Luxury audio brand Focal is returning to its roots by launching two new wired headphones: the Hadenys and the Azurys. At a glance, they appear to be a direct successor to the 2022 Bathys wireless headphones. The upcoming models will include the same 40mm “M-shaped dome speaker drivers”, so you can expect at least similar audio quality, if not identical output. . We praised the Bathys for its “stunning musical clarity, depth and space.” All three even have similar designs with ‘genuine leather’, headphones with breathable woven fabric and cups covered with a honeycomb grille.
Every device has its own style, but the Azurys most resembles the previous model.
You see, the Azurys are closed-ear headphones. For those who don’t know, a closed-ear design means the device is better at blocking out ambient noise. Sound from other sources won’t leak in and the content you’re listening to won’t leak out. This makes the Azurys the best option for use in an office or other noisy environment. It’s important to note that neither pair supports active noise cancellation, according to a company representative. They don’t have this feature, which means outside noise can interrupt your music to some extent. Although the effects with the closed design may not be too impressive.
These headphones are also better at handling bass. Like the Bathys, it has the same frequency response, ranging from 15 Hz to 22 kHz. The Azurys comes with a 1.25 m long cable, equipped with a remote control button and microphone for calls.
Open-ear option
The Hadenys are very different in that they are open-ear headphones. This pair offers a better immersive listening experience, as open-ear designs can better replicate natural sound. So if you really want to dive into that new jazz or hip-hop album and listen to all the intricacies of its production, the Hadenys are the superior choice. You can only enjoy the high audio quality at home. The problem with open ears is that they provide little to no sound insulation. Outside noise will disrupt music playback, and everyone nearby will hear what you’re listening to.
Their frequency response isn’t that wide, ranging from 25 Hz to 22 kHz, although most listeners probably won’t even notice the difference. Focal’s Hadenys weighs 294 grams, while the latter weighs 306 grams. It’s not a huge gap, but it makes the model more comfortable to wear. The audio cable is also longer, measuring a total of 6 feet with the same control button and microphone.
Both headphones will be launched in June. An exact date was not given. The Hadenys will be available for $699/£599/€699 and the Azurys will cost $549/£470/€549.
If you want something more budget-friendly, check out Ny Breaking’s list of the best cheap headphones for 2024.
