Nothing’s sub-brand, CMF, has introduced the CMF Headphone Pro, a pair of over-ear headphones priced at $99 that bring innovative features to the budget audio market. These headphones are designed to offer a customizable listening experience, particularly through their unique physical controls.
Innovative Physical Controls
The CMF Headphone Pro stands out with its intuitive physical controls. On one earcup, there’s a vertical scroll wheel that manages volume, play/pause functions, and track navigation. This design is user-friendly and offers a more natural interaction compared to traditional horizontal scrolls. Below the scroll wheel, a customizable button allows users to access voice assistants like Google Assistant or Siri, control Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), toggle spatial audio, or manage microphone settings.
On the opposite earcup, a power/pairing button is accompanied by the Energy Slider, a standout feature of these headphones. This slider enables real-time adjustment of bass levels without the need to delve into a companion app. This on-the-fly customization caters to individual preferences and different music genres, providing a personalized listening experience.
Sound Quality and Performance
Equipped with 40mm drivers and LDAC support, the CMF Headphone Pro delivers commendable sound quality for its price point. While there is a noticeable difference compared to higher-end models like the Nothing Headphone (1), the audio performance remains satisfactory, especially considering the affordability. The ability to adjust bass levels in real-time adds a layer of versatility, allowing users to tailor the sound to their liking.
Design and Customization
The headphones are available in dark grey, light grey, light green, and orange colorways, with matching earcups. The design includes interchangeable earcups, allowing users to personalize their headphones further. Additional ear cushions are available for purchase at $25, providing options for those who wish to change the look or feel of their headphones.
Battery Life and Connectivity
The CMF Headphone Pro boasts an impressive battery life, offering up to 100 hours of playback without ANC and 50 hours with ANC activated. This extended battery life ensures prolonged use without frequent recharging. The headphones support both Bluetooth connectivity, with Fast Pair for quick device connections, and wired connectivity, offering flexibility for various usage scenarios.
Pricing and Availability
Priced at $99 in the US (£79 in the UK and €99 in Europe), the CMF Headphone Pro offers a compelling package of features at an accessible price point. Pre-orders are available, with a launch discount reducing the price to $84 on Nothing’s website in the US. The headphones are also available on Amazon, with shipping commencing on October 7.
Conclusion
The CMF Headphone Pro by Nothing’s sub-brand CMF brings innovative features like the Energy Slider for real-time bass adjustment and intuitive physical controls to the budget headphone market. With solid sound quality, customizable design, and impressive battery life, these headphones offer exceptional value for their price, making them a noteworthy option for consumers seeking quality audio without a hefty price tag.
