By: CE Critic

Focal, the renowned French audio company, expands its wired headphone lineup with two intriguing additions: the Focal Hadenys and Focal Azurys. Drawing inspiration from precious stones and geological eons, these headphones promise audiophile-grade performance and distinct aesthetics.

Shared DNA: Focal's Precision Engineering

Both the Hadenys and Azurys inherit the core sonic technology from their critically acclaimed wireless sibling, the Focal Bathys. This includes the company's patented 40mm 'M'-shaped dome speaker drivers, crafted from a blend of aluminum and magnesium for exceptional detail and responsiveness across the frequency spectrum. This engineering aims to deliver the clarity and depth Focal is known for.

Key Specifications

Azurys: Closed-Back Versatility and Style

• Design Philosophy: Inspired by the semi-precious stone azurite, the Azurys embraces a unique blue color scheme suggestive of its name. The focus is on portability, with a lightweight, compact build suitable for use both at home and during commutes or travel.
• Sound Profile: The closed-back design prioritizes noise isolation, ensuring minimal disturbances from the environment. This also helps provide a tighter, more focused bass response. Expect the same wide 15Hz to 22kHz frequency range of the Bathys.
• Practical Features: The Azurys ships with a 4ft (1.25m) cable boasting an inline remote and microphone. This enables convenient call handling and music control on compatible devices.

Hadenys: Open Soundstage and Premium Comfort

• Design Philosophy: The Hadenys take their name from the Hadean eon, an early period in Earth's history. Brown earth tones and the choice of materials like genuine leather and a magnesium yoke aim to evoke a sense of warmth and timeless quality.
• Sound Profile: As open-back headphones, the Hadenys prioritize a spacious and airy soundstage, replicating the natural sound dispersion of speakers. This translates to a more immersive listening experience with clear separation of instruments and sounds, making them ideal for critical listening in dedicated home environments.
• Cable and Controls: The 6ft cable will allow for some freedom of movement and includes the same inline remote and microphone features as the Azurys.

Price and Availability

Both the Focal Hadenys and Focal Azurys target a June 2024 launch.

• Focal Hadenys: $699 USD / £599 GBP / €699 EUR
• Focal Azurys: $549 USD / £470 GBP / €549 EUR

Each model will come with a color-matched carrying case and the necessary cables.

Which Focal is Right for You?

The core choice is between isolating audio or an expansive sound experience:

• Azurys is the choice for those who commute, work in shared spaces, or simply prioritize a more compact and travel-friendly design along with strong audio isolation.
• Hadenys caters to the serious audiophile seeking that open-back spaciousness and clarity. These are meant for quiet enjoyment in a dedicated listening area.

Beyond the Technical

While specs matter, remember sound is subjective. If possible, try these headphones with your preferred music to see if they match your tastes. Consider not just the sound, but how the build quality and unique visuals of each model resonate with you.We look forward to the reviews and CE Critic Score.