Noble FoKus Rex5 Review
Noble FoKus Rex5 Review
Introduction:
Founded by John ‘The Wizard’ Moulton in 2013, Noble Audio is renowned for its custom and universal in-ear monitors. The company’s debut product, the K-10, received widespread acclaim. Noble’s continued innovation includes models like the Encore, Katana, and Khan, each earning multiple awards. Since Jim Moulton became a co-owner in 2018, the brand has expanded into the true wireless market, releasing products like the Falcon Pro and FoKus Pro, as well as the all-wood FoKus Prestige TWS.
The FoKus Rex5 is the latest TWS IEM of the company, a hybrid five-driver system, featuring 1 x 10mm dynamic, 3x Balanced Armature, 1 x Planar driver. This configuration aims to provide a detailed audio experience. A key feature is the integration of Audiodo sound personalization technology, which allows users to create custom listening profiles.
This functionality is enabled by the QCC3091 chip and is designed to work across devices without requiring a separate app. It feeaures advanced audio codecs including aptX Adaptive, and LDAC and he Rex5 offers a claimed battery life of up to 7 hours without Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) and 5 hours with ANC enabled. The charging case is stated to provide an additional 40 hours of playtime. A 15-minute quick charge is advertised to provide up to 2 hours of playback. The earbuds include both ANC and Transparency modes, allowing users to adapt to different listening environments. Moreover, the Rex5 also supports advanced audio codecs, including aptX Adaptive and LDAC.
This review will cover the features, battery life, and especially the sound performance of the FoKus Rex5.
Disclaimer:
I would like to thank Noble Audio and Jackrabbit for providing me the FoKus Rex5 TWS Earphones for review purposes. I am not affiliated with Noble Audio and Jackrabbit beyond this review and these words reflect my true and unaltered opinions about the product.
Price & Availability:
The actual price for the Noble FoKus Rex5 TWS Earphone is 449.00 US$. More information’s can be found under the link below;
Package & Accessories:
The Noble FoKus Rex5 arrives inside a relatively small square shaped black box with a cardboard sleave that shows the illustration of the FoKus Rex5 and some product related features and brandings on its surface.
This box FoKus Rex5 contains the following items/accessories;
- 1x Noble FoKus Rex5 TWS Earphones
- 1x Charging Case
- 9x pairs of Silicone Ear Tips
- 1x USB Type-C Charging Cable
- 1x Carry Pouch
Design & Build Quality:
Taking a close look at the Noble FoKus Rex5, the first thing that catches my eye is the faceplate. It’s a striking design, with an almost marbled green and gold pattern swirling across it. This definitely gives the monitors a unique and premium look. The subtly placed gold Noble Audio logo adds to the overall aesthetic without being overpowering.
The monitors house a hybrid five-driver configuration consisting of a 10mm dynamic driver, a 6mm planar driver, and three balanced armature drivers. This configuration supports a frequency range of 20Hz to 40kHz.
The monitor housing itself looks quite ergonomic. The angled sound nozzle fits comfortably and securely in my ear canal.
A thin golden band wrapping around the side adds a touch of elegance and refinement. It’s a small detail that makes a big difference.
Looking closer at the faceplate, you’ll see a small opening above the Noble Audio logo, which is the microphone opening.
Near the bottom corner of the faceplate is an LED light indicator that provides information about the FoKus Rex5’s status (charging, pairing, etc.).
The FoKus Rex5 is equipped with a touch-sensitive sensor located behind the faceplate. It’s tactile and responsive.
Looking closer at the inner surface of the sound nozzle, I can see the Noble Audio branding etched on the inside, with a fine filter behind it. It’s a nice touch, showing attention to detail.
Near the sound nozzle on the side of the monitor shell is another small opening dedicated to acoustic purposes.
Turning the monitor over, I can see the charging connectors on the inner surface. They magnetically snap into the charging case easily, which is always convenient. The inner surface features also the L (Left) / R (Right) indicators.
Overall, my impression is that the Rex5’s design blends style and practicality. It’s definitely eye-catching, but it also seems designed with comfort and functionality in mind. It feels like a well-thought-out and premium product.
Charging Case & Battery Life:
The Noble FoKus Rex5 comes with a compact, stylish, and incredibly small and lightweight charging case, crafted from anodized aluminum for durability and a premium feel. This robust material not only protects the earbuds but also adds a touch of sophistication to the overall design. Its rounded rectangular shape and flip-top lid make it conveniently pocketable and easy to open, perfect for slipping into a pocket or bag.
The case sports a matching green color with a subtle shimmer, echoing the unique marbled pattern of the earbuds themselves, further enhanced by the NOBLE logo in a debossed oval plaque on the top.
Inside, precisely molded compartments hold the earbuds securely in place, with charging contacts at the base. The lid opens smoothly to reveal the earbuds nestled inside.
The case features several practical elements. Charging ports align with the earbuds for effortless charging, and strategically placed LED indicators display charging status and pairing information.
A modern USB Type-C port is located on the rear side for efficient charging of the case itself, and a reset button is included for troubleshooting and pairing issues.
The charging case houses a 500mAh battery, while each earbud contains a 45mAh battery. This combination allows for up to 4.5 – 5 hours of playtime with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) on, and up to 6.5 – 7 hours with ANC off. A quick 15-minute charge provides approximately 50% battery life, which is a convenient feature.
It takes approximately 1.5 hours to charge the earbuds fully and 2 hours to charge the case. The case accepts a 5V-1A input for charging, and, for added convenience, the charging case supports wireless charging, providing a truly cable-free charging experience.
The LED indicators provide clear feedback on the charging status of both the earbuds and the case. Overall, the charging case, with its durable anodized aluminum construction, remarkably small and lightweight form factor, and versatile charging options, is an integral part of the FoKus Rex5 experience, ensuring extended playtime and convenient charging options, including the modern and versatile wireless charging capability.
Technical Specifications:
- Model : FoKus Rex5
- Driver Configuration : 1x 10mm Dynamic Driver, 1x 6mm Planar Driver, 3x Balanced Armature Drivers
- Frequency Response : 20Hz – 40kHz
- Chip : QCC3091
- Bluetooth Version : 5.4
- Audio Codecs : SBC, AAC, aptX Adaptive, LDAC
- Multipoint connection : Yes (2 devices)
- Playtime : 5 hours (ANC), 7 hours (ANC off) – Additional from charging case
- Modes : ANC, Transparency, Basic
- App Compatibility : Updated Noble FoKus App with Audiodo integration
Connectivity:
Pairing the Noble FoKus Rex5 was easy. Taking the earbuds out of the case put them right into pairing mode, and connecting them to my phone was quick and simple. Since then, they’ve connected automatically every time, which I appreciate. It just works, and I don’t have to think about it. This easy connectivity is powered by the Qualcomm QCC3091 Bluetooth chip, which also supports advanced audio codecs, including AAC, SBC, aptX Adaptive and LDAC. These codecs, along with Bluetooth 5.4 and multipoint connectivity, allow the FoKus Rex5 to adapt to various audio sources, devices and easily switching between connections.
The listed range is about 10 meters, which seems to be typical for earbuds like these. What stood out to me, though, was how solid the connection was. I was able to walk around my house, even with walls between my phone and the earbuds, and the signal stayed strong. I didn’t have any of those annoying dropouts that can ruin your listening experience.
I also used the FoKus Rex5 for phone calls with my Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra. The call quality was good enough for everyday use. I could hear the other person clearly, and they seemed to understand me without any problems. I haven’t tried them in really noisy places yet, but for regular calls, they’ve been fine. It’s handy to be able to use them for both music and calls without having to switch devices.
Comfort & Isolation:
The Noble FoKus Rex5 earbuds offer a pretty decent fit and comfortable experience for extended listening. While individual ear shapes vary, the design generally sits securely in the ear canal without causing discomfort, at least for a reasonable duration.
The comfortable fit of the FoKus Rex5 contributes to effective passive isolation, which does a good job of blocking out some ambient noise. Beyond passive isolation, the Rex5 features Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) technology. While the ANC performance may not quite reach the level of competitors like the Sony WF-1000XM4 or XM5, it effectively minimizes external noise.
When awareness of your surroundings is needed, the Ambient (Transparency) mode comes in handy, allowing external sounds to filter through without removing the earbuds. This is particularly useful for situations where you need to hear announcements or engage in conversations without pausing your audio.
Noble FoKus APP:
Noble FoKus APP is a quite useful application that you can download from Google Play (Android) and App Store (iOS) that offers also a sound personalization feature that has been implemented in collaboration with Audiodo. The setup process in the app included a hearing test, which involved playing different tones and prompting the user to tap when they could hear them. This straightforward process aims to tailor the sound specifically to the user’s ears. After completing the test, the app generated a custom sound profile. This profile is saved within the FoKus Rex5, allowing for personalized sound across different devices without relying solely on the app.
After running the Audiodo calibration, there was a noticeable difference in the overall sound quality. The audio seemed more balanced and clearer, especially in the frequencies that might have been previously missed. This feature is designed to enhance the listening experience by adapting to individual hearing profiles.
Beyond the Audiodo personalization, the app also provides control over other useful features. Users can adjust the Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) settings directly from the app, which is convenient. It also offers preset EQ options and even allows for the creation of custom EQ profiles for further sound fine-tuning. Additionally, the app enables control of playback functions – such as play, pause, etc. – directly from the app, which is a handy addition for those moments when reaching for the phone is not ideal.
Equipment’s used for this review:
- TWS IEM’s : Noble FoKus Rex5
- Paired Sources : Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra, Sony WM1ZM2, iBasso DX340
Albums & tracks used for this review:
- Adele – My Little Love
- Randy Crawford – On Day I Will Fly Away
- Aretha Franklin – I Say a Little Prayer
- Hayley Westenra – Odyssey Album
- Dionne Warwick – Walk On By
- Sarah McLachlan – Angel
- Edith Piaf – Non Je Ne Regrette Rien
- Diana Krall – So Wonderful (DSF)
- Dave Gahan – Kingdom
- Sting – Englishman in New York
- Barry White – Just The Way You Are
- Isaac Hayes – Walk On
- Elton John – Rocket Man
- Eric Clapton – Wonderful Tonight
- Sting – Englishman in New York
- Casey Abrams – Robot Lovers
- Fazıl Say – Nazım Oratoryosu (Live)
- Chopin – Nocturn No. 20 In C-Sharp Minor
- Vivaldi – Le QuarttroStagioni “The Four Seasons”
- Otto Liebert & Luna Negra – The River
- Gogo Penguin – Raven
- Lunatic Soul – The Passage
- Metallica – Sad but True
- Megadeth – Sweating Bullets
- Rush’s – Leave That Thing Alone
- Slayer – Angel of Death
- Liquid Tension Experiment 2 – Acid Rain
- Lorde – Royal Massive Attack – Angel
- Toutant – Rebirth
- Really Slow Motion – Deadwood
- Daft Punk (feat. Panda Bear) – Doin’ it Right
- Massive Attack – Angel
- Bear McCreary – Valkyries (Gof of War)
- Muse – The Handler
- Twerl – Lishu
- U2 – Sunday Bloody Sunday
- Yosi Horikawa – Bubbles
The Sound:
The Noble FoKus Rex5 true wireless IEMs are designed to deliver a well-balanced and detailed audio experience. They provide a deep and controlled bass, a rich and nuanced midrange, and a refined, articulate treble. The soundstage is relatively wide for true wireless IEMs, offering good instrument separation and a convincing sense of space. Overall, the Rex5 aims to provide a reliable and enjoyable listening experience across various musical genres without overemphasizing any particular frequency range.
Now, let’s move on to a more detailed analysis:
Please note that the Noble FoKus Rex5 review was written after an approximate 45–50 hours burn-in period. My sound impressions are primarily based on pairings with Bluetooth sources such as the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra, Sony WM1ZM2, and iBasso DX340.
Bass:
The bass performance of the Noble FoKus Rex5 stands out for its depth and control. It effectively reaches into the sub-bass frequencies, adding texture and richness to the music. This characteristic can be particularly beneficial for genres like electronic or orchestral music, where low frequencies play a crucial role. A good example is the deep synth pulses in electronic music or the rumble of timpani drums in classical compositions, which are conveyed with notable realism. Importantly, this depth doesn’t result in a boomy or overpowering presence. The bass remains precise and balanced, avoiding muddiness or distortion. This control is audible in how the Rex5 handles complex basslines, such as those found in jazz or progressive rock, where each note is distinct and well-defined.
Although the bass may not be earth-shattering, it still provides a strong base with enough punch and rhythmic drive to make it suitable for a variety of genres. Whether it’s the beat of a rock song or the subtle pulse of a hip-hop track, the Rex5’s bass ensures a reliable and enjoyable experience. Even though it may not cater to those specifically seeking extreme bass emphasis, the Rex5’s low-end is well-defined and supportive of the entire sonic spectrum. Additionally, the bass responds well to EQ adjustments, allowing listeners to tailor the response to their preferences.
Midrange:
The midrange of the Rex5 is noteworthy for true wireless IEMs. It’s rich, detailed, and nuanced, contributing significantly to the overall listening experience. The midrange reproduction is natural and lifelike, providing realistic timbre to instruments and vocals. Clarity and detail in this frequency range allow for an appreciation of subtle nuances in recordings. For example, the fingerpicking of a classical guitar, the breathiness of a saxophone, or the textures of a cello’s bowing are rendered with fidelity. Vocals, both male and female, are presented with clarity and presence, conveying emotion without harshness.
There are moments when the midrange may feel slightly recessed in complex mixes. The midrange sits comfortably in the overall mix, balancing with the bass and treble, creating a cohesive sound. This balanced approach makes the Rex5 suitable for various musical styles. The richness and texture in this frequency range are commendable, enhancing the listening experience. In a well-recorded jazz quartet, individual instruments like the upright bass, piano, saxophone, and cymbals are clearly distinguishable, creating an engaging experience. Even complex orchestral pieces are handled with precision, with the midrange clarity ensuring that individual instruments remain distinct.
Treble:
The treble on the Rex5 is refined and articulate, with a touch of airiness that adds a sense of space to the music. It extends well, providing clarity and detail in the higher frequencies, yet remains balanced and non-fatiguing. This smooth and detailed treble avoids harshness or sibilance, contributing to the overall balanced sound signature of the Rex5. It adds a welcome sparkle and airiness to the music, enhancing the listening experience. For example, the delicate shimmer of cymbals in jazz music is rendered with clarity and precision.
Similarly, the nuances of acoustic guitar strings are conveyed with a delicate touch. Occasionally, the treble may appear slightly subdued in extremely dynamic tracks. The extended treble also contributes to a sense of spaciousness and airiness, particularly noticeable in orchestral music. The high frequencies of violins and other string instruments add a sense of grandeur. The Rex5’s treble handles these frequencies with composure, ensuring the music remains enjoyable even during long listening sessions.
Soundstage & Imaging:
The soundstage of the Noble FoKus Rex5 is relatively wide for true wireless IEMs, creating a convincing sense of space and instrument placement. This enhances the listening experience and adds realism to the music. Instrument separation is excellent, preventing congestion and allowing each musical element to breathe. While the soundstage might not be as expansive as some over-ear headphones, it is still impressive for this category. In some instances, the soundstage can feel somewhat narrow with very complex tracks. The imaging is precise, contributing to the accurate placement of instruments within the soundstage. This, combined with the wide soundstage, creates a sense of depth and dimension, adding to the enjoyment of the listening experience.
Conclusion:
The Noble FoKus Rex5 true wireless IEMs are thoughtfully designed and feature-rich, appealing to both audiophiles and casual listeners. A hybrid five-driver system powers the Rex5, aiming to deliver a musical yet detailed audio experience. Audiodo sound personalization technology further enhances the listening experience, allowing users to create custom sound profiles tailored to their individual hearing.
The Rex5 boasts premium build quality, featuring a striking marbled design and ergonomic fit. Advanced audio codecs, including aptX Adaptive and LDAC, combined with the Qualcomm QCC3091 chip, ensure reliable connectivity and solid sound performance across various devices. The earbuds’ battery life, supplemented by the charging case’s additional 40 hours, offers ample playtime for extended listening sessions.
Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and Transparency modes add versatility, allowing users to adapt to different listening environments. While the ANC performance may not be class-leading, it still provides effective noise reduction for most situations. The accompanying Noble FoKus app, with its sound personalization feature and intuitive controls, adds further value and convenience.
Overall, the Noble FoKus Rex5 aims to provide a well-rounded and enjoyable listening experience. Its combination of detailed audio performance, thoughtful design, and advanced features makes it a solid option for those seeking reliable true wireless IEMs.
Pros & Cons:
- + Lush, Musical and Detailed Sound Profile
- + Deep and controlled bass
- + Rich and nuanced midrange
- + Refined and articulate treble
- + Wide soundstage and good instrument separation (for a TWS IEM)
- + Premium build quality with striking design
- + Tiny Charging Case that offers Wireless Charging
- + Advanced audio codecs (aptX Adaptive, LDAC) & Robust connectivity
- + Intuitive Noble FoKus app with useful features (Audiodo sound personalization)
- – ANC performance not top-tier
- – Pricier compared to some competitors
- – Battery Life could be slightly longer
Thank you for the Read!
