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Audio-Technica Awkt 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.

  • Audio-Technica Awkt
  • Focal Bathys MG
HearWiki score
68
83
Sound
8.2
9.6
Noise cancelling
-
8.4
Battery
-
7.7
Calls
-
7.8
Value
5.1
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 5 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 5 years between them, that is a thin return - treat this as a restyle rather than a new platform.

  • Awkt2019
  • Bathys MG20245 yr newer
What differsAwktBathys MG

Everyday features

USB-C
No
Yes

Specifications

AwktBathys MG
Type
Over-Ear
Over-Ear
Price (USD)
$2,000
$1,500
HearWiki score
68
83
Released
2019
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 - 45 kHz
10 Hz - 22 kHz
Impedance
48 Ω
-
Sensitivity
102 dB/mW
-
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
-
Yes
Transparency mode
-
Yes
Companion app
-
Yes
Custom EQ
-
Yes
Wear detection
-
No
Controls
-
buttons
Weight
405 g
350 g
Detachable cable
Yes
Yes
USB-C
No
Yes
Connector
6.35 mm
USB-C
Balanced connection
Yes
-
Microphones
-
8

What reviewers said

Audio-Technica Awkt

The Audio-Technica AWKT is a premium closed-back over-ear headphone featuring 53 mm dynamic drivers housed in dense kokutan wood cups, delivering a refined and detailed sound signature. It is designed to be relatively easy to drive thanks to its 48-ohm impedance and 102 dB sensitivity, while the included balanced and unbalanced cables add flexibility. With a solid build and moderate passive isolation, it targets audiophiles seeking a high-end wired listening experience.

  • Pro:Detailed, refined sound with strong technical performance
  • Pro:Easy to drive despite high-end positioning
  • Pro:Premium build with dense kokutan wood cups
  • Con:Heavy at 405 g, which may cause fatigue over long sessions
  • Con:Closed-back design limits soundstage compared to open models
  • Con:High price point limits accessibility

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

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New comparisonAudio-Technica AwktFocal Bathys MG