The launch of the Focal Mu-so Hekla signals a significant shift in the home audio sector, blending cutting-edge technology with a design philosophy inspired by nature. This new sound system, powered by Dolby Atmos, promises to redefine how users experience audio across various forms of media, from films and music to video games. The integration of Dolby Atmos technology is a game-changer, offering immersive, spatial audio that could set a new standard for home entertainment systems.
Focal and Naim have collaborated to create a suite of customizable audio modes, including Sphere Music and Sphere Movie, designed to enhance the listening experience. The Sphere module within the Naim Pulse Platform ensures high-fidelity sound reproduction through optimized, latency-free computing power. This technological prowess is housed within a dual-core processor, demonstrating the companies’ commitment to delivering top-tier audio performance.
The Mu-so Hekla is designed for effortless setup and use, connecting seamlessly to various music sources, including high-resolution streaming services. Users can control the system through the Focal & Naim app, smartwatches, voice assistants, or home automation systems. The tactile volume dial adds a touch of elegance and functionality, allowing for smooth volume adjustments and access to key features. With versatile wired connections, including HDMI eARC and optical Toslink, the Mu-so Hekla can be easily integrated into existing home entertainment setups, supporting configurations from 2.0 to fully immersive 7.1.2 systems.
The design of the Mu-so Hekla is a testament to meticulous engineering and aesthetic refinement. Crafted from brushed anodized aluminum, it exudes understated luxury and precision, reminiscent of fine watchmaking. The alternating brushed and bead-blasted finishes, along with the finely perforated grille and signature volume dial, add to its elegant appeal. The distinctive Naim heat sink at the rear not only regulates heat but also integrates Wi-Fi connectivity, showcasing the blend of functionality and design.
Sonically, the Mu-so Hekla packs a punch with 15 speaker drivers powered by 660 watts, capable of filling rooms up to 430 ft² / 40 m² with rich, detailed sound. The woofers provide deep, enveloping bass, with the option to add a subwoofer via the RCA output. Full-range drivers project sound that interacts naturally with walls and ceilings, creating an immersive experience. Focal’s acoustic engineers have developed spatialization technologies, including Beamforming and Crosstalk Cancellation, to ensure precise sound placement. ADAPT intelligent tuning technology further enhances the experience by automatically calibrating the system to the room and listening preferences.
The Mu-so Hekla will launch on November 6 at the Focal Powered by Naim store in Seoul, initially available in South Korea and China, with a global release planned for Q1 2026. It will be showcased at major tech events, including CES in Las Vegas and ISE in Barcelona. Priced at $3,600 USD and $4,000 CAD, the Mu-so Hekla is positioned as a premium offering within the home audio market.
This launch could shape the future of the home audio sector by setting new benchmarks for immersive sound experiences and design innovation. As consumers increasingly seek high-fidelity audio solutions, the Mu-so Hekla’s advanced features and elegant design may inspire other manufacturers to push the boundaries of what is possible in home entertainment systems. The integration of Dolby Atmos technology and the customizable audio modes highlight the potential for creating deeply personalized and immersive audio environments, which could become a standard expectation for high-end audio products.
