FiiO has introduced its latest addition to the headphone market: the FiiO FT1. These closed-back, over-ear headphones are notable not only for their performance-oriented design but also for their use of materials typically found in much higher-end models. The FT1 represents FiiO's first foray into closed-back headphones, offering a unique blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern acoustic technology at an accessible price point.

One of the most striking features of the FiiO FT1 is its use of American Black Walnut for the ear cups. This choice of material is not just for aesthetic appeal; the dense nature of the wood plays a critical role in the headphone's acoustic properties.

The American Black Walnut is known for its ability to absorb vibrations, which helps reduce distortion—a feature commonly sought after in high-end loudspeakers but rare in headphones at this price level. For instance, the Meze Audio LIRIC 2nd Gen are priced at $2000, and the Meze Audio 99 Classics are priced at $309. Each pair of FT1 headphones is unique, as the wood grain varies naturally, giving each unit a distinct appearance.

Beyond the ear cups, the FT1 employs a combination of advanced materials and technology in its construction. The diaphragm, a crucial component in any headphone driver, is made from paper wood fibers derived from 90-year-old spruce trees sourced from Northern Europe.

This material is traditionally used in musical instruments for its clarity and natural tonal properties. To meet the rigorous demands of headphone performance, the spruce fibers are combined with carbon fiber, enhancing the diaphragm's strength and resilience. The result is a driver that delivers precise sound reproduction with a natural tonal balance.

At the heart of the FiiO FT1's performance are its 60mm dynamic drivers (which is bigger than you would find in Sony WH-1000XM5 or Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones, which feature 30mm and 40mm drivers respectively). These large drivers are designed to convert energy efficiently, which contributes to a lower resonance point in the bass frequencies. This design approach allows the FT1 to produce a deeper and more dynamic bass response without overwhelming the overall sound signature.

The diaphragm's W-shaped suspension gasket is another notable feature. This component, larger than what is typically found in similar headphones, increases the effective vibrating area of the diaphragm by approximately 25.8%. This design choice enhances the headphones' ability to store energy and reduces the loss of vibration between materials, which should result in lower distortion and a cleaner sound.

FiiO has also incorporated a U-shaped sound-damping tube, specifically developed for the FT1. This tube works to enhance passive noise attenuation while allowing sound energy to pass through at a controlled angle and length. This engineering approach helps to increase air viscosity within the ear cups and reduce the cavity resonance frequency, further improving bass extension and overall sound clarity.

In terms of ergonomics, the FiiO FT1 borrows heavily from its more expensive siblings, the FT3 and FT5. The headphones feature a three-axis headband that allows for multiple angles of rotation, ensuring a snug and comfortable fit for a wide range of head sizes. The headband also includes a dozen levels of fit adjustment, providing users with the flexibility to find the perfect fit. The horizontal rotation angle is 35 degrees, while the pitch rotation can reach up to 45 degrees, adding to the overall adjustability.

Comfort during extended listening sessions is further enhanced by the FT1's earpads. The earpads are made from a high-density breathable mesh that helps dissipate heat, preventing the discomfort that often comes with prolonged use. The part of the earpads that comes into contact with the ears is made from protein leather, adding a soft and plush feel.

The FiiO FT1 is designed with versatility in mind, as it comes with two interchangeable cables to accommodate different types of audio sources. One cable features a standard 3.5mm single-ended jack, while the other is equipped with a 4.4mm balanced connector. Both cables are made from oxygen-free, copper-plated silver wire, consisting of 392 strands, which ensures high-quality signal transmission and minimal loss.

This dual-cable setup makes the FT1 compatible with a wide range of devices, from portable digital audio players to desktop setups, providing users with flexibility in their listening environments.

The FiiO FT1 is currently available for purchase at a price of $150 on Amazon.