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Headphones are exciting, especially now, when the competition is so fierce. Among the budget hi-fi models, the fight for the consumers’ hearts – and wallets – has never been more brutal. And lately, I’ve developed an appreciation for a relatively new fighter. FiiO had not been known for headphones, but that is fast changing. The FT1 has deservedly won the title of one of the best headphone models of 2024, and this year, it got a massive update. The FiiO FT1 Pro planar magnetic headphone is similar in some ways, but very different in others. So, what is it?
TABLE OF CONTENTS:
Positioning
The FiiO FT1 Pro has strong alternatives, including the HIFIMAN Sundara, Edition XS, Sennheiser HD560S, Ananda Anser, and Moondrop Para. Choice depends on your preference for sound signature (e.g., neutral vs. exciting), comfort, and whether you favour planar or dynamic drivers. For ~$200, this might be one of the best offers on the market.
Design and packaging
The first FiiO model I reviewed was the FT3, and that made me worried that FiiO would be adapting the metallic industrial design more fitting gaming headsets. But the company keeps experimenting: while the FT1 received a classy wooden cup design, the FT1 Pro got the aluminum faceplate, and in terms of design, it’s somewhere in the middle between the two. I like it: while nothing special, it’s fairly sleek. And, more importantly, light.
Read also: FiiO DM13 review: CD Renaissance Is In Full Swing, And I Am Here For It
Quality materials is something I always want to see, and FiiO rarely misses there. The headband retained the same design as the FT1, and that might be the only connection to the “original” model, not counting the case, which is also identical.
The FT1 Pro’s single headband features six suede-like pads underneath, topped with soft black pleather. There’s no suspension headband, which is a shame, but even without it, this one fits surprisingly well and remains secure. The thick pleather and suede earpads are exceptionally comfortable (once again, they are similar to the FT1), and the headphones apply just the right amount of pressure. Despite the very similar design, I find the FT1 Pro more comfortable for long sessions. There’s something that just makes it better. It does not look like it, but this is a very comfortable pair of headphones.
However, it’s worth a warning about the headband: I have (and actively use) the FT1, and after six months, the headband (the exact same one, I should add) started showing wear. It’s nothing major, but it looks a bit scuffed. It’s very likely the same will happen here.
As for the mechanism that attaches the earcups to the headband, it consistently pulls my hair out. Maybe it’s because I have long hair, but keep that in mind.
The FT1 Pro arrives in a standard sleeved square box, its case cushioned by a cardboard insert. Inside the case are the 3.5mm single-ended (SE) and 4.4mm balanced cables, each individually bagged in plastic, along with a 6.35mm single-ended jack.
The case is exactly the same as the FT1. It looks nice, but it’s not as premium as the FT3 case that comes in leather. But then again, the price is also much lower.
Sound
When testing the headphones, I was using the FiiO LL-RD 2024 cable and mostly, but not exclusively, the FiiO BTR13 portable DAC. I also tried it with the FiiO DM13 CD player, as well as the FiiO K11 R2R DAC.
The FiiO FT1 Pro sound signature can be described as balanced and natural with a warm tonality, particularly notable for a planar magnetic headphone. Its bass is deep, punchy, and warm, providing a solid foundation without muddiness or overextension, making bass-heavy music enjoyable without overpowering the mids. The bass also has good body and rumble, with excellent extension into the sub-bass region, delivering an impactful planar bass experience, though it is not overly emphasized or boomy. And before we get any further, let me remind that these are open-back, which means that everyone will hear everything you’re listening too. My wife has banished these from the bedroom, just like she did the FT3.
Read also: FiiO FT1 review: FiiO’s most stylish headphones yet do not disappoint
The midrange is a strong point of the FT1 Pro, offering clear, well-separated, and natural-sounding vocals and instruments. However, there is a slight dip or recession around the 1.5–2 kHz range, which can make some vocals and instruments feel a bit recessed or less prominent out of the box, but this can be easily addressed with EQ. Overall, the mids remain organic and lifelike, contributing to a coherent and immersive sound.
Treble on the FT1 Pro is bright, detailed, and clear without being harsh or fatiguing. It adds sparkle and articulation to cymbals and strings, providing crispness and airiness that complements the warm bass. The treble is energetic but smooth, avoiding excessive sharpness.
In terms of soundstage and imaging, the FT1 Pro offers an expansive, airy, and three-dimensional soundstage, with good depth and height, though not as vast as higher-end open-back headphones. Imaging is accurate and precise enough to enhance musical immersion and is particularly good for pinpointing instruments and vocals, making it suitable for gaming and live recordings.
Verdict
I am so glad to report that headphones are exciting again. And no, you don’t have to spend thousands to get decent sound – for about $200 FiiO, as well as many others, can provide you with a near-prestige experience. And each year, it’s only getting better. The FT1 Pro is easily my favourite headphone model this year so far, and I am genuinely excited for what comes next. As for the FT1 Pro, it comes highly recommended.
This vs the Edition XS?