The FiiO FT1 Pro is an open-back planar headphones. It is not a “pro” version of FT1, which is a closed-back 60mm dynamic headphones. Both models have no similarities other than sharing similar model numbers, using the same headband design and the accessories. My conjecture is that “FT1” series is the entry-level for both the dynamic driver (normal) and the planar driver (pro).
The package comes with a hard case covered with fabric, unlike the FT3/FT5 in brown leather. There is also only one pair of ear cushions, and two pairs of audio cables in 3.5mm and 4.4mm connectors, plus a 6.3mm adapter. The ear pads are asymmetrical in thickness so that the drivers are tilted at an angle towards the ears.
The initial impression was that it lacked the air extension at the treble section, but that was because I was still indulging in the Audio-Technica ADX3000 headphones that produces gorgeously detailed highs.
After giving my ears a rest and listened to FT1 Pro, I appreciated the sound a lot more. It certainly helps when you drive it with a headphone amp like the Creative Sound Blaster X5 that emphasizes clarity. When they are paired together, it quite balances each other. The FT1 Pro offers expressive and warm vocals that sound more forward but not shouty nor harsh. The upper treble is also not overcooked, allowing listener to push the volume a little more without fatigue, at the same time achieving a fuller, more intimate sound. The bass is also generously delivered with kicks and balanced intensity that promptly dissipates thanks to the open-back design.
Be warned, listening the FT1 Pro on normal DAC will make the headphones sound veiled as the bass is weighing the sound profile down. I would recommend either boosting the treble or reducing the bass to add a bit more sparkle, depending on the sensitivities of your ears. The headphones are also better enjoyed at louder volumes so that the treble details can be better driven. It requires a bit more effort to listen to details, and the “goldilocks” audio mixing to get the rich aural sensation.
The other planar headphones I have is the HiFiMAN HE400se, and while they produce brighter sound, its instrumentation is less forward, midrange is attenuated resulting in thinner vocal, more shiny saxophone solo, and the bass is less performing. But with different music, both headphones can sound better than the other. For instance, Erich Kunzel recording of The Magnificent Seven, the strings sound clearer on the HE400se while the brass sound more presence on the FT1 Pro. For Kenny G’s Going Home, the saxophone sounds more airy, more distinct on the HE400se, while sounding warmer, intimate on the FT1 Pro. For Guns N Roses November Rain, the vocals sound more laid-back, overall sound is more airy on the HE400se, while sounding fuller, more engaging and cohesive on the FT1 Pro.
When I compared the FT1 Pro with the Sennheiser HD 620S, the FT1 Pro sounds fuller overall, instruments and vocals sound closer to the ears. The HD 620S presentation is less forward, cleaner sounding on the bass, refined treble, sharper cymbal crashes and hi-hat hits.
Among the three headphones I compared here, I have to prefer the FT1 Pro even though the HE400se and the HD620S delivers more elevated treble, as they lose in the sound staging and the cohesiveness of the sound across the frequencies. To me, the FT1 Pro sounds the most musically engaging, one that makes me pay attention to the music I am listening to.
Verdict
The FT1 Pro is a pair of neutral-tuned headphones which needs loud listening levels to bring out the qualities. They will be enjoyed by listeners with a low tolerance for bright harsh treble, favour midrange fullness, and distinct but not overpowering bass. Personally, I would prefer the treble to be a bit more sparkling because most of my music collection is in the 80s and 90s, instrumentals, Classical and Jazz genres where the upper range is conservatively mixed and not overcooked.
At a retail price of S$329 in Singapore, they are really affordable to get and experience yourself. Available from AV ONE online and at the retail outlets.
