In this review, I’m looking at the FiiO FT1 Pro headphones. The FT1 Pro is a pricier variant of the original FT1 but is open-backed and comes with a 95mm x 86mm planar magnetic driver. It’s priced at $199.

Disclaimer: This sample was provided by FiiO for an honest review. All observations and opinions here are my own, based on my experience with the product.

FiiO FT1 Pro

Specifications

Frequency response: 7Hz-40kHz
Driver: 95mm x 86mm FiiO-developed planar driver
Impedance: 20Ω
Sensitivity: 96dB/mW@1kHz
Weight: About 375g (without cable)
Cable material: Silver-plated oxygen-free copper
Cable length: About 1.5m
Headphone connector: Dual 3.5mm TRS

Design

Physically, the FiiO FT1 Pro differs from the FT1 in a couple of ways. Externally, the FT1 Pro has open-back aluminium earcups in place of the original’s closed wooden cups. And internally, of course, we now find the Sapphire+Aluminium dual-coated planar driver in place of the original’s dynamic driver.

The headphones are robust but lightweight. There’s some padding on the underside of the headband with a synthetic suede cover. Designed for a perfect fit, the FT1 Pro features 12 adjustable slider levels, paired with a 3-axis adaptive headband, allowing for a customized fit that enhances comfort even during long listening sessions.

The earpads are a hybrid mix of faux leather and breathable fabric. This is great because it provides a level of isolation while keeping your ears relatively cool. On top of that, the pads are thick and plush and large enough to accommodate larger ears.

There are 2 silver-plated oxygen-free copper cables included in the box – one has a 3.5mm termination while the other is 4.4mm. They have a fabric sheath that is free of microphonics and handles well. The headphones use standard dual 3.5mm TRS connectors so there are loads of third-party alternatives if you want to switch them out.

Overall, the build quality and comfort are fantastic for an entry-level headphone. My only concern is the durability of the pleather sections because they tend to deteriorate over time, especially in warmer, humid environments.

Sound

Gear used for testing includes the FiiO KA17, iBasso DX180 and Topping E70 + L70 combo. Despite its low impedance, the FT1 Pro needs a bit of power for optimal performance. I wouldn’t recommend using it straight from a smartphone but a dongle DAC like the FiiO KA13 or KA17 is more than enough to make it sing.

Tonally, the FT1 Pro is slightly on the warmer side of neutral. It’s mostly uncoloured except for a hint of extra richness for a more natural and engaging expression. It has a balanced sound signature with a subtle lift in the presence region that highlights the vocal presentation.

Bass

The bass delivers a satisfying punch and impact. Despite its nearly neutral tuning, it maintains an authoritative presence, with enough body to serve as a solid foundation while leaving ample space for the midrange to breathe.

The sub-bass extension is solid, providing a deep low-end presence. However, it lacks the physicality and visceral rumble of a more powerful sub-bass in favour of maintaining better control and minimizing distortion. The mid-bass has a tight, focused impact, with a quick, responsive attack that adds energy and drive to the sound. It has a crisp, defined presence that brings a sense of rhythm and weight although it’s not the most textured.

Midrange

Diving into the midrange of the FiiO FT1 Pro, we find where the magic happens—vocal clarity and instrumental detail take centre stage. The midrange here is near-reference neutrality, where colourations are kept to a minimum, allowing music to present itself in an almost unadulterated form. Vocals are delivered with admirable clarity, though there’s a noticeable boost to female vocals, giving them a slight edge in presence and intimacy.

Instrumental nuances are captured with a keen sense of detail, thanks to the planar magnetic drivers’ ability to respond swiftly to transients. There’s a slight dip around the 1.5kHz to 2kHz range, but it’s subtle enough not to detract from the overall coherence of the midrange. Instead, it adds a touch of musicality, ensuring that the sound remains engaging without detracting from its technical performance.

Treble

Exploring the treble of the FiiO FT1 Pro headphones, we’re met with a tuning that prioritizes safety over surgical precision. The treble extension here is commendable, reaching into the higher frequencies with ease, but it does so without the need to dazzle or sparkle excessively. Instead, treble notes are crisp, offering clarity without the risk of fatigue.

You won’t find the FT1 Pro’s treble among the airiest; it leans toward an earthier presentation, which, in a way, grounds the listening experience. This approach to treble doesn’t aim for the stars but rather for a harmonious integration with the rest of the frequency spectrum. The treble timbre is well-executed, providing a natural decay to cymbals and hi-hats that feels right at home with the midrange and bass.

Soundstage & Technicalities

Diving into the soundstage and technicalities of the FiiO FT1 Pro, I found that while it might not stretch the boundaries like some open-back headphones, the stage width is still impressive. What impressed me the most was the headphone’s ability to maintain an exceptional note density. This density enhances instrument separation in a way that’s not just heard but felt, crafting a 3D holographic staging that’s both detailed and immersive.

Positional cues are handled with a finesse that makes not just music but also games and videos more engaging. The FT1 Pro doesn’t just play sound; it places it strategically around you, giving you a sense of being inside the music or action. This level of technical performance outshines many in its price range. However, one area where the FT1 Pro doesn’t impress as much is its micro-detail retrieval which is fairly mediocre.

Comparisons

FiiO FT1

The FiiO FT1 offers a fun, V-shaped tuning with a thrilling bass presence that can really shake your world, especially in the sub-bass. It’s slightly coloured, making it more musical but less tonally accurate. In other words – the FT1’s bass response is where the party’s at.

In contrast, the FT1 Pro presents a serious, linear sound profile. Its bass is tight and controlled rather than overpowering. It’s more transparent and neutral, providing a faithful reproduction of music without the colouration of the FT1.

So, if you’re in the mood for a fun, engaging listen where the bass can take you on an adventure, the FT1 is your go-to. However, if your priority is precision, control, and an uncoloured representation of your music, the FT1 Pro will serve you better with its disciplined and accurate sound.

Moondrop Para

The Moondrop Para, priced $100 higher than the FT1 Pro, showcases a superior build quality. Its soundstage is more expansive, with a focus on detail and clarity. The tuning is leaner, offering an analytical listen.

The FT1 Pro, on the other hand, provides a more controlled, neutral sound. It doesn’t match the Para’s soundstage width but excels in tonal accuracy and instrument separation, creating a tight, balanced listening experience.

Choose the Para for premium build and expansive sound; opt for the FT1 Pro for a more budget-friendly, linear, and controlled sound.

Verdict

Concluding my exploration of the FiiO FT1 Pro, it’s a headphone that’s a study in musical integrity. It’s not about chasing the thrills of exaggerated bass or a soundstage that stretches beyond reality; instead, the FT1 Pro offers something that’s as close to the source as one might hope for at this price point.

With its disciplined approach, FT1 Pro ensures every note is placed with precision, providing a balanced, engaging soundscape. This headphone challenges the notion that you must spend a fortune for quality sound and it’s definitely worthy of our recommended award.