Noble Audio FoKus Rex5 vs Sony WF-1000XM5
Introduction
The Noble Audio FoKus Rex5 and Sony WF-1000XM5 are premium true wireless earbuds known for their advanced features and audiophile-grade sound quality. Let's take a look at each model and discuss key differences in design, sound, features, and price, so you can find the right wireless earbuds for you.
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FoKus Rex5 vs WF-1000XM5 Comparison
The FoKus Rex5 and WF-1000XM5 sit at two different price categories.
The FoKus Rex5 comes in at $459.00.
The WF-1000XM5 comes in at $299.00.
The FoKus Rex5 costs significantly more than the WF-1000XM5. Let's discuss the specs, design, sound signatures, and features of these wireless earbuds, so you can choose the right one for you.
The Noble Audio FoKus Rex5
The FoKus Rex5 is Noble Audio's newest TWS offering. It features a five-driver hybrid configuration and packs advanced sound personalization features to give audiophiles a true high-resolution sound experience on the go.
FoKus Rex5 Features:
- Hybrid five-driver setup: 1 dynamic, 1 planar, and 3 balanced armature drivers
- Active Noise Cancelling (ANC), Transparency, and Basic modes
- Bluetooth 5.4 with multipoint connectivity
- Support for SBC, AAC, aptX Adaptive, and LDAC codecs
- Audiodo integration for personalized sound profiles
- Updated Noble FoKus App compatibility
- Battery life: 5 hours with ANC on, 7 hours with ANC off; charging case provides additional 40 hours
FoKus Rex5 Specs:
Driver Configuration: 1 (10mm) dynamic driver, 1 (6mm) planar driver, 3 balanced armature drivers
Frequency Response: 20Hz – 40kHz
Bluetooth Version: 5.4
Audio Codecs: SBC, AAC, aptX Adaptive, LDAC
Battery Life: 5 hours (ANC on), 7 hours (ANC off); charging case provides additional 40 hours
Charging Case: Aluminum with wireless charging
Additional Features: Multipoint connection (2 devices), ANC, Transparency, and Basic modes
The Sony WF-1000XM5
The Sony WF-1000XM5 is a premium TWS known for its exceptional noise cancellation technology, high-resolution sound, and convenient features.
WF-1000XM5 Features:
- Dynamic Driver X for rich vocals and enhanced detail.
- Integrated Processor V2 and Noise-Canceling Processor QN2e for superior ANC performance.
- Bluetooth 5.3 with support for SBC, AAC, and LDAC codecs.
- IPX4 water resistance rating.
- Multipoint connection supporting two devices simultaneously.
WF-1000XM5 Specs:
Driver Configuration: 8.4mm Dynamic Driver X
Frequency Response: 20–20,000 Hz (44.1 kHz sampling) | 20–40,000 Hz (LDAC 96 kHz sampling 990 kbps)
Supported Codecs: SBC, AAC, LDAC, LC3
Battery Life: Max. 8 hrs (NC ON) | Max. 12 hrs (NC OFF)
Charging: USB charger | Wireless charger (with case)
Design and Build Quality
The FoKus Rex5 features a bold green design for its charging case and earbuds. The earbuds feature a combination of aluminum and acrylic with a unique green/black marble design for the faceplates. The charging case is built from lightweight yet robust aluminum and comes in a matte green color.
The Sony WF-1000XM5 is constructed primarily from high-quality plastic. The earbuds feature a compact rounded design with gloss sides and matte textures on the touch-sensitive panels. The charging case also features a compact plastic build with a matte coating to match the earbuds. The WF-1000XM5 comes with Black, Silver, and Smoky Pink color options.
Sound Signature
You're probably looking to see how these wireless earbuds stack up on sound. We'll share our thoughts here, although keep in mind this information tends to be anecdotal and subjective.
FoKus Rex5 Sound Signature
The FoKus Rex5 features an engaging and detailed sound signature with impactful bass, detailed vocals, and sparkly highs.
The bass on the Rex5 reaches deep into the sub-bass and offers a good rumbly sensation in bassy music. Mid-bass punch is strong, giving kick drums and beats an authoritative impact. The midrange on the Rex5 is clear and detailed - vocals on the Rex5 sound clear and realistic, especially the female vocals. The treble is well-extended and detailed without harshness.
The soundstage on the Rex5 is slightly narrow but offers precise sound positioning for an immersive sound experience.
WF-1000XM5 Sound Signature
The WF-1000XM5 delivers high-quality sound characterized by deep bass and detailed highs. The bass is strong and impactful, the midrange is clear, natural, and accurate, while the treble is clear and detailed. The WF-1000XM5's energetic tuning makes it great for listening to bass-heavy genres like R&B or EDM.
The WF-1000XM5 soundstage offers a more realistic presentation, offering excellent separation between instruments and realistic sound positioning.
Price and Value
The $459 FoKus Rex5 packs a five-driver hybrid configuration, Active Noise Cancelling with Transparency Mode, Bluetooth 5.4, LDAC support, and Audiodo Sound Personalization.
The $299 WF-1000XM5 boasts a powerful 8.2mm Dynamic Driver X, Integrated Processor V2 and Noise Cancelling Processor QN2e for superior ANC performance, Bluetooth 5.3 with LDAC support, IPX4 water resistance, and up to 8 hours of playback with ANC on.
Our Thoughts
Get the Noble Audio FoKus Rex5 if you want the absolute best sound quality in a wireless IEM. Its five-driver configuration and detailed sound make it an excellent TWS for high-resolution music listening on the go. You also get advanced features like ANC with Transparency Mode, support for LDAC streaming, Audiodo Sound Personalization, and up to 7 hours of continuous listening (ANC off).
The Sony WF-1000XM5 boasts impressive ANC and sound quality. If you're looking for a lightweight, compact, and durable pair of TWS that lets you enjoy your music without the noise, the WF-1000XM5 is the one to get. With its 8-hour battery life and LDAC support, you can enjoy all-day high-resolution music playback anywhere you go.
Another wireless IEM to consider is the HIFIMAN Svanar Wireless LE. It features a Topology Driver with the Hymalaya R2R DAC for detailed and natural sound, IPX5 water resistance, and ANC/ENC for noise-free listening.
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