True wireless earbuds are among the most versatile and innovative pieces of audio technology today. While brands like Sennheiser and Sony dominate the market with models like the Momentum True Wireless 4 and WF-1000XM5, audiophiles seeking elevated audio quality may look elsewhere. Fortunately, premium audio brands like Bowers & Wilkins and Noble Audio have entered the true wireless arena, offering models that cater to discerning listeners. In this review, we’ll compare two standout options: the Bowers & Wilkins Pi8 and the Noble Audio FoKus Rex5, priced at $399 and $449, respectively. Let’s break down their features to determine which might suit your needs best.

What Comes In The Box

Aesthetics and Functionality

When it comes to design, the Noble Audio FoKus Rex5 and Bowers & Wilkins Pi8 exhibit distinct characteristics that cater to different user preferences. The Rex5 features a bold aesthetic, with its vibrant green finish accented by luxurious gold details, making a statement of style and sophistication. On the other hand, the Pi8 takes a more understated approach with a selection of elegant color options, including jade green, dove white, and anthracite black, appealing to users who prefer a classic and refined look. Both models include multiple ear tip sizes to ensure a comfortable fit, but the Pi8’s compact design offers a more discreet and seamless appearance when worn.

In terms of functionality, the Rex5 and Pi8 provide intuitive controls, albeit with different approaches. The Rex5 utilizes a physical button for pairing and mode adjustments, which offers a tactile and reliable interface that minimizes accidental activations. Conversely, the Pi8 employs touch-sensitive controls, which allow for effortless navigation through playback, mode switching, and call management. While the touch controls on the Pi8 are highly responsive and convenient, some users may find the physical button on the Rex5 to be more dependable, particularly in active or outdoor scenarios.

Another critical aspect of usability is the overall comfort and fit during extended use. The Pi8’s lightweight build and ergonomic design make it an excellent choice for long listening sessions, as it nestles snugly into the ear without causing fatigue. The Rex5, while slightly larger, still manages to maintain a comfortable fit thanks to its thoughtful design and the inclusion of a variety of ear tip sizes. However, its more pronounced form factor may be less appealing to users seeking a minimalist profile.

Both earbuds are designed with practicality in mind, but the Pi8’s emphasis on lightweight comfort and sleek aesthetics gives it an edge for users prioritizing ease of wear and subtle design. On the other hand, the Rex5’s bold styling and tactile controls make it a compelling choice for those who value a distinctive look and reliable functionality.

Tech Specs

Looking at these lists, the technical specifications between these two earbuds seem quite starkly different. The Pi8 relies on solely a 12mm carbon cone dynamic driver, while the Rex5 is equipped with 3 different types of drivers. However, upon closer inspection, they actually only have a few notable differences. They each have multipoint connection and Bluetooth 5.4, and support the same codecs. You get ANC, Transparency, and Basic modes in all three, and an app to do some fine tuned adjustments. The Rex5 takes this tuning a level up with Audiodo, a personalized sound software where the earbuds take a reading of your ear. The Pi8 does not have this, but instead comes with a high-performance DSP with a dedicated DAC/Amp. 

Listening Review

Soundstage & ANC

The Pi8 offers a wider soundstage with a focus on height and depth, creating an immersive listening environment with precise imaging. Its ANC is effective, maintaining consistent frequency response while reducing ambient noise. Conversely, the Rex5 presents a more intimate soundstage, positioning audio closer to the listener while excelling in spatial imaging and depth. Its ANC is similarly effective, isolating external noise to enhance the listening experience. While the Pi8 appeals to those seeking a spacious and immersive sound, the Rex5 caters to listeners who prefer a more focused and intimate audio presentation.

Low Frequencies

The Pi8 delivers a powerful and dominant low end, driven by its carbon cone dynamic driver. Sub-bass frequencies are prominent, creating a strong foundation for tracks, though they may require adjustment for better balance. In contrast, the Rex5 achieves a well-balanced bass response, offering warmth and depth without overpowering other frequencies. It excels at maintaining clarity and definition, even during bass-heavy passages. The Pi8 is ideal for listeners who enjoy a bass-forward sound, while the Rex5 is better suited for those who prefer a refined and balanced low-frequency presentation.

Midrange Frequencies

The Pi8 emphasizes midrange clarity and texture, rendering instruments and vocals with precision. Its natural placement of elements makes it suitable for a variety of genres and even film scores. On the other hand, the Rex5’s midrange shines with tonal accuracy and coherence, delivering a rich and natural timbre that excels in complex arrangements. While both models handle midrange frequencies exceptionally well, the Pi8 leans toward dynamic presentation, and the Rex5 offers a more harmonically balanced and engaging experience. 

High Frequencies

The Pi8’s high frequencies, while detailed, feel slightly overshadowed by its dominant low end. However, with adjustments, the treble gains balance and adds subtle color to tracks without being piercing. The Rex5, in contrast, delivers a bright and detailed treble that complements its bass warmth, offering a smooth and natural response. Its treble extension enhances subtle nuances, maintaining an organic quality. Listeners seeking bright and airy highs will gravitate toward the Rex5, while the Pi8’s highs cater to those who prefer a softer and more understated treble presence. 

Summary

The Bowers & Wilkins Pi8 and Noble Audio FoKus Rex5 are both excellent options for true wireless earbuds, catering to different preferences and needs. Sitting at only $50 apart in price, the earbuds are right at the same price for someone looking to splurge on a gift for themselves. If you value a spacious soundstage, lightweight comfort, and intuitive usability, the Pi8 stands out as the better choice. On the other hand, the Rex5 excels in personalized sound, tonal accuracy, and a balanced frequency response, making it ideal for listeners who prioritize a refined and engaging audio experience. Both models showcase exceptional craftsmanship and audio performance, proving that premium sound can be achieved in a compact, wireless form. 

You can get the Noble FoKus Rex5 and the Bowers & Wilkins Pi8 at Audio46.