With streaming, gaming, and hybrid work, our demand for better audio keeps climbing. Now, CMF, the design-focused sub-brand from Nothing, has introduced its first over-ear model: the Headphone Pro. Priced at around $99, it stands out with bold styling and a unique feature called the Energy Slider, which lets users physically adjust bass and treble in real time. According to The Verge, this slider makes tonal tweaks immediate — no apps required.
What Makes It Different: Style Meets Energy Control
The Energy Slider
Instead of diving into an EQ app, the Headphone Pro lets you simply move a slider to add bass or brighten treble. As 9to5Google explains, this tactile control sits alongside a multi-function roller and gives a more intuitive way to shape your sound. Think of it like seasoning food: you don’t open a recipe app, you just add more spice.
Customizable Look
“CMF” stands for Color, Material, Finish — and the Headphone Pro lives up to that philosophy. The cushions are modular and swappable, with options like orange and light green to match your style. PhoneArena notes that this focus on personalization helps the headphones stand out in a crowded market.
Key Features and Specs
According to TechRadar, here’s what Headphone Pro brings:
- Drivers & Codec: 40 mm dynamic drivers with LDAC/Hi-Res Audio support.
- Noise Cancellation: Hybrid ANC capable of reducing up to 40 dB.
- Battery Life: Up to 100 hours without ANC, 50 hours with ANC on.
- Fast Charging: Five minutes gives ~4 hours of playback.
- Controls: Multi-function roller plus Energy Slider for instant tone adjustment.
- Design: Modular ear cushions with bold, swappable colors.
These specs show CMF’s attempt to merge performance with personalization at an affordable price.
Benefits and Considerations
Why It’s Exciting:
- Instant audio tuning without an app.
- Long battery life that beats many premium rivals.
- Swappable cushions for both comfort and flair.
What to Watch Out For:
- Real-world smoothness of the Energy Slider.
- Cushion wear over time with frequent swaps.
- Whether sound quality matches the promise on paper.
As SoundGuys points out, specs are strong, but everyday listening tests will determine if CMF can compete with established audio brands.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How does the Energy Slider compare to EQ presets?
A: Presets lock you into fixed profiles. The slider gives you real-time control, letting you fine-tune sound instantly while listening.
Q: Does the modular design change the audio?
A: Slightly. Different cushions can affect damping and comfort, but CMF designed them to balance looks with consistent performance.
Q: When will it be available?
A: The Headphone Pro launched on Sept 29, 2025, in select markets and will roll out to the U.S. on Oct 7, priced at about $99.
Conclusion
The CMF Headphone Pro blends utility and personality. By pairing customizable looks with a tactile Energy Slider, CMF gives users direct control over both style and sound. Whether it lives up to the hype depends on listening tests, but it’s clear the brand is betting on a more personal approach to headphones.
Key Takeaway: CMF’s Headphone Pro isn’t just about how you hear your music — it’s also about how you wear it.
