Compare Apple AirPods Max 2 vs Focal Bathys MG Wireless Headphones

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

Reviewers generally found ANC substantially improved and often class-leading, though a few considered the improvement incremental versus already-strong rivals.

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.

H2-enabled software features were widely viewed as useful modernization, with the main caveat that some users may not use every feature.

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

The design was praised as sleek and fashionable, especially for public use, with few cosmetic changes from earlier models.

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

Live Translation drew mixed reactions: some found it impressive and travel-ready, while others found pauses awkward or said it still needs work.

ANC background artifacts were mostly praised as quiet, but lab-focused reviewers noted low-frequency rumble or added noise in specific modes.

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 processing was described as natural and airy, avoiding the heavy pressure some rivals create.

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 repeatedly framed as limited: basic listening works, but Apple-only features and controls are missing.

Apple's no-standalone-app approach was treated as a tradeoff: seamless on iOS but less flexible than a dedicated app.

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

The H2 chip was consistently credited for the meaningful upgrade, powering ANC, calls, smart features, latency and tuning improvements.

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

Latency improved enough for casual gaming and video use, especially with Game Mode or wired USB-C.

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

The low-power case behavior preserves charge well, but the lack of a physical power button was criticized.

Two reviews explicitly awarded Editors' Choice recognition, reinforcing strong critical reception.

Bass was usually praised as tighter, deeper, punchier, and controlled, though some listeners found it heavy or boomy.

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.

Battery life was the most consistent weakness, with 20 hours repeatedly called disappointing or behind current flagships.

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

Wireless connection reliability was strong in tested Apple setups, with no dropouts reported in key reviews.

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 5.3 was treated as a welcome stability and latency upgrade, though not cutting-edge.

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

Build quality was a major strength, with reviewers praising the aluminum, steel and premium construction.

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

Wired USB-C lossless playback was valued for added clarity, depth and more critical listening, even when the difference was not night-and-day.

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.

The Digital Crown and physical button controls were repeatedly praised as intuitive, tactile and among the best on headphones.

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

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

The Smart Case was widely criticized for poor protection, awkward design and poor travel practicality, despite enabling low-power mode.

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

Charging-related feedback was limited but charge reminders and quick top-ups were viewed as useful conveniences.

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

Clamp comfort was mixed: generally tolerable, but with some pressure concerns during longer wear.

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

Codec support was a clear weakness because reviewers wanted LDAC, aptX, LC3 or other high-resolution wireless options.

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

Comfort was divisive: some called the headphones extremely comfortable, while others found long sessions uncomfortable because of weight or clamp.

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

Connectivity was a standout for Apple users, with automatic switching reducing the need for manual multipoint management.

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

The design was widely praised as elegant and gorgeous, though unchanged from the original.

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.

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

Ear cup padding was generally seen as roomy, breathable and supportive, though material feel was not universally preferred.

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

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

Ecosystem integration was a major strength, with reviewers praising Apple-device switching and deep iPhone, iPad and Mac behavior.

EQ customization was a repeated frustration because Apple still does not offer a full manual equalizer.

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

Firmware and software-update support was praised where it unlocked meaningful sound and spatial improvements at no added cost.

Frequency-response accuracy was viewed as generally balanced or accurate, with caveats around bass lift and treble shaping.

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

Headband adjustability had a minor fit caveat, with one review wishing it adjusted smaller for more head shapes.

Headband comfort was split between high praise for pressure distribution and criticism that the canopy can feel under-padded.

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

Head gestures worked well and felt natural to reviewers who tested them, though they were not always considered essential.

Immersive audio was praised for depth, fullness and a big presentation, especially with spatial content and USB-C playback.

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

Included accessories disappointed some reviewers, especially the lack of a charging brick or proper case at this price.

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

Instrument separation improved noticeably, with reviewers hearing more distinct placement and cleaner layering.

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

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

LDAC absence was a downside for reviewers comparing the AirPods Max 2 with Sony and other hi-res Bluetooth rivals.

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.

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

Maximum-volume clarity improved, with reviewers noting cleaner highs and less muddiness at high volume.

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

Voice Isolation and mic noise reduction performed well in many noisy call tests, although standard mode could lag behind.

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.

Call and mic quality were generally strong, ranging from top-tier to good enough, with occasional unevenness or fuzz.

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.

Midrange clarity was praised for vocals, improved detail and more natural mids.

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.

Multi-platform compatibility remained weak because non-Apple devices lose many settings, updates and ecosystem features.

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

Automatic device switching worked well inside Apple's ecosystem and exceeded conventional Bluetooth multipoint for reviewers.

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.

Passive isolation from the earcups helped ANC and was praised where fit fully enclosed the ears.

Overall recommendations were positive for Apple users and first-time premium buyers, but cautious for existing owners and audio purists.

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

Portability was a repeated weakness because the headphones do not fold and occupy too much bag space.

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

Premium feel was one of the clearest strengths, driven by aluminum, stainless steel and luxury fit-and-finish.

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

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

Replaceable or washable earcups were a minor positive for maintenance and longevity.

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

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

Smart listening features such as Adaptive Audio, Personalized Volume and Conversation Awareness were usually useful, but not universally preferred.

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

Conversation Awareness was mostly praised for convenience, though some reviewers preferred to switch modes manually or turn it off.

Setup simplicity was praised as extremely easy, especially for pairing and first-run setup on iPhone.

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

Overall sound quality was broadly praised as rich, cleaner and more resolving, though some reviewers found the tuning less neutral or only incrementally improved.

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.

Soundstage width was a strength in positive reviews, with several praising width, depth, openness and more dynamic presentation.

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.

Spatial audio was often strong for movies and immersive use, though at least one reviewer found it distracting for music.

Connection stability and switching were considered better with H2 and reliable in Apple-device use.

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

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

Transparency mode was one of the strongest consensus wins, often described as best-in-class, natural and conversation-friendly.

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

Travel friendliness suffered because the headphones are heavy, bulky and paired with a minimally protective case.

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

Treble was praised for detail by some reviewers but criticized by others as rolled off, harsh or recessed in specific ranges.

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.

USB-C was welcomed for charging and wired lossless playback, especially by owners of Lightning-era AirPods Max.

Value depended heavily on Apple ecosystem commitment: some found the price more justified, while others saw better sound or portability for less.

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.

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

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

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

Water and sweat resistance remained a limitation, with reviewers warning against gym or wet use.

Weight comfort was the most persistent ergonomic drawback, with several reviewers saying the heavy earcups become noticeable over time.

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

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.