Introduction
The premium headphone market has long been dominated by a handful of brands that have perfected the balance between aesthetics, comfort, and performance. Daisy, a California‑based startup founded by former Harman engineers, has entered this space with its first flagship pair, the Daisy One. Priced at $349 after an initial $399 launch, the headphones promise a blend of premium materials, tactile controls, and a unique sound signature. In this review, we dissect every aspect of the Daisy One—from its build quality to its ANC performance—and compare it to industry leaders such as Sony’s WH‑1000XM6 and Bose’s QuietComfort Ultra 2.
Design & Build Quality
Daisy One’s design philosophy centers on tactile feedback and long‑term comfort. The headphones are available in three colors—Silver, Pacific (blue), and Kelp (greenish‑brown)—each finished with a matte aluminum frame and TR90 polymer earcup shells. The magnetic earcups are detachable, allowing users to replace worn pads without opening the unit.
- Weight & Comfort: Slightly heavier than Sony’s WH‑1000XM4, the Daisy One still feels light on the head. The earpads are soft enough to accommodate glasses, and the headband distributes pressure evenly, making it suitable for extended listening sessions.
- Packaging: The box is designed to resemble a “book for a library shelf,” hinting at the brand’s emphasis on design. The carrying case is sleek, with a magnetic latch that snaps shut, providing a secure and stylish travel solution.
The tactile controls are a standout. Daisy opted for physical buttons and a metal volume knob instead of touch gestures, reducing accidental inputs. The knob’s smooth rolling action is complemented by a satisfying click when pressed.
Controls & Features
The Daisy One eschews touch controls in favor of a more deliberate interface:
| Control | Function |
|---|---|
| Volume Dial | Single press: play/pause; double‑click: skip forward; triple‑tap: skip backward |
| ANC Button | Long‑press activates on‑device relaxing soundscapes (rainfall, forest stream, waterfall, ocean waves, 5‑minute breathwork) |
| Transparency Mode | Single press toggles, but performance is limited and distorts audio |
The inclusion of relaxing soundscapes is a unique selling point, offering a built‑in meditation aid. However, the ANC performance is currently a weak point. In windy or subway environments, the noise cancellation can produce sharp, loud blasts that detract from the listening experience. Daisy has acknowledged these issues and plans software updates to refine the ANC algorithm.
Transparency mode, intended to let ambient sound through, performs poorly, allowing minimal external audio and often distorting the signal. This is a significant drawback when compared to Sony’s and Bose’s more robust transparency implementations.
Sound Performance & Audio Specifications
Sound quality is the heart of any headphone review. Daisy One’s “Daisy EQ” is a dynamic bass‑enhanced profile that works well for EDM but can feel muddier than Sony’s balanced approach. A flat EQ reveals a hollow sound: highs are tinny, lows lack enthusiasm, and the overall mix feels under‑punchy.
- Audio Connections: 3.5‑mm aux port, USB‑C supporting 24‑bit audio at 44.1 kHz or 48 kHz.
- Bluetooth Codec: LDAC support is slated for an OTA update later this year, in partnership with Sony.
- Battery Life: 45 hours of playback, a strong point that rivals Sony’s 30‑hour claim.
Call quality is adequate, with no complaints from recipients. The companion app is straightforward, offering two EQ presets—Daisy EQ and Flat. The app’s simplicity is a plus for users who prefer quick adjustments over complex settings.
Competitive Landscape
When positioned against Sony and Bose, the Daisy One shows both promise and gaps:
- Sony WH‑1000XM4: Lighter, more forgettable, and offers clearer highs and less muddy bass. Sony’s ANC is also more refined.
- Sony WH‑1000XM6 / Bose QuietComfort Ultra 2: Often available at similar prices during sales ($370–$378). Both deliver superior ANC and transparency modes, outperforming Daisy in these areas.
Despite these shortcomings, Daisy One’s strengths—comfort, battery life, and aesthetic appeal—make it a compelling choice for users who prioritize style and longevity over absolute audio fidelity.
Why It Matters
Daisy’s entry into the premium headphone market signals a shift toward more tactile, design‑centric products. By rejecting touch controls, Daisy addresses a common pain point: accidental activations that interrupt music. Their focus on physical ergonomics and detachable earcups also reflects a growing trend toward modularity and user‑serviceability in consumer audio.
Moreover, Daisy’s partnership with (nxc) systems for the sound engine and the planned LDAC update demonstrate a willingness to collaborate with established audio players. This cross‑industry cooperation could set a precedent for future headphone designs that blend hardware innovation with software flexibility.
Future Outlook
Daisy has already outlined a roadmap to improve ANC and transparency through software updates. The upcoming LDAC support will bring the headphones in line with industry standards for high‑resolution wireless audio. If Daisy can refine its sound signature—particularly the flat EQ profile—and address ANC distortion, the One could become a serious contender in the premium segment.
Additionally, the company’s emphasis on design and modularity may inspire other manufacturers to revisit tactile interfaces and replaceable components, potentially reshaping user expectations for premium headphones.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does the Daisy One support high‑resolution audio over Bluetooth?
A: Yes, once the planned LDAC OTA update is released, the headphones will support high‑resolution audio via Bluetooth.
Q: Can I replace the earcups if they wear out?
A: The magnetic earcups are detachable, allowing for easy replacement without opening the unit.
Q: How does the ANC performance compare to Sony’s WH‑1000XM6?
A: Currently, the Daisy One’s ANC can produce sharp, loud blasts in windy or subway environments, whereas Sony’s ANC is more refined and consistent.
Q: Is the battery life sufficient for long trips?
A: With 45 hours of playback, the Daisy One offers ample battery life for extended travel or daily use.
Q: Where can I find more information about headphone jack compatibility?
A: For a deeper dive into headphone jack usage
and compatibility with various devices, check out our guide on headphone jack standards and usage.
Conclusion
The Daisy One headphones represent a bold attempt to carve out a niche in the crowded premium audio market. With their striking design, tactile controls, and emphasis on comfort, they cater to users who value aesthetics and ergonomics as much as sound quality. However, the headphones’ current shortcomings—particularly in ANC performance and sound fidelity—prevent them from unseating established leaders like Sony and Bose.
That said, Daisy’s commitment to software updates and modular design suggests a product with long-term potential. If the company delivers on its promises—refining ANC, improving transparency mode, and rolling out LDAC support—the Daisy One could evolve into a formidable competitor. For now, it remains a compelling option for those who prioritize style and comfort over absolute audio perfection.
For audiophiles seeking the best sound and noise cancellation, the Sony WH-1000XM6 or Bose QuietComfort Ultra 2 may still be the safer bet. But for users who appreciate a fresh take on headphone design and don’t mind waiting for improvements, the Daisy One is worth considering—especially at its current $349 price point.
Final Verdict: 6/10
The Daisy One earns a 6 out of 10 for its standout design, comfort, and unique features like built-in soundscapes. However, its sound quality and ANC performance lag behind competitors, holding it back from a higher score. With future updates, this rating could improve, but for now, it’s a stylish yet imperfect entry into the premium headphone market.
Frequently Asked Questions (Continued)
Q: Are the Daisy One headphones compatible with voice assistants like Siri or Google Assistant? A: Yes, the headphones support voice assistant integration via Bluetooth. A quick press of the ANC button (when not in use) will activate your device’s default voice assistant.
Q: How does the Daisy One handle latency for gaming or video playback? A: While the headphones are primarily designed for music and calls, latency over Bluetooth may be noticeable during gaming or video playback. For the best experience, use the 3.5-mm aux cable to minimize lag.
Q: Can I customize the EQ settings beyond the two presets in the app? A: Currently, the companion app only offers the “Daisy EQ” and “Flat” presets. Daisy has not announced plans for a full parametric EQ, but future updates could expand customization options.
Q: Is the carrying case durable enough for daily use? A: The case is sleek and stylish, with a magnetic latch that feels secure. However, it lacks the ruggedness of some competitor cases, so users who frequently toss their headphones into bags may want to handle it with care.
Q: Will Daisy release additional color options or limited editions? A: Daisy has not announced any new colors or special editions, but given the brand’s focus on design, it wouldn’t be surprising to see future releases expand the palette.
Q: How does the Daisy One compare to the Apple AirPods Max? A: The Daisy One and AirPods Max target different segments. The AirPods Max ($549) offers seamless integration with Apple devices, superior ANC, and a more premium build, but at a significantly higher price. The Daisy One, at $349, is a more affordable alternative with a focus on tactile controls and modularity, though it falls short in sound quality and ANC performance.
Source: Original Article