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Focal Bathys MG vs Ultrasone Edition 8 EX: which should you buy?

Specs, scores and condensed review verdicts for the Focal Bathys MG vs Ultrasone Edition 8 EX, side by side. Where a product has no HearWiki score yet, not enough reviews have been aggregated to rate it.

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.

  • Focal Bathys MG
  • Ultrasone Edition 8 EX
HearWiki score
83
-
Sound
9.6
-
Noise cancelling
8.4
-
Battery
7.7
-
Calls
7.8
-
Value
6.2
-
Price (USD)
$1,500
$1,800

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 6 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 6 years between them, that is a thin return - treat this as a restyle rather than a new platform.

  • Bathys MG20246 yr newer
  • Edition 8 EX2018
What differsBathys MGEdition 8 EX

Everyday features

USB-C
Yes
No

Specifications

Bathys MGEdition 8 EX
Type
Over-Ear
Over-Ear
Price (USD)
$1,500
$1,800
HearWiki score
83
Not scored
Released
2024
2018
Availability
Still sold new
Discontinued
Driver
40 mm dynamic
40 mm driver
Driver type
dynamic
-
Driver size
40 mm
40 mm
Drivers per side
1
1
Frequency response
10 Hz - 22 kHz
5 Hz - 46 kHz
Impedance
-
38 Ω
Sensitivity
-
96 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
No
Transparency mode
Yes
-
Companion app
Yes
-
Custom EQ
Yes
-
Wear detection
No
-
Controls
buttons
-
Weight
350 g
330 g
Detachable cable
Yes
Yes
USB-C
Yes
No
Connector
USB-C
-
Microphones
8
-

What reviewers said

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

Ultrasone Edition 8 EX

The Ultrasone Edition 8 EX is a premium closed-back over-ear headphone designed for audiophiles who prioritize detailed, immersive sound. It incorporates S-Logic EX technology for a spacious, surround-like soundstage and ULE shielding to minimize electromagnetic emissions, all wrapped in a durable, luxurious build with chrome plating and high-quality leather. As a wired model without ANC, it focuses purely on sonic performance and comfort for critical listening sessions.

  • Pro:Immersive S-Logic EX soundstage enhances spatial imaging
  • Pro:Build quality is excellent with chrome plating and solid aluminium
  • Pro:Comfortable Ethiopian sheep leather ear cushions
  • Con:No active noise cancellation for isolation in noisy environments
  • Con:Relatively low sensitivity may require a powerful amplifier
  • Con:Premium price point is a significant investment

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

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New comparisonFocal Bathys MGUltrasone Edition 8 EX