Noble Audio FoKus Prestige Encore vs Devialet Gemini II
Introduction
The FoKus Prestige Encore and Gemini II are premium TWS offerings from Noble Audio and Devialet. Both TWS are designed to deliver high-resolution sound and convenient wireless features on the go.
We go over key differences in design, sound, features, and price to help you pick the right TWS for your audio needs.
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FoKus Prestige Encore vs Gemini II Price Comparison
The FoKus Prestige Encore and Gemini II are flagship TWS models from Noble Audio and Denon, respectively. Here are their respective prices:
The FoKus Prestige Encore comes in at $699.00.
The Gemini II comes in at $499.00.
The price difference is significant between these TWS models, with the Prestige Encore costing about $200 more than the Gemini II.
Let's dive deep into the specs, design, sound signatures, and features of these wireless IEMs so you can get a better idea of what each brings to the table.
The Noble Audio FoKus Prestige Encore
The FoKus Prestige Encore is Noble Audio’s flagship next-gen TWS. It upgrades the original Prestige with a more advanced tribrid driver system, improved wireless tech, and a lighter, more ergonomic CNC-machined wood design.
Noble Audio FoKus Prestige Encore Features:
- Precision CNC-Machined Solid Wood Earbuds and Charging Case
- Tribrid Driver System (Dynamic + Balanced Armature + Planar)
- Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling + Transparency Mode
- High-Resolution Wireless Codecs (aptX Lossless, aptX Adaptive, LDAC)
- Dual-Mic cVc Noise Suppression for Calls
- Multipoint Pairing + TrueWireless Mirroring
- Audiodo Personalized Sound Calibration
- Custom EQ, Touch Control Remapping, and Firmware Updates via App
- Wizard-Tuned Signature with Improved Detail and Imaging
Noble Audio FoKus Prestige Encore Specs:
Driver Configuration: 1× 8mm Dynamic Driver, 2× Balanced Armature Drivers, 1× 6mm Planar Driver
Chipset: Qualcomm QCC3091
Bluetooth: 5.4 with Multipoint
Codecs: aptX Lossless, aptX Adaptive, LDAC, AAC, SBC
Noise Control: Hybrid ANC + Transparency Mode
Call Tech: Dual-Mic Qualcomm cVc
Battery Life: Up to 10 hours (ANC Off), 7 hours (ANC On), approx. 35 hours total with case
Charging: USB-C, Qi Wireless Charging, 10-minute fast charge ≈ 2 hours playback
Body/Case: Precision CNC-Machined Solid Wood
Touch Controls: Yes
Sound Signature: Wizard Tuned
The Devialet Gemini II
The Devialet Gemini II is a flagship TWS known for its audiophile-grade sound quality, proprietary acoustic technology, and premium design.
Gemini II Top Features:
- 10mm titanium-coated dynamic drivers with Devialet signature sound
- Devialet Adaptive Noise Cancellation with up to 40dB noise reduction and IDC technology
- Active Wind Reduction (AWR) with dedicated hardware and software algorithms
- 6-band customizable EQ with six built-in sound profiles
- Bluetooth 5.2 with aptX codec and 2-device multipoint connectivity
Gemini II Specs:
Driver Configuration: 10mm Titanium-Coated Dynamic Driver
Bluetooth Version: 5.2
Supported Codecs: SBC, AAC, aptX
Battery Life: Up to 5 hours per charge. 22 hours total with case
Charging: USB-C and wireless charging. 1h40 to fully charge earbuds
Water Resistance: IPX4 (earbuds only)
Design and Build Quality
The Noble Prestige Encore and Gemini II go for completely different design goals. The Noble Audio FoKus Prestige Encore leans into a bold, IEM-style handcrafted build for audiophile performance, while the Gemini II goes for a futuristic, pill-shaped design for enhanced fit and comfort.
The FoKus Prestige Encore uses CNC-machined solid wood shells and a matching wood case, giving each set a unique grain pattern that adds a premium, handcrafted feel. The earbuds are slimmer than the previous model, and their more ergonomic shape improves long-term comfort while keeping the bold Prestige aesthetic of the original model.
Metal-reinforced, triple-vented nozzles enhance durability and airflow for a more stable seal and consistent sound. Overall, the FoKus Prestige Encore delivers a luxurious build that looks unique and while also offering enhanced comfort and durability for day-to-day use.
The Gemini II features Devialet's iconic pill-shaped design reminiscent of their Phantom speakers. The earbuds have an elegant look with an unobtrusive D logo and metallic-coated plate. Each earbud weighs just 6g and comes in three colors: Matte Black for understated elegance, or Iconic White and Opéra de Paris Gold for a more striking appearance.
The earbuds use an in-ear design with four silicone ear tip sizes (XS, S, M, L). They insert with a slight twist backward to "screw" into place for a secure seal. The fit takes a few seconds to dial in but becomes easier with use. The earbuds have IPX4 water resistance for workouts and light rain.
The compact charging case is sleek and functional with a magnetic lid. It's similar in size to AirPods Pro and Sony WF-1000XM5 cases. The case supports wireless charging alongside USB-C, making it convenient for everyday use.
Sound Signature
You're probably looking to see how these TWS IEMs stack up in terms of sound. We'll share our thoughts here, although keep in mind this information tends to be anecdotal and subjective.
FoKus Prestige Encore Sound Signature
The FoKus Prestige Encore uses a hybrid three-way driver system with a balanced, warm-neutral sound signature. It features an 8mm dynamic driver, dual Knowles balanced armatures, and a 6mm planar-magnetic driver working together to give you a refined, full-spectrum sound with wide soundstage and precise imaging.
Bass
The dynamic driver delivers controlled, weighty low end with good texture and detail. It's got solid punch and depth without being overpowering. Kick drums and basslines hit with impact but stay refined and precise, sitting nicely behind the mids without dominating the signature.
Midrange
The balanced armatures handle vocals and instruments with clarity and natural texture. This is where the Encore really shines. Guitars, pianos, and voices come through articulate and lifelike, with that transparent quality that makes everything feel present and real.
Treble
The planar driver gives you airy, extended highs with speed and micro-detail. Cymbals and hi-hats sparkle with a clean, defined quality without any harshness or fatigue. The treble has just enough air and extension to keep things open and spacious.
Best Genres for the Prestige Encore
The Prestige Encore handles pretty much any genre you throw at it. It's incredibly balanced and dynamic, so you can do serious analytical listening or just kick back and enjoy your music. It really excels with vocal-heavy tracks, acoustic music, jazz, and classical where that transparency and detail shine.
Rock, pop, EDM, and orchestral tracks sound great too, with the controlled bass and wide soundstage keeping everything engaging and immersive.
Gemini II Sound Signature
The Gemini II uses a 10mm titanium-coated dynamic driver with a detailed, slightly V-shaped sound signature that emphasizes bass and treble. It features Devialet's proprietary Internal Delay Compensation (IDC) technology delivering rich, powerful sound with impressive resolution.
Bass
The titanium-coated driver delivers deep, powerful bass with exceptional texture and control. The low end has strong emphasis down to 5Hz with tight, well-defined impact. Kick drums and basslines hit hard with authority, capable of crushing lows for EDM while reigning it back for classical music. The bass is bold and versatile without getting muddy.
Midrange
Vocals are the standout here - delivered masterfully with an airy and spacious presentation. Male and female voices come through with exaggerated but pleasing spaciousness. Instruments maintain their texture and detail even when the bass is working hard, though mids can feel slightly recessed compared to the emphasized bass and treble.
Treble
The highs are crisp and expertly controlled with excellent resolution and openness. Cymbals and hi-hats sound crisp and clear. The treble is never aggressive but adds significant detail and air, making these sound closer to high-end wired IEMs than typical TWS.
Best Genres for the Gemini II
The Gemini II handles any genre with impressive versatility. It excels with EDM, electronic, rock, and pop where that powerful bass and detailed highs add excitement. Classical, acoustic, and jazz benefit from the exceptional detail retrieval and wide soundstage. These are among the best-sounding TWS available.
Price and Value
The Noble Audio FoKus Prestige Encore is the more expensive TWS in this comparison, costing around $200 more than the Gemini II.
Is the Prestige Encore Worth It?
At $699, the Prestige Encore sits in premium territory alongside flagship TWS like the AirPods Pro 3, Sony WF-1000XM5, and Bowers & Wilkins Pi8.
What sets it apart is that hybrid tribrid driver setup with the planar tweeter, which you just don't see in most wireless earbuds. You're also getting that full wooden construction on the housings and case, Audiodo personalized sound calibration that is stored directly on the buds, and support for high-res codecs like aptX Lossless and LDAC.
If you're an audiophile who wants serious sound quality without being tethered to a wire, the Encore delivers performance that rivals wired IEMs.
Is the Gemini II Worth It?
At $449 (€399, £349), the Gemini II sits at the very top of the premium TWS market, above Sony WF-1000XM5, Bose QuietComfort Ultra, and just below the FoKus Prestige Encore.
For that price, you're getting exceptional sound quality - among the best-sounding TWS available, even compared to high-end wired IEMs. The 10mm titanium-coated drivers combined with Devialet's IDC acoustic technology deliver rich, detailed sound with impressive dynamic range and crystal-clear resolution.
The adaptive ANC is strong with up to 40dB noise reduction, and the Active Wind Reduction works effectively. The 6-band EQ and built-in profiles let you fine-tune the sound, though the default tuning is already excellent. Battery life is average at 5 hours per charge, shorter than Sony or Technics. The 2-device multipoint with smart switching works seamlessly.
Our Thoughts
Each option delivers a different balance of sound quality, features, and value. Whether you prioritize audiophile-grade sound, ecosystem integration, or premium craftsmanship, there's a standout choice for you here.
The Noble Audio FoKus Prestige Encore - Who Is It For?
The Prestige Encore is for audiophiles who want the best wireless sound quality money can buy.
You get a unique tribrid driver setup with a planar tweeter, premium wooden construction, personalized sound tuning, high-res codec support, and wired IEM-level performance in a truly wireless package.
At $699, it's competing with flagship TWS but offers something most can't: that refined, balanced signature with exceptional detail retrieval and soundstage. Skip it if you need aggressive bass, long battery life beyond 8 hours, or can't justify spending this much on wireless earbuds. But if sound quality is your top priority and you want the craftsmanship to match, the Encore is one of the best TWS on the market.
The Prestige is perfect if you want bold, exciting sound with powerful bass in a premium wireless package. You get beautiful wooden construction, a hybrid driver setup, expansive soundstage, 10-hour battery life, and that signature warm, bass-heavy Noble tuning.
The Gemini II - Who Is It For?
The Gemini II is perfect if you want the best-sounding TWS money can buy and budget isn't a concern. You get audiophile-grade sound with powerful, textured bass, gorgeous vocals, crisp highs, exceptional detail retrieval, adaptive ANC with wind reduction, aptX codec support, and premium design. At $449, it's ideal for audiophiles who refuse to compromise on sound quality in a wireless package.
Skip it if you need longer battery life (5 hours won't cut it for long flights), want better value (Sony XM5 or Technics AZ100 offer 85% of the performance at lower prices), or don't prioritize sound quality above all else. But if you want wireless earbuds that genuinely compete with high-end wired IEMs and deliver the most detailed, dynamic sound available in TWS, the Gemini II is the clear choice despite the premium price.
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