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Dan Clark Audio E3 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 6 of 7 measures.

  • Dan Clark Audio E3
  • Focal Bathys MG
HearWiki score
77
83
Sound
9.2
9.6
Noise cancelling
-
8.4
Battery
-
7.7
Calls
-
7.8
Value
8.1
6.2
Price (USD)
$2,300
$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

Focal Bathys MG (2024) against Dan Clark Audio E3 (2023). These are 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 Multipoint pairing, USB-C, Transparency mode and Custom EQ.

  • E32023
  • Bathys MG20241 yr newer
What differsE3Bathys MG

Everyday features

Multipoint pairing
No
Yes
USB-C
No
Yes
Transparency mode
No
Yes
Custom EQ
No
Yes
Companion app
No
Yes

Specifications

E3Bathys MG
Type
Over-Ear
Over-Ear
Price (USD)
$2,300
$1,500
HearWiki score
77
83
Released
2023
2024
Availability
Discontinued
Still sold new
Driver
76 mm planar magnetic
40 mm dynamic
Driver type
planar
dynamic
Driver size
76 mm
40 mm
Drivers per side
1
1
Frequency response
20 Hz - 20 kHz
10 Hz - 22 kHz
Impedance
27 Ω
-
Sensitivity
90 dB/mW
-
Bluetooth
-
5.2
Codecs
-
SBC, AAC, aptX, aptX Adaptive
Multipoint pairing
No
Yes
Wireless range
-
15 m
Battery life
-
30 h
Battery life (ANC on)
-
30 h
Full charge time
-
90 min
Quick charge
none
-
Wireless charging
No
No
Active noise cancelling
No
Yes
ANC type
none
-
Transparency mode
No
Yes
Companion app
No
Yes
Custom EQ
No
Yes
Wear detection
No
No
Controls
none
buttons
Voice assistant
No
-
Weight
455 g
350 g
Water resistance
none
-
Detachable cable
-
Yes
USB-C
No
Yes
Connector
6.35 mm
USB-C
Balanced connection
Yes
-
Microphones
-
8
Call noise reduction
No
-

What reviewers said

Dan Clark Audio E3

The Dan Clark Audio E3 is a high-end closed-back planar magnetic headphone that delivers a spacious, reference-grade sound signature with refined tuning and strong technical performance. Its 76mm driver and advanced acoustic design make it a top contender in its price class, though it benefits from a capable amplifier to reach its full potential. With a comfortable fit and premium build, it's aimed at discerning listeners seeking a closed-back alternative to open-back reference models.

  • Pro:Reference-level clarity and detail
  • Pro:Spacious soundstage for a closed-back design
  • Pro:Comfortable fit for long listening sessions
  • Con:Requires a good amplifier to sound its best
  • Con:Heavy at 455 grams
  • Con:No detachable cable or balanced option in stock form

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.

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