Looking for a pair of headphones that look as good as they sound? The FiiO FT1s, with their elegant wooden earcups, certainly make a strong first impression. But aesthetics aside, how do they perform? In this comprehensive review, we’ll explore the FiiO FT1 headphones in detail, covering their design, build quality, sound characteristics, and overall value. We’ll analyze their sound signature, discuss their comfort and practicality for everyday use, and compare them to other headphones in the same price bracket. Whether you’re a casual listener or an audiophile, this review will help you determine if the FiiO FT1s are the right headphones for you.
Key Takeaways
- Excellent sound at an accessible price: The FiiO FT1 headphones deliver a balanced, Harman-inspired sound signature, making them a great value for budget-conscious audiophiles.
- Designed for comfortable listening: Plush earpads and a well-designed headband ensure comfort during long listening sessions, making these headphones ideal for extended use.
- Practical for everyday use: The closed-back design provides effective noise isolation, making the FT1 suitable for various environments, from noisy commutes to quiet home listening.
What are the Fiio FT1 Headphones?
The FiiO FT1 headphones are a recent release from FiiO, aiming to give you a high-quality listening experience without a hefty price tag. They’re priced around $149.99, and for that price, you get a closed-back design with gorgeous wooden ear cups made from American Black Walnut. This wood isn’t just for show—it actually contributes to the overall sound quality. The FT1s also feature 60mm dynamic drivers, designed to create a rich and immersive sound. If you’d like to learn more about how these drivers work, check out our guide to dynamic drivers. Reviewers over at Pragmatic Audio are already calling them “beautifully crafted.”
Beyond the technical specs, the FT1s are getting attention for their comfortable design and solid build. They’re built for longer listening sessions, a major plus for anyone who likes to get lost in their music. The sound signature is inspired by the Harman target, known for its balanced audio profile. This means the FT1s should appeal to a wide range of listeners, regardless of their preferred genres. Head-Fi reviewers agree, praising the FT1’s comfort and Harman-inspired sound. Unheard Lab also mentions the impressive sound and build quality at this price point. Overall, the FiiO FT1 headphones offer a compelling combination of craftsmanship, comfort, and performance, making them a strong contender in the headphone market.
Unboxing the Fiio FT1: A Premium Experience
The Fiio FT1 arrives in packaging that immediately suggests quality, setting the stage for the headphones themselves. Fiio takes a refined approach with clean lines and a focus on the product. This understated elegance hints at the premium experience within. Much like Apple’s product packaging, the FT1’s unboxing feels deliberate and considered. It’s clear from the outset that this isn’t just another pair of headphones. Reviewers on Head-Fi have noted the FT1’s attractive wooden cups and comfortable design, distinguishing it from other headphones in its price range.
Premium Packaging
The initial impression reinforces the value proposition. The box itself is sturdy and well-constructed, protecting the headphones during shipping. Opening it reveals a neatly organized interior, with the FT1 nestled securely in protective foam. This attention to detail extends to the accessories, each carefully packaged and placed. It’s a welcome change from the tangled mess of cables and adapters often found with other audio gear. This thoughtful packaging, as highlighted in the Headfonics review, reflects Fiio’s care for the entire product, from design to delivery. It shows they value the customer experience, even down to the initial unboxing.
Accessories
The FT1 comes with a comprehensive set of accessories. Included is a high-quality silver-plated copper cable with a 3.5mm termination, as mentioned in the Headfonia review. This cable feels durable and well-made, unlike the flimsy cables often bundled with other headphones. This premium cable further reinforces the FT1’s value. The Unheard of Headphone Lab also praises the generous assortment of accessories, contributing to the overall positive impression. Fiio has clearly considered user needs, providing everything necessary to enjoy the FT1 right out of the box.
Design and Build: Aesthetics and Performance
The Fiio FT1 headphones make a strong first impression. Let’s take a closer look at the design and build.
Black Walnut Earcups
The real American black walnut earcups are more than just a pretty face. This wood isn’t just for show; it’s functional, too. The natural properties of wood help minimize unwanted resonance and reduce standing waves, which can muddy the sound. This contributes to a cleaner, more immersive listening experience. The black walnut adds a touch of classic elegance, making these headphones stand out from typical plastic designs.
60mm Drivers
The FT1s feature large 60mm dynamic drivers. Driver size plays a significant role in sound reproduction, and these larger drivers are designed to deliver a full, robust sound across a wide frequency range. Fiio tuned these drivers with versatility in mind, making them suitable for various music genres. This means you can enjoy everything from booming basslines in electronic music to delicate string arrangements in classical pieces.
Closed-Back Design
These are Fiio’s first foray into closed-back over-ear headphones, and they’ve clearly put thought into the design. The closed-back design isn’t just about looks; it’s about creating a more immersive listening experience. Fiio incorporated several sound insulation components into the FT1 to block out external noise. They claim a noise reduction of up to 26dB, which is significant for those who want to lose themselves in their music, whether on a commute or in a busy office.
Comfort and Extended Listening
Comfort is key, especially for long listening sessions. The Fiio FT1 delivers on this front. I’ve worn these for hours while working and editing, and they feel great. Two key features contribute to this: the plush earpads and the well-designed headband.
Plush Earpads and Adjustable Headband
The earpads on the FT1 are incredibly soft and plush, creating a gentle seal around your ears without excessive pressure. This comfortable fit is perfect for extended listening, preventing that “headphone fatigue” you can sometimes experience with stiffer or less breathable earcups. The headband is also easily adjustable, allowing you to find the perfect fit. This adjustability ensures even pressure distribution, further enhancing comfort.
Weight Distribution
Beyond the earpads and headband, the FT1’s overall weight distribution is excellent. The headphones feel balanced and secure. The design avoids pressure points that can cause discomfort over time, making the FT1 suitable for hours of uninterrupted listening. You can get lost in your music without the feeling of heavy headphones weighing you down.
Fiio FT1 Sound Quality: A Balanced Experience
The Fiio FT1 headphones offer a balanced sound signature, making them versatile for various music genres and listening preferences. Let’s break down the performance across different frequencies.
Bass Performance
The FT1’s bass is a standout feature, delivering a satisfying blend of depth and texture. Reviewers praise the low-end, describing it as having “better texture, definition, and dynamics” than comparable headphones. This makes the FT1 a solid choice for listeners who appreciate a bit more emphasis on the low end, while still maintaining control and avoiding a muddy sound. Prime Audio Reviews suggests the FT1 is a great option for those who prefer a “neutral-to-warm or bassy tuning.”
Highs and Mids
While the bass is prominent, the FT1 doesn’t neglect the mids and highs. The midrange remains clear, allowing vocals and instruments to cut through. The treble is described as “more than adequate” for closed-back headphones, avoiding a flat or overly dampened presentation. The Unheard Of Headphone Lab describes the FT1 as having a “darker character,” which complements the emphasized bass without sacrificing clarity in the higher frequencies.
Soundstage and Imaging
The FT1’s soundstage and imaging further enhance the listening experience. The Headphoneer notes a “larger soundstage with superior imaging,” creating a sense of space and depth. This translates to a more immersive experience, with improved instrument separation and a clear sense of where sounds originate within the mix. This makes the FT1 compelling for listeners who value spatial accuracy and detail in their music.
Fiio FT1 Sound Signature
Harman Tuning
The Fiio FT1’s sound signature takes inspiration from the popular Harman target curve, a frequency response designed to replicate the sound of high-quality speakers in a room. This generally translates to a balanced sound with a slight emphasis on the bass and a gentle roll-off in the treble. Reviewers at Head-Fi describe the FT1 as having a “decent Harman-inspired sound signature,” which, in practice, makes for a very enjoyable and versatile listening experience. The FT1’s large 60mm dynamic driver, as pointed out by Headfonics, contributes to its ability to reproduce a wide range of frequencies accurately. This larger driver allows the headphones to handle the nuances of various frequencies, resulting in a more accurate and detailed sound reproduction.
Genre Versatility
Thanks to its balanced tuning, the Fiio FT1 handles various music genres well. Whether you’re listening to bass-heavy hip-hop or delicate classical pieces, the FT1 delivers a clear and engaging presentation. The Unheard of Headphone Lab praises the FT1’s “pleasing, easy-to-listen tuning, with powerful bass and clear midrange,” making it suitable for long listening sessions. While the bass is prominent, it’s not overpowering, allowing other frequencies to shine through. The same review recommends the FT1 for listeners who prefer a neutral-to-warm or bassy sound profile. The Headphoneer compares the FT1’s bass performance to similar headphones, stating its bass “digs deeper and has better texture, definition, and dynamics.” This makes the FT1 a great all-arounder for music lovers who enjoy a wide range of genres, from electronic music to acoustic performances.
Practical Features
The Fiio FT1 isn’t just about sound quality; it’s designed for everyday use. Fiio considered practicality when creating these headphones, making them suitable for various situations.
Portability
The FT1 is Fiio’s first closed-back, over-ear headphone. This design choice impacts more than just the sound; it improves portability. The closed-back design helps contain sound, making the FT1 suitable for listening in public spaces without disturbing others. While not explicitly designed for travel, the sturdy build suggests they can handle everyday wear and tear. More information on the FT1 design is available on Fiio’s website.
Noise Isolation
One of the biggest advantages of closed-back headphones is their ability to block out external noise, and the Fiio FT1 excels in this area. Thick earpads and a secure fit create a good seal, effectively isolating you from your surroundings. A detailed review from Headfonia highlights this excellent noise isolation. Fiio states the FT1 reduces ambient noise by up to 26dB, meaning less background noise and more focus on your music. This makes them a great option for noisy commutes or focusing in a busy environment. You can find more details about the FT1’s noise reduction on the Fiio product page.
Who Should Consider the Fiio FT1?
Ideal User
The FiiO FT1s are a great option for anyone looking for comfortable, closed-back headphones with a pleasing sound. Reviewers on Head-Fi describe the FT1’s sound signature as “Harman inspired,” which generally translates to a balanced sound with a slight emphasis on bass. If you enjoy a neutral-to-warm or bassy tuning, the FT1s are an easy recommendation, according to The Unheard of Headphone Lab. The generous accessory set also contributes to the premium feel. The same site praises the overall value, citing “impressive sound quality and excellent build quality.”
Listening Scenarios
The FT1’s closed-back design makes them versatile for various listening situations. Pragmatic Audio suggests they could easily become your next go-to closed-back headphones. The comfortable design, highlighted by Headfonia Reviews, makes them suitable for extended listening. The closed-back design and thick earpads offer good noise isolation, blocking out distractions, which is ideal for commuting, travel, or listening in busier environments.
Fiio FT1: Value and Affordability
Price and Performance
The FiiO FT1 comes in at a competitive price, making it a strong contender in the budget headphone market. Reviewers have praised its impressive sound quality at this price point, noting its performance punches well above its weight class. Headfonics describes the FT1’s sound signature as “competitive and enjoyable,” especially considering its affordability (source). The Unheard of Headphone Lab points out the excellent build quality and generous accessories further sweeten the deal (source). For those new to higher-fidelity audio, the FT1 offers an accessible entry point, delivering a substantial upgrade over standard consumer headphones without emptying your wallet. If you’re looking to explore the world of audiophile headphones, the FT1’s combination of price and performance makes it a compelling option. Our beginner’s guide to speaker types offers a helpful overview of different headphone designs.
Long-Term Value
Beyond its initial appeal, the FiiO FT1 offers features that contribute to its long-term value. Headfonia highlights the thoughtful design choices that enhance comfort and usability, making the FT1 a pleasure to use over extended periods (source). This focus on comfort is crucial for long listening sessions, preventing fatigue and ensuring you can enjoy your music for hours. Headphones.com considers the FT1 “a worthwhile investment,” praising its blend of great sound, usability, and comfort (source]). Durability is another factor contributing to long-term value. While specific details on the FT1’s longevity aren’t readily available, FiiO’s reputation for producing well-built products suggests the FT1 is designed to withstand regular use. This potential for lasting performance further solidifies the FT1’s position as a smart purchase for budget-conscious audiophiles. If you’re interested in learning more about audio setups, our beginner’s guide to soundbars might be helpful.
Final Thoughts on the Fiio FT1
The Fiio FT1 makes a strong case as your next closed-back headphone. Reviewers at Pragmatic Audio praise its satisfying sound, highlighting the bass quality paired with a neutral midrange and generally solid treble. This balanced sound signature, often described as “Harman-inspired,” makes it versatile across various music genres. For a deeper understanding of this sound signature, check out our guide on the Harman Target Curve. Headfonia Reviews points out thoughtful design touches that improve both comfort and usability. Features like plush earpads, a well-adjusted headband, and comfortable weight distribution become especially noticeable during longer listening sessions. If you’re looking for a neutral-to-warm or bassy tuning, Prime Audio Reviews gives the FT1 a straightforward recommendation. And with a price point of $149, The Unheard of Headphone Lab considers it aggressively priced for the performance and build quality, especially given the included accessories. Overall, the Fiio FT1 presents a compelling combination of sound, comfort, and value. The attractive black walnut earcups, as discussed in our design section, are a nice bonus.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are the FiiO FT1 headphones good for travel?
While not specifically marketed as travel headphones, the FT1’s closed-back design and sturdy build make them suitable for on-the-go listening. The closed-back design helps contain sound, minimizing noise leakage, which is a plus for shared spaces like planes or trains. However, they don’t fold down, so they might take up a bit more room in your bag.
How do the FiiO FT1 compare to other headphones in the same price range?
Reviewers consistently point out that the FT1 punches above its weight class in terms of sound and build quality. The combination of American black walnut earcups, comfortable design, and Harman-inspired tuning makes them a strong competitor. Many reviews suggest they offer a more premium experience than other headphones at a similar price.
Where can I buy the FiiO FT1 headphones?
You can purchase the FiiO FT1 headphones from various online retailers, including Amazon, as well as directly from FiiO’s website. Check out online audio forums and review sites for potential deals or authorized retailers.
What kind of music genres are the FiiO FT1 best suited for?
Thanks to their balanced sound signature, the FT1s are pretty versatile. They handle a wide range of genres well, from electronic and hip-hop to classical and acoustic. The slightly emphasized bass adds a nice punch to genres like EDM and hip-hop, while the clear midrange and treble ensure vocals and instruments shine through in other genres.
Will the FiiO FT1 work with my phone?
Yes, the FT1 comes with a standard 3.5mm cable, which is compatible with most smartphones. If your phone doesn’t have a headphone jack, you’ll need a separate adapter.
