Model: Nothing Headphone (1) Pro
Price: S$549
Drop date: October 6 (Preorder)
Buy here: Nothing | Shopee | Lazada | TikTok Shop | Challenger | other authorised retailers
The new Nothing Headphone (1) Pro arrives with a unique triple-driver architecture, with three dedicated drivers spread across the frequency range – a 40 mm dynamic driver handles bass, a 13 × 8 mm precision dynamic driver brings texture and detail to vocals, and the xMEMS solid-state driver delivers highs and instrument detail.
Everything is housed in Nothing’s signature transparent design, this time elevated by a combination of aluminium, titanium and shatter- and scratch-resistant 9H Panda glass in a lighter 327g construction.
For its $549 price tag, Nothing is definitely pushing the envelope to justify the price point, at the risk of overengineering the Headphone (1) Pro. However, the triple-driver setup could deliver amazing sound if the software can match it.
Out of the box, it is not the best, but there is hope. Nothing has clearly doubled down on their customisation options. First up, the triple driver setup is paired with an advanced EQ that offers incredibly detailed controls across the entire frequency range – it’s so specific you can even tune by driver.
You can opt to have Nothing help you calibrate with Personal Sound, which uses a hearing test to tailor the sound for your ears. This should be enough for most people to find their ideal sound. If you would like professional tuning, their partnership with the internationally acclaimed Metropolis Studios has also delivered EQ presets you can download.
As a fan of Sennheiser, the FLAT EQ Switch was the key feature to try. It was co-developed with Metropolis Studios to bring professional studio expertise to the Headphone (1) Pro. Simply hit the switch and the headphones shift to a more neutral sound profile. You can even opt for the Studio B setting to recreate the acoustic character of a professional mixing room through Dynamic Spatial Audio.
To really make the most of it, you have to spend time tinkering with the EQ till you find the right sound. Reddit and YouTube channels could be your best resource for viewing different settings and experimenting with various recommendations. The foundations are strong, with responsive bass and treble, clear sound separation, and adequate sound cancellation. You need to spend time tuning the right sound for your ears.
In short, it is more comfortable than its 327g weight implies. A lot of the heavy lifting comes from the redesigned ear cushions, a unique hinge structure, and a wider padded headband. Combined with the decent ANC and two-layer cushion system, they deliver better sound isolation. It definitely softens most ambient sounds, like an air purifier on max speed, but some shrill sounds from the MRT will still bleed in.
Even with glasses frames under the ear cushions, they never got uncomfortable. The special hinge Nothing developed redistributes a lot of the pressure around the ear rather than concentrating it at the top like most headphones would. So it’s easy to wear them for hours straight. Coupled with the 68-hour battery life with ANC off and fast charging, where five minutes delivers 4 hours of listening, it is an ideal daily driver.
Yes, and the physical controls are very reminiscent of Teenage Engineering, offering intuitive yet unexpected ways to control the headphones. It’s really easy to get used to the controls, and eventually you will find yourself toggling between songs and adjusting volume without much thought. The biggest con is the low resistance on the volume roller, as it is very easy to trigger, especially when trying to use the headphones while lying down. It’s a really minor issue, but it’s probably the only con to the controls.
The most divisive aspect of the Nothing Headphone (1) Pro is its carrying case. But we believe there is so much more to it than just a controversial design choice. It offers a new level of utility. The new case makes the headphones a near $600 accessory.
We paired ours with a Skinarma strap, and it is perfect for a day out in town. It can definitely be improved in terms of weight, but there is no denying it will protect the most expensive part of the headphones – the machined metal body and the glass panels. It just needs a few stickers from your favorite brands and bands to add some character.
Yes, if you are willing to put in the time to make it yours. It isn’t the best-sounding headphones out of the box, but that can largely be attributed to the default sound profile set up by Nothing. The sound can be fine-tuned over time, adjusted as you listen to different tracks to really place the EQ exactly where you would like it. The case can be seen as more of an accessory; it is just another sling bag to keep your headphones in. Just like the design, it is divisive and not for everyone.
To conclude our review of the Nothing Headphone (1) Pro, they have been an amazing daily driver. After some tuning, it is an easy pair of headphones to use in all situations – of course, after hours of tinkering with the EQ.