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Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.
What reviewers think
Bloggers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below. Links to full reviews follow.
All
Sultan Custom Fit (Acrylic)
reviews
Manufacturer details
- Build Time: 6–8 weeks (after receiving ear impressions)
- Shell Material: Acrylic (custom-fit)
- Base Model: Sultan IEM
Brand highlights
Taking a step back to look at reviewers' thoughts of the brand's entire lineup—not just this product—what stands out most is the following:
- Noble’s product line features custom-built balanced armature drivers, meaning they are engineered specifically for their IEMs rather than using off-the-shelf components.
- They use a unique hybrid driver configurations in their IEMs, such as their "quadbrid" design that incorporates dynamic, balanced armature, electrostatic, and bone conduction drivers within a single product.
Select products
Noble FoKus Rex5
- Positioning: A wireless in-ear model designed for users seeking personalized sound with high portability.
- Description: Features a hybrid five-driver configuration and Audiodo sound personalization that tailors audio based on individual hearing, providing a dynamic and adaptive listening experience. Compared to the wired and over-ear models in the lineup, it offers wireless convenience at a lower price point, making it ideal for budgets and on-the-go use.
Stage 3
- Positioning: A wired in-ear monitor built for musicians and performing artists.
- Description: Features a 3-driver architecture that combines a 10mm dynamic driver with two balanced armature drivers for rich lows, detailed mids, and sparkling highs. Compared to models like the wireless Rex5 and over-ear Apollo, it focuses on performance in live settings with purpose-built durability and specialized cable options for better stage functionality.
FoKus Apollo
- Positioning: An over-ear headphone crafted for audiophiles demanding high-quality sound and versatile connectivity.
- Description: Features a hybrid design that pairs a 40mm dynamic driver with a 14.5mm planar magnetic driver, delivering an expansive soundstage with clear mids and punchy bass. Compared to in-ear monitors such as the Rex5 and Stage 3, it offers a more immersive listening experience with premium build elements and extensive connection options.
Viking Ragnar (Universal Fit)
- Positioning: A flagship wired in-ear monitor featuring robust, high-end construction for professional audio applications.
- Description: Features an all-metal design that includes two 10mm dynamic bass drivers, four balanced armature drivers, and four electrostatic drivers, ensuring a balanced and detailed frequency response. Compared to the lower-priced models in the lineup, it delivers premium craftsmanship and performance for studio or critical listening environments.
Viking Prestige Universal
- Positioning: A top-tier wired universal in-ear monitor that represents the pinnacle of in-house design and sonic performance.
- Description: Features an advanced driver setup combining dual 10mm dynamic drivers, four balanced armature drivers, and four electrostatic drivers, delivering an exceptionally balanced soundstage with meticulous driver matching and premium connectivity. Compared to other products in the lineup, this model is engineered for users seeking the utmost in sonic accuracy and build quality.
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Used
Noble
What if you spend more?
Our first headphones represent a new and ground-breaking development which pushes the magneto-static principle to the point of perfection. We have designed these open headphones with no hint of compromise and without regard to cost, for we had only one goal in mind: musical reproduction to the very highest standard of perfection. The headphone transducer systems are of sophisticated construction, and all components and sub-assemblies are manufactured to the tightest of tolerances using precision tools. Wherever possible and sensible, the headphones employ aluminium components machined from solid metal. The ingenious construction of the diaphragms, drive magnets and sound guides linearises the sound field and the dispersion characteristics. Music is reproduced without distortion: the Solitaire P adds nothing and takes nothing away. Totally natural reproduction is the first commandment for all T+A devices.
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Product Strengths
- Well-balanced, clear, and detailed sound suitable for a wide range of music genres
- Exceptional micro and macro-dynamic performance
- Bass response has a quick, impactful 'slam' and is technically impressive
- Comfortable for long listening sessions due to quality materials and design
- Substantial build quality, using high-quality materials like aluminum and Alcantara
Product Considerations
- Treble can be a bit blunted and dark in the stock tuning, potentially requiring EQ adjustment for some listeners
- Click-stops on the headband adjustment could be firmer for a high-end product
- Headband fit may not be ideal for all head sizes
- Recessed HD800 connector may limit aftermarket cable options
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs HIFIMAN Susvara: Solitaire P has more bass and a wider soundstage, but the Susvara is slightly more detailed and comfortable
- Vs Abyss 1266TC: Solitaire P's bass is similar, though not exactly the same, with detail levels close, though trailing slightly behind—Solitaire P is more comfortable
- Vs Meze ELITE: Solitaire P is more detailed and technically accomplished, though the Meze has more treble presence and is more comfortable
Takeaway: The T+A Solitaire P offers high-end sound quality, comfortable wear for extended listening, and exceptional detail and dynamics. With its balanced sound signature and impressive build, it's a top-tier choice for serious audiophiles.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Product Strengths
- Outstanding sound quality with clarity, texture, and detail
- Natural sound provides a you-are-there presence
- Improved microdynamics make them quick and fast
- Easier to drive than the original Susvara due to a changed metal trace on the diaphragm
- Very comfortable, with good weight distribution
- Driver is exposed, making it vulnerable to damage
Product Considerations
- Can be unforgiving on poor recordings
- Lacks soundstage depth and layering compared to some competitors
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Mesa Elite: The Mesa Elite offers greater bass weight and depth in the soundstage
- Vs Audeze LCD-5: The LCD-5 provides more insight into the music, but the Susvara Unveiled excels in reproducing the attack and energy of plucked strings and in bass reproduction
- Vs Focal Utopia 2022: The Utopia balances everything well—tonality, punch, detail, staging—however both have a little edginess from the treble
- Vs HiFiMan HE1000 Unveiled: The HE1000 is brighter and seems a little faster and more detailed, but the Susvara Unveiled is smoother
- Vs Original Susvara: The Unveiled model is more agile and lively, with added energy, clarity, and upper-treble extension, and the original is more laid back
Takeaway: The Susvara Unveiled provides detail and resolution that one has likely never heard before, making them astonishing headphones. If the priority is a reference-style tuning for orchestral music with excellent balance, scale, and tonal response, these headphones can provide a massive sonic treat.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Evolution to "MLER-3"
At the heart of the SR-X9000 lies the revolutionary MLER-3 electrode. Evolved from its predecessor found in the SR-009S, this four-layer electrode combines etched and metal-mesh layers through advanced diffusion junction technology. This enhancement not only enables the production of larger, round-shaped metal-mesh electrodes but also elevates sound transparency and minimizes vibration-induced distortion, setting a new standard for clarity and responsiveness.
Passion for metal-mesh
The round shaped metal-mesh which was installed in SR-X reduced air resistance and the effect of reflection. This increased the sound transparency. So, metal-mesh is the ideal material of fixed electrodes. However, bigger and thinner metal mesh electrodes are poor in rigidity and may make sound unclear. This is the reason why it was too hard to install metal mesh electrodes in STAX products. In 1990s, SR-Ω, in which the metal mesh electrode is installed, was developed. Because the metal mesh electrode was made bigger for this model, it had to be reinforced with an adhesive by hand. This is a very high precision work. So, it was extremely difficult to manufacture metal mesh electrodes for SR-Ω. The stable mass production could not be realized. This is the reason why SR-Ω was sold in very small quantities in spite of its high sound quality.
The diaphragm increases 20% in size compared with the previous flagship model
The SR-X9000 showcases an enlarged diaphragm, 20% larger than its forebear, the SR-009S. Crafted from an ultra-thin, super-engineered plastic film, this diaphragm achieves a near-weightless state, ensuring swift transient response and unparalleled linearity across all frequencies. The result is an expansive sound field that reveals the finest details in your music.
The enclosure which is made of tough machined aluminum eliminates unnecessary vibrations
Encasing these advanced components is a robust machined aluminum enclosure. This meticulously designed structure secures the sound unit in place, eliminating extraneous vibrations and ensuring a pure, undistorted auditory experience. The innovative tilt guard mesh further refines sound delivery, its unique arrangement optimizing reflection angles to ensure crystal-clear, uncolored sound.
The tilt guard mesh design
Complementing the structural advances, the SR-X9000 earspeakers boast a stainless-steel arc assembly, equipped with a 9-step adjustment system for a precise and comfortable fit. Complemented by a stabilizer to dampen residual vibrations and genuine leather head pads and ear pads, these earspeakers promise unparalleled comfort for extended listening sessions.
The stainless-steel arc assembly with 9 steps adjusting click system
Connectivity is equally considered, with STAX's bespoke low-capacity, wide hybrid cable employing ultra-pure 6NCu annealed copper and silver-plated wires. This configuration, coupled with replaceable cable options, ensures not just exceptional sound transmission but also durability and adaptability to personal listening preferences.
The comfortably fitting ear pads
The material of the ear pads is genuine leather (sheep skin) which has excellent breathability and softness. Genuine leather makes the earspeakers to closely fit your ears for a long time and you can fully enjoy the high-quality bass and vivid sound. This also reduces fatigue and you can comfortably listen to the music for a long time.
STAX original low-capacity wide hybrid cable made of 6NCu ultra-pure annealed copper wire and silver-plated annealed copper wire
The material of the core cable is 6NCu ultra-pure annealed copper wire (φ0.14×3). The material of the around core cable is silver plated annealed copper wire (φ0.08×９). STAX original wide parallel 6-strand cable is used.
Replaceable cables
Connectivity is equally considered, with STAX's bespoke low-capacity, wide hybrid cable employing ultra-pure 6NCu annealed copper and silver-plated wires. This configuration, coupled with replaceable cable options, ensures not just exceptional sound transmission but also durability and adaptability to personal listening preferences.
The storage case made of "paulownia wood"
Finally, the SR-X9000 is presented in an exquisite paulownia wood storage case, chosen for its thermal and humidity regulation properties. This case not only protects but also enhances the longevity and performance of these exceptional earspeakers. Embrace the heritage and experience the future of audio with the STAX SR-X9000 earspeakers, where the legacy of sound meets the pinnacle of auditory craftsmanship.
Product Strengths
- Astoundingly resolving, pulling out a lot of detail from the music signal
- Very light unit made with nice materials and a comfortable design
- Detachable cables with thick pins, spaced far apart to prevent damage and shocks
- The best electrostatic that Stax has made, a culmination of their experience
- Purity, tonal neutrality, rhythmic ease and resolve that reviewers have not previously experienced with headphones
Product Considerations
- Head size adjustment could be more solid, and it slides on the head a bit
- Bright tonality and forward resolution can be fatiguing after long listens
- Lacks bass punch or slam, it's there but not powerful in rumble or physicality
- The bass region on these headphones is a hit and miss
- Underwhelming soundstage
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs HIFIMAN Shangri-La Jr: The Shangri-La Jr is a little warmer but not as detailed, nor as holographic in its spatial presentation
- Vs Susvara: Susvara has more warmth and fullness, a more natural timbre, and more sub-bass rumble and slam, whereas the SR-X9000 can come across as a little bit dry at times
- Vs SR-009S: SR-X9000 smoother, richer, and had better micro-details, while the 009S seemed a tad more dynamic and brighter
- Vs Meze Elite: SR-X9000 is the clear winner on soundstage size, speed, transient response, instrument texture and realism, however, the Elite was the winner when it comes to density, body, dynamics, and bass
Takeaway: The SR-X9000 is the most complete and competent Stax headphone, its resolution is stunning, and its spatial presentation is very holographic. It is worthy of being in that top-of-the-line tier, a solid effort from Stax.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Product Strengths
- Sounds big and open for a closed-back headphone, with an impressive soundstage for its type.
- Offers a warm-leaning, smooth, mid-forward sound signature.
- Very good imaging creates an immersive listening experience, and detailed separation of instruments.
- Easy to drive with a low impedance and high sensitivity, making it suitable for use with portable devices.
- The wooden earcups have a large internal space that brings sufficient volume and breathing room to the driver.
Product Considerations
- Build quality may be disappointing for the price, particularly the headband, which is considered cheap compared to other headphones in the price range.
- Comfort can be an issue due to the weight and headband design, which may cause discomfort on the scalp for some users.
- Lacks clamping force, so the weight is felt on the top of the head, and it does not isolate sound very well.
- Treble response might be somewhat softer or less energetic compared to other headphones, which might not appeal to those seeking a more exciting sound.
- One review mentions an issue with a dip around 5kHz and a peak around 10kHz that impacts some instruments, though it is admittedly 'nitpicking'.
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs HIFIMAN HE-R10D: There is a difference in price and sound signature.
- Vs HIFIMAN Susvara: The HE-R10P has less soundstage, the Susvara has more transparency, but the HE-R10P has more mid-bass presence.
- Vs Focal Stellia: The HE-R10P has a larger soundstage and more powerful bass, but Stellia has a safer tuning with a brighter high end.
Takeaway: The HiFiMan HE-R10P is a closed-back planar headphone that delivers exceptional sound quality with remarkable imaging and detail, making music sound lively and fun. Its unique design aims to create an open and spacious listening experience, allowing listeners to enjoy music for hours.
Video review
Our take on the brand
What competes at this price?
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Excellent detail retrieval, resolving with the best over-ear headphones, challenging the brain to take it all in.
- Wide soundstage with precise imaging, creating an immersive, holographic 3D image.
- Easy to drive, delivering speed and impact even with low-power sources.
- High level of craftsmanship and build quality, using premium materials like CNC-machined aluminum and Damascus steel faceplates.
- Comes with the Magnus cable, a high-quality 8-core cable constructed with graphene, monocrystalline silver, and copper-silver alloy.
Product Considerations
- Treble can become a bit hot and fatiguing over long periods, but can be mitigated by using foam ear tips.
- Bass presence is more nominal and cohesive, not dominant or overpowering like some bass-head IEMs.
- Fit may be an issue for some due to the larger-than-average size of the IEM.
- Could be fatiguing over time due to sensory overload from extreme detail.
- Some reviewers found that the upper mids/lower treble frequency range could use a little boost.
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Offers a stronger balance of detail, performance, and musicality, a fuller, richer midrange, and better texture and timbre, when compared to the Empire Ears Odin—Odin has stronger holographic separation, an intense sense of vocal performance, and more potential for fatigue.
Takeaway: The Noble Viking Ragnar is a top-tier IEM, offering incredible detail and a wide soundstage for an immersive listening experience. Its build quality and design are exceptional, making it a great choice for those who want some of the best IEMs in the market.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Gorgeous IEM with a finish worthy of a top-of-the-line IEM, pictures not doing it justice
- Highly revealing, with incredible detail and microdynamics that deliver a vivid, lifelike reproduction of music
- Excellent speed and strong texture in the balanced armature based low-end
- Clean, detailed, and transparent mids with top-tier detail retrieval coupled with strong layering and separation
- Soundstage is wide and three-dimensional, with holographic imaging, giving a real sense of being on stage or in the studio with the performers
Product Considerations
- The IEM is on the larger side, so consider this if you've got smaller ears
- Ronin is bright and has energetic treble, which may not be preferred by those who like a warmer sound with bass emphasis
- Bass is more neutral, and it's not going to have the impact of a dynamic driver bass
- Treble can be somewhat unforgiving, highlighting unpleasant aspects of older or lower-quality recordings
- Some reviewers found the character of Ronin to be a little bright and sometimes bass-lite, and may need proper pairing to sound its best
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Empire Ears Odin: Odin is more versatile, but Ronin's treble performance is at a higher level
- Vs 64 Audio Fourte Blanc: Fourte Blanc offers a more balanced sound overall, while Ronin leans towards a more technical, bright sound
- Vs Noble Viking Ragnar: Ragnar has more rumble and denser, deeper layers of bass, while Ronin has slightly higher resolution
- Vs Noble Sultan: Ronin has more details, while the Sultan is more weightier and warmer in representation
Takeaway: The Noble Ronin offers incredible detail, imaging, and resolution, delivering an immersive listening experience for those who appreciate a highly revealing sound. For those with a collection of high-resolution music who want to hear every nuance, the Ronin is an excellent choice.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- High-quality build and materials, with CNC-milled aluminum shell and Raffir composite faceplate, which gives a jewelry-like element
- Great imaging with a big soundstage, good instrument separation, and placement
- Excellent vocal imaging with a forward, intimate, and balanced vocal presence that avoids sibilance
- Deep bass extension with physical characteristics (bone conduction driver), and good texture across the entire range
Product Considerations
- Fit can be tricky due to the larger size, potentially problematic for those with smaller ears, but a deep penetration ensures a good seal with the right ear tip
- Can be source-sensitive, and might become muddy with warmer sources—more reference or incisive sources are recommended
- Bass bloom can overwhelm the mids on some recordings
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Vision Ears VE10: The Onyx has a massive arena-like soundstage, while the VE10 feels more like a studio; the VE10 has stronger mids and more extended treble, but can be shouty
- Vs U12T: The Onyx has more focused and bodied vocals, and the bass provides better pressure and control, while the U12T has greater clarity
- Vs Aurora: The Onyx offers more precise and lively sound with better bass, and a more realistic vibration
Takeaway: The Noble Audio Onyx has a great build and delivers a unique, dark sound signature with a wide soundstage. With a good blend of bass, smooth highs, and clear vocals, the Onyx provides a great listening experience, especially for genres like rock and metal.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Lovely tuning balance across the board, backed by a wonderfully holographic and immersive soundstage that keeps the listener deeply involved without fatigue
- Excellent channel balance from left to right, but holographic layering and cavernous presentation will engulf the listener in the presentation
- Noble Audio's hardest hitting tuning yet, with a combo of fast, physical bass, deep extension, and the brand’s signature top end detail and clarity
- Visually stunning design with intricate Japanese-themed aesthetic
- Excellent passive isolation
Product Considerations
- Slightly dark lower-treble
- The shell is sizable which could feel big in some ears, and the initial insertion might feel cumbersome
- The Shogun’s aesthetic design may be 'too much' or 'too gaudy' for some
- Bass texture might not be as present as expected for the price range
- Mids and highs could use a bit more energy
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Noble Ronin, the Shogun has a warmer, heavier sound
- Vs Empire Ears Raven, the Raven has a deeper, stronger subbass response, while the Shogun emphasizes the midbass and low mids a little more, the Raven also adds a bit of an extra pop in the vocals
Takeaway: The Shogun is an all around great IEM that adds a little more warmth and color to Noble’s flagship lineup and stands strong among the competition. It's worth checking out if you want a balanced sounding, flagship quality IEM with hard-hitting bass and impressive spatial imaging.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Top-notch build quality, with premium materials and a comfortable design
- Excellent sound quality with a balanced presentation—no outstanding weaknesses across the frequency spectrum
- Two sets of earpads are included (Duo and Alcantara) for sound customization
- The design has a strong aesthetic, and the magnetic pad swapping system is easy to use
- Wider soundstage and more three-dimensional imaging
Product Considerations
- Sensitivity has dropped compared to the original Empyrean and Elites, requiring slightly more power to drive
- There might be a little bit of extra emphasis around the three to four kilohertz mark, which can make them a little bit fatiguing—a little bit bitey in the treble
- Not the largest soundstage that can be experienced at this price point
- The open design leaks sound and doesn't offer much in the way of isolation
- Those particularly sensitive might hear some spikiness in the lower treble region
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Original Meze Empyrean: Empyrean II has a more neutral tuning, is more defined, and has better detail separation
- Vs Meze Elite: Empyrean II offers stronger bass extension and more of the engaging emotional delivery
- Vs Meze Elite: The Elite seems more expansive than Empyrean 2, though not by a lot
- Vs HIFIMAN HE1000SE: The HE1000SE sound is more spacious, the bass is snappier, and the amount of detail is slightly above the Elite and Empyrean
Takeaway: The Empyrean II is an enjoyable headphone, improving on the original with a more accurate and versatile sound that maintains the core Empyrean identity. The comfort, build quality, and well-balanced sound make it a great choice for a high-end listening experience.
Video review
Our take on the brand
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