Nothing has made the leap into headband territory with the launch of the Headphone (1), consolidating its brand identity with a model that focuses on design, customization, and audio quality. The London brand, known for its use of transparent elements in its devices and collaborations with leading names in sound, is expanding its catalog to compete in the high-end personal audio market, seeking to satisfy those who prioritize aesthetics as well as performance and user experience. If you want to compare these headphones with other models, you can also check out the Sony WH-1000XM6.
These headphones, Nothing's first over-ear headphones, have generated enormous excitement among audio enthusiasts and brand users, as they are positioned as a real alternative to established giants like Sony and Bose. Since their unveiling, multiple media outlets have agreed on the appeal of their offering, which combines premium materials, physical controls, noise-cancelling technology, outstanding battery life, and multiple customization options via software.
Iconic design and premium materials
One of the most obvious identifying features of the Nothing Headphone (1) is its translucent and geometric design, where they mix Cast aluminum, precision CNC components y PU memory foam to ensure both elegance and comfort. The body of the headphones stands out for its square shape and visible interior details, reminiscent of old cassette tapes and evoking the brand's visual DNA. The whole is striking and original, reinforced by a lightweight and robust headband and pads that offer a comfortable seal, adapting well to long sessions even if the ears tend to resent other models.
The system of physical controls, instead of touch panels, represents another of its distinguishing features. It includes a volume control, a paddle for skipping songs or moving forward/backward, and a customizable button. These buttons are precise and ergonomic, making them easy to use on a daily basis and avoiding common errors with touch controls. Additionally, The cups rotate and the headband adjusts smoothly and steplessly to preset levels., which makes it easier to adjust and improves ergonomics.
Hi-fi sound tuned by KEF
In the acoustic section, the collaboration with the prestigious British firm KEF has been fundamental. The Headphone (1) incorporates a custom 40 mm dynamic driver, developed to offer natural, immersive sound with great detailThe soundstage is wide, with powerful, distortion-free bass, balanced mids, and bright highs, suitable for both modern music and more classical genres. Although the sound profile is neutral out of the box, the app allows you to boost the bass or adjust the sound with a 8-band equalizer. Compatibility with Hi-Res Audio, LDAC and lossless audio via USB-C or 3.5 mm jack allows you to enjoy maximum quality, both via Bluetooth and cable.
A prominent element is the spatial audio integration and head tracking, which transforms any stereo source into a 360º experience, especially useful in movies, video games, and live music. In addition, Distortion is kept to a minimum thanks to a high-linearity damping and suspension system, ensuring fidelity even at high volumes.
Active noise cancellation and everyday features
The Nothing Headphone (1) are equipped with a Hybrid active noise cancellation (ANC) system capable of reaching up to 42 dB, which adjusts in real time according to the environment thanks to three microphones per earpiece and leak detection between the ear cushion and the ear. transparency mode allows you to hear what's happening around you without removing your headphones, and the function ambient noise cancellation for callsPowered by AI trained in millions of scenarios, it ensures crystal-clear voices even in noisy spaces. These features are complemented by customizable controls for easily switching listening modes or managing calls.
Autonomy and advanced connectivity
One of the strong points of the Headphone (1) is its autonomy. They offer Up to 35 hours of playback with active noise cancellation y up to 80 hours without ANC. Fast charging provides up to 2,4 hours of use in just 5 minutes, making it especially useful for long days or trips. Plus, they include Bluetooth 5.3 with the ability to connect two devices simultaneously, fast pairing ('Fast Pair' for Android, 'Swift Pair' for Windows), low latency profile for gaming, and compatibility with Nothing Phone and other mobile devices and computers. Support for codecs such as AAC, SBC, LDAC and connection via USB-C or minijack further expands the usage options.
Personalization, Nothing X app and smart features
Software plays a key role in the overall experience. From the app Nothing, available for iOS and Android, can be Customize physical controls, adjust the equalizer, modify the intensity of noise cancellation, activate bass boost, and manage dual connection.. The function Channel Hop makes it easy to quickly switch between recent audio apps, ideal for those who juggle music, podcasts, and video calls. Nothing Phone users have additional access to Essential Space, a space to save voice notes or reminders.
Its integration and level of customization make the Headphone (1) an attractive proposition for those seeking high-quality sound as well as for those who value intuitive physical controls and flexibility in daily use.
The arrival of the Nothing Headphone (1) brings an innovative proposal in the premium headphone category. They combine a unique visual identity, excellent materials, comfortable controls, expertly tuned sound and smart features., meeting the expectations of even the most demanding users. All this at a price of 299 euros and available in black and white, with pre-orders starting July 4th on the brand's website and select stores.
