Noble Audio’s debut in the over-ear headphone market is turning heads with the new FoKus Apollo, a unique hybrid design that combines planar magnetic and dynamic drivers. This rare blend represents a significant leap in audio engineering, appealing to audiophiles eager for superior sound clarity and depth. With a price tag positioning them firmly in the high-end market, the FoKus Apollo delivers an experience designed for dedicated listeners who value uncompromising sound quality.
Design and Build: Elegant, Yet Polarizing
The Noble FoKus Apollo has a distinct look that immediately sets it apart. It’s not a subtle design; it’s a fusion of sophisticated curves and metallic finishes, creating a premium feel. The cans are lined with plush leather for comfort, though the weight of the headphones might feel excessive during extended wear. Noble has opted for a single color scheme—grey with silver and black accents—lending the Apollo a classic, albeit slightly ‘techy,’ aesthetic.
However, this striking design does come with some flexibility limitations. While the ear cups rotate horizontally, they don’t pivot vertically, which can impact the fit for users with specific head shapes. Additionally, the non-foldable structure, while sturdy, could be a consideration for those who prioritize portability.
Features and Usability: Functionality with Room for Growth
The features of the FoKus Apollo focus on essential audio settings rather than a vast array of customization options. The accompanying Noble FoKus app provides basic EQ adjustments and noise cancellation controls but lacks the extensive in-app customizations available on some competitors. A 10-band equalizer allows users to fine-tune the sound according to their preferences, though the preset options may feel limited for users who enjoy frequent sound adjustments.
Active noise cancellation (ANC) is one of the Apollo’s notable features, providing a satisfactory reduction of background noise. However, ANC performance is middling, allowing some ambient sounds, such as heavy rain or bus rumbles, to seep through. The Apollo’s “ambient mode” is helpful for keeping aware of surroundings but may not match the noise-canceling prowess of leading competitors like the Sony WH-1000XM5 or Bose QuietComfort Ultra.
One feature that falls short is the microphone performance. While Noble claims excellent call quality, users may struggle with clarity unless they attach the included external boom mic. This design choice may limit the Apollo’s appeal for professionals who rely on consistent call quality without additional accessories.
Sound Quality: A Symphony of Depth and Clarity
Where the Noble FoKus Apollo truly excels is in sound quality. Equipped with a unique hybrid system—a combination of 49mm dynamic drivers and 14.5mm planar magnetic drivers—the Apollo delivers a rich, expansive soundstage with outstanding instrument separation. This combination of driver types allows the headphones to handle complex audio with ease, providing an immersive experience for listeners.
Treble and mid-range frequencies shine on the Apollo, with crystal-clear highs that capture subtle details in each track. The mids are balanced, maintaining clarity without overwhelming other frequencies, making the Apollo ideal for classical, jazz, or acoustic genres. Bass is substantial but refined, though users seeking an extremely bass-heavy experience may find it slightly understated in the default tuning.
One area for potential improvement is the lack of Dolby Atmos or other 3D sound support, which would further enhance the immersive quality of the soundstage. For audiophiles who prioritize high-quality audio codecs, the Apollo offers versatility with support for LDAC, aptX, aptX HD, AAC, and SBC.
Battery Life: An Audiophile’s Dream
Battery life is where the Noble FoKus Apollo outshines much of its competition. With up to 60 hours of listening time with ANC active and an impressive 80 hours with ANC off, these headphones are ideal for long-haul travelers and audio enthusiasts who dislike frequent charging. For context, many top-tier headphones offer around 30 hours of battery life on a single charge, making the Apollo’s performance in this area truly exceptional.
Value for Money: Is the Premium Price Justified?
Priced at $649, the Noble FoKus Apollo sits in a competitive price range among luxury headphones. While they lack some advanced features like automatic noise-canceling adjustments or ultra-customizable EQs, the audio quality, premium materials, and extensive battery life add value. Buyers also benefit from the generous accessories included—such as a protective case, additional cables, and a boom mic—ensuring these headphones are ready for a wide range of setups.
While the price may deter casual listeners, dedicated audiophiles will find the Apollo’s high-fidelity sound experience hard to match in this price range. For those willing to invest in a premium audio experience, the Noble FoKus Apollo offers a well-rounded package that is worth considering.
Final Verdict: Who Should Buy the Noble FoKus Apollo?
The Noble FoKus Apollo is designed for audiophiles who prioritize sound quality and battery life over other functionalities. While the lack of foldability and less sophisticated noise-canceling might not suit everyone, the Apollo is an excellent choice for those who demand an immersive and balanced listening experience. With its innovative hybrid driver setup, it’s a standout in audio performance, even among high-end headphones.