Nothing, the British tech brand known for its distinctive design, has just launched the Headphone (a) – their latest over-ear headphones – at Mobile World Congress 2024 in Barcelona. Priced at $199, these headphones aim to deliver a premium experience without the premium price tag.
What They Offer
The Headphone (a) build on Nothing’s established aesthetic, offering a similar look to the higher-end Headphone (1) but at a more accessible cost. Key features include adaptive and manually adjustable Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), 40mm drivers, an impressive 135-hour battery life (without ANC), and quick charging capabilities. They also boast eight-band equalization, spatial audio modes (concert and cinema), Bluetooth 5.4 with LDAC codec support, IP52 dust- and water-resistance, and come in white, black, pink, and a limited-edition yellow.
How They Compare to the Headphone (1)
The most significant difference between the Headphone (a) and the $299 Headphone (1) is the price. While both models share the same iconic rectangular design, Nothing scaled back some premium materials on the (a) version. The (a) comes with a carrying pouch instead of a hard-shell case, and swaps transparent plastic for a decal on the ear cups. The Headphone (1) use aluminum CNC components, making them slightly heavier (329g vs. 310g).
Despite the price cut, the Headphone (a) retains the same tactile and intuitive on-ear controls that earned praise for the Headphone (1). These include a roller for volume, paddles for track skipping, an action button, and a dedicated Bluetooth button.
Battery Life and Sound Quality
The Headphone (a) boasts a remarkable battery life: up to 135 hours without ANC and 75 hours with it enabled. This outpaces many competitors, including the Marshall Monitor III and even the Dyson OnTrac. While the Headphone (1) collaborated with KEF for enhanced audio performance, initial impressions suggest the Headphone (a) provides a well-rounded and customizable listening experience. The sound quality is relatively clear, and the app allows for fine-tuning the ANC and sound profile.
First Impressions: Surprisingly Good
Early reviews indicate that the Headphone (a) make an immediate impression. Unlike many mid-range headphones that compromise on design, ANC, or software, Nothing seems to have delivered a compelling package without major drawbacks. The design is unique, the sound is clear, the ANC is customizable, and the app is user-friendly.
Where to Buy
The Nothing Headphone (a) are available for preorder now on Nothing’s website in white, black, and pink. General availability begins March 13. The limited-edition yellow colorway will launch on April 6.
The Headphone (a) are an example of how a tech brand can deliver a premium-feeling product at an accessible price point without cutting corners on essential features. This move could significantly disrupt the mid-range headphone market.
