Carl Pei has returned to the camera to comment on what some of the most influential tech YouTubers in the world think about the new Nothing Headphone (1). In this second round of reactions after facing criticism in the first round of Nothing Phone (3), We see him responding to figures like MKBHD, Dave2D or Linus, in a tone that is sometimes self-critical, at other times disagreeing, but always with an interest in feedback.
A design that creates division
The resemblance to the Cybertruck is no coincidence. Carl acknowledges that the design of the Headphone (1) aims to generate mixed opinions. Some find them different and eye-catching, others consider them strange or unflattering. Dave2D, for example, comments that the headphones seemed very interesting to him until he put them on: according to him, They don't look equally good when placed on the head that on a table or in a promotional image.
Carl disagrees and argues that the effect is much better in person. He mentions his collaboration with Jordan Hemingway as a visual reference, but doesn't try to impose his vision; he simply points out that it's a matter of personal perception.
Physical controls and retro design: generally well received
Some aspects have been better rated, such as the physical controls via dials. There's a consensus here: it's more comfortable and clear than touch gestures, which often lead to frustration. The retro feel has also been highlighted. Koss Porta Pro, However, not everyone is convinced. Carl comments that there are divided opinions in the office about the overall aesthetic of the design: some find it original and full of personality, while others see it as too flashy or not discreet enough.
Regarding ergonomics, extensive work has been done, including the use of specific testing machines. But Carl acknowledges that There is no perfect fit for everyone, And that there will be users for whom it will be too tight, as is the case with DMS.
The sound: weak points, but with room for customization
Most reviewers agree that the The factory sound is not entirely balanced. There's a noticeable drop in the high treble, and some peaks that might be annoying to some ears. Carl doesn't get into technical discussions, but he does point out that Response graphs may vary depending on the measurement methodology, which makes it difficult to draw absolute conclusions.
What does stand out is the flexibility of the system advanced equalization, which allows you to modify the sound to your liking and share presets via QR code. Several creators have published their own profiles, and Carl admits that even he switches between them without being sure which he prefers. In other words, he acknowledges that There is no clear or definitive reference..
In addition, the community has created a web version of the Nothing X app, which, according to Carl, reinforces his idea that the user can contribute valuable improvements without depending on the internal team.
ANC, battery and connectivity: good specs, no exaggeration
The active noise cancellation It's not the best on the market, and it falls slightly short of the Sony WH-1000XM6. Even so, the passive noise isolation is decent, and with music, the overall result is acceptable. It's an area where there's room for improvement.
Other points receive more praise, such as:
- Stable connectivity, even in houses with multiple walls
- Outstanding autonomy35h with ANC, 80h without it
- Fast charging5 minutes provides 2 hours of use
Regarding the case, the criticism is almost unanimous: It doesn't fold, it takes up a lot of space, and it has an awkward zipper.. Carl accepts it, though he justifies it by saying they focused more on the headset itself. It's a debatable choice, but understandable.
A first bet with nuances
Nothing enters the realm of over-ear headphones with a product that breaks the mold in design, but also leaves some points unresolved.. The experience is solid in aspects such as battery life, controls, and community, but the factory sound, the case, or the comfort for certain heads could be improved.
Carl is open to learning from feedback, although he also defends some decisions with clear arguments. He doesn't intend for the Headphone (1) It should appeal to everyone, but it should also stand out. And so far, it has succeeded: They don't go unnoticed, for better or for worse..
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