Noble Audio, makers of wired and wireless in-ear monitors, earphones, and related accessories has released its FoKus Rex5 True Wireless Earbuds with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) for $449 USD.
Each earbud features a new hybrid 5-driver design, which includes a 10mm dynamic driver, a 6mm planar driver, and three balanced armature drivers. This configuration is designed to create an impressive soundstage with full bass, a detailed mid-range, and clear highs across an extended frequency range of 20Hz to 40kHz. Interestingly, this new architecture deviates from the xMEMS driver design previously implemented in FoKus Triumph.
For the first time in a Noble earphone, FoKus Rex5 offers sound personalization by Audiodo. This software integration adapts audio to each user’s hearing needs. The setup process guides listeners through a unique calibration that fine-tunes audio output based on the sensitivity of each ear. The memory capability of a Qualcomm QCC3091 chip stores the listener’s customized profile within the earbuds, making it accessible on any device — no app required.
This feature is also helpful for listeners with uneven hearing, delivering a balanced listening experience that adapts to individual needs.
Bluetooth source support includes aptX Adaptive and LDAC. This enables Rex5 to adapt to different listening sources, ensuring a high-resolution audio performance that should satisfy any music listener.
The Noble FoKus Rex5 earbuds support up to 7 hours of playback without ANC and 5 hours from its rechargeable battery with ANC activated from the earbuds.
The charging carry case can add up to 40 hours of extra playtime so you can top-up on the go with all-day listening. In addition, 15 minutes of fast charging can provide up to approximately two hours of playtime.
ANC technology effectively minimizes external noise, allowing for a more immersive listening experience. Alternatively, Transparency mode enables users to stay aware of their surroundings when needed.
The Noble FoKus Rex5 is compatible with the free FoKus app, which is free and available on Google Play and Apple’s App Store. The app includes a 10-band equalizer with presets and the ability to create custom presets.
The equalizer includes a hearing test function that will personalize your EQ settings based on the results. Transparency Mode can be controlled by the app as well.
The Rex5’s onboard memory feature also enhances EQ capabilities by storing personalized sound profiles directly within the earbuds. So users can enjoy their tailored audio settings across devices and without the need of Noble’s app. Combined with Bluetooth 5.4 and multipoint connectivity, the FoKus Rex5 provides a great deal of flexibility.
Comparison
| FoKus Rex5 | FoKus Triumph | |
| Price | $449 | $369 |
| Drivers (each ear) | 1 x 10mm Dynamic 1 x 6mm Planar 3 x Balanced Armature | 1 x 6.5 mm Dynamic Cowell xMEMS |
| Frequency Response | 20Hz – 40kHz | 20Hz – 20kHz |
| Chipset | QCC3091 | QCC3071 |
| Bluetooth Version | 5.4 | 5.3 |
| Bluetooth Audio Codec Support | SBC, AAC, aptX Adaptive, LDAC | SBC, AAC, aptX, aptX Adaptive, aptX Lossless, LDAC, QSS |
| Bluetooth Multipoint | Yes | Yes |
| Playtime | 5 hours (ANC) 7 hours (ANC/OFF) 40 hours with charging case | 7-8 hours @ 50% volume |
| ANC | Yes | – |
| Transparency Mode | Yes | Yes |
| Noble FoKus App | Yes | Yes |
| Audiodo | Yes | – |
| Microphone | 2 (one for each ear) | 2 (one for each ear) |
| Charging Method | USB Type-C, Wireless | USB Type-C, Wireless |
| Weight | N/A | Earbuds: 7.5 g Earbuds with Case: 35 g |
The Bottom Line
Top models competing in the under $500 premium wireless noise cancelling earbud class include the Sony WF-1000XM5, Sennheiser Momentum 4, Bose Quiet Comfort Ultra, Master & Dynamic MW09, and Bowers & Wilkins Pi8. Although we’re doubtful the FoKus Rex5 outclass Sony or Bose on noise cancelling capabilities alone, we’re optimistic Noble’s hybrid 5-driver design and Audiodo sound personalization could give them an edge in audio fidelity. Stay tuned until we get a listen.
Price & Availability
The Noble FoKus Rex5 is available for order for $449/£419/€499 from NobleAudio.com and selected retailers worldwide.
Related Reading
- Master & Dynamic MW09 True Wireless ANC Earphones: Review
- Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 4 Earphones Review
- Sennheiser Momentum Sport Earbuds Review: a Treat for Your Ears, and Your Heart
- First Listen: Sony’s WF-1000XM5 – the New King of ANC Wireless Earbuds?
