Focal Bathys Hi-Fi vs Sennheiser ACCENTUM Plus (Black)
The Focal Bathys Hi-Fi is the flagship option here, and its USB-DAC mode delivers uncompressed 24-bit/192kHz audio, which is a game changer. The Sennheiser ACCENTUM Plus (Black) excels with an impressive 50-hour battery life, allowing for extended use without the constant worry of recharging. If you need headphones for long flights or commutes, this feature is a lifesaver and makes the Sennheiser a no-brainer for those who prioritize longevity over premium audio specs.
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Focal Bathys Hi-Fi
Sennheiser ACCENTUM Plus (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 Sennheiser ACCENTUM Plus (Black)
Focal Bathys Hi-Fi
Sennheiser ACCENTUM Plus (Black)
| Criterion | Focal Bathys Hi-Fi | Sennheiser ACCENTUM Plus (Black) |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4.2(465)Amazon | ★4.1(1,285)Amazon |
Form Factor | Over-ear (closed-back) | Over-ear (closed-back) |
Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.1 + USB-C DAC (Digital) + 3.5mm Jack (Analog) | Bluetooth 5.2 + USB-C (Audio/Charging) + 2.5mm Jack (Analog input on earcup) |
Bluetooth Version | Bluetooth 5.1 | Bluetooth 5.2 |
Codecs | SBC, AAC, aptX™, aptX™ Adaptive | aptX™ Adaptive, aptX™, AAC, SBC, mSBC, CVSD |
ANC | Yes (2 modes: 'Silent' for high noise, 'Soft' for focus) | Yes (Adaptive Hybrid ANC) |
Transparency | Yes (Transparency Mode) | Yes (Transparency Mode) |
Drivers | 40mm Aluminum-Magnesium 'M'-shaped Dome Drivers (Made in France) | 37mm dynamic drivers (Angled) |
Frequency Response | 15 Hz – 22,000 Hz | 10 Hz – 22,000 Hz |
Microphones | 8 Microphones total (Clear Voice Capture technology) | 2 beamforming microphones (Speech) + ANC microphones |
Battery Life | 30 hours (Bluetooth + ANC) / 35 hours (3.5mm Jack) / 42 hours (USB-DAC) | Up to 50 hours (Bluetooth + ANC) |
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 = 5 hours playback |
Multipoint | Yes (Simultaneous connection to 2 devices) | Yes (2 devices) |
Low Latency Mode | Yes (via aptX™ Adaptive) | Yes (via aptX Adaptive) |
Wired Mode | Yes (USB-DAC mode supports 24-bit/192kHz; 3.5mm analog cable included) | Yes (USB-C Digital Audio + Analog via included 2.5mm to 3.5mm cable) |
Water Resistance | No (No IP rating) | None (No IP rating) |
Weight | 12.3 oz (350 g) | 8.0 oz (227 g) |
Controls | Physical Buttons (Volume, Pairing, ANC mode, Voice Assistant) | Touch pad (Right earcup: Volume, Play/Pause, Skip, ANC toggle) + Physical Power/Pairing button |
App Eq | Focal & Naim App (5-band EQ + Mimi Sound Personalization) | Sennheiser Smart Control app (5-band EQ, Sound Personalization, Sound Zones) |
Extras | Illuminated Focal flame logo (dimmable); Rigid carrying case; Mimi Hearing Test support | Smart Pause (Wear detection); Wind Noise Reduction; Carrying case included; 3.9' USB-C cable & 4.2' audio cable |
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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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Sennheiser ACCENTUM Plus (Black)
✓ Pros:
- • Impressive 50-hour battery life with ANC enabled reduces charging anxiety
- • Sound Personalization feature creates a custom audio profile for your hearing
- • Supports high-resolution wired audio via USB-C (plug-and-play with PC/phones)
- • Includes a robust carrying case (unlike the standard Accentum model)
- • Touch controls are responsive and intuitive for playback/volume adjustments
✗ Cons:
- • Earcup input is 2.5mm (sub-standard size), making replacement cables harder to find
- • Clamp force can feel slightly tight on larger heads due to the compact headband
- • Lacks an official IP rating for water or sweat resistance
- • Design does not fold completely for compact storage (earcups swivel flat only)
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Which one is better?
The Focal Bathys Hi-Fi is the better buy for most people - its USB-DAC mode provides uncompressed audio that crushes the Sennheiser's capabilities. That said, grab the Sennheiser ACCENTUM Plus (Black) if you need a lightweight option with amazing battery life - it lasts 50 hours compared to the Focal's 30 hours.
Who should buy each?
Choose the Focal Bathys Hi-Fi if: you crave audiophile-level sound quality, you often listen to high-resolution audio, or you want advanced audio personalization. (12.35 oz weight)
Choose the Sennheiser ACCENTUM Plus (Black) if: you need a headphone that lasts up to 50 hours on a single charge, you prefer a lighter option at 8.0oz, or you want intuitive touch controls for easy playback adjustments.
Conclusion
With the key differences outlined, the decision should be clearer. Both options deliver quality—choose the one that fits your priorities.
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. Sennheiser ACCENTUM Plus (Black) is better if you prioritize impressive 50-hour battery life with anc enabled reduces charging anxiety. 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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