The Fiio FT1 Pro planar magnetic headphones offer a compelling proposition: exceptional sound quality at a remarkably affordable $200 price point. This review delves into the highs and lows of this budget-friendly contender, examining its performance against significantly more expensive competitors like the HiFiMan Ananda Nano. While boasting a neutral sound signature with a detailed and expansive soundstage, the FT1 Pro isn't without its flaws. We'll explore the significant concerns surrounding its build quality and a potentially widespread issue of sub-bass distortion.This in-depth analysis will assess whether these shortcomings outweigh the impressive sonic capabilities of the FT1 Pro. We'll discuss the reported weakness in the headband connection and the noticeable buzzing distortion affecting the low frequencies. Ultimately, we will determine if the risk associated with potential build failures and audio inconsistencies justifies the headphone's exceptional value and impressive performance when functioning correctly. Our conclusion will offer guidance for prospective buyers considering this potentially groundbreaking, yet risky, purchase.
Pros And Cons
- Excellent sound quality most of the time
- High price-to-performance ratio
- Challenges headphones twice its price when functioning correctly
- Neutral, warmish frequency response
- Smooth and natural tonality
- Good soundstage (not huge, but larger side)
- Remarkably three-dimensional and holographic presentation
- Accurate placement of sonic images
- High resolution and detail retrieval
- Significant sub-bass distortion on some units
- Quality control issues, specifically with the headband connection
- Potential driver issues causing distortion
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Build Quality Concerns
One of the most significant drawbacks of the Fiio FT1 Pro is its build quality. Specifically, the connection between the headband and the earcup gimbal appears to be a weak point. Reports of this joint failing are increasingly common, both for the FT1 Pro and its predecessor, the FT1.
This connection uses a small screw, and access is very difficult. This makes tightening or replacing the screw challenging. While Fiio's customer support might offer assistance, the inherent fragility raises concerns about the headphone's long-term durability.
Sonic Issues: Sub-Bass Distortion
The most concerning issue is the significant sub-bass distortion. This isn't a subtle problem; it's a noticeable buzzing and a plasticky sound, particularly with tracks containing deep, powerful bass. This distortion isn't present on every track, but it is prevalent enough to be a major concern.
While the reviewer suspects this might be a design flaw affecting multiple units, the inconsistency suggests it could also be a quality control problem. The presence of this distortion on both earcups in the reviewed unit further complicates the issue.
Sound Quality When Performing Well
Despite the significant flaws, when the Fiio FT1 Pro performs well, it truly shines. The sound is exceptionally neutral, with a slightly forward mid-range that adds presence to vocals without being overly aggressive.
The headphone offers a remarkable soundstage, exceeding expectations at its price point. It creates a convincing three-dimensional soundscape with accurate placement of sonic images. The resolution, detail, and textural rendering are also top-notch.
Comparison with HiFiMan Ananda Nano
The Fiio FT1 Pro's performance, when not plagued by distortion, rivals that of much more expensive headphones like the HiFiMan Ananda Nano. Both offer a similar sound signature, but the FT1 Pro has a slightly more forward mid-range, resulting in fuller-sounding vocals.
The Ananda Nano might be slightly better balanced tonally in the mids, while the FT1 Pro has a smoother, less fatiguing treble. In terms of soundstage size, three-dimensionality, resolution, and textural detail, both headphones are remarkably close, making the FT1 Pro's significantly lower price particularly impressive.
Conclusion: A Risky but Potentially Rewarding Purchase
The Fiio FT1 Pro presents a significant dilemma. It's capable of delivering exceptional sound quality at an incredibly affordable price point, rivaling much more expensive headphones in its technical performance. However, the build quality issues and the potential for significant sub-bass distortion represent substantial risks.
Whether or not the FT1 Pro is worth purchasing depends entirely on your risk tolerance. If Fiio can address the build quality and distortion problems, the FT1 Pro has the potential to be a truly groundbreaking headphone. Until then, potential buyers should proceed with caution.