Compare Focal Bathys MG Wireless Headphones vs Marshall Major V

The 3.5mm analog input is valued as a rare, useful wired option in a premium wireless headphone.

The 3.5mm input was valued for wired listening and audio sharing, with several reviewers calling the sharing trick useful or cool.

ANC is judged useful and improved, but not class-leading; reviewers say it reduces buses, traffic and office noise while still letting some voices or mids through.

Reviewers repeatedly flagged the absence of ANC as the Major V's biggest feature gap, especially for commuting, flights, and loud environments.

Advanced software features are a limitation because the app and EQ are simpler than richer rival ecosystems.

Advanced software and feature impressions were mixed: battery preservation impressed, but feature depth lagged some competitors.

The profile is not very discreet for everyone; one review explicitly says the styling may be too flashy.

Reviewers praised the distinctive vintage style and compact visual identity, though one found the look inconspicuous or barebones.

ANC background noise is a positive in the scored review because revised microphones are said to reduce unwanted hiss.

ANC mode changes are praised for preserving the sound signature, with multiple reviewers saying the sound remains stable across Silent, Soft and Transparency.

ANC has little to no negative effect on audio in several reviews, which praise the stable tuning and absence of sonic changes between modes.

Android compatibility was weakened by missing higher-quality Android-friendly codecs such as aptX or LDAC.

The app receives mixed marks: some reviewers find it solid or useful, while others describe it as limited, brief, glitchy or dependent on personalization.

App opinions were mixed: support and customization were major upgrades, but some reviewers found the app buggy, basic, or limited.

aptX support is treated positively in one review because it works well alongside multipoint, but it does not erase broader codec complaints.

aptX support was criticized because reviewers specifically noted that aptX or aptX Adaptive was missing.

Reviewers who discussed sync reported no noticeable delay or expected LE Audio benefits for video use.

Auracast support is a weakness because one review explicitly notes that the Bathys MG goes without it despite cheaper rivals adopting newer wireless features.

Auracast support was praised as rare and forward-looking, though some comments depended on future firmware or ecosystem adoption.

Bass is broadly praised for depth, control, impact and texture, though several reviewers note that default tuning can sound boomy, swollen or resonant before EQ or depending on music.

Bass impressions skewed positive for punch and warmth, though a few reviewers found the low end light or uneven depending on tuning.

Battery life is polarizing: many reviewers find 30-plus hours practical or impressive, but others call it disappointing for the premium price.

Battery life was the clearest consensus strength, with reviewers repeatedly praising the 100-hour class endurance and real-world longevity.

Bluetooth performance is generally solid with fast pairing and good aptX Adaptive performance, but reviewers criticize the version and feature set for not being cutting-edge.

Bluetooth was described positively where reviewers referenced modern or useful wireless capabilities rather than just listing the version.

Bluetooth version is a weakness at this price, with reviewers noting that 5.2 is improved but not the latest standard.

Build quality is consistently praised, with reviewers calling the construction premium, flawless, sturdy and made from high-quality materials.

Build quality was generally praised as rugged, tough, and durable, though not always premium-looking.

The built-in DAC and hi-res playback mode are among the most praised features, repeatedly described as excellent, useful and a major reason to consider the headphones.

Physical controls are preferred over touch by one reviewer, but another notes the small buttons can be difficult to locate by feel.

Physical button controls were one of the strongest points, with reviewers repeatedly praising the joystick-style knob as intuitive and reliable.

Cable quality is mixed: some reviewers call the included cables acceptable or durable, while another says they are basic and lack premium extras.

Cable impressions were mixed: one reviewer liked the retro detail, while another disliked the tangling coiled cable.

The carrying case is mostly praised as protective, slim and practical, though one reviewer finds it less premium than some competitors’ cases.

Carry protection was a consistent weakness because reviewers repeatedly complained that no case, pouch, or tote was included.

Charging is well received because quick charging reliably adds several hours of playback in about 15 minutes and one reviewer calls charging very fast.

Charging was mostly praised for fast, USB-C, and wireless charging, though several reviewers found wireless placement fiddly or unreliable.

Clamping force is generally comfortable and improved versus the original Bathys, with reviewers describing less pressure and a secure but not punishing fit.

Clamp force feedback was mixed, ranging from gentle or moderate to too tight or uncomfortable depending on head shape and use.

Codec support is viewed as adequate rather than premium; aptX Adaptive helps, but reviewers repeatedly criticize the lack of broader high-end codec support.

Codec support was mixed-to-weak: LC3/LE Audio helped, but reviewers criticized the lack of higher-quality codecs.

Comfort is a strong point, with reviewers repeatedly reporting long-session wearability, softer pads and better weight distribution despite the headphone’s size.

Long-wear comfort was highly divided, with many praising light padding and hours-long comfort while others reported pressure, heat, or glasses discomfort.

Connectivity options are a major strength, with reviewers praising the combination of Bluetooth, USB-DAC and wired listening flexibility.

Connectivity options were praised for wired listening, sharing audio, and useful device switching.

Design earns strong praise for its chestnut/bronze luxury look, premium styling and distinctive Focal identity, though one review says the look may be too flashy.

The retro Marshall design was widely praised as distinctive, classic, stylish, and aligned with the brand's rock identity.

The detachable analog cable was praised for enabling the music-sharing trick with another pair of headphones.

Durability impressions are positive, with reviewers citing sturdy construction, durable materials and design choices that feel built to last.

Durability-over-time comments were positive where reviewers expected the headphones to survive years of use or abuse.

Earpad quality is praised for softness, compliance and plushness, though the more compliant pads may let some larger ears brush the inner baffle.

Ear cup padding was consistently praised as thick, soft, plush, or squishy enough to help the on-ear fit.

One review praised the ear cups' 90-degree tilt as part of the flexible fit system.

Earpad or cup movement noise is a drawback in one review, which reports a soft thumping sound while running.

EQ customization is helpful but limited; reviewers like the usable bands and bass adjustment, while several wish for deeper or parametric control.

EQ customization was useful and often praised, though some reviewers said its effect was subtle or insufficient.

Launch feature set was criticized as limited, especially compared with competitors that include ANC, transparency, cases, or richer apps.

Frequency response is praised for smoothness and coherence, especially in Dynamic mode, though default tuning can add coloration in the lower mids and treble.

Measured frequency-response commentary was negative, with one review saying the tuning deviated drastically from the preferred curve.

Headband adjustment was praised for smooth sliding rails and flexible adjustability.

Headband padding is viewed positively in the one scored review, which links the revised foam to better comfort.

Headband padding feedback was mixed, with one review praising full soft coverage and another calling it thin.

One reviewer disliked the way the metal hinges stick out when folded, making hinge design a minor caveat.

Immersive audio quality is praised in the scored review, which describes an expansive, three-dimensional presentation.

Included accessories are basic: one reviewer notes the lack of flight adapters, mic cable or special extras.

Included accessories were criticized as skimpy because reviewers expected more protection or extras for the price.

Reviewers praise instrument separation, imaging and placement, often saying the Bathys MG reveals layers, positions instruments clearly and keeps complex mixes organized.

Reviewers who focused on separation generally praised stereo placement, detail visibility, and the ability to follow individual sound elements.

The integrated microphones are considered effective enough for calls in the scored review, though call quality is not treated as a headline feature.

The integrated mic array was praised in one review as working well for clear recordings.

LDAC is a repeated missing feature, with reviewers saying it should have been included at this price even if not everyone thinks it would transform sound quality.

LDAC was criticized as a missing advantage versus a competing Android-focused headphone.

LE Audio readiness is weak because reviewers specifically call out the absence of Bluetooth LE, LC3 or related newer wireless standards.

LE Audio readiness was treated as a forward-looking advantage for streaming, sync, and Auracast-related future use.

One reviewer warns that very loud playback or sharp recordings can expose the treble response, limiting clarity at big volumes.

Reviewers noted that the headphones could play loudly without obvious strain and still had headroom.

Microphone noise reduction is serviceable and sometimes praised for reducing disruption or hiss, but wind and high-pitched noise still leak through in one review.

Microphone noise reduction received positive comments for cleaning up office, cafe, and ambient noise around speech.

Call quality is considered good to very good, with voices remaining clear in typical environments, though not always as noise-free as top call-focused rivals.

Call quality was usually praised, with reviewers hearing loud, clear, understandable voice capture; one found it noisy but usable.

The midrange is a major strength in most reviews, with vocals, guitars, piano and instruments described as clearer, more powerful and more nuanced than on the original model; one reviewer found vocals somewhat suppressed.

Midrange clarity was often praised for vocals and detail, but some reviewers heard recessed or deficient mids.

Multi-platform compatibility is a strength in the scored review because the headphones are described as working across virtually every listening situation.

Multi-platform use was positive where one reviewer reported seamless switching between phone and laptop.

Multipoint is appreciated when it works, but reviewer experience is mixed: some describe seamless switching while others report quirks when moving back to a phone.

Multipoint generally worked well, though one reviewer noted playback must be paused on one device before switching.

Passive isolation was mixed: the pads muffled some office chatter and ambient sound, but on-ear fit still let plenty through.

Overall recommendations are strongly positive for buyers prioritizing sound, comfort and luxury, while reviewers still caution about price and feature gaps.

Overall recommendations were mixed-to-positive: many reviewers recommended the headphones for battery, design, and casual use, but with clear caveats.

Portability is limited by the fold-flat-only design, even though some reviewers find the case slimmer or easier to pack than expected.

Portability and foldability were consistently praised because the headphones collapse very small and fit easily in bags.

Premium feel is a major strength, with reviewers describing the product as looking and feeling premium, luxurious and more refined.

Premium feel was mixed: the design could look special, but some reviewers said the materials did not feel expensive.

Preset EQ profiles, especially Dynamic mode, are a notable strength for reviewers seeking a more balanced or Harman-like sound signature.

Preset EQ feedback was limited but positive when reviewers singled out balanced or useful presets.

Replaceable earpads get a mixed mark because removability is welcome, but one review criticizes the lack of included replacement pads.

Replaceable earpads were a plus in reviews that noted removable pads or replacement cups.

Lighting customization is present but not universally valued; one review calls the logo light show unnecessary on expensive headphones.

Smart listening features are valued mainly through Mimi personalization, which reviewers say can improve or tailor sound effectively.

Smart listening features were useful for quick Spotify, EQ, or assistant access, though one reviewer found the M button nonessential.

Setup simplicity is positive in one review, which says the app made it easy to set the headphones up as desired.

Setup was easy out of the box in one review, but app responsiveness and connection reliability were criticized elsewhere.

Sound leakage was mixed-to-negative, with some office-safe results but several warnings about leakage at higher volumes.

Reviewers consistently describe the Bathys MG as one of the best-sounding wireless ANC headphones, with especially strong praise for its richer, more energetic presentation versus the original Bathys.

Most reviewers liked the lively Marshall-leaning sound, but several found it average, treble-heavy, distant, or not competitive for audiophiles.

Soundstage is repeatedly described as spacious for a closed-back wireless headphone, with good depth and immersion, though a few reviewers note it remains somewhat intimate rather than speaker-like.

Soundstage ranged from surprisingly wide and dynamic to compact, intimate, or under-imaged depending on the reviewer.

One review said Dolby Atmos playback still had kick despite the lack of noise cancelling.

Stability is mixed for mobile use because one reviewer reports annoying ANC inconsistency when walking outdoors.

Fit stability was mixed: some reviews praised secure fit, while others found head movement could shift or dislodge the headphones.

Spotify integration was praised by Spotify users as genuinely useful for starting or cycling music quickly.

Repairability was viewed as a plus because reviewers noted battery replacement through Marshall's repair program.

Sustainability materials receive a positive note for the FSC-certified bamboo pulp packaging material.

Transparency mode is generally considered effective, making conversations and surroundings audible without removing the headphones.

Travel friendliness is mixed: the slimmer case, DAC convenience and long battery help, but the fold-flat form and case size still limit portability.

Travel friendliness was mixed-to-positive: small size and battery helped, while no ANC and no case limited flights and loud travel.

Treble earns mostly positive marks for clarity, shimmer and smoothness, but some reviewers hear occasional sharpness, edge or fatigue with bright recordings or high volumes.

Treble was described as crisp and detailed by some reviewers, while others found the top end harsh, exaggerated, or clustered.

USB-C charging was viewed positively, especially as a more reliable option than fiddly wireless charging.

Value is debated: reviewers admire the performance and luxury, but the high price, smaller upgrade over the original and missing features make value context-dependent.

Value was split: reviewers liked the battery, design, and sound for the price, but many felt ANC competitors offered more.

Voice assistant integration is present and broadly supported through major assistants, with no major quality complaints in the scored review.

Voice assistant use was positive in the review that tested Google Assistant and Siri.

Voice prompts and feedback are mixed: one reviewer wants clearer ANC mode announcements, while another likes the refined connection sounds.

Marshall's guitar-riff feedback tones were described as a nice brand touch by reviewers who mentioned them.

The smaller 3dB volume increments are viewed as a meaningful usability upgrade that helps listeners hit a more precise level.

One reviewer found normal listening volume more than sufficient, with extra output available if needed.

Reviewers treated the lack of IP or water resistance as a real limitation for rain, sweat, hikes, and outdoor use.

Weight comfort is the one weaker comfort note: the headphones are manageable on-head, but one review says their heft is noticeable in-hand.

Low weight was a consistent strength, with reviewers calling the headphones light, barely noticeable, and easy to wear.

Wind noise handling is only average, with one review noting that wind and high-pitched noise pass through more easily than on Sony’s class leader.

Wind handling was only discussed in microphone-test contexts and was generally positive alongside noisy-condition call performance.