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Focal Clear MG — Open-back
Focal

Focal Clear MG

Open-back

92
/ 100
From $1,499
VS
Focal Bathys — Over-ear · 2022
Focal

Focal Bathys

Over-ear · 2022

92
/ 100
From $799
Specdex verdict

Dead heat — it comes down to priorities.

In our weighted Specdex score, Focal Clear MG lands at 92 and Focal Bathys at 92. With scores tied, the decision hinges on which sub-scores matter most to you.

Pick Focal Clear MG if…

  • ✓Reference-level detail
  • ✓Well-regarded in audiophile community
  • ✓Long-term ownership appeal

Pick Focal Bathys if…

  • ✓Flagship comfort + ANC on modern models
  • ✓Premium build
  • ✓Active noise cancellation (most models)
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Winner by scenario

Derived from the sub-score breakdown · not a separate test

Sound quality

Tie

Tuning, detail, and staging

Effectively tied — neither pulls a 2-point weighted lead.

Noise cancelling

Focal Bathys

ANC strength for commute and travel

Focal Bathys leads on anc (90 vs 0).

Comfort

Focal Bathys

Long-session wearability

Focal Bathys leads on comfort (91 vs 88).

Value for money

Focal Bathys

Specdex score per dollar at MSRP

Focal Bathys more score per dollar ($799 vs $1,499).

Focal Clear MG 92
vs
92 Focal Bathys

Score breakdown

Focal Clear MG
92
anc 0
sound 92
comfort 88
battery 100
features 50
Focal Bathys
92
anc 90
sound 92
comfort 91
battery 82
features 88

Specs side-by-side

Focal Clear MG versus Focal Bathys — full spec comparison
Spec Focal Clear MG Focal Bathys
Type
Open-back
Over-ear
Release year
—
2022

Focal Clear MG

Pros
  • +Reference-level detail
  • +Well-regarded in audiophile community
  • +Long-term ownership appeal
Cons
  • −Requires amplifier (most)
  • −No active noise cancellation
  • −Impractical for commuting

Focal Bathys

Pros
  • +Flagship comfort + ANC on modern models
  • +Premium build
  • +Active noise cancellation (most models)
Cons
  • −Battery varies by codec
  • −Some are Bluetooth-only
  • −Price creep vs previous gen

FAQ: Focal Clear MG vs Focal Bathys

Which is better, Focal Clear MG or Focal Bathys? +

Both score 92 on our weighted rubric — tied. Your best pick depends on the sub-scores above.

Is Focal Clear MG worth the price? +

At $1,499, Focal Clear MG delivers a Specdex score of 92 — strongest in battery.

Is Focal Bathys worth the price? +

At $799, Focal Bathys delivers a Specdex score of 92 — strongest in sound.

Does Focal Clear MG or Focal Bathys last longer? +

Based on our long-term update and support ratings, both ship with multi-year support. Battery and reliability scores are visible in the breakdown above.

Which is better for noise cancelling, Focal Clear MG or Focal Bathys? +

Focal Bathys — leads on anc (90 vs 0). ANC strength for commute and travel.

Which is better for comfort, Focal Clear MG or Focal Bathys? +

Focal Bathys — leads on comfort (91 vs 88). Long-session wearability.