FiiO has been making waves in the headphone world, and their latest release, the FT1 Pro, is no exception. Designed as an open-back planar magnetic headphone, it follows up on the success of the original FT1, but this time with an emphasis on spacious sound and affordability. At just $199.99, the FT1 Pro promises detailed audio, comfort, and versatility—but does it live up to the hype? Let’s find out!
Unboxing the FT1 Pro
FiiO does a great job of packing in useful accessories with the FT1 Pro. Inside the box, you’ll find:
- The FT1 Pro headphones
- A soft storage bag to keep them protected
- Two cables: a 4.4mm balanced cable and a 3.5mm single-ended cable
- A 3.5mm to 6.35mm adapter for use with amps and audio interfaces
- A quick start guide
It’s a well-rounded package, giving you multiple connection options right out of the box.
Design & Build
At first glance, the FT1 Pro looks stylish yet understated, sporting an all-black color scheme with intricate patterns on the ear cups. It’s got a premium feel without being flashy, making it an easy fit for both home and office use.
Comfort-wise, the earpads and headband are well-cushioned, making long listening sessions enjoyable. Weighing just 374g, it’s lighter than many other planar magnetic headphones, which is a huge plus for comfort. The clamping force strikes a good balance—secure enough to stay in place but not too tight to cause discomfort.
FiiO has also improved the weight distribution and fit compared to the original FT1, making the FT1 Pro a more versatile choice for different head shapes and sizes.
Connectivity & Power
The FT1 Pro doesn’t need a ton of power, but to get the best performance, using a dedicated DAC/Amp is recommended. While it will work fine with laptops or smartphones, an amp brings out more clarity, detail, and depth.
- With the Astell & Kern HC4 USB DAC/Amp: The sound gained extra depth and detail.
- With the iFi GO Link Max: The 4.4mm balanced connection added better power handling and clarity.
With an impedance of 20Ω and a sensitivity of 95dB/mW, the FT1 Pro is fairly easy to drive, but an amp helps unlock its full potential.
Sound Quality
Soundstage & Imaging:
For an open-back headphone at this price, the FT1 Pro delivers an impressively spacious soundstage. There’s a real sense of depth and height, making it feel like you’re sitting inside the music rather than just listening to it. While imaging isn’t as pinpoint-accurate as some higher-end models, instrument placement is still realistic and enjoyable.
Bass
The bass is deep and punchy with a natural warmth, which is not always common in planar magnetic headphones. It’s well-balanced—strong enough for bass-heavy music but not overwhelming. There’s also good texture and clarity, making it fun yet controlled.
Midrange
The midrange is one of the FT1 Pro’s strong suits. Vocals and instruments sound clear and well-separated, maintaining a natural tonality. It’s neither too recessed nor too forward, offering a balanced and enjoyable listening experience.
Treble
The treble is crisp and detailed without being harsh. High frequencies, like cymbals and strings, have a nice sparkle and airiness, though they never feel exaggerated. If you prefer a super-bright sound, you might find it a little relaxed, but for most listeners, it strikes a great balance between detail and smoothness.
Summary
For $199.99, the FiiO FT1 Pro is a fantastic deal. You get great sound, a comfortable design, and multiple connection options, all at a price that’s hard to beat.
What We Loved:
- Spacious and immersive soundstage
- Warm, well-balanced bass
- Clear and natural midrange
- Comfortable and lightweight design
- Versatile connectivity with included cables
What Could Be Better:
- Imaging could be a little more precise
- Treble might be a bit too relaxed for some listeners
If you’re looking for an affordable open-back planar headphone with a warm, immersive sound and excellent build quality, the FT1 Pro is an easy recommendation. Whether you’re upgrading from closed-back headphones or dipping your toes into planar magnetic technology for the first time, this is one of the best options in its price range.
The FiiO FT1 Pro is available at Audio46.
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