At $199 FiiO's FT1 Pro are dominating the quality budget headphone game

The FiiO FT1 Pro headphones were already a surprisingly affordable way to get started with planar magnetic technology at $219, so it's great to see them drop by a further $20 in Black Friday week, to just $199 over at Amazon. That's down to £179 for UKers.

Planar magnetic headphones are celebrated for their exceptional bass quality (textured, impactful and remarkably controlled), along with superior transient response that captures musical details with precision. What the FT1 Pros do so well – as I found out when I reviewed them – is deliver this planar performance with a neutral, natural tonal balance that prioritises accuracy over artificial excitement. I've just got a pair in, and already they're looking like a ringer for my list of the best budget audiophile headphones.

• Technics AZ100 wireless earphones are under $190 / £209
• Get wired audiophile IEMs for UNDER $30 / £29.50

The bass extends deep into sub-bass frequencies whilst remaining articulate and clean, never bloomy or bleeding into the midrange. Coupled with smooth, fatigue-free treble (for me at least – each listener will have their preferences) and full-bodied vocals, it all adds up to a refined listening experience that punches well above its price point. And with this extra $20 saving, it really does offer outstanding value proposition for anyone seeking honest, detailed audio.

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FiiO FT1 Pro: was $219.99 now $199.99 at Amazon

The FT1 Pro delivers exceptional timbral accuracy with its planar magnetic drivers, offering neutral tuning but with superior bass extension and impact. They were great value already, but with an extra $20 off, this is remarkable value.

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FiiO's 2025 budget headphone lineup

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FiiO has absolutely owned 2025 when it comes to delivering budget headphones that genuinely compete with models costing two or three times as much. The Chinese audio manufacturer, previously known primarily for portable DACs and amplifiers, has emerged as a serious contender in the headphone market with a string of releases that prioritise sound quality and build over marketing hype.

The FT1 Pro sits alongside its closed-back sibling, the FT1, forming what many producers and musicians consider the perfect studio duo. The closed-back FT1 excels at tracking and recording thanks to its isolation and slightly warmer signature that helps performers get into the groove, whilst the FT1 Pro's neutral tuning and open-back design make it ideal for mixing and critical listening without fatigue.