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Focal Bathys MG vs ZMF Auteur: 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.

  • Focal Bathys MG
  • ZMF Auteur
HearWiki score
83
63
Sound
9.6
8.6
Noise cancelling
8.4
-
Battery
7.7
-
Calls
7.8
-
Value
6.2
5.2
Price (USD)
$1,500
$2,430

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 7 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 7 years between them, that is a thin return - treat this as a restyle rather than a new platform.

  • Bathys MG20247 yr newer
  • Auteur2017
What differsBathys MGAuteur

Everyday features

USB-C
Yes
No

Specifications

Bathys MGAuteur
Type
Over-Ear
Over-Ear
Price (USD)
$1,500
$2,430
HearWiki score
83
63
Released
2024
2017
Availability
Still sold new
Discontinued
Driver
40 mm dynamic
50 mm dynamic
Driver type
dynamic
dynamic
Driver size
40 mm
50 mm
Drivers per side
1
1
Frequency response
10 Hz - 22 kHz
10 Hz - 25 kHz
Sound signature
-
neutral-bright
Impedance
-
300 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
Transparency mode
Yes
-
Companion app
Yes
-
Custom EQ
Yes
-
Wear detection
No
-
Controls
buttons
-
Weight
350 g
470 g
Detachable cable
Yes
Yes
USB-C
Yes
No
Connector
USB-C
-
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

ZMF Auteur

The ZMF Auteur is an open-back, wired over-ear headphone from ZMF that pairs a 50mm dynamic driver with a handcrafted wooden design for a distinctive, musical presentation. It delivers a wide, spacious soundstage with intimate vocals and a neutral-bright tuning that emphasizes tonal richness and engaging dynamics. While not purely analytical, its 300-ohm impedance requires a capable amplifier, and its 470g weight makes comfort a consideration for long sessions.

  • Pro:Engaging, musical sound with excellent tonal quality
  • Pro:Wide soundstage and intimate vocal presentation
  • Pro:Beautiful artisanal wooden build and craftsmanship
  • Con:Requires a powerful amplifier due to 300-ohm impedance
  • Con:Relatively heavy at 470g for extended wear
  • Con:Neutral-bright tuning may not suit listeners preferring a warmer signature

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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