Over-Ear
Focal Bathys
86Outstanding
$799
Full review dataFocal Bathys vs STAX SR-L300: which should you buy?
On aggregated review scores the Focal Bathys comes out ahead with an HearWiki score of 86. The full breakdown - sub-scores, specs and what reviewers actually said - is below.
Our pick: Focal Bathys - Outstanding overall at around $799.
Over-Ear
STAX SR-L300
78Great
$660
Full review dataScore breakdown
Each axis is a 0–10 blend of what reviewers scored, not a lab measurement.
Focal Bathys
Sound9.5
Noise cancelling7.5
Battery8.5
Value7.0
STAX SR-L300
Sound8.5
Value7.0
Specifications
| Spec | Focal Bathys | STAX SR-L300 |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Over-Ear | Over-Ear |
| Price (USD) | $799 | $660 |
| HearWiki score | 86 / 100 · Outstanding | 78 / 100 · Great |
| Released | 2022 | 2016 |
| Audio | ||
| Driver | 40mm Aluminium/Magnesium ‘M’-shaped dome | electrostatic |
| Driver size | 40 mm | - |
| Drivers per side | 2 | 1 |
| Frequency response | 15Hz-22kHz | 7Hz-41kHz |
| Impedance | - | 145000 Ω |
| Sensitivity | - | 101 dB/mW |
| Wireless | ||
| Bluetooth | 5.1 | none |
| Bluetooth version | 5.1 | - |
| Codecs | AAC, aptX, aptX Adaptive, SBC | - |
| Multipoint pairing | Yes | No |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | 30 h | - |
| Battery life (ANC on) | 30 h | - |
| Quick charge | 5 hours in 15 minutes | - |
| Wireless charging | No | No |
| Features | ||
| Active noise cancelling | Yes | No |
| ANC type | hybrid | none |
| Transparency mode | Yes | No |
| Companion app | - | No |
| Custom EQ | - | No |
| Wear detection | - | No |
| Controls | - | none |
| Voice assistant | Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa | - |
| Design | ||
| Weight | 350 g | 323 g |
| Water resistance | none | - |
| Detachable cable | - | No |
| USB-C | Yes | No |
| Calls | ||
| Microphones | 8 | - |
What reviewers said
Focal Bathys
The Focal Bathys are premium wireless over-ears that blend high-fidelity audio with everyday convenience. They feature adaptive ANC, a USB-C DAC mode for hi-res wired listening, and support for aptX Adaptive, making them a top pick for sound-focused users who also want wireless flexibility. While their noise cancellation is solid but not the absolute best in class, their impressive battery life and versatile connectivity options stand out in the premium segment.
- Pro:Excellent sound quality with detailed, dynamic drivers
- Pro:USB-C DAC mode enables high-resolution wired audio
- Pro:Strong battery life, often exceeding rated figures in tests
- Con:ANC is competent but not class-leading
- Con:High price point limits accessibility
- Con:Real-world wireless endurance may fall short of claims in some scenarios
STAX SR-L300
The STAX SR-L300 is an entry-level electrostatic headphone that delivers exceptional clarity and vocal-focused tuning, making it a strong pick for audiophiles seeking a specialized listening experience. Its lightweight build and wide frequency response are highlights, but it requires a dedicated electrostatic amplifier, which significantly increases the total investment. This is a niche, system-oriented purchase rather than a casual consumer headphone.
- Pro:Excellent vocal reproduction and clarity
- Pro:Very lightweight for an electrostatic model
- Pro:Wide frequency response with impressive detail
- Con:Requires a dedicated amplifier, raising total cost
- Con:Lacks bass emphasis, not for bass-heavy listeners
- Con:No built-in controls or wireless features
Summaries are AI-condensed and paraphrased from published reviews and specs - not original hands-on testing. More on our method.
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