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Focal Bathys MG vs Yamaha Yh-4000: 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.

  • Focal Bathys MG
  • Yamaha Yh-4000
HearWiki score
83
81
Sound
9.6
9.2
Noise cancelling
8.4
-
Battery
7.7
-
Calls
7.8
-
Value
6.2
7.3
Price (USD)
$1,500
$2,500

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 Yamaha Yh-4000 is 2 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, Transparency mode, Custom EQ and Companion app.

  • Bathys MG2024
  • Yh-400020262 yr newer
What differsBathys MGYh-4000

Everyday features

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

Specifications

Bathys MGYh-4000
Type
Over-Ear
Over-Ear
Price (USD)
$1,500
$2,500
HearWiki score
83
81
Released
2024
2026
Availability
Still sold new
Sold new
Driver
40 mm dynamic
50 mm planar magnetic
Driver type
dynamic
planar
Driver size
40 mm
50 mm
Drivers per side
1
1
Frequency response
10 Hz - 22 kHz
5 Hz - 70 kHz
Impedance
-
34 Ω
Sensitivity
-
97 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
ANC type
-
none
Transparency mode
Yes
No
Companion app
Yes
No
Custom EQ
Yes
No
Wear detection
No
No
Controls
buttons
none
Weight
350 g
320 g
Foldable
-
No
Detachable cable
Yes
Yes
USB-C
Yes
No
Pad material
-
leather
Connector
USB-C
3.5 mm
Balanced connection
-
Yes
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

Yamaha Yh-4000

The Yamaha YH-4000 is a premium open-back planar magnetic headphone that prioritizes raw, uncolored sound over convenience, with a lightweight 320g build and a wide 5 Hz–70 kHz frequency response. It delivers exceptional detail, clean transient handling, and low distortion at typical listening volumes, making it a top-tier choice for audiophiles who value transparency and comfort over features like noise cancellation or wireless connectivity. As a wired-only model with a 3.5mm balanced option, it demands a dedicated amplifier to shine, but rewards with a composed, airy presentation.

  • Pro:Exceptional detail retrieval and composure
  • Pro:Very comfortable for extended listening
  • Pro:Low distortion and clean transient handling
  • Con:No active noise cancellation
  • Con:Wired-only, no USB or wireless options
  • Con:Requires a good amp due to low sensitivity

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 MGYamaha Yh-4000