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Nothing’s First Over-Ear Headphones Aim to Be a Quirky $300 AirPods Max Alternative
In a bold move, audio brand Nothing is venturing into the world of over-ear headphones with its first-ever pair, aptly dubbed “Headphone 1.” Priced at a competitive $299 (£299/€299), this innovative product promises to offer an unconventional experience for audiophiles and tech enthusiasts alike.
The Headphone 1 boasts a transparent design element that will likely polarize opinions. The see-through aesthetic is unmistakably Nothing, but some might find it jarring when paired with the aluminum rectangle. Nevertheless, this bold move pays homage to the company’s commitment to innovation and distinctiveness.
One of the most striking features of the Headphone 1 is its array of controls. Gone are the touch sensors we often see in other headphones; instead, Nothing has opted for buttons, paddles, and a roller to provide an immersive audio experience. The roller, specifically, allows for more nuanced volume control, as well as playback functions like play/pause and track skipping. A long press can switch between active noise cancellation and transparency mode.
Another key aspect of the Headphones 1 is its ergonomic design. At only 11 ounces (329 grams), these headphones are remarkably light, even surpassing the AirPods Max in terms of portability. The inclusion of PU leather padding ensures an excellent fit and should withstand exposure to oils and makeup. Initial testing suggests this feature will be beneficial for those who prioritize comfort during extended listening sessions.
A crucial component of any audio product is its sound quality. In collaboration with KEF, a renowned speaker brand, Nothing has created custom 40mm dynamic drivers that support Hi-Res Audio, spatial audio with head tracking, and active noise cancellation (ANC) utilizing four feedback mics. The result is an unapologetic sound profile that aims to accurately reproduce music as the artist intended.
In a nod to its Nothing Phone (3), the Headphone 1 supports dual device connection, allowing seamless switching between your phone and laptop. This feature may not be the most practical but certainly adds to the overall value proposition.
The company has made significant strides in terms of audio playback. According to specifications, it can deliver up to 80 hours on a single charge or around 35 hours with ANC enabled. This level of battery life is unprecedented for headphones at this price point, and it’s possible that we’ll see some users taking advantage of the two-and-a-half-hour quick charge.
While some may be deterred by the unconventional design, the Headphone 1 still needs to demonstrate its competitive edge in terms of overall performance. Nonetheless, Nothing has set a high bar with its debut over-ear product.
The pre-order phase is scheduled to begin on July 4th, followed by a full release on July 15th. If you’re intrigued by this unique offering and want to explore more about the Nothing Headphone 1 or purchase them after the initial launch date, visit their official website for further details.
Source: www.engadget.com
