Focal today introduced two new over-ear headphones, which extend the style and driver configuration of the brand’s class-leading Bathys wireless noise cancelling headphones into two new wired variations. The new models include Hadenys (ah den ees) open-back headphones ($699) and Azurys (ah zur ees) closed-back headphones ($549), both of which are crafted in France at Focal’s workshops in Saint-Étienne.
Driving both new headphones are the same 40 mm aluminum/magnesium M-dome speaker drivers used for Bathys. However, Focal’s acoustic engineers have adapted their implementation to the open and closed architecture of the headphones and to the needs of everyday use.
Our review of both models is forthcoming. However, Focal proclaims, “They’ll deliver clear, dynamic high-fidelity sound for all styles of music. Bass, midrange and treble blend with precision, bringing clarity to vocals and an immersive sound experience.”
Hadenys Open-back Headphones
These open-design, passive headphones are intended for use at home. Focal says they’ll offer an enveloping sound experience, capturing every musical nuance with great richness. Inspired by The Hadean, an eon in which the Earth was first formed, their brown color evokes a return to source, giving the headphones an organic, timeless style. Added to this are patented Focal technologies and strong design codes, one of the brand’s signatures: honeycomb grilles, genuine leather and breathable woven fabric headband and yoke for even greater comfort and lightness. With Hadenys, Focal’s goal is to deliver a precise, dynamic and warm listening experience at home.
Azurys Closed-back Headphones
Azurys passive headphones have a closed architecture, which makes them suitable for use at home or on the go. They are aimed at all music enthusiasts and lovers who want to enjoy Focal sound through an accessible product. Featuring the same design and the same premium materials as Hadenys – genuine leather, woven fabric, aluminum, magnesium, etc. – Azurys stands out for its unique blueish hue, inspired by Azurite, a semi-precious stone of many virtues. This shade gives the headphones a unique, mesmerizing effect, highlighting their appealing aesthetics.
Comparison
| HADENYS | AZURYS | |
| MSRP | $699 | $549 |
| Type | Circum-aural open-back | Circum-aural closed-back |
| Impedance | 26Ω | 26Ω |
| Sensitivity | 100dB SPL / 1mW @ 1kHz | 100dB SPL / 1mW @ 1kHz |
| THD | 0.2% @ 1kHz / 100dB SPL | 0.3% @ 1kHz / 100dB SPL |
| Frequency response | 25Hz – 22kHz | 15Hz – 22kHz |
| Speaker drivers | 1-5/8″ (40mm) ‘M’-shaped Aluminium/Magnesium dome | 1-5/8″ (40mm) ‘M’-shaped Aluminium/Magnesium dome |
| Weight (without carrying case) | 294g | 306g |
| Cable provided | 6ft (1.8m) mini-jack cable, 1/4” (6.3mm) jack adapter | 4ft (1.25m) mini-jack cable with remote control and microphone |
| Carrying case provided | 9-7/16” x 8-1/4” x 2-3/4’’ (24 x 21 x 7cm) | 9-7/16” x 8-1/4” x 2-3/4’’ (24 x 21 x 7cm) |
Price & Availability
Focal provides each set of headphones with a matching colored carrying case and necessary cables. Both new models are expected to ship in June 2024 at the following prices:
- Focal Hadenys (open-back): $699 / 899$CA / £599 / €699
- Focal Azurys (closed-back): $549 / 699$CA / £470 / €549
For more information, visit: www.focal.com/catalog/headphones
Related Focal Reviews:
- Focal Utopia 2022 Headphones Review ($4,999, open-back flagship)
- Focal Stellia Headphones Review ($2,999, closed-back flagship)
- Focal Clear Mg Headphones Review ($1,499, open-back)
- Focal Celestee Headphones Review ($999, closed-back)
- Focal Bathys Wireless ANC Headphones Review ($699, closed-back, wireless)
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