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AKG K872 vs Focal Bathys MG: which should you buy?

On aggregated review scores the Focal Bathys MG comes out ahead with a HearWiki score of 83. The full breakdown - sub-scores, specs and what reviewers actually said - is below.

Our pick: Focal Bathys MG - Outstanding overall at around $1499.

Score breakdown

Each axis is a 0–10 blend of what reviewers scored, not a lab measurement.

Focal Bathys MG leads on 7 of 7 measures.

  • AKG K872
  • Focal Bathys MG
HearWiki score
67
83
Sound
8.2
9.6
Noise cancelling
-
8.4
Battery
-
7.7
Calls
-
7.8
Value
3.5
6.2
Price (USD)
$2,000
$1,500

Generation & platform

The scores rank quality. This is the other question: is the newer one actually newer technology, or the same platform in a new shell?

Same generation

The Focal Bathys MG is 8 years newer, but it is the same generation of hardware: nothing in the radio, the codecs or the noise cancelling separates them. The platform is level; the newer hardware shows up in convenience features instead - the Focal Bathys MG adds USB-C. For 8 years between them, that is a thin return - treat this as a restyle rather than a new platform.

  • K8722016
  • Bathys MG20248 yr newer
What differsK872Bathys MG

Everyday features

USB-C
No
Yes

Specifications

K872Bathys MG
Type
Over-Ear
Over-Ear
Price (USD)
$2,000
$1,500
HearWiki score
67
83
Released
2016
2024
Availability
Still sold new
Still sold new
Driver
53 mm dynamic
40 mm dynamic
Driver type
dynamic
dynamic
Driver size
53 mm
40 mm
Drivers per side
1
1
Frequency response
5 Hz - 54 kHz
10 Hz - 22 kHz
Impedance
36 Ω
-
Sensitivity
109 dB/mW
-
Sensitivity (dB/Vrms)
112
-
Bluetooth
-
5.2
Codecs
-
SBC, AAC, aptX, aptX Adaptive
Multipoint pairing
-
Yes
Wireless range
-
15 m
Battery life
-
30 h
Battery life (ANC on)
-
30 h
Full charge time
-
90 min
Wireless charging
-
No
Active noise cancelling
No
Yes
Transparency mode
-
Yes
Companion app
-
Yes
Custom EQ
-
Yes
Wear detection
-
No
Controls
-
buttons
Weight
390 g
350 g
Foldable
No
-
Detachable cable
Yes
Yes
USB-C
No
Yes
Connector
-
USB-C
Microphones
-
8

What reviewers said

AKG K872

The AKG K872 is a premium closed-back studio headphone that combines a wide frequency response with a 53mm dynamic driver, delivering detailed and accurate sound. It's designed for professional use, offering strong isolation and ease of driving from modest sources, though it benefits from a dedicated amplifier for optimal performance. While it presents a versatile and refined tuning compared to earlier models, its high price and specific studio focus may limit its appeal to general consumers.

  • Pro:Wide frequency response and detailed sound reproduction
  • Pro:Strong passive isolation suitable for studio environments
  • Pro:Easy to drive from portable devices and modest sources
  • Con:High price point limits accessibility
  • Con:Requires a quality headphone amplifier for best sound
  • Con:Not foldable, reducing portability

Focal Bathys MG

The Focal Bathys MG is a premium wireless over-ear headphone that pairs active noise cancellation with a natural, balanced sound signature. It offers robust connectivity options including aptX Adaptive and multipoint, along with a USB-C DAC mode, all wrapped in a comfortable, high-end build. While its sonic performance is top-tier, the steep price tag is its most significant hurdle for many buyers.

  • Pro:Excellent natural and balanced sound quality
  • Pro:Comfortable fit for extended listening sessions
  • Pro:Effective active noise cancellation
  • Con:Very high price point
  • Con:Limited high-resolution wireless codec support
  • Con:No wireless charging option

Summaries are AI-condensed and paraphrased from published reviews and specs - not original hands-on testing. More on our method.

Compare something else

Swap either side out, or start again from the picker.

New comparisonAKG K872Focal Bathys MG