Disclaimer
Hello everyone. I have to let you all know that FiiO sent me the FT1 Pro for this review, but I want to make it clear that they have never told me what to write or when to publish it. They’ve always respected my freedom to share my honest opinions and experiences in my own time and my own way.
I would like to thank FiiO for giving me the opportunity to try out the FT1 Pro and share my thoughts with all of you. And, of course, I must thank you, the readers, for trusting me and taking the time to read my review, it means a lot to me!
Introduction
When I first heard about the FiiO FT1 Pro, I thought to myself, “Wow, the same FT1 but with an open back design. I’m curious what the tuning is like?”. But when I realized that it uses a planar driver instead of a dynamic one, I was a bit confused by the name… You’d think it’s just an upgraded version of the regular FT1, or the same one but with an open back design, but it’s actually a completely different product with just a similar package overall.
That said, the build and overall package are really similar to the original FT1. From the outside, they look like siblings, but on the inside, they are completely different. I still find it a bit strange that FiiO decided to use the same name and just add “Pro.” It might make sense in terms of branding, but it could also confuse people who think they’re just getting a more premium version of the FT1 when it’s not really the case, as they are both for different tastes and preferences, and I would not call it the “Pro” version of the other one.
So let’s put it aside for now and focus on the FT1 Pro and dive into this review, as I find the FT1 Pro to be very competitive and attractive for the asking price of 199$.
Unboxing
The unboxing of the FiiO FT1 Pro is very similar to the original FT1. The outer packaging has that same premium and sturdy vibe. When I opened the box, the first thing that I saw was the hard carrying case. It’s pretty much as compact as it could be but looks great and feels really durable. This case is also where the headphones and all the included accessories are placed in.
Inside the case, I found, of course, the headphones and two cables: a 3.5mm single-ended cable and a 4.4mm balanced one. Both are of good quality, though for me, they are too stiff and springy. There’s also a 6.35mm adapter tucked inside, which is nice to have when you need it. Everything is organized perfectly within the case, making it super convenient for storage and travel.
Underneath the carrying case, there is a quick guide for those who may need it. The overall unboxing experience feels well thought out. I would say that there is a good attention to details, not just in the headphones themselves but in the way everything is presented. Oh, and I forgot to mention that the cables are packed very nicely with each connector covered and protected so it won’t scratch each other. Overall I must say, it’s simple and practical, and they definitely make a good first impression right from the box.
Technical Specifications
Specs
- Frequency Response: 7Hz to 40kHz.
- Impedance: 20 ohms.
- Sensitivity: 112dB/Vrms (@1kHz) / 95dB/mW (@1kHz).
- Weight: 374g.
Design and Comfort
These headphones are open-back, which means they let some outside sound in. They weigh about 374 grams, so they’re pretty light, but for me the earcups and the headband aren’t the most comfortable for long sessions. The earcups are covered in breathable fabric and some pleather on the outside, and it is keeping things kinda cool during extended use, but they do push a bit too hard on some areas of my head, but luckily they can be changed pretty easily. And the headband, although soft, pushes right at the top of my head and makes it a bit uncomfortable after some time. But overall it is not bad, definitely quality for its price and maybe it will be comfortable for some of you.
Drivers
The FT1 Pro uses a pretty large 95x86mm planar magnetic driver. The diaphragm inside is ultra-thin at just 1 micron and made from PET (polyethylene terephthalate), a material often chosen for its balance of flexibility and durability. To enhance its performance, FiiO applied their patented dual-coating system, which is made of aluminum and sapphire, which might help with the driver’s rigidness to the diaphragm, treble clarity, and reducing distortion, and the aluminum also reducing the driver’s impedance so it will be easier to drive.
This driver setup is designed to work across a frequency range of 7Hz to 40kHz, so it’s technically capable of covering deep lows to airy highs. Additionally, planar drivers like this one are known for being faster and more precise, thanks to their flat magnetic design and evenly driven diaphragm. That’s the idea here, at least. Additionally, FiiO designed the magnet with yet another patented design, which is called “FiiO uniform magnetic field design,” which is supposed to expand the magnetic field and make it more evenly distributed so the diaphragm is more evenly stressed.
Build Quality
The FT1 Pro feels very solid and well-made. The materials used are similar to those used in the FT1, but with vented plastic cups instead of the wooden cups. The headband, inside, is made out of metal. The earcups have an automatic angle adjustment with springs, and the sizing mechanism seems to work nicely and can be adjusted precisely with linear adjustments. The overall construction seems durable, with no squeaking or crackling noises. But only time can tell.
Accessories
In the box, FiiO includes both a 4.4mm balanced cable and a 3.5mm single-ended cable, along with a 3.5mm to 6.3mm adapter. There’s also a hard storage case for safekeeping.
Sound performance
I would describe the overall sound signature of the FT1 Pro as a balanced and natural sound that leans more to a brighter sound and technical performance than outright fun and dynamic. But lets break down all the aspects of the sound.
Bass
The bass on the FT1 Pro is neutral, maybe even a little on the shy side. It’s tight and controlled, with quick decay and a pretty natural tone (although not as a DD one , but still), which is exactly what I’d expect from planar drivers. However, it’s definitely not for bassheads. The sub-bass lacks that deep, rumbling punch that some might want, and while it’s not completely absent, it still a bit weak but it does its job, and for example, I like it better than the bass of the HE4XX (which I will compare to later in this review). Still, the bass isn’t dry or lifeless, and it does its job in keeping the overall sound clean and pretty dynamic.
Mids
The mids are where things get a bit more complex. The lower and upper mids sound pretty good, but there’s a clear dip around 1.5kHz-2kHz. This recession pulls some of the focus away, making certain details feel a bit hidden or may I call it, recessed. For vocals and instruments that live in this range, they can lose a bit of their natural body and prominence. Luckily, this isn’t a dealbreaker, and a quick EQ adjustment can fix it easily. Out of the box, though, it’s definitely something worth noting. This region is actually very similar to the HE4XX, which I have.
Treble
This is where the FT1 Pro really shows its strengths. I perceive the treble as clear, detailed, and well separated. Although for me it sounds very good, I can see how it may sound a bit harsh for some treble sensitive folks out there. The highs have excellent energy, and I absolutely love how this planar driver is making things like cymbals and hi-hats, sound distinct and lively without the kicks or other low tones instruments interrupting and masking them. I love how the highs don’t overshadow the rest of the sound but instead blend in with great separation, and this is the main reason I would choose planar over a DD in some cases. Even in complex electronic tracks, the treble remains airy and precise without becoming congested.
Technicalities
Soundstage
The soundstage is pretty average for an open back design but definitely more spacious than the closed back FT1 for example. It doesn’t feel cramped but also isn’t going to give you the kind of wide, out of your head experience that something like the K712 Pro can give. Still, for its price point, it’s respectable.
Imaging
Imaging is where the FT1 Pro excels. Sounds are placed accurately in the soundstage, making it easy to pinpoint instruments and vocals. And I can definitely say that they are great for gaming or live recordings.
Layering
Thanks to the planar driver’s speed, the layering is very good. I can clearly hear multiple instruments or elements in a track without them blending into each other, even in busier tracks.
Details
The detail retrieval is another strong point of the FT1 Pro. Little nuances, like background instruments, come through nicely. While it’s not on par with flagship planar headphones, it performs amazingly for its price.
Some quick comparisons
FT1 Pro vs HE4XX
The FT1 Pro has slightly more detail and better separation on complex tracks. It also has more bass and is easier to drive, whereas the HE4XX requires more power. Tuning-wise, the main differences lie in the bass region, which is much more dynamic sounding on the FT1 Pro.
When it comes to build quality and accessories, the FT1 Pro is leagues ahead. The FT1 Pro feels much more premium, with a sturdy design and quality materials. Meanwhile, the HE4XX suffers from durability issues, its headband and earcups have pleather that peels off, and in my case, the small rubber bands securing the earcups to the metal forks snap after just a month of daily use. This causes the metal forks to rub against the plastic cups.
The accessories are also much better with the FT1 Pro. It comes with a robust hard carrying case, a 3.5mm and 4.4mm balanced cables, and a 6.35mm adapter. In comparison, the HE4XX includes only a cheap, springy-feeling 3.5mm cable and a 6.35mm adapter. While I can’t say how the FT1 Pro will hold up after long-term use, it definitely feels more solid right out of the box. That said, for me, comfort is an issue for both headphones, the headband and earcups could be better designed on both models.
FT1 Pro vs FT1
I know it’s not entirely fair to compare a closed-back dynamic driver headphone to an open-back planar magnetic one. But hey, FiiO gave them nearly the same name, just with a “Pro” added, so it’s easy to see how some people might get confused. So I felt the need to breakdown the differences:
The FT1 Pro has less sub-bass and mid-bass than the FT1, so the FT1 feels more dynamic and lively in comparison. The FT1 also handles vocals better, sounding more pronounced and forward, likely due to the boosted 1.5kHz-2kHz region in its tuning.
However, when it comes to faster tracks that need tight, detailed, and punchy kicks or snares, the FT1 Pro is clearly superior. Its planar drivers provide faster response times and better separation, whereas the FT1 struggles with smudging the details in these very complex scenarios.
In terms of weight, the FT1 Pro is slightly heavier at 374g compared to the 340g of the FT1. Build quality and accessories are nearly identical, which can add to the confusion. Both headphones feature great designs, but the FT1 Pro stands out for its technical performance and overall refinement, while the FT1 in its musicality and a more natural sound.
Conclusion
The FiiO FT1 Pro is in my opinion a great pair of open-back planar headphones that offers a lot for the price. The sound is pretty balanced and natural, with treble that really stands out for being clear and detailed. The bass might not have that deep rumble some people want, but it’s fast and tight, which works well for certain types of music. The mids have a bit of a dip, which can make vocals feel less forward, but with some EQ, you can fix that easily.
What I really liked is the build quality and everything you get in the box. Like the FT1, the FT1 Pro feels premium, and the extras like the 4.4mm balanced cable and the hard carrying case, are really nice touches that are always welcome, and in my opinion, are a must have nowadays. It also feels way more durable than other headphones I’ve tried in this price range.
Still, they’re not perfect. The comfort could be better; the headband and earcups aren’t the most comfortable for long sessions. But if you are looking to try planar headphones without spending a ton, the FT1 Pro is a great choice.
I’m really curious to see where FiiO goes next with their headphones. They have shown they can make great products with solid sound and quality builds, and I can’t wait to see what’s coming next.
Pros
- Great detail and separation for the price.
- Very good tuning and overall sound quality.
- Solid build quality and premium feel.
- Comes with two quality cables (3.5mm and 4.4mm) and a nice carrying case.
- Easy to drive, no need for powerful amplification.
Cons
- Bass can feel a bit shy and lacks rumble.
- Comfort could be improved (headband and earcups).
- Recessed 1.5kHz-2kHz region (can affect vocals and some instruments).
Where to buy:(Non-affiliated! None of my reviews use affiliated links!)FiiO Official AliExpress Store
