The FiiO FT1 Pro brings fresh competition to the likes of the Sundara and other planar magnetic headphones in the sub-$200 market. As the open-back successor to the original closed-back FT1, this headphone enters the arena with a few notable changes including a price bump to around $280 on most websites.
Table of Contents
Build Quality and Design
The FT1 Pro’s construction features a predominantly plastic build, complemented by metal yokes that lend it a slightly more premium feel. Notable features include a spring-loaded tilt mechanism, enhancing comfort and adaptability. The earpads are large on the outside, but the inner ear hole is somewhat small. The headband is average in comfort and build.
Overall, the FT1 Pro’s construction falls somewhere between the HD 550 and FiiO’s own FT3 in quality. While it doesn’t dazzle, it’s acceptable for the price though the HD 550 offers slightly better comfort.
Efficiency and Amplification
Despite being a planar magnetic headphone, the FT1 Pro is remarkably efficient. With an impedance of just 20 ohms and a sensitivity rating of 112 dB, it can be easily powered by a wide range of devices. This held true during testing, providing solid performance across various sources.
Price Consideration
Pricing is a moving target, often affected by seasonal sales and global economic conditions. While the FT1 Pro generally retails for around $280, many place its comparative value closer to the $200 range. This review uses $200 as the benchmark when stacking it against competitors.
Sound Quality Overview
At 2025, the FT1 Pro offers respectable performance. It charts well on frequency graphs and delivers enjoyable sound. However, no one aspect of the sound truly excels. The signature is coherent, punchy, and fun, featuring decent mid-range, solid sub-bass extension, and a lively treble.
Bass Performance
Sub-bass is a standout strength. Unlike the HD 550, Sundara, or AR5000, which all experience sub-bass roll-off, the FT1 Pro maintains strong output in ultra-low frequencies. While the Sundara might offer slightly faster bass and the AR5000 better tonality, the FT1 Pro surpasses both in sub-bass completeness a clear benefit of its planar design.
Mid-Range Evaluation
Mid-range performance is nuanced and largely subjective. While not poor, it’sInsert somewhat unremarkable. The HD 550 offers a more appealing mid-range to some, especially vocal enthusiasts. Yet, the FT1 Pro’s advantages in bass and sub-bass might outweigh its average mids for others.
Compared to the HD 6XX (available at $180), the FT1 ProInsert lacks some of the mid-range intimacy and warmth that make Sennheiser headphones legendary for vocal performance.
Treble Character
The treble is vivid and detailed, though slightly peaky. While the FT1 Pro isn’t V-shaped due to its solid mids, the treble adds noticeable energy. It surpasses the 6XX in detail but feels average compared to more expensive competitors like the Sundara and Edition XS. Those headphones deliver a more refined and detailed top-end.
Soundstage and Imaging
Soundstage and imaging are not the FT1 Pro’s strongest attributes. It lags behind competitors like the 6XX (for center imaging), Edition XS, AR5000, and Sundara in both width and positional precision. Although it doesn’t sound bad, it doesn’t distinguish itself either. The presentation is coherent but not exceptional.
Value Proposition
For $200, the FT1 Pro delivers well-rounded performance, aligning with what many expect at that price point. At $200, however, the landscape becomes much more competitive. The FT1 Pro doesn’t break new ground in any one area, making it a generalist rather than a standout.
Article Summary
The $200 headphone market is highly competitive. In terms of pure sound quality, the Edition XS holds the crown albeit with fitment caveats. At $200, the FT1 Pro is competent but not groundbreaking. However, if you can snag it at a discounted price of $200, it becomes a far more compelling option. This headphone is a jack-of-all-trades. While it may not dominate any one category, its blend of efficiency, balanced sound, and strong sub-bass performance makes it a valuable player especially as prices across the headphone market continue to rise.
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