noise isolation only) |
Transparency | Yes (Transparency Mode) | No |
Drivers | 40mm Aluminum-Magnesium 'M'-shaped Dome Drivers (Made in France) | 45mm large-aperture drivers with rare earth magnets |
Frequency Response | 15 Hz – 22,000 Hz | 15 Hz – 28,000 Hz |
Microphones | 8 Microphones total (Clear Voice Capture technology) | Dual MEMS microphones (beamforming) |
Battery Life | 30 hours (Bluetooth + ANC) / 35 hours (3.5mm Jack) / 42 hours (USB-DAC) | Up to 50 hours (Continuous use) |
Battery Life | N/A (No charging case) | N/A (No charging case) |
Charging | USB-C Fast Charge; 15 min charge = 5 hours playback | USB-C; ~3.5 hours full charge; 10 min rapid charge = up to 3 hours playback |
Multipoint | Yes (Simultaneous connection to 2 devices) | Yes (2 devices) |
Low Latency Mode | Yes (via aptX™ Adaptive) | Yes (via Audio-Technica CONNECT app) |
Wired Mode | Yes (USB-DAC mode supports 24-bit/192kHz; 3.5mm analog cable included) | Yes (1.2 m / 3.9' cable included; works with zero battery) |
Water Resistance | No (No IP rating) | None (No IP rating) |
Weight | 12.3 oz (350 g) | 10.8 oz (307 g) |
Controls | Physical Buttons (Volume, Pairing, ANC mode, Voice Assistant) | Physical buttons (Power/Pairing, Volume, Multifunction/Voice Assistant) |
App Eq | Focal & Naim App (5-band EQ + Mimi Sound Personalization) | Audio-Technica CONNECT app (5-band EQ, Codec switch, Low Latency, L/R Balance) |
Extras | Illuminated Focal flame logo (dimmable); Rigid carrying case; Mimi Hearing Test support | Google Fast Pair; Amazon Alexa built-in; Sidetone circuitry; 1.2 m cable & carrying pouch included |
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Focal Bathys Hi-Fi
✓ Pros:
- • USB-DAC mode delivers uncompressed 24-bit/192kHz audio directly from a computer or phone
- • Aluminum/Magnesium drivers provide audiophile-level detail and dynamic range
- • Mimi Sound Personalization adapts the audio profile to your specific hearing health
- • Premium construction with real leather, aluminum, and magnesium materials
- • Solid battery life across all modes, especially when using the internal DAC (42 hours)
✗ Cons:
- • Heavier (12.3 oz) and bulkier than mainstream competitors like Bose or Sony
- • No official water resistance rating (IP) requires care during use
- • High price point targets a niche audiophile audience rather than general consumers
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Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black)
✓ Pros:
- • Exceptional battery life (up to 50 hours) minimizes charging frequency
- • High-resolution audio support via LDAC codec
- • Multipoint pairing allows seamless switching between two devices
- • Preserves the acclaimed sonic signature of the wired M50x studio monitors
- • Dedicated low-latency mode improves lip-sync for gaming and video
✗ Cons:
- • Lacks Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) and Transparency modes found in competitors
- • No official IP water or dust resistance rating
- • Passive noise isolation is effective but not equal to active solutions
- • Clamp force may feel tight for some users during extended listening sessions
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Which one is better?
The Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) is the better buy for most people - its 50-hour battery life crushes the Focal Bathys Hi-Fi's 42-hour capacity. That said, grab the Focal Bathys Hi-Fi if you need audiophile sound quality - it delivers uncompressed audio directly from a computer or phone.
Who should buy each?
Choose the Focal Bathys Hi-Fi if: you value audiophile-grade sound with 24-bit detail, need long battery life with DAC capabilities, or want superior audio personalization features.
Choose the Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) if: you need ultra-long battery life for 50 hours, prefer a lighter headphone at 10.8 oz, or want seamless multipoint connectivity for two devices.
Conclusion
Focal Bathys Hi-Fi and Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) are both solid choices. Match the strengths above to your budget and workflow to make the best call.
Frequently Asked Questions
+Which has better value?
Focal Bathys Hi-Fi excels if you value usb-dac mode delivers uncompressed 24-bit/192khz audio directly from a computer or phone. Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) is better if you prioritize exceptional battery life (up to 50 hours) minimizes charging frequency. Pick based on your budget and daily use.
+Is this an independent review?
Yes. We use affiliate links for monetization, but recommendations are research-driven and unbiased.
+Do newer models exist?
Check release timelines from the manufacturers and compare pricing before you buy. We refresh this page when major updates land.
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