JBL Live 770NC vs Focal Bathys Hi-Fi
Get the JBL Live 770NC unless you crave audiophile-quality sound. The numbers speak for themselves: 65 hours of battery life means you can go days without charging, while the Focal Bathys Hi-Fi offers superior audio resolution with 24-bit/192kHz capabilities. In real-world use, the JBL Live 770NC shines for everyday listening, thanks to its True Adaptive Noise Cancelling and lightweight design at just 9.03 oz. On the flip side, the Focal Bathys Hi-Fi's bulkier 12.3 oz frame may be a turn-off for casual users, despite its impressive sound detail and a battery life of 30 hours. So, which one should you choose?
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
JBL Live 770NC
Focal Bathys Hi-Fi
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.
Expand
Full specs, pros, and cons
Everything side-by-side with ratings and the full spec list.
Comparison: JBL Live 770NC vs Focal Bathys Hi-Fi
JBL Live 770NC
Focal Bathys Hi-Fi
| Criterion | JBL Live 770NC | Focal Bathys Hi-Fi |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4.6(1,519)Amazon | ★4.2(465)Amazon |
Form Factor | Over-ear (closed-back) | Over-ear (closed-back) |
Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.3 + 3.5mm AUX (wired) | Bluetooth 5.1 + USB-C DAC (Digital) + 3.5mm Jack (Analog) |
Bluetooth Version | Bluetooth 5.3 (LE Audio ready via OTA update) | Bluetooth 5.1 |
Codecs | SBC, AAC (LC3 ready via future update) | SBC, AAC, aptX™, aptX™ Adaptive |
ANC | Yes (True Adaptive Noise Cancelling with 4 noise-sensing mics) | Yes (2 modes: 'Silent' for high noise, 'Soft' for focus) |
Transparency | Yes (Smart Ambient / TalkThru) | Yes (Transparency Mode) |
Drivers | 40mm Dynamic Drivers (JBL Signature Sound) | 40mm Aluminum-Magnesium 'M'-shaped Dome Drivers (Made in France) |
Frequency Response | 20 Hz – 20,000 Hz (Wireless) / 20 Hz – 40,000 Hz (Wired) | 15 Hz – 22,000 Hz |
Microphones | 2 Beamforming Microphones for calls (Wind-noise reduction) | 8 Microphones total (Clear Voice Capture technology) |
Battery Life | Up to 65 hours (ANC off) / Up to 50 hours (ANC on) | 30 hours (Bluetooth + ANC) / 35 hours (3.5mm Jack) / 42 hours (USB-DAC) |
Battery Life | N/A (No charging case) | N/A (No charging case) |
Charging | USB-C; Full charge in 3 hours; 5 min charge = 4 hours playback | USB-C Fast Charge; 15 min charge = 5 hours playback |
Multipoint | Yes (Multi-point connection for 2 devices) | Yes (Simultaneous connection to 2 devices) |
Low Latency Mode | Yes (Video Mode available via JBL Headphones App) | Yes (via aptX™ Adaptive) |
Wired Mode | Yes (Detachable 3.5mm audio cable included; Microphone DOES NOT work in wired mode) | Yes (USB-DAC mode supports 24-bit/192kHz; 3.5mm analog cable included) |
Water Resistance | No (No IP rating stated) | No (No IP rating) |
Weight | 9.03 oz (256 g) | 12.3 oz (350 g) |
Controls | Physical Buttons (Volume, Power, Bluetooth) + Touch Control on earcup (Voice Assistant, ANC) | Physical Buttons (Volume, Pairing, ANC mode, Voice Assistant) |
App Eq | JBL Headphones App (Personi-Fi 2.0, Parametric EQ, Spatial Sound) | Focal & Naim App (5-band EQ + Mimi Sound Personalization) |
Extras | JBL Spatial Sound; Auto Play/Pause; Google Finder support; Comfort-fit fabric headband | Illuminated Focal flame logo (dimmable); Rigid carrying case; Mimi Hearing Test support |
| Pros |
|
|
| Cons |
|
|
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. | Check Price on Amazon→ | Check Price on Amazon→ |
JBL Live 770NC
✓ Pros:
- • Excellent battery life (up to 65 hours) minimizes charging frequency
- • Personi-Fi 2.0 adapts the sound profile to your specific hearing capabilities
- • True Adaptive ANC effectively adjusts to changing environments automatically
- • Lightweight design with a fabric headband ensures comfort for long sessions
- • Supports Bluetooth Multipoint for seamless switching between phone and laptop
✗ Cons:
- • Microphone functionality is disabled when using the wired connection
- • Lacks high-bitrate codecs like LDAC or aptX at launch
- • No official water resistance (IP) rating makes them unsuitable for heavy workouts
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
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
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Which one is better?
The JBL Live 770NC is the better buy for most people - its 65-hour battery life crushes the Focal Bathys Hi-Fi's 30 hours. That said, grab the Focal if you want premium sound quality and are okay with a bit more weight.
Who should buy each?
Choose the JBL Live 770NC if: you need up to 65 hours of battery life, enjoy adaptive noise cancelling, or want a lightweight design for comfort.
Choose the Focal Bathys Hi-Fi if: you prioritize high-resolution audio, require multiple microphones for calls, or appreciate premium build quality. (12.35 oz weight)
Conclusion
We hope this comparison helps you buy with confidence. Both products are dependable; the right one depends on how you will use it.
Frequently Asked Questions
+Which has better value?
JBL Live 770NC excels if you value excellent battery life (up to 65 hours) minimizes charging frequency. Focal Bathys Hi-Fi is better if you prioritize usb-dac mode delivers uncompressed 24-bit/192khz audio directly from a computer or phone. 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.
Affiliate disclosure
PageBen uses Amazon affiliate links. If you purchase through our links, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. This supports independent content for US shoppers.