Skip to content
HearWiki

Focal Bathys MG vs HiFiMAN HE 1000 Unveiled: which should you buy?

On aggregated review scores the HiFiMAN HE 1000 Unveiled comes out ahead with an HearWiki score of 88. The full breakdown - sub-scores, specs and what reviewers actually said - is below.

Our pick: HiFiMAN HE 1000 Unveiled - Outstanding overall at around $2299.

Score breakdown

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

Focal Bathys MG
Sound9.0
Noise cancelling7.5
Battery8.0
Calls7.0
Value6.5
HiFiMAN HE 1000 Unveiled
Sound9.5
Value7.5

Specifications

Specification comparison of Focal Bathys MG vs HiFiMAN HE 1000 Unveiled
SpecFocal Bathys MGHiFiMAN HE 1000 Unveiled
TypeOver-EarOver-Ear
Price (USD)$1499$2299
HearWiki score84 / 100 · Great88 / 100 · Outstanding
Released20242024
Audio
Driver40mm Magnesium ‘M’ profile domeplanar
Driver size40 mm-
Drivers per side22
Frequency response10Hz-22kHz8Hz-65kHz
Impedance-28 Ω
Sensitivity-95 dB/mW
Wireless
Bluetooth5.2-
Bluetooth version5.2-
CodecsAAC, aptX, aptX Adaptive, SBC-
Multipoint pairingYesNo
Battery
Battery life30 h-
Wireless chargingNo-
Features
Active noise cancellingYesNo
ANC typehybrid-
Transparency modeYes-
Companion appYes-
Custom EQYes-
Wear detectionNo-
Controlsbuttons-
Design
Weight350 g450 g
Detachable cable-Yes
Balanced connection-Yes
Calls
Microphones8-

What reviewers said

Focal Bathys MG

The Focal Bathys MG is a premium wireless over-ear headphone that pairs hybrid active noise cancellation with a magnesium driver design for a natural, balanced sound signature. It offers extensive Bluetooth codec support, multipoint connectivity, and a robust feature set, though its standout audio quality comes at a very high price. With around 30 hours of battery life and a comfortable 350-gram build, it targets audiophiles seeking a top-tier wireless experience.

  • Pro:Excellent natural and balanced sound quality
  • Pro:Comfortable fit for long listening sessions
  • Pro:Effective hybrid noise cancellation
  • Con:Very high asking price
  • Con:No wireless charging support
  • Con:Lacks wear detection sensor

HiFiMAN HE 1000 Unveiled

The HE1000 Unveiled is a premium open-back planar headphone that elevates high-end performance with a remarkably expansive, precise soundstage and detailed, engaging vocals. It delivers top-tier resolution and dynamics for its price, though its exposed driver cups demand careful handling and it lacks a 4.4mm cable in the box. Overall, it stands as a highly accomplished flagship for discerning listeners.

  • Pro:Outstanding resolution and dynamics
  • Pro:Very large, precise soundstage
  • Pro:Engaging vocal presentation
  • Con:Exposed cups require careful handling
  • Con:No 4.4mm cable included
  • Con:High price point

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.