If you've been eyeing Focal's premium Bathys MG wireless headphones but wanted something a little more understated, there's now a new option. Focal has announced a Graphen Grey finish for the Bathys MG, adding a cooler, more subtle look alongside the existing warm-toned Chestnut version.
Under the hood, nothing is changing. This is a design refresh rather than a new model, which means you're still getting Focal's flagship wireless headphone platform with active noise cancelation, Bluetooth connectivity, USB-DAC support, and the company's French-made magnesium "M"-shaped drivers.
The new Graphen Grey finish is expected to arrive in late June 2026 for $1,499 USD, matching the price of the Chestnut version.
When the Bathys MG first launched, it came in a Chestnut finish that leaned heavily into Focal's luxury aesthetic, combining warm colors, metal accents, and the company's signature illuminated logo on the earcups. The new Graphen Grey version keeps the same design, materials, and construction but takes things in a more restrained direction.
According to Focal, the finish draws inspiration from mineral tones and raw materials. In practical terms, if you prefer audio gear that blends in rather than stands out, this version may be more appealing. The grey finish should also pair more naturally with everyday travel gear, office setups, and neutral-colored accessories.
That might seem like a minor change, but when you're spending $1,499 on a pair of headphones, aesthetics matter. These aren't the kind of headphones most people buy as a simple upgrade from AirPods Max, Bose QuietComfort Ultra, or Sony's WH-1000XM6. Instead, they occupy a more specialized category: wireless headphones designed for listeners who still care deeply about hi-fi sound quality, premium materials, and flexible wired listening options.
The biggest technical highlight remains the driver technology. The Bathys MG uses 40mm magnesium "M"-shaped dome drivers that are designed and manufactured by Focal in France. The goal is to bring some of the company's high-end audiophile expertise into a portable wireless headphone.
Key features include:
One of the most interesting features is the USB-DAC mode. When you connect the Bathys MG via USB-C, it can function more like a wired digital headphone, allowing playback at resolutions up to 24-bit/192kHz. If you listen from a laptop, tablet, or smartphone, this gives you a higher-resolution listening option while still letting you switch back to Bluetooth when convenience matters most.
HomeTechnologyReview editor Indiana Lang reviewed the Focal Bathys MG in 2025 and awarded them our Highly Recommended distinction. In his testing, he found that the headphones stood out most for their sound quality, comfort, and versatility rather than offering the absolute best noise cancelation on the market.
That's an important distinction if you're considering a pair. If your primary goal is maximum ANC performance for flights or daily commuting, Bose and Sony still make very compelling alternatives. Focal's approach is different. The company focuses on delivering strong noise reduction while placing greater emphasis on sound quality and a more hi-fi-oriented listening experience.
In his review, Lang praised the Bathys MG for their wide soundstage, detailed presentation, controlled bass response, and excellent USB-DAC performance. He also pointed out a few drawbacks: the headphones are fairly large, the carrying case takes up noticeable space in a bag, and the premium price makes them difficult to recommend as an everyday wireless headphone for casual listeners.
That balance is worth keeping in mind. The Bathys MG is designed for a specific type of buyer. If you want the convenience of wireless headphones but don't want to sacrifice the feel and performance of a more serious listening setup, these are the kinds of headphones that make sense.
The Focal Bathys MG Graphen Grey will be available starting in late June 2026 for $1,499 USD. If you prefer the original look, the Chestnut finish remains available through retailers such as Crutchfield at the same price.
With Graphen Grey, Focal isn't reinventing the Bathys MG. Instead, it's giving you another style option. The Chestnut version offers a warmer, more expressive appearance, while Graphen Grey delivers a cleaner, more understated look.
If you're already considering the Bathys MG, your decision may come down more to personal taste than technical specifications. The technology remains exactly the same, but the new finish gives Focal's flagship wireless headphones a different personality, one that feels a bit more subtle and easier to blend into everyday life.
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