Nothing’s new flagship Headphone 1 Pro put you in the studio

A "Flat EQ" switch on headphones allows audio professionals to hear mixes without color, potentially changing how music is mastered.

Nothing has released its new flagship over-ear headphones, the Headphone 1 Pro, priced at $399. These headphones feature active noise cancellation (ANC), multiple sound profiles, and tactile controls. Uniquely, they include a "Flat EQ" switch designed to remove audio processing for studio professionals, a concept developed in partnership with Metropolis Studios. This feature aims to provide an uncolored sound for mixing and mastering, contrasting with the trend of adding more EQ customization to headphones. The Headphone 1 Pro also boasts a triple-driver design, comprising a 40mm dynamic driver for bass, a separate midrange driver, and a xMEMS driver for high frequencies. Support for high-resolution audio codecs like LDAC and Auracast connectivity are also included. The ANC performance is noted as a significant improvement over previous Nothing audio products, though not quite matching top competitors. Battery life is rated up to 30 hours with ANC on and 68 hours with it off. The headphones carry an IP52 rating, and come with a hard-shell case that covers the ear cups but leaves the headband exposed.

The inclusion of a dedicated "Flat EQ" switch on the Nothing Headphone 1 Pro signals a growing divergence in the premium headphone market, catering not only to mainstream consumers seeking enhanced listening experiences but also to a niche professional audio segment. While most manufacturers focus on adding more sound customization options, Nothing's move to offer a feature that strips away processing challenges the established approach and could push competitors to consider similar specialized functionalities. The triple-driver design, featuring separate units for bass, mids, and highs including a xMEMS driver, further differentiates the Headphone 1 Pro, offering a distinct technological advantage in sound reproduction clarity and speed that could set new benchmarks for audio fidelity.

This product launch may influence how audio mixing and mastering tools evolve, as a more accessible way for professionals to monitor uncolored audio directly through headphones could streamline workflows. The integration of advanced features like Auracast and high-resolution audio support alongside the unique Flat EQ capability positions Nothing as a serious contender in the premium audio space, challenging established brands. For consumers, this implies a wider range of choices that cater to specific needs, whether it's for pure listening enjoyment, professional use, or advanced connectivity features, potentially driving innovation and feature parity across the industry.