Kali Audio have built up a solid reputation with their range of studio monitors, which are often praised for delivering an impressive level of performance for their relatively modest asking prices. Interestingly, their latest announcement isn’t another speaker design, but rather a new pair of headphones that feature three switchable voicing options, noise cancelling, wireless call functionality and more.
The HP-1s are an over-ear, closed-back design that use onboard DSP to provide users with multiple voicings that aim to deliver enough detail for mixing and critical listening as well as offering alternative tonal characters that serve as a reference point and provide a more casual listening experience. Users can switch between the three modes at the press of a button, with a multi-colour LED providing a visual indication of which mode is active.
Here’s what the company have to say about each of the modes:
- Studio: A transparent, accurate sound that will help mixes to translate faithfully across different systems.
- Bass-Heavy: Replicates the sound of headphones that are popular with hip-hop and EDM creators and fans.
- Consumer: Replicates the sound of popular headphones sold alongside phones and computers.
Wired connectivity is provided by a 3.5mm mini-jack socket and included cable, and Kali say that while this will give the highest fidelity playback for serious studio use, they’ve also included Bluetooth support for casual listening. In that role, the HP-1 also benefits from active noise cancelling, wireless calling support and physical playback controls. The battery supports at least 40 hours of playback on a full charge and can be recharged using the included USB-C cable. The headphones are supplied in a zippered carrying case.
Pricing & Availability
The HP-1s are available now, priced at $199£199 including VAT / €199.
