Kali Audio HP-1 Multi-Reference Headphones Review

The Kali Audio HP-1 Multi-Reference Headphones been one of several pairs of headphones I have been testing the last while and in a crowded market this pair had quite the intro on what they had to offer and when I first began delving into them and seeing no app I went “HOLD ON THERE IS NO APP” well how did they fair out after some heavy testing..

The Kali Audio HP-1 Multi-Reference Headphones are a standout option for both studio professionals and casual listeners, offering a unique blend of high-quality sound and versatile features at an affordable price.

Design and Comfort

The HP-1 is a closed-back, over-ear headphone with a lightweight design, making it comfortable for extended listening sessions. It features a vegan leather headband and replaceable earcups. The headphones are also foldable and come with a zippered carrying case, enhancing their portability. They are great for long hours on music or gaming or whatever you are watching or listening to.

Connectivity and Features

In addition to its reference-grade wired performance, the HP-1 offers modern convenience with Bluetooth connectivity and a built-in microphone for wireless calls. It also includes active noise canceling (ANC) which is very good and even better indoors. The battery life is impressive, providing over 40 hours of playback on a single charge.

Overall Thoughts

The Kali Audio HP-1 is an excellent pair of headphones, The combination of studio-grade sound, multiple voicing modes, wireless features, and comfort makes it a versatile tool that can replace the need for multiple pairs of headphones. It’s an excellent choice for anyone who needs a single pair of headphones that can handle both professional work and everyday listening even for gamers and calls also clear too both ends on my testing

Features

Key Features:
  • Multi-Reference Tuning: The three DSP-controlled modes (Studio, Bass-Heavy, and Consumer) allow users to switch between neutral, bass-heavy, and consumer-friendly tuning, providing flexibility for different listening preferences and critical listening tasks. 
  • Studio Mode: Offers a transparent and accurate sound, ideal for mixing and critical listening, ensuring mixes translate well across different playback systems. 
  • Bass-Heavy Mode: Replicates the sound signature of popular headphones often used by hip-hop and EDM producers and listeners, providing a more impactful low-end. 
  • Consumer Mode: Mimics the sound of headphones commonly paired with phones and computers, offering a balanced and natural listening experience. 
  • Bluetooth and Wired Connectivity: Supports both Bluetooth for wireless convenience and a wired connection for higher fidelity audio, allowing users to switch between listening styles. 
  • Active Noise Cancellation (ANC): Helps block out external noise, enhancing focus and immersion during listening sessions. 
  • Long Battery Life: Provides up to 40 hours of playback on a single charge. 
  • Comfortable Design: Features a vegan leather headband and earcups, with replaceable earcups for longevity. 
  • Built-in Microphone: Includes a microphone for calls and voice control. 
  • Physical Controls: Offers convenient playback controls on the headphones themselves

 

The Kali Audio HP-1 is  available now at kaliaudio.com, with an SRP of $199 / £199 / €199.

See our huge range of headphone reviews 

Video Review

Kali Audio HP-1 Multi-Reference Headphones First Look

Kali Audio HP-1, its first ever over-ear, DSP-powered headphone for mixing and QC that provides users with a neutral, accurate representation of their mix, as well as the ability to hear how their work will sound on the most popular headphones in use today and we have these in for review.

The HP-1 has 3 voicings:

  1. Studio: transparent, accurate sound that will translate faithfully.

  2. Bass-Heavy: replicates the sound of headphones that are popular with hip-hop and EDM creators and fans.

  3. Consumer: replicates the sound of popular headphones sold alongside phones and computers.

Users can switch between the three voicings at the press of a button. The LED on the right earcup will change color to indicate the selected tuning, and a voice prompt will also let the user know exactly what they’re listening to.

Check out the first look at these headphones which we really look forward to testing out and if you have any questions drop em in the comments section on YouTube and stay tuned for a full hands on review soon.

A wired connection is available via a 3.5mm jack on the headphone and an included cable. While this will give the highest fidelity playback for serious studio use, Bluetooth pairing is also possible for casual listening on the go.

In addition to its merits as a studio tool, the DSP in the HP-1 allows it to be a fantastic all-around headphone. Features like active noise cancelling, wireless calling, and physical playback controls on the headphones let you take them along with you in your everyday life.

The HP-1 is a closed-back, over-ear headphone with 40mm drivers that support a frequency response of 18 Hz – 22 kHz. 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 ship in a zippered carrying case that will protect them for travel.

 

The Kali Audio HP-1 is  available globally now at kaliaudio.com, with an SRP of $199 / £199 / €199.

See our huge range of headphone reviews 

Unboxing Video