Fiio FT1 Pro

Preface:

I borrowed this unit from a dear friend @gadgetgod

I'm not the one to usually focus on specifications and numbers. I focus more on how happy I am with the equipment's sound and that's it.

Disclaimer: All impressions and opinions in this review are my own. I have not been paid or compensated by FiiO or any other entity for this review. My assessment is based solely on my personal experience with the product.

Introduction:

For those deeply entrenched in the world of personal audio, FiiO needs little introduction. Hailing from China, they've carved a significant niche for themselves by consistently delivering a wide array of high-value audio products. From DAPs and DAC/amplifiers to IEMs and now headphones, FiiO's philosophy centers around bringing quality sound and innovative features to enthusiasts without demanding exorbitant prices. Their product lineup caters to a broad spectrum of audiophiles, from those just starting their sonic journey to seasoned veterans seeking reliable and capable gear. FiiO has earned a reputation for robust build quality, thoughtful design, and a commitment to pushing the boundaries of performance at various price points.

Now, stepping into the realm of over-ear headphones, FiiO introduces the FT1 Pro. This open-back planar magnetic headphone represents their foray into a potentially new sonic territory for many FiiO users. Promising a spacious soundstage and the detail retrieval inherent to planar technology, the FT1 Pro aims to offer a compelling listening experience for discerning ears. Let's delve deep into what this headphone brings to the table and see if it lives up to FiiO's established reputation for delivering value and performance.

Sources used:

• FiiO M17
• iBasso D16 (+ PB5)
• Hugo 2 + 2go
• Violectric V590²
• Cayin IHA6

Specifications:

Driver : Planar Magnetic Driver
Driver Configuration : 95x86mm FiiO-Developed Planar
Impedance : 20 Ohms
Connector : Dual 3.5mm TRS
Sensitivity : 95dB/mW@1kHz / 112dB/Vrms@1kHz
Frequency Response : 7hZ-40kHz
Ear Cup Pressure : 4.5N±0.3N
Cable Material : Silver-Plated Oxygen-Free Copper
Weight : About 374g (Excluding Cable)


Box Contents:

• FiiO FT1 PRO
• Storage Case *1
• 4.4mm Balanced Cable *1
• 3.5mm Single-Ended Cable *1
• 3.5mm to 6.35mm Adapter *1
• Quick Start Guide

Unboxing Experience:

Cracking open the box of the FiiO FT1 Pro, I was greeted by the headphones themselves, nestled securely in a hardshell carry case. What immediately caught my eye was the inclusion of two cables: a 4.4mm balanced cable and a standard 3.5mm single-ended cable! This is fantastic, offering immediate flexibility for different sources. As expected, a 3.5mm to 6.35mm adapter was also included, catering to those of us with full-sized headphone jacks on our desktop gear. Lastly, the obligatory quick start guide was present. The inclusion of both balanced and single-ended cables right out of the box is a real win in my book!







Design and Build:

Taking a closer look at the headphones themselves, the circumaural design fully encloses my ears comfortably. The earcups appear to be constructed from a durable-feeling plastic, with a matte finish that is mostly resistant to fingerprints. The padding on the earcups is plush and covered in a soft, leatherette material, providing a good seal without excessive pressure. The headband is also nicely padded along the underside and features a smooth, adjustable mechanism with clear markings for finding the right fit. The yokes connecting the earcups to the headband seem robust enough to withstand regular use.







The detachable cable connects to the earcups via 3.5mm TRS standard connectors, providing a secure and reliable connection. The cable itself has a smooth, flexible jacket and resists tangling reasonably well. The overall build quality feels solid for the price point. While they aren't the most luxurious headphones I've handled, they strike a good balance between being lightweight for comfort and feeling durable enough for everyday use.





Wearing Comfort:

Alright, let's dive into the physical experience of wearing the FiiO FT1 Pro for extended listening sessions. This is crucial, right? Because even the best-sounding headphones are no fun if they feel like a torture device after an hour.

The size of the earcups strikes a good balance. They're definitely circumaural, fully enclosing my ears without feeling overly bulky or cumbersome. There's enough internal volume that my ears don't feel cramped or pressed against the drivers, which is a big plus for long listening periods.

The depth inside the cups is also noteworthy. I didn't experience that annoying sensation of my earlobes brushing against the inner walls or the driver housing. There seems to be sufficient space to accommodate even slightly larger ears comfortably. This contributes significantly to a fatigue-free experience, allowing me to focus solely on the music.



The headband design is quite effective. It distributes the weight evenly, avoiding any pressure hotspots on the crown of my head. I found the clamping force to be just right – secure enough to keep the headphones in place without feeling like my head was in a vice. This balance is key; too loose, and they'd shift around; too tight, and it becomes uncomfortable quickly. FiiO seems to have found a sweet spot here.



The padding on both the earcups is plush and covered in a soft, breathable leatherette material on the outside and fabric on the side facing the ears. It feels gentle against the skin and doesn't seem to cause excessive heat build-up, even during longer listening sessions in a relatively warm room.

The adjustability of the headband is smooth and intuitive, allowing me to find the perfect fit with minimal fuss. The yokes connecting the earcups to the headband also offer a good range of swivel and tilt, ensuring that the earcups conform nicely to the shape of my head, creating a good seal around my ears. This seal is not only important for comfort but also for achieving optimal bass response.

Overall, the wearing comfort of the FiiO FT1 Pro is quite commendable. The thoughtful design of the earcups, the adequate depth inside, and the effective headband all contribute to a comfortable and enjoyable listening experience, even for extended periods. I didn't experience any significant discomfort or pressure points, which is a major win in my book for a pair of over-ear headphones. They feel well-balanced and don't fatigue the head or ears.

Driveability:

Before I dive into how the FiiO FT1 Pro performed with each specific source in my setup, let's touch on its overall driveability. On paper, with an impedance of 20Ω and a sensitivity of 112dB/Vrms (95dB/mW), the FT1 Pro is relatively easy to drive. It doesn't require massive amounts of power to reach comfortable listening levels. In theory, even a decent dongle or a basic DAP is capable of pushing them to a respectable volume.

However, as many of us know, volume isn't the only factor. The quality of the amplification plays a crucial role in unlocking a headphone's full sonic potential, influencing dynamics, detail retrieval, and overall refinement. While the FT1 Pro might play loudly enough from less powerful sources, I was keen to explore how it scaled with dedicated headphone amplifiers, both portable and desktop, to see if those inherent planar magnetic characteristics truly blossomed with more capable power delivery. So, while seemingly easy to drive, the real question was whether dedicated amplification would bring a significant improvement to the listening experience. Let's find out, source by source!

• Hugo 2 (3.5mm): Connected via the 3.5mm single-ended cable, the Hugo 2 offered a notable increase in clarity and detail, presenting a more refined and spacious sound compared to dongles, with a generally balanced tonal presentation.

• Cayin IHA6 (6.35mm)(Low Impedance port): Using the 3.5mm single-ended cable with the robust Cayin IHA6 desktop amp yielded significant gains in dynamic range and impact, with the bass feeling more authoritative and the overall presentation gaining effortless power, maintaining a good tonal balance.

• Violectric V590 V2 (4.4mm): The 4.4mm balanced connection to the transparent Violectric V590 V2 truly allowed the FT1 Pro's nuances to shine, with exceptional micro-detail retrieval and precise imaging within a wide soundstage, delivering a very clean and detailed sound.
• iBasso D16 (4.4mm): The 4.4mm balanced output of the portable iBasso D16 offered a substantial improvement over DX260, enhancing dynamic range, clarity, and bass definition for enjoyable on-the-go listening, with a generally well-controlled sound.

• iBasso D16 + PB5 (4.4mm): Connecting the D16's balanced output to the iBasso PB5 tube amplifier imparted a pleasing warmth and smoothness, creating a more organic and spacious sound with a unique harmonic richness, offering a distinct sonic flavor. There was a lot of mid bass emphasis though which didn't let the sub bass shine.

• FiiO M17 (4.4mm Balanced & 3.5mm Single-Ended): Now, the FiiO M17. While this DAP boasts significant power, the synergy with the FT1 Pro leaned towards the brighter side. Using the 4.4mm balanced output, the clarity and detail were certainly present, and the soundstage was expansive. However, I found the treble to become quite pronounced, even a bit bright and potentially fatiguing over longer listening sessions. The 3.5mm single-ended output exhibited a similar characteristic, though perhaps slightly less intense. While the M17 has the power to drive the FT1 Pro well, the resulting tonal balance wasn't my preferred pairing, pushing the upper frequencies a little too forward.

Sound Analysis:

Tonality:

The first thing that struck me was the overall balance. It’s not sterile by any means; there's this underlying sense of warmth that makes you want to just sink into the music. Take, for instance, the opening chords of "So What" by Miles Davis. The trumpet has this lovely, rounded quality, and Paul Chambers' bass line feels rich and full. Now, while this warmth is inviting, when the higher frequencies come in – say, the shimmer of the cymbals – they don't quite have that ultimate crystalline transparency I've heard on some other setups. It's a trade-off, a touch of smoothness for maybe a hair less top-end air.

Sub-Bass:

Oh boy, when the sub-bass hits right, it's something else! In "Silent Shout" by The Knife, those deep, pulsating synth waves have a real depth and rumble that you can feel. The FT1 Pro definitely delivers that visceral low-end sensation. The decay is surprisingly controlled too; it doesn't just linger and muddy everything up. However, when you throw something really demanding at it, like the rapid-fire bass in "Bass Cannon" by Flux Pavilion, you notice it doesn't quite have that last ounce of tightness and definition. Each individual bass hit doesn't have that super-sharp leading edge.

Mid-Bass:

The mid-bass has a decent impact, no doubt. Listen to the driving kick drum in "Seven Nation Army" by The White Stripes – it's got that satisfying thump. The texture of Jack Bruce's bass in Cream's "Sunshine of Your Love" is also rendered pretty well; you can hear the growl and the individual notes. Yet, in busier rock mixes, like "Smells Like Teen Spirit" by Nirvana, the definition between the kick drum and Krist Novoselic's bass can get a little…well, less distinct than I'd ideally want. They sort of blend together just a tad.

Lower Midrange:

This is where that warmth really shines, giving male vocals a lovely presence and body. Think of Leonard Cohen's voice in "Hallelujah" – it's got this real richness and gravitas. The cello in Bach's Cello Suite No. 1, played by Yo-Yo Ma, just sounds so full and resonant. On the other hand, when female vocals occupy this space, like Amy Winehouse in "Back to Black," sometimes they don't quite cut through the mix with the same forwardness. There's a slight…recessiveness, maybe? The body of acoustic guitars can also sound a touch too thick at times.

Upper Midrange:

Here's where things get a bit more interesting in terms of clarity. The detail in the acoustic guitar intro of "Blackbird" by The Beatles is quite nice; you can hear the individual string plucks. Female vocals, like Kate Bush in "Running Up That Hill," have a good sense of articulation. Still, push it with something like the electric guitar solo in "Comfortably Numb" by Pink Floyd, and you might notice a slight…hardness, a little bit of an unnatural edge on those higher notes.

Lower Treble:

The initial detail in the lower treble is commendable. The snap of the snare drum in "Billie Jean" by Michael Jackson is crisp and well-defined. The decay of cymbals sounds pretty natural too. However, those really intricate hi-hat patterns, like in some jazz recordings, can occasionally sound a little…smeared together, lacking that ultimate pinpoint precision.

Upper Treble:

You get a decent sense of extension up here, contributing to a bit of air and sparkle. The high-pitched strings in a classical piece have a certain shimmer. But, and this is something I noticed, that top-end doesn't quite have that effortless reach. It feels like it rolls off just a tad, so you lose some of that ultimate high-frequency air and those really delicate harmonics. Sibilance, thankfully, isn't a major issue; voices generally avoid that harsh "s" sound.

Soundstage:

The width is definitely respectable; the music stretches out beyond my ears, which is nice. There's also a decent sense of depth, allowing for some front-to-back placement of instruments. However, the height feels a bit…constrained. It's not a claustrophobic experience, but it doesn't have that truly open, airy feel. Listening to "Bohemian Rhapsody" by Queen, while the panning is evident, the vertical placement of the vocals and instruments isn't as distinct as I've heard on other headphones.

Layering and Separation:

For the most part, the FT1 Pro does a decent job of keeping things separate. In complex orchestral pieces, you can usually pick out different instrument sections. Vocals tend to sit nicely in front of the instrumentation. Yet, when you throw something really dense at it, like a heavily layered electronic track, things can get a little…congested. Individual elements don't always have that pristine space around them.

Timbre:

The overall naturalness of instruments is a definite plus. Acoustic instruments sound quite convincing; the resonance of a piano or the pluck of a guitar string comes through pretty well. Voices also have a generally realistic quality. Still, that slight lower midrange emphasis can sometimes add a bit of…thickness to lower-pitched instruments, maybe making them sound just a hair less defined.

Coherence:

Generally, the different parts of the frequency spectrum integrate pretty smoothly. The transition from the bass to the mids to the treble doesn't feel disjointed. However, that underlying warmth does mean that the lower frequencies have a slightly more prominent presence in the overall mix. It's not a deal-breaker, but it does subtly shape the overall tonal balance.

Detail Retrieval:

You can definitely hear the subtle stuff – the gentle brushstrokes on a drum, the slight vibrato in a singer's voice. But, those really minute details, the kind that make you go "Ah, I never noticed that before!", aren't always as readily apparent as on some more analytical headphones. There's a slight…smoothing over of the finest micro-details.

Micro Dynamics:

The subtle shifts in volume within a musical phrase are conveyed adequately. You can hear the gradual build-up of intensity. However, the emotional impact of these subtle changes could be more…pronounced. It presents the information, but doesn't always fully convey the feeling behind it.

Macro Dynamics:

When it comes to those big swings in volume, the FT1 Pro has a decent sense of scale. The loud parts get loud enough. But, at really high volumes, I noticed a slight…compression, a lack of that truly unrestrained dynamic range.

Conclusion:

Alright, after spending considerable time with the FiiO FT1 Pro, what's the final word? Where does it sit, and why might you, fellow audiophile, want to give it a serious listen?

The FiiO FT1 Pro carves out a compelling niche for itself, that's for sure. Its open-back planar design is the core of its appeal, delivering a genuinely expansive and airy soundstage that's a joy to get lost in. That planar driver also brings a certain speed and detail to the table, rendering transients with impressive immediacy. If you crave that sense of sonic spaciousness and appreciate a detailed presentation, the FT1 Pro definitely has something special to offer.

The inclusion of both balanced and single-ended cables right in the box is a huge plus, offering versatility straight away. It's also relatively easy to drive, meaning you don't necessarily need a super-powerful amplifier to get good results, though it definitely scales nicely with better gear.

So, why consider the FT1 Pro over other options? Well, if you prioritize that open, airy sound and the snappy detail of a planar driver without breaking the bank, it's a strong contender. It offers a different sonic flavor compared to many dynamic driver headphones, and that expansive soundstage can be truly immersive. If you're looking to dip your toes into the world of planar magnetics or want an open-back headphone that's relatively easy to drive and comes with a comprehensive set of cables, the FiiO FT1 Pro is certainly worth auditioning. It's a unique listening experience that brings its own set of strengths to the table, offering a compelling blend of spaciousness and detail that's hard to ignore!

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!

The full review can also be found on https://mobileaudiophile.com/, via this link

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.


Where to buy: (Non-affiliated! None of my reviews use affiliated links!)

FiiO Official AliExpress Store

Specs And Driver Configuration

• Planar Driver
• Weight : 347gm
• Impedance: 20Ω
• Sensitivity: 95dB/mW

Before starting the review, I want to thank @FiiO for sending this headphone for review.

Unboxing Experience and Accessories Package

The unboxing experience and accessories package truly stand out in this price range. The external sleeve feels premium, featuring an all-black design with a sleek image of the FT1 Pro. Sliding off the sleeve reveals a minimalist plain black box. Opening this box unveils a stylish brownish hardshell carry case, neatly packed with all the accessories and the headphones.



The accessories provided are excellent. Things provided in the box are 1. Hard shell carry case 2. 4.4mm balanced cable 3. 3.5mm unbalanced cable 4. Quarter inch adapter.



Providing a carry case at this price that is of very high quality is very rare. The carry case feels very sturdy and robust, it provides good protection for the headphones. The cables provided are also very good, they are braided and feel very sturdy and robust. Instead of providing separate cables for balanced and unbalanced connections fiio could have provided one modular cable. Overall very impressed with the accessories.

Design and Build Quality

The design looks very elegant and professional, you can’t go wrong with the black and silver colourway.



The earcups are oval shaped and the grills instead of simple mesh have cool and intricate patterns stamped on them, the top headband has a very simple shape and padding.



The build quality is decent but but not the best. The pre-release and early unit had an issue where the screw joining the earcup yoke and headband came loose, fiio fixed this issue and I am happy to report that my unit has no issue like this.



The whole headphone has a metal build, and the yoke and headband feel sturdy. The metal used for grills is on the thinner side, but I would say for 200 dollars I have no issues with the build quality.


Comfort

The comfort of the stock FT1 pro is okayish, the main issue is with the headband comfort. The headband is on the thinner side and has very less padding so it creates a hotshot on the head. I would highly recommend printing a 3d printed comfort strap for it, after using the headband with the comfort strap there is a day and night difference in the comfort. The earpads are of good size and shape. No Issues with the earpads. So after the comfort strap mod, the comfort is very good.



Sources Used

For my sound analysis, I used it with Onix xi1 dongle, chord Mojo 2 and my topping a70 pro and e70 velvet stack. And all of them powered it beautifully. I was really amazed by how good it paired with the Onix Xi 1 dongle.



Sound

I did all my sound testing on the stock pads. Overall tuning is neutral.



Bass

The bass on this headphone is very solid. The extension is good, though there is a slight roll-off in the deep sub-bass region. However, a mild boost in the 35-60Hz range enhances the sub-bass rumble, making it more pronounced and fun. The mid-bass remains flat and neutral, without any unnecessary emphasis.

The bass quality is excellent for the price. The FT1 Pro handles deep sub-bass notes with impressive texture and rumble. The mid-bass thump is well-executed, delivering a satisfying punch without sounding overdone. The overall sense of slam is also decent.

On Timeless by The Weeknd, the sub-bass rumble comes through beautifully. In Hotel California (Hell Freezes Over Remaster), the intro kick drums hit with great impact, effectively conveying the mid-bass thump. Limit to Your Love features fast bass sections that serve as a solid test for bass speed and control, and the FT1 Pro handles them effortlessly.




Mids

The mids are executed very well on this headphone. The lower mids are what I’d call truly neutral—not too lean, not too warm, just balanced. The upper mids have a 1-2.5kHz dip, similar to HIFIMAN headphones, though not as pronounced. I understand that this dip helps enhance the soundstage effect, and here, it strikes a perfect balance between spaciousness and tonal accuracy.

The presence region (4-6kHz) is tuned just right, adding the ideal amount of bite to vocals without making them harsh. Both male and female vocals are handled beautifully, with instruments and vocals sounding natural and well-represented.

On 3 Nights by Dominic Fike, his vocals sounded just right, with just the right amount of heft to make them feel natural and realistic. On Skyfall by Adele, her vocals carried the perfect amount of energy—never sounding shouty or sharp, just well-balanced and engaging.




Treble

Treble is also tuned very well on this headphone, it’s not the smoothest but for the price I have no issues. You can try pad rolling to make the treble even more smoother. For me, treble is at the perfect level. Now, if you are like me and always found hifimans to be sibilant and sharp then this will be more of your preference. But if you like the treble of hifimans then Ft1 pro can sound safe for you.

The treble has good bite to it, and has good micro-detail retrieval. Treble extension is also very good, which helps in increasing the spaciousness effect and the micro detail retrieval.




Detail retrieval and Technical Performance

The detail retrieval on this headphone is excellent. Both macro and micro details are well-presented, allowing the FT1 Pro to effortlessly bring out nuances in tracks without making them feel artificially emphasized.

Its technical performance is also impressive for the price. The stage is wide—not the widest in its segment—but instrument placement and layering are executed very well. You can easily pinpoint each instrument and its position within the track. The FT1 Pro also handles busier passages with ease. For example, in Ghoomar at the 3:35 mark, when the track picks up with multiple instruments coming into play, the FT1 Pro maintains its composure without losing clarity or separation.



EQ

I did experiment with EQ to see how well this headphone responds. I added a bass shelf and filled out the 1-2.5kHz scoop, and the FT1 Pro handled the EQ adjustments effortlessly. I’ve heard some reports of distortion in the bass region on earlier units, but my unit had no such issues—it performed cleanly without any unwanted artifacts.



Conclusion

I really enjoyed my time with this headphone—it has now become my go-to recommendation at this price point. In my opinion, it’s a wake-up call for competitor brands to step up and release worthy rivals to the FT1 Pro.



Of course, I know this isn’t a perfect headphone. A strap mod is needed to achieve the best comfort. However, when it comes to sound, the FT1 Pro did not disappoint. I was aware of the build quality and driver issues in earlier units, which is why I took my time with a long-term review. After thorough testing, I can confidently say this headphone gets a huge thumbs-up from me.

A refined Open-Back Planar that builds upon a now proven FT1 foundation​

The FiiO FT1 Pro is an open-back planar magnetic headphone that shares much of its physical chassis, accessories, and overall design framework with the highly regarded FiiO FT1 dynamic closed-back model. The FT1 is my “headphone of the year” and the FT1 Pro by sharing a common heritage is already a favorite of mine. But can the FT1 Pro proof as stellar a performer in the much more competitive mid-fi priced open planar market?

Read on to find out.





So, I’ve been using the pre-release FT1 Pro I received extensively over the past month, really enjoying the default neutral tuning without any EQ (which is pretty rare for me) but also enjoying some pad rolling, since the FT1 Pro shares the same chassis as the FT1 I had bought a bunch of different ear pads on Aliexpress recently for the FT1, and I can re-use those on the FT1 Pro. I will share some measurements and impressions I got with some of these different earpads later in this review.

But first what was the issue with this pre-release FT1 Pro? Let’s get into the details:

A tale of 2 FT1 Pro’s​

I delayed this review specifically because I identified what I believed was an issue on my pre-production sample. After reaching out to FiiO, they confirmed that the retail version included a subtle adjustment as they noticed the same “issue” also.

So I thought it would be interesting and useful if I got a retail unit to compare with the pre-release and confirm that the issue has been fixed. Especially as some early reviews will also be based on the pre-release units, so I can at least include any differences the review units and the final retail units.

I finally received the retail FT1 Pro a few days ago and I have been spending time switching between both headphones. Thankfully everything that was good with my pre-release FT1 Pro is still there, but there is a subtle change to the tuning as you will see.



But before we get into those details, I thought it might be useful to cover the naming scheme for this headphone as that is one question everyone seems to have.

Why call it FT1 Pro ?​

When I first learned of the FT1 Pro, I assumed the “Pro” might mean “Professional”. But, I did think it was a strange choice for the name of this headphone, but FiiO clarified that the “Pro” in FT1 Pro stands for “Progressive.” That said, I personally feel a name like “FT1 Open” or “FT1 Planar,” or even rebranding it as “FT2,” might have better communicated the nature of this product. Still, I understand their logic, their R&D team developed a basic headphone “chassis” for the entry level of headphones. Only later in the development lifecycle did they decided they would use that chassis for both a closed back and an open back.

As someone who works in software, I often build new applications using the same frameworks or “scaffolding” reusing something that proved successful in previous, but very different project. This is essentially what FiiO did here, reusing the FT1’s chassis, headband, cables, and overall construction approach allowed them to quickly develop and launch the FT1 Pro. Despite being a fundamentally different design internally (i.e. planar and open-back), it’s immediately familiar and comfortable from a user’s standpoint, sharing the same headband and with similar weight and earpads.

So lets now get into the unboxing:

Packaging and Accessories​

The FT1 Pro arrives in packaging nearly identical to the FT1:




The back has similar useful specifications:




Sliding it out of the sleeve:




Then opening the box you see the same very nice (for the price) hard carry case as you would get with the FT1:


For comparisons here are both the boxes and the cases from the Pre-release FT1 Pro and the Retail release, so nothing has changed:


Opening the case you see the FT1 Pro and the cables:




The box, the molded carrying case, and the included cables are all high quality and give a feeling of consistency.

The 3.5mm single-ended and 4.4mm balanced) cables are very good quality especially in this budget price range:

While not as lavish an accessory package as some of FiiO’s higher-end open-backs (like the FT3 and FT5 series), the FT1 Pro still provides more than what you’d typically get at its price point, especially compared to other planar headphones in this similar price range that I will compare it with later, ie. the Hifiman Sundara and Edition XS.



The consistency in packaging and accessories between the FT1 and both FT1 Pro confirm that the pre-release unit was the same as the final retail experience, only the subtle tuning changes which I will get too separated them.

Build, Comfort, and Design​

The FT1 Pro feels a lot like the original FT1. The headband assembly, earcup yokes, and even the ear pads are very similar:




This means you get a comfortable and familiar fit right out of the box, the headband could do with slightly more padding, but it’s still very comfortable:


And the extension mechanism is that familiar one from the FT1 which works very well:


I have heard of a few people who have had to fix the ‘screws’ on the swivel mechanism, but while that can be annoying it seems like it is an easy fix and leads me to believe this headphone will be easy to fix for many year going forward.


The main difference, visually, between the FT1 and the FT1 Pro is the open-back grill design that reveals the planar driver’s unique structure:

The finish is well-executed, with a sturdy feel that belies its price point.

Taking off the earpads reveals driver and the planar magnets:




For those wanting the further take apart the FT1, the holes around the driver which I imagine contain screws are not as easily accessible:

Comfort and Ergomonimcs​

For long listening sessions, the FT1 Pro excels. The clamping force is moderate, and the ear pads are plush with generous space for most ear sizes. The FT1 Pro also handles a slightly broken seal from glasses extremely well with a minimal drop in the bass response. I have a few measurements with glasses later.

Unlike some planar headphones that can be heavy or awkward, the FT1 Pro remains well-balanced on the head with generous earpad comfort:



Using the same FT1 chassis ensures a stable and comfortable wear for hours on end. It also means pad swapping is extremely easy. I had been busy on Aliexpress buying various earpads for my FT1 and of course they all work on the FT1 Pro also. Here is one of my favourites:



More on some of the earpads, I tried with the FT1 Pro in the measurements section.

Sound Quality differences between pre-release and retail versions​

So, what did I notice in the pre-release model I was listening too? While the tuning had a fantastic subbass extension similar in lots of ways to the Hifiman Edition XS, I could relatively easily get the headphone to resonant and ‘rattle’ mainly if I played some sub-bass test tones loud. Though much louder than I would normally play music so it was not that obvious and didn’t affect normal listening.

But playing 30Hz via Tone Gen loud and suddenly the headphone would both distort and rattle badly. Getting this to happen with real music was much more difficult, but once I noticed I could do this with a test tone I went in search of various sub-bass heavy tracks with long segments of deep sub-bass. So while most people would probably not notice this especially at normal listening levels, I feel bass heads that listening loud and especially those that use EQ to boost the sub-bass would get significantly more distortion than they should expect. I could hear the distortion playing a few sub-bass heavy tracks loud, so this was technically an ‘audible’ issue.

Changes from the Prerelease to Retail Version​

After alerting FiiO, they acknowledged it was related to “designing the F0 resonance frequency too low”. The retail version subtly adjusts damping materials reduce the sub-bass resonance. These changes are minor but the retail version of the FT1 Pro is much more ‘stable’ in those sub-bass heavy tracks.

I will present more measurements later but here are 2 waterfall charts to visually indicate this distortion:

You can probably spot the slight roll-off in sub-bass within the retail version, this greatly reduces the likelihood of generating audible distortion with the retail version.

Tonal Balance​

The FT1 Pro’s tonal balance is neutral-leaning with a slight warmth, with a very similar tonal performance to Edition XS and the Sundara, probably somewhere between these 2 excellent headphones. Planar drivers often excel at delivering linear bass and detailed mids, and the FT1 Pro is no exception, in fact the original pre-release version had exceptional linearity right down to the sub-bass (but as I mentioned above possible it was too ambitious), but the retail unit shares everything the prerelease unit had down to 30hz.

So the bass is articulate, with a quick transient response that planar headphones are known for. The midrange is full and engaging, but it does have that “soundstage” frequency trick with a slightly recessed region similar to many other headphones, and the treble has good extension without harshness.

As you will see later I would put the tonal balance of the FT1 Pro between the Sundara and the Edition XS.

Detail Retrieval and Dynamics​

Planar drivers are renowned for their speed and resolution, and the FT1 Pro lives up to that expectation at its price point. Micro-details in complex tracks come through clearly, and there’s a good sense of layering between instruments. Dynamics are solid, while the FT1 Pro might not hit the deepest sub-bass like some flagship planars, it never feels lacking or dull.

Soundstage and Imaging​

The open-back design naturally offers a more spacious soundstage compared to the closed-back FT1. The FT1 Pro’s stage isn’t the widest planar I’ve heard, I would still recommend the Edition XS if you are chasing stage, but it is well above average in its price class. Imaging is precise, and there’s a nice sense of three-dimensionality, making it easy to pick out individual elements in a mix.

Specifications and Measurements​

These specs are well within what you’d expect from a modern planar headphone. The FT1 Pro is not difficult to drive from a mid-tier DAC/amp or even a portable player, I used it happily with my Apple USB-C dongle. While it benefits from decent amplification, it doesn’t require a massive desktop rig and is much easier to drive than most of its competitiion.

Measurements​

Note: These measurements were taken with my KB501X soft ear pinnae with a 711 clone coupler. And are available on Pragmatic Audio here

Let’s start with the frequency response:

Frequency Response and Channel Balance:​

Both my retail and the pre-release show excellent channel balance.

For comparison here is a comparison with the Pre-release model.

So it is very similar but the Pre-release model did go down into the sub-bass level a little smoother:

Distortion:​

Here is the distortion at 90db+ so mostly well controlled:




And as a percentage:




But if you really push the volume (this is over a 100 dbSPL) you do get more distortion:




This would be my only area of concern with the FT1 Pro, but I would never advise listening this loud but if you like to listen very loud you might get some distortion.

Alternative Ear pads Measurements:​

One area where the FT1 Pro shines is in how it can easily utilise cheap third party earpads in the same way that the FT1 can. Here are the 4 that I currently tried (and measured):




But I have now ordered a few more variations, including velvet earpads, so I might update this review in a few weeks.

Here are the comparison measurements:




So of these ear pads, the Angled Sheepskin are the only ones that dramatically change the profile.

Soft Ear Pads Cushions:​

I originally bought these earpads for the FT1 ( as someone mentioned on Reddit that they would work with the FT1 ) even though they are specifically marketed for the Hifiman Sundara:




And I bought them from this Aliexpress store but it is type 1 and they are called the “Earsoft Replacement Ear Pads Cushions”.

Here they are on the FT1 Pro - I love how thick and comfortable these are:


Here are the measurement comparisons between this one and the stock pads:


You get a similar but slightly more bass and some small little changes to the treble, though nothing too dramatic as I cannot hear that sharp 5K peak when listening to a frequency sweep.

Angled Sheepskin ear pads:​

Here is another pair that I really like on the FT1 Pro:




They are called “Angled sheepskin Round Leather Perforated Ear Pads Round Earpad size 105mm” and are available from here



I really like these ear pads, but they do change the FR a little bit more - especially in that 1-2Khz ‘soundstage’ region:

Round Ear pads​

These were the cheapest (and are not as comfortable as the other 2 above) by for $6 it was worth the cost.



Its called “Replacement 1 Pair Round Ear Pad - size 105mm” and are available from here

These have some subtle changes to the treble region but again nothing too dramatic :

Stock earpads​

But I should say again, that the original stock earpads are also extremely comfortable:


But for enthusiasts who like to experiment, have simple and cheap alternatives to this earpads is a great option with this headphone.

Comparisons​

With the FT1, FiiO managed to make an exceptional closed back that effectively has no competition anywhere near its price range, but the FT1 Pro enters a much more competitive space. But I think with the recent Hifiman price cuts, it’s real competitors are probably the 2 fantastic Hifiman mid-fi headphones, the Sundara and the Edition XS. These have for a few years been the mainstay of that mid-fi planar market, but I think the FT1 Pro is aiming straight at these headphones. So does it have a chance to capture the market from these headphones?

Here is the FT1 Pro with both these Hifiman’s:



Here is a comparison of the frequency responses - I included both the prerelease and the retail FT1 Pro here:


I have highlight 5 areas in this comparison:

1. Sub-Bass - you can see both FT1 Pro have good bass response but the retail version now rolls off under 30Hz
2. Lower Midrange - my Sundara has a dip here (only in the measurements - I cannot “hear” this dip)
3. “Soundstage” - so this is the area where there is a tradeoff between soundstage (like the Edition XS ) and
   tonally accuracy wher the Sundara is more accurate. Both FT1 Pro’s take a sensible mid-ground in this area.
4. Pinna Gain region - both FT1 Pro are a little ‘hot’ here and the Sundara has a similar boost in a slightly different area
5. Edition XS has a boosted upper treble region, while the FT1 Pro’s and the Sundara are more relaxed

Hifiman Sundara​

The Hifiman Sundara is a well-established open-back planar often hailed as one of the best entry-level planars. Compared to the Sundara, the FT1 Pro has slightly better soundstage and offers a bit more low-end fullness. The Sundara may have a slightly more airy top end, but the FT1 Pro’s midrange coherence and smoother upper mids may appeal to those who find the Sundara’s treble energy fatiguing. Build quality-wise, the FT1 Pro feels a touch more premium in materials and especially with the accessories you get. I do like the Sundara headband, but I felt the FT1 Pro was more comfortable overall, and it is much easier to change ear pads with the FT1 Pro.

The Sundara though has much less bass distortion, so if you typical EQ the subbass on your headphones the Sundara would be still be a better pick. But I honestly would be incredible happy with either of these headphones they are both excellent and more similar than they are different.

Hifiman Edition XS​

The Edition XS is known for its expansive soundstage and brighter overall tonality. The FT1 Pro, by contrast, is more balanced and less forward in the upper mids and lower treble. The Edition XS might provide a more “out of head” experience especially with the larger egg shaped earcups, but the FT1 Pro’s slightly more forgiving tuning and robust build, along with its reusability of FT1 accessories, could make it a preferable option for those who want a more even sound without EQ. But If you chase “soundstage” I still think the Edition XS is still a slightly better choice but only if you like the size of those extremely large ear cups. I would say the FT1 Pro is a better all-rounder headphone especially at the price.

Rating​

Considering the price point, the modular development approach, and the improved tuning / less subbass distortion in the retail version, the FT1 Pro earns a 5-star pragmatic rating. It delivers a lot of planar performance, comfort, and build quality for its cost. I think FiiO have done an incredible job with both FT1 headphones and with the FT1 Pro they have a open back Planar that is arguable better than both its main competition the Sundara and the Edition XS.

Conclusion​

The FiiO FT1 Pro represents a clever adaption of the same FT1 platform, this time delivering a planar open-back experience with minimal compromise. By reusing the original FT1 framework, FiiO accelerated development and refinement, ultimately producing a headphone that can comfortably compete with well-established rivals. The final retail tuning fixes early minor issues, offering a balanced, detailed, and immersive listening experience.

If you valued the construction, comfort, and accessories of the FT1 but wished for an easy to drive planar with that open-back soundstage, the FT1 Pro is a compelling choice. Its ability to respond to earpad swaps and the stable, high-quality design makes it a strong contender in the competitive planar headphone market. It’s a prime example of how a company can move rapidly and evolve a proven chassis into a distinctive new product.

FIIO FT1 Pro
Planar
$200

Before I begin this review, let me thank FIIO for sending me the headphone in for review.
Rest assured, all of my reviews are 100% my own personal opinion.

Unboxing
The unboxing experience is pretty straight forward nothing fancy.

Inside the box you get :

• Headphone
• 2 Cables
• 6.3mm Adapter
• Manual
• Carrying Case

Build Quality and Comfort

The FT1 Pro is NOT like the OG FT1, this one uses metal faceplate and is an open back design. While the OG FT1 uses wooden earcups material and is a closed back design.

The FT1 Pro build is combined from metal, and plastic, as for the headband, I believe it’s a synthetic leather material with a decent padding for comfort.

The earpads itself are angled. I'm not sure if it uses memory foam or not, but it's very thick and comfortable.
Though I must mention, since I have big ears, the inner part of the earpads touch some parts of my ears, but it’s still comfortable overall.

The headband adjuster has a lot of extensions available, myself personally have a really large head, but with this headphone I only needed to extend the headband just a little bit.

For context, When I use HiFiMAN Sundara, I need to extend the headband adjuster to the max and it's barely fit my head, with the likes of Sennheiser HD600 series, I need to extend the adjuster 10 clicks from its default position. I’m 100% sure the FT1 Pro will fit any head size without any problem.

I will talk a bit about the comfort of this headphone.
The headband adjuster as I said earlier can extend to accommodate a very large head,
And the FT1 Pro is only weighing at around 374g, that's quite light for a full size planar headphone.

The clamping force is also very light, I’m wearing glasses and I can wear the FT1 Pro for a very long mixing session without any issues.

Even though earlier I mentioned the inner earpads kinda touch my ears, It's still very comfortable.
So overall comfort is pretty good.

As for the cable, it uses dual 3.5mm connection, the included cable quality itself, it's decent, the only thing I can nitpick about is how stiff the cable is because of the nylon coating.

Sound - Comparison

Tested using FIIO KB3, Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th gen, stock cable.
Music is mostly from Apple Music (J-POP, Rock, EDM, Jazz, Metal)

The FT1 Pro uses a dual coated sapphire and aluminum planar driver, the FT1 Pro uses dual sided magnet, the Impedance of the FT1 Pro is only at 20 ohm, with sensitivity of 95dB/mW@1kHz, FIIO marketed this as an easy to drive planar magnetic headphones, but in fact, the FT1 Pro needs much more power compared to my HD650, more or less same power requirement just like the Sundara.

OK with the power requirement out of the way, let's talk about how the FT1 Pro sounds.

Overall tonality is pretty flat and neutral with slight tendencies towards warm.
To be honest the FT1 Pro reminds me a lot of the AUNE AR5000, or if you never try the AR5000, just imagine Sundara but with smooth treble. That’s basically how the FT1 Pro sounds.

Bass : Very good extension, has a very tight and snappy punch to it, even though the graph is flat, the FT1 Pro bass hits quite hard like no joke, I can feel the impact and air moving inside the earcups. Though don’t get me wrong, it is not a bass head model.
The bass quality is really top notch, I can only sing praises for the bass presentation. Lots of texture, impact and rumble.
Also for a planar driver, the FT1 Pro is more dynamic compared to let's say Sundara.
In fact, I’m kinda addicted to listening to the Russian hardbass genre using the FT1 Pro.

Mids : Flat, a bit on the warmer side, just like I said earlier, the midrange reminds me of the AR5000 so much, though thanks to its planar driver, the FT1 Pro midrange is definitely more resolving compared to the AR5000.
There is no shout and sibilance with the FT1 Pro, very good midrange tuning IMO.

Treble : Sparkly, extended, detailed, but presented in a smooth manner.
Very good treble tuning IMO, it has that planar sparkle, details but never sounds piercing to the ears even when listening on a very loud listening level, which I don’t recommend you doing.

If I were to compare the treble of the FT1 Pro with Sundara, basically the FT1 Pro has more or less the same level of details just like the Sundara, but it's presented in a much more relaxed, and a more elegant cohesive manners, while on Sundara the treble basically just gets thrown into your face.


Technicalities
Very good for $200USD

Stage : I found the FT1 Pro to have a large size stage with a very good stage layering, especially if you compare it to the more intimate sounding open back like the HD650, the FT1 Pro sounds a lot more expanded both in width and depth.

Detail Retrieval : Very good.
The FT1 Pro is basically in the same ballpark with the Sundara, I even dare say the FT1 Pro has more bass resolution compared to the Sundara. While the Sundara might appear to be more detailed on the treble region because of how forward the treble presentation of the Sundara.

Separation & Positioning : Very good
I can easily locate every object in the soundscape, including music listening, mixing, and playing Valorant.
No complaints at all from me, definitely punches way above its asking price.

FT1 vs FT1 Pro

At first I thought the FT1 Pro would be consumer oriented tuning like the FT1 OG big bass, smooth midrange and smooth treble, but using a planar driver, but I was wrong, with the FT1 Pro you get a flat reference tuning that can be used for mixing, in fact I mixed a song with this headphone and I’m quite satisfied with the results.

So to sums up the difference between the FT1 and the Pro model, FT1 has more consumer oriented tuning, and instead of looking the FT1 Pro as an upgrade for the OG FT1, I found the FT1 Pro to be like a totally different model because of how difference the tuning compared to the FT1 OG.

Well you can actually call it an "upgrade" in a way because of the technicalities improvement, but the tonality is completely different from each other.

Conclusion

Is the FT1 Pro any good?
The answer is of course YES. Especially if you’re searching for neutral tuning headphones or an alternative to HiFiMAN Sundara with a smoother treble presentation then you got it exactly here on the FT1 Pro.

The FT1 Pro offers a very good value for its asking price, better build quality than Sundara, more or less same level of technicalities, and also cheaper than Sundara.
I can easily recommend the FT1 Pro without any hesitation to anyone searching for a neutral tuning or even headphones for mixing.

Thanks for reaching this far.

Just in case you want to watch a video version of this review, you can watch it here (English)


-littlenezt.