Focal, the French hi-fi company renowned for its exceptional speakers and headphones, has introduced the Hadenys and Azurys, its most accessible open- and closed-back models to date. With prices starting at $549, these headphones offer discerning audio enthusiasts an opportunity to experience Focal’s renowned sound quality at a more approachable price point. Both the Hadenys and Azurys feature the same M-shaped 40mm aluminum/magnesium drivers employed in Focal’s Bathys wireless headphones, which garnered accolades for their exceptional audio performance. Our Bathys reviewer described their sound as ‘transcendent,’ a testament to their exceptional sonic capabilities. While the Hadenys and Azurys are wired headphones, unlike the Bathys, they inherit Focal’s signature design elements, including a plush, padded leather-topped headband, oversized earcups and ear cushions for optimal comfort and sound isolation, and lightweight magnesium earcup yokes. The Hadenys and Azurys also feature Focal’s simplified logo, with the flame shape now rendered as an unbroken 2D line. Notably, these headphones depart from Focal’s traditional left/right cable connections, adopting a single-sided design that likely contributes to their reduced manufacturing costs. Focal recommends the closed-back Azurys for versatile listening in various environments, while the open-back Hadenys is ideally suited for dedicated listening sessions at home or in quieter settings. The Azurys boasts a frequency response ranging from 15Hz to 22kHz, delivering a more pronounced bass response, while the Hadenys offers a frequency response from 25Hz to 22kHz. Both the Hadenys and Azurys come with zippered travel cases and 3.5mm analog cables. The Azurys includes a 4-foot cable with an inline microphone and remote, catering to on-the-go use, while the Hadenys comes with a 6-foot cable and a 1/4-inch adapter for compatibility with home hi-fi systems. The Focal Hadenys and Azurys are compelling options for audio enthusiasts seeking high-quality open- and closed-back headphones without breaking the bank. Their exceptional sound quality, comfortable design, and affordable pricing make them attractive choices for those who value both performance and value.
Focal Hadenys and Azurys: Focal’s Most Affordable Open- and Closed-Back Headphones Yet
