With the Mu-so Hekla, Focal introduces a high-end soundbar with capabilities far beyond the usual all-in-one home theater standards. This compact 7.1.2 system, with its 15 drivers, has been designed to meet the expectations of high-fidelity lovers, while simplifying installation in a domestic environment. What are the key features of the Mu-so Hekla, inspired by both Naim connected speakers and Focal’s acoustic expertise?
Ambitious audio architecture
The Focal Mu-so Hekla system features a novel 15-driver configuration. On the front panel are three 5″ x 2″ woofers, two 2″ midrange drivers and two 1″ tweeters. They are accompanied by eight full-range transducers dedicated to Dolby Atmos effects, four of which are placed on top of the Mu-so Hekla and four on the sides. Each is associated with its own channel of class D amplification, for a total power of 660 watts.
This ambitious acoustic design enables 7.1.2-channel sound spatialization, compatible with the three-dimensional Dolby Atmos format, guaranteeing captivating sonic immersion. The Focal Mu-so Hekla connected speaker has a bandwidth ranging from 30Hz to 20kHz, with a maximum sound level measured at 108 dB. This makes it suitable for living rooms of around 40m², without the need for a separate subwoofer, although a sub output is included.
Mu-so Hekla: a design born from the synergy between Focal and Naim
With its sandblasted and anodized aluminum chassis, black textile finishes and imposing illuminated circular control, the Focal Mu-so Hekla boasts an aesthetic directly inspired by the Naim Mu-so range. This technological partnership extends to electronics, via the Naim Pulse platform, which handles signal processing, network stream management and access to streaming services.
The system also incorporates ADAPT calibration technology, introduced by the Diva Utopia speakers. This allows the sound to be fine-tuned according to the acoustic characteristics of the room, by analyzing the distances between the soundbar, the walls and the listening area. Customizable audio modes (Dolby Movie, Dolby Music, Sphere, etc.) complete this immersive approach.
Note from the expert 👀
Focal and Naim merged in 2011 to take advantage of their complementary strengths. The Saint-Etienne-based brand has developed acoustic expertise since its creation in 1979, while the British firm, founded in 1973, offers expertise in electronics. Together, Focal and Naim have designed prestigious hi-fi and home theater equipment such as the Diva Utopia connected speakers.
Comprehensive wired and wireless connectivity
Focal has equipped the new Mu-so Hekla with multiple interfaces to adapt to all modern audio-video equipment: a CEC-compatible HDMI eARC input for the TV, a Toslink optical input (24-bit/96kHz) and a subwoofer output. Regarding network connectivity, this true all-in-one system uses Wi-Fi 6 supported by an Ethernet port and the Naim Pulse platform to access the main streaming services (Qobuz, Tidal, Spotify). AirPlay 2 and Google Cast protocols are also included, as is a Bluetooth 5.1 receiver (SBC, AAC).
The soundbar can be controlled via the Focal & Naim mobile app, but also from smart watches (Apple, Samsung) or the Siri and Google Home voice assistants. The multi-room function allows up to 32 Focal or Naim devices to be synchronized, facilitating integration into an extended audio environment. The physical control interface on the top panel also remains accessible for basic functions.
Price and availability
With its generous dimensions (W100 x H11.8 x D29.5cm) and weight of 15.5kg, the Mu-so Hekla connected speaker is ideal for placement under a TV or paired with an ultra-short-throw projector. Its minimalist design and high-quality materials make it as much a decorative object as it is a high-performance home theater device.
Focal has designed this system for people looking for easy installation without compromising on sound quality, whether it’s for watching films, listening to high-resolution music or everyday use with a variety of sources. This all-in-one system, priced at €3,300, will go on sale in France in the first quarter of 2026.
Focal Mu-so Hekla: key features
- 660W amplification
- 15 drivers including 3 5″x2″ woofers
- Frequency response from 30Hz to 20kHz
- Dolby Atmos compatible
- Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.1, AirPlay 2, Google Cast, UPnP
- Dimensions (WxHxD): 1000 x 118 x 295mm
- Weight: 15.5kg
- Price: €3,300
Summary
With the new Mu-so Hekla soundbar, Focal offers a particularly ambitious all-in-one solution for home theater and music. With its 7.1.2-channel configuration, 660 watts of power, ADAPT acoustic calibration and compatibility with high-resolution streaming services, it is positioned as a credible alternative to traditional multi-channel systems. Developed in close collaboration with Naim, it is aimed at discerning users looking for a ready-to-use immersive system, without complex installation.
