Focal just stepped firmly into the high-end all-in-one theater category with the Mu-so Hekla, a system designed for listeners who want genuine performance in a clean, single-box solution. Built on Naim’s Pulse platform and packed with 15 dedicated drivers powered by 660 watts, Hekla aims to deliver immersive Dolby Atmos, room-aware sound modes, and hi-res streaming without the usual clutter or complexity. Launching first in Asia before expanding globally in 2026, it’s shaping up to be a serious alternative to traditional soundbars and full surround setups.

Immersive Dolby Atmos in a Single Chassis

Hekla brings Focal and Naim’s engineering together in a one-meter-wide aluminum enclosure that houses upward-firing drivers, side drivers, and a powerful front array. Dolby Atmos support creates height and surround effects that expand well beyond the physical dimensions of the unit. Inside the Focal & Naim app, listeners can access specialized Sphere Music and Sphere Movie modes that adjust playback based on room layout, offering a tailored experience whether you’re sitting dead-center or sharing the couch with friends.

Advanced Tech, Easy Control

Although the hardware inside is sophisticated, the day-to-day experience is simple. Hekla connects to your sources through HDMI eARC or optical, and supports a wide range of streaming platforms including TIDAL, Spotify, Qobuz, and AirPlay. You can control it through the Focal & Naim app, voice assistants, or even your smartwatch. The tactile volume dial on top provides direct control without digging through menus, and the multiroom feature syncs with other Focal and Naim products for whole-home playback.

Premium Design and Craftsmanship

The Mu-so Hekla looks every bit as refined as its performance promises. Its aluminum body uses alternating brushed and bead-blasted textures inspired by high-end watchmaking, while the illuminated volume dial adds a modern touch. A perforated front grille provides acoustic transparency without breaking up the clean lines, and Naim’s sculpted rear heat sink manages airflow and houses the system’s wireless hardware.

Specifications and Performance Overview

Inside the Hekla are 15 drivers powered by 660 watts of amplification. The combination includes front woofers, dedicated mids and tweeters, side-firing full-range units, and upward-firing drivers for height effects. Frequency response reaches down to 30 Hz (27 Hz at -6 dB), giving the system true low-end weight for movies and music. Wireless streaming supports hi-res files up to 32-bit/384 kHz, and Dolby formats include Dolby Digital, Dolby TrueHD, Dolby MAT, and Dolby Atmos up to 7.1.2 configurations.

Connectivity includes HDMI eARC, optical Toslink, Ethernet, and Wi-Fi 6. Wireless protocols cover Bluetooth, AirPlay, Google Cast, UPnP, and direct integration with major streaming apps. A subwoofer output is on board for those wanting even more bass.

A Big Step for Focal and Naim

Hekla is the second major collaboration between Focal and Naim after their high-end Diva Utopia system. It’s designed to merge hi-fi sound quality with home cinema immersion in a product that suits modern living spaces. While it does leave out DTS support and doesn’t include a subwoofer, it offers extraordinary flexibility, power, and detail in a single component.

Final Thoughts

Focal’s Mu-so Hekla isn’t just another soundbar. It’s a premium all-in-one solution built for listeners who want lifelike Dolby Atmos immersion, hi-res streaming, and room-aware tuning from one beautifully crafted system. If you want serious performance without committing to a full surround speaker layout, Hekla deserves a close look.

At Audio Advice, we’re big fans of products that bridge the gap between convenience and true high-fidelity performance. Whether you’re upgrading your media room or comparing options, our experts are here to help you choose the setup that fits your space and your expectations.