Noble Audio FoKus Prestige Encore vs Sony WF-1000XM5
Introduction
The FoKus Prestige Encore and WF-1000XM5 are premium TWS offerings from Noble Audio and Sony, 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 WF-1000XM5 Price Comparison
The FoKus Prestige Encore and WF-1000XM5 are flagship TWS models from Noble Audio and Sony. Here are their respective prices:
The FoKus Prestige Encore comes in at $699.00.
The WF-1000XM5 comes in at $249.00.
The price difference is significant between the FoKus Prestige Encore and WF-1000XM5, with the Prestige Encore costing $450 more than the WF-1000XM5.
Let's dive deep into the specs, design, sound signatures, and features of these Noble Audio TWS 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 Sony WF-1000XM5
The Sony WF-1000XM5 is a flagship TWS known for industry-leading noise cancellation, exceptional sound quality, and comprehensive app features that set the benchmark for premium earbuds.
WF-1000XM5 Features:
- Industry-leading ANC: Three microphones per earbud with QN2e processor for best-in-class noise cancellation
- 8.4mm Dynamic Driver X: Larger driver with improved clarity and detail across all frequencies
- LDAC codec support: High-resolution audio for Android users (plus SBC, AAC, LC3)
- Bluetooth 5.3 with multipoint: Connect to two devices simultaneously
- Wireless charging: Both USB-C and Qi wireless charging with 3-minute quick charge for 60 minutes playback
WF-1000XM5 Specs:
Driver Configuration: 8.4mm Dynamic Driver X
Bluetooth Version: 5.3
Supported Codecs: SBC, AAC, LDAC, LC3
Battery Life: Up to 8 hours with ANC on, 12 hours with ANC off. 24 hours total with charging case
Charging: USB-C and Qi wireless charging. 3-minute quick charge = 60 minutes playback
Water Resistance: IPX4 (splash and sweat resistant)
Design and Build Quality
The Noble Prestige Encore and WF-1000XM5 feature completely different design goals. The Noble Audio FoKus Prestige Encore leans into a bold, IEM-style handcrafted build for audiophile performance, while the WF-1000XM5 opts for a sleeker, more refined everyday design focused on convenience 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 WF-1000XM5 features a completely redesigned aesthetic with a sleeker, more ergonomic profile. The earbuds are 25% smaller and 20% lighter than their predecessor, weighing just 5.9g each. They sit more inside the ear's contours rather than protruding, providing a discreet, comfortable fit. The design uses glossy plastic on the outer surface with matte touch control areas, available in Black or Silver (platinum).
Sony includes four different-sized polyurethane foam ear tips that provide outstanding passive isolation and are more comfortable than silicone for extended wear. The earbuds feature an adjusted angle and ergonomic nozzles that significantly improve comfort over the XM4.
The charging case is 15% smaller with a speckled matte coating that's noticeably more pocketable. It supports both USB-C and Qi wireless charging with magnetic earbud retention. The XM5 delivers excellent build quality with IPX4 water resistance, making these suitable for workouts and outdoor 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.
WF-1000XM5 Sound Signature
The WF-1000XM5 uses an 8.4mm Dynamic Driver X with a balanced, slightly warm sound signature that emphasizes clarity and detail. Sony's Integrated Processor V2 with QN2e HD Noise Cancelling processor and DSEE Extreme upscaling deliver exceptional sound quality with improved resolution and wide soundstage.
Bass
The larger driver delivers controlled, textured bass with excellent sub-bass extension and rumble. The low end has solid presence without being overwhelming, making kick drums and basslines hit with authority while staying tight. The bass is engaging and well-defined, though bass-heads may want more punch for EDM or hip-hop.
Midrange
The mids are clear, detailed, and well-positioned with excellent instrument separation. Vocals and instruments come through with natural timbre and nuanced details. Guitars, pianos, and voices maintain exceptional texture and articulation, staying present even in complex mixes.
Treble
The highs are smooth, extended, and noticeably improved over the XM4. Cymbals and hi-hats have excellent presence and sparkle without harshness or sibilance, providing definition and air that makes these ideal for long listening sessions without fatigue.
Best Genres for the WF-1000XM5
The WF-1000XM5 excels across virtually all genres with its refined, detailed tuning. It's exceptional for pop, rock, and metal with energetic dynamics, while classical and jazz sound intimate with excellent separation. The smooth treble and balanced signature make these perfect for both critical listening and extended listening sessions.
Price and Value
The Noble Audio FoKus Prestige Encore is the more expensive TWS in this comparison, costing around $450 more than the WF-1000XM5.
Prestige Encore Value
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. It's definitely a luxury purchase, but the craftsmanship, tech, and sound quality back up the price tag.
WF-1000XM5 Value
Originally priced at $299-$328, the WF-1000XM5 can now be found for around $174-$228, making it an outstanding value for a current-generation flagship.
At these prices, you're getting the best ANC available in true wireless earbuds, exceptional sound quality with refined detail, comprehensive app features, and solid 8-hour battery life with wireless charging. The LDAC codec support benefits Android users, while the IPX4 rating and improved comfort make these suitable for daily wear and workouts.
At current discounted prices, the XM5 offers exceptional value as a near-current flagship with technology that leads the pack. The sound quality, ANC performance, and feature set easily justify the cost, especially at the lower end of the price range where these are arguably the best value in premium TWS earbuds.
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 Sony WF-1000XM5 - Who Is It For?
The WF-1000XM5 is perfect if you want the absolute best noise cancellation with excellent sound quality in a comfortable, compact package.
You get detailed, balanced tuning, industry-leading ANC, comprehensive app features, Bluetooth multipoint, wireless charging, IPX4 water resistance, and 8-12 hour battery life. At current prices around $174-$228, these set the standard for ANC performance in true wireless earbuds, ideal for travelers, commuters, and critical listeners.
Skip them if you need maximum bass impact for EDM and hip-hop, or if you prefer silicone tips over foam. If you're satisfied with the XM4, the improvements may not justify upgrading unless you specifically need better comfort, wireless charging, or enhanced ANC. But if you want best-in-class noise cancellation with refined sound quality at discounted prices, the XM5 is the benchmark that others are measured against.
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