In a tech landscape often guilty of iterative design and safe bets, Nothing has consistently proven to be the rebellious sibling, crafting devices that demand attention. From their transparent phones to their equally striking earbuds, their ethos is clear: make the unseen, seen. Their latest foray into the audio realm, the Nothing Headphone (1), priced at a competitive $299, continues this tradition, promising a premium sonic experience wrapped in an undeniably distinctive package that aims to turn heads and tickle ears.
First impressions are everything, and the Headphone (1) immediately sets itself apart from the humdrum of conventional over-ear headphones. Nothing’s signature transparent aesthetic is front and centre, offering a tantalising glimpse into the meticulous engineering within. It’s a bold, almost audacious choice, but for those who appreciate a bit of industrial artistry, it’s a refreshing departure.



The earcups themselves sport a unique rectangular body encased in rounded outer shells, a design cue that conjures a pleasingly retro-futuristic vibe. Yet, this isn’t merely about aesthetics. Nothing has collaborated with British audio legends KEF to tune the custom 40mm dynamic drivers, ensuring that the sound profile is as compelling as the visual.


The result is a rich, balanced, and characterful audio delivery, far removed from the often uninspired output of lesser headphones. With support for Hi-Res Audio, LDAC, and even USB-C lossless playback, your favourite tracks will be rendered with impressive fidelity, whether you’re wirelessly streaming or plugging in directly.
Beyond the sonics, the Headphone (1) is engineered for endurance and everyday functionality. Boasting up to 80 hours of playback with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) off, and a still-impressive 35 hours with ANC engaged, these cans are built to keep pace with even the most demanding schedules. And for those moments when you’re caught short, a rapid 5-minute charge will net you up to 5 hours of listening.



The real-time adaptive ANC effectively neutralises environmental distractions, while four microphones, armed with AI-powered Clear Voice Technology, ensure your calls are crystal clear, even amidst the cacophony of a bustling café or a blustery British street. Comfort, too, has been meticulously considered. The PU ear cushions are designed for a gentle touch that resists oils and makeup, and the optimised ear cup depth provides a secure, balanced fit, minimising pressure for all head shapes.


Built to last, the Headphone (1) incorporates formed aluminium for structural integrity without unnecessary weight, and precision-moulded plastics for flexibility. Every detail, down to the nickel-plated diaphragm reinforcing the driver for durability and clarity, speaks to a commitment to longevity. From the thoughtful integration of tactile controls to the robust hardware reliability standards it has surpassed, the Nothing Headphone (1) is more than just a set of cans; it’s a statement piece that delivers on every front, proving that sometimes, doing “nothing” can be truly something.
from The Coolector | Online Men's Lifestyle Magazine | Design, Gear & Fashion https://ift.tt/TrVC675
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