A Statement Hybrid IEM Featuring a 10mm Wooden Composite Driver and Dual Super-Magnetic Planar Technology
9th April 2026: Noble Audio announces the launch of the all-new Lu Ban, a precision-engineered hybrid in-ear monitor that combines natural materials with advanced magnetic driver innovation. Officially launching on 9th April 2026, one day before AXPONA opens in Chicago, Lu Ban represents a bold new statement within Noble’s universal IEM lineup.
The Noble Lu Ban will be available from 9th April 2026 via selected retailers worldwide for $1,399 / £1,299 / €1,499. AXPONA attendees in Chicago will be among the first globally to experience Lu Ban in person.
At the centre of Lu Ban is a three-driver configuration comprising a 10mm wooden composite diaphragm dynamic driver paired with two newly developed Super-Magnetic planar drivers. With a sensitivity of 108dB SPL/mW and an impedance of 27 ohms, Lu Ban is engineered to deliver authority, speed and refinement across a wide range of sources.
10mm Wooden Composite Dynamic Driver
Lu Ban’s sonic foundation begins with its 10mm wooden composite diaphragm dynamic driver.
Wood has been trusted for centuries in the construction of musical instruments because of its natural resonance and tonal character. By integrating a wooden composite into the diaphragm structure, Noble achieves bass that is deep, controlled and textured. Sub-bass extends confidently without overhang, while mid-bass remains articulate and balanced.
The midrange benefits from harmonic richness and realism. Vocals carry body and presence. Acoustic instruments retain natural decay and weight. Rather than adding artificial warmth, the wooden composite driver introduces musicality through deliberate material engineering.
This dynamic driver forms the emotional core of Lu Ban’s presentation, delivering natural tone with convincing physicality.
Dual Super-Magnetic Planar Technology
Supporting the dynamic driver are two Super-Magnetic planar drivers, representing a significant advancement over conventional planar implementations.
The Super-Magnetic architecture utilises a new generation ultra-high magnetic energy neodymium iron boron material, refined with a precisely controlled copper element to optimise magnetic flux stability and efficiency. This advanced magnetic circuit design enables faster transient response, improved micro-detail retrieval and enhanced upper frequency precision.
The planar drivers introduce clarity, air and separation. High frequencies extend cleanly without glare. Complex passages remain layered and intelligible, maintaining composure even during demanding recordings.
Where the wooden dynamic delivers weight and musicality, the dual planar system contributes speed and technical accuracy. Together, they form a cohesive hybrid presentation that balances natural tonality with analytical precision.
Crafted with Purpose
Inspired by the legendary Chinese craftsman Lu Ban, the physical design reflects precision construction and respect for materials.
Each shell combines Cocobolo wood, selected for its structural stability and distinctive grain pattern, with a high-precision 3D printed resin internal framework. This ensures accurate driver placement and consistent acoustic geometry across every unit.
Subtle variations in the wood grain make each pair visually unique while maintaining Noble’s exacting build standards.
Premium Cable and Accessories
Lu Ban is supplied with a 4-strand woven high-purity OCC silver-plated cable designed to preserve signal integrity and tonal accuracy. The cable features a fibre-woven surface coating, standard 0.78mm 2-pin connectors with L and R markings, and a 4.4mm copper gold-plated balanced termination.
Specifications
· Driver Configuration: 10mm Wooden Composite Diaphragm Dynamic Driver + Dual Super-Magnetic Planar Drivers
· Sensitivity: 108dB SPL/mW
· Impedance: 27Ω
· Cable: 4-strand woven high-purity OCC silver-plated cable
· Connector Type: 0.78mm 2-pin
· Termination: 4.4mm copper gold-plated balanced plug
· Included Accessories: IEM storage box, ear tip storage box, 9 pairs of ear tips, warranty service card
· MSRP: $1,399 / £1,299 / €1,499
About Noble
Founded by audiologist Dr John Moulton, known in the audio community as “The Wizard”, Noble Audio is a boutique high-end audio manufacturer known for its handcrafted IEMs, hybrid driver architecture and standout design. Noble’s product range spans reference-grade universal and custom-fit models, award-winning true wireless earphones and unique collaborations. Each product is built on the belief that great sound should be as emotive and personal as the music itself.