FiiO FT1 Pro Headphones Review

After the success of FiiO’s FT1 closed-back headphones, it was only natural for fans to anticipate an open-back counterpart. Enter the FiiO FT1 Pro, an affordable open-back planar magnetic headphone that delivers a rich and immersive listening experience at just $199.99. With a strong emphasis on balanced sound, comfort, and portability, the FT1 Pro offers serious competition to higher-priced alternatives. Let’s dive into the design, features, and most importantly, the sound quality of these headphones.

What Comes In The Box

• FT1 Pro Headphones
• Storage bag
• Packaging box
• 4.4mm balanced cable
• 3.5mm single-ended cable
• 3.5mm to 6.35mm adapter
• Quick start guide

Aesthetics & Build Quality

The FT1 Pro sports a sleek all-black design that strikes a balance between elegance and subtlety. The ear cup design features intricate patterns, giving it a premium look without drawing too much attention. The earpads and headband are made from soft, cushioned materials, ensuring a snug yet comfortable fit. The clamping force is well-balanced—secure enough to keep the headphones in place but not so tight that it causes fatigue during extended listening sessions.

In terms of durability, the FT1 Pro feels solid and well-built, instilling confidence in its long-term use. Compared to the original FT1, FiiO has made noticeable improvements in weight reduction and overall fit, making this model more adaptable to different head sizes. At 374g, it remains lightweight for a planar headphone, allowing for greater comfort without sacrificing build quality.

Power & Connectivity 

The FT1 Pro is relatively easy to drive, but to get the most out of its planar drivers, pairing it with a dedicated DAC/Amp is recommended. While it can be powered directly from a laptop or smartphone, an external amp enhances its dynamics and detail retrieval significantly.

When tested with the Astell & Kern HC4 USB DAC/Amp, the FT1 Pro gained improved depth and detail, making the listening experience noticeably richer. The iFi GO Link Max allowed the use of the 4.4mm balanced cable, delivering greater power handling and enhanced clarity. With a low impedance of 20Ω and a sensitivity of 95dB/mW@1kHz, it doesn’t demand excessive power, but using a dedicated amp can help maximize its potential.

Tech Specs

• 95x86mm FIIO-developed planar driver | 1μm thin diaphragm
• Frequency Response: 7Hz-40kHz
• Sapphire+Aluminum dual-coating technology
• Patented uniform magnetic field design
• 28nm-grade process technology
• Impedance: 20 Ω
• Sensitivity: 95dB/mW@1kHz
• Weight: 374 g

Listening Review

Soundstage & Imaging

For an open-back planar headphone at this price point, the FT1 Pro delivers an expansive and immersive soundstage. Unlike some budget open-backs that focus only on width, this model offers depth and height, creating a more three-dimensional listening experience. The soundstage feels wide and airy, though not as vast as some high-end open-back headphones. Imaging is decent, though separation could be slightly improved. Instrument placement is accurate but not ultra-precise. While the imaging isn't as pinpoint-accurate as some higher-end planar headphones, it still provides a realistic stereo field that enhances musical immersion.

Low Frequencies

The bass response of the FT1 Pro is deep, punchy, and warm, offering a natural tonality that is uncommon for planar magnetic headphones. The low end is well-balanced, avoiding muddiness or overextension. It provides a solid foundation to the music, making bass-heavy tracks enjoyable without overpowering the mids. Surprisingly, the bass has a rich texture, staying clean and detailed rather than feeling overly synthetic, as some planar drivers tend to sound. This characteristic makes the FT1 Pro a great option for listeners who enjoy warmth and impact in their low-end response.

Midrange Frequencies

The midrange is where the FT1 Pro truly shines, delivering clear and well-separated vocals that stand out without overshadowing the surrounding instrumentation. The natural tonality in this range ensures that acoustic instruments and voices sound organic and lifelike. Midrange clarity is excellent, making each element of a mix easily distinguishable. While some headphones can either make the mids feel recessed or too forward, the FT1 Pro strikes a balance, allowing vocals and instrumentation to shine while maintaining overall coherence in the mix.

High Frequencies 

Treble response on the FT1 Pro is bright and detailed without becoming harsh or fatiguing. It complements the bass-forward nature of the headphone by adding a layer of crispness and articulation to the sound. Cymbals and strings retain a sparkle and a sense of airiness, though they never feel exaggerated. While some users may prefer an even more pronounced treble response, the FT1 Pro’s high-end remains smooth yet engaging, ensuring an enjoyable listening experience across different genres.

Summary

For $199.99, the FiiO FT1 Pro delivers exceptional value for an open-back planar magnetic headphone.

If you’re looking for an affordable open-back planar headphone with a warm, immersive sound and excellent build quality, the FT1 Pro is a fantastic choice. Whether you’re upgrading from a closed-back headphone or looking for an entry-level planar magnetic model, this is one of the best options in its price range.

The FiiO FT1 Pro is available at Audio46.