As the world leans more towards wireless audio solutions, the expectations for high-quality headphones have never been higher. The debut of the Nothing Headphone (1) at $299 (around 280 EUR) raised eyebrows, especially considering the strong competition from established brands like Sony and Apple. After using the Nothing Headphone (1) for a week, I’ve realized my initial concerns may have been premature.
Nothing has a unique approach to audio technology and design, making them a noteworthy player. My past experiences with their earbuds were mixed, which made me eager to see how their first over-ear headphones would perform. Here’s a deep dive into the features and functionality of the Nothing Headphone (1).
1. What’s Inside the Box?
The packaging reflects Nothing’s minimalist design philosophy. Here’s what you can expect when you unbox the Headphone (1):
- Nothing Headphone (1)
- A textured carrying case
- A USB Type-C to C cable
- A 3.5mm to 3.5mm cable
- User manual
2. Design: A Blend of Retro and Futuristic
The design of the Nothing Headphone (1) is a conversation starter. With a look reminiscent of sci-fi movies, especially with the white cassette tape aesthetic combined with sleek metallic cups, these headphones stand out. Initially skeptical of their distinctive appearance, I grew fond of them during my commute, where they attracted curious glances and questions.
Thanks to a rubberized plastic headband and soft earcup cushioning, these headphones fit comfortably, even on longer journeys. Despite the sizable 329-gram weight, they’ve proven lighter than some competitors like the AirPods Max, making them suitable for extended use.
3. Intuitive Controls and Features
The Headphone (1) takes a different approach to controls, opting for a physical roller for volume instead of touch controls. The roller lets you adjust volume by sliding left or right and even switches between active noise cancellation (ANC) and transparency modes. There’s also a nifty paddle for track controls, a fun touch that fits the retro theme.
4. Audio Quality: Surprising Performance
Initially, my audio experience with the Headphone (1) was lackluster, with overpowering bass. After a replacement unit and software updates, the sound transformed dramatically. These headphones, tuned by British audio experts KEF, deliver an impressive auditory experience for their price point.
With custom 40mm drivers, the Headphone (1) offers clean audio, solid bass, and crisp highs. My testing with James Blake’s “Limit to Your Love” showcased its capability; comfortable listening is possible without any harsh spikes, although max volume can lead to some distortion.
While the Headphone (1) competes well in the $299 price category, it does fall short in terms of sound staging compared to rivals like the Sony XM5. However, the Nothing X app allows for some adjustments with an 8-stage equalizer, giving users the ability to tailor their audio experience.
5. Active Noise Cancellation and Transparency Mode
Nothing delivers strong noise cancellation with the Headphone (1). The earcups create a good seal, blocking out unwanted sound. In the Nothing X app, an advanced mode enhances this effect, reducing environmental noise by up to 42 dB.
Although it doesn’t quite match the Sony XM5 in ANC, the transparency mode excels, making conversations feel natural without feeling isolated.
What is the battery life like for the Nothing Headphone (1)? The powerful 1,040 mAh battery delivers impressive longevity, lasting around three days with 8-9 hours of listening time daily. Even with advanced features like LDAC and ANC enabled, you can comfortably exceed 30 hours of usage.
6. Is the Nothing Headphone (1) Worth the Investment?
In summary, Nothing has pushed boundaries with its Headphone (1). For $299, they offer a set of headphones that attracts attention and sparks discussions on design, while delivering solid sound quality. They have their shortcomings, but if you’re on the lookout for something unique, the Nothing Headphone (1) might be worth considering, especially if you find them on sale.
Overall, this pair offers a fun listening experience for work, relaxation, or commutes. While some areas need improvement, the strong initial reception suggests potential for future updates. For more insights and content on tech trends, feel free to check out Moyens I/O.