The hybrid driver system we love on IEMs is now on over-ear headphones, thanks to Noble Audio.
Noble Audio is stepping into new territory with its first-ever headphone model, the FoKus Apollo.
But, these headphones aren’t just another entry in the crowded headphone market. They’re set to change things up with a hybrid driver system that’s never before seen in the industry.
FoKus Apollo Features
The FoKus Apollo have the world’s first hybrid driver arrangement of a 40 mm dynamic driver with a 14.5 mm planar magnetic driver in over-ear headphones.
You might be confused since hybrid setups aren’t exactly new in the audio world. But, what makes the FoKus Apollo different is how they use this in full-sized headphones.
Typically, over-ear headphones use either dynamic drivers or planar magnetic drivers, but not both in the same headphone.
Sure, some in-ear monitors (IEMs) have used hybrid setups before. But, this mix in full-sized, over-ear headphones is a world-first according to Noble Audio.
This patented design aims to deliver the best of both worlds. The dynamic driver brings strong bass, while the planar magnetic driver handles the mids and highs with the finesse and accuracy it’s famous for.
But, that’s not all. Complementing this driver setup is a host of features designed to make them sound even better.
For one, the FoKus Apollo have a wide frequency response of 10-40kHz. This extends well beyond the human hearing range to catch every tiny detail in your music.
These headphones also work with many high-quality audio formats, including LDAC, aptX HD, aptX, AAC, and SBC, all sent through Bluetooth 5.3. So, whether you’re playing music from your phone or listening to lossless audio files, you’re getting the best wireless sound possible.
Of course, as premium wireless headphones, the FoKus Apollo doesn’t skimp on modern features.
First off, they use advanced noise-cancelling tech, with an ADI chip and three mics on each side to lower outside noise by up to 35 dB. And, when you need to stay aware of your surroundings, a transparency mode has got you covered.
Aside from these, Noble has also addressed battery concerns typical to powerful wireless headphones.
Thanks to the QCC3084 chip with Ultra-Low-Power ANC technology, you can enjoy up to 80 hours of playback with ANC off, or 60 hours with it on. And, when it’s time to recharge, the 1000mAh battery can be full in less than three hours.
Plus, if you ever run out of battery, the FoKus Apollo also offer both USB-C and 3.5mm wired connections.
Personalization is key in the audio world, and Noble Audio gets it.
That’s why you have the FoKus app that lets you tweak the EQ settings to your heart’s content, so you can get the perfect sound for your taste or for different types of music. This app also lets you control noise-cancelling levels and transparency mode settings, giving you full control over what you hear.
Communication is another strong suit of the FoKus Apollo.
With six built-in mics for your voice and a removable boom mic for times when you need to be extra clear, these headphones work well whether you’re on a casual call, in a work meeting online, or playing games.
There’s also a mute switch to quickly turn off all mics, which is handy in different situations.
Technical specifications
- Form Factor: Over-ear headphones
- Drivers: 40mm dynamic driver + 14.5mm planar magnetic driver per ear
- Frequency Response: 10-40kHz
- Bluetooth Version: 5.3
- Audio Codecs: LDAC, aptX HD, aptX, AAC, SBC
- ANC: Hybrid, up to 35dB reduction
- Battery Life: 80 hours (ANC off), 60 hours (ANC on)
- Battery Capacity: 1000mAh
- Charging Time: <3 hours
- Microphones: 6 integrated + detachable boom mic
- Chip: QCC3084 with Ultra-Low-Power ANC
- Connectivity: Bluetooth, USB-C, 3.5mm auxiliary
- App Support: Noble FoKus app for personalized settings
Where to Buy
You can now buy the Noble Audio FoKus Apollo on the official Noble Audio website for $649.
These headphones come with an EVA carrying case, a two-prong airline adapter, USB-C and 3.5 mm cables, and a 1/4″ adapter for high-end headphone amplifiers.