'90s Walkman-inspired Hp1 On-Ear Headphones by km5 Modernize Nostalgic Design with Advanced Noise Cancellation Technology
** juice up your old-school vibes with km5's next-level headphones**
Let's take a step back to the glorious days of the '80s and '90s, when Walkmans were cool and CDs ruled the music world. Fast-forward to 2025, and retro-inspired Japanese audiophile brand km5 is bringing back the nostalgia with their Hp1 Lightwear Headphones.
FINDING THE BALANCE
The current headphone market is a mixed bag—on one side, we've got sleek and portable wireless in-ear monitors, perfect for daily use but lacking in soundstage compared to their beefier counterparts. On the flip side, larger over-ear headphones offer impressive sound and marathon battery life, but they're not the most comfortable for extended wear. So, what's missing? A middle ground that doesn't sacrifice sound quality or wearability.
A NEW SPIN ON OLD SCHOOL
Weighing in at an almost imperceptible 103g, the slimline Hp1 Lightwear Headphones are all about striking a balance between form and function. These bad boys boast a stainless steel headband that's strong enough to keep the headset secure, yet feather-light. And let's not forget the magnetic ear cushions, which allow for custom color swaps and durability that outlasts vintage on-ears.
TIME TRAVEL WITH TECH
But don't let the sleek, minimalistic design fool you—the Hp1 packs an unexpected punch with modern tech in that vintage frame. Say goodbye to the traditional thinking that only sealed ear cups can handle optimal sound control, because the Hp1 proves otherwise with its impressive active noise cancellation technology. And for us urban warriors, a desirable transparency mode lets you tune into the outside world without removing the headphones.
Loaded with high-quality 40mm drivers, the Hp1 delivers clear and powerful audio across the frequency spectrum. With options for both Bluetooth 5.4 and USB-C wired connectivity, you'll never have to worry about dead batteries stopping the party.
DESIGN PHILOSOPHY
Just like km5's previous collaborative CD player with BEAMS, the Hp1 embraces hardware as more than just functional devices; they're art pieces worthy of attention. That design ethos is emphasized in the transparent construction and '90s aesthetic of the Hp1.
Priced at approximately $153 USD, the Hp1 occupies an exciting sweet spot between affordable options and premium luxury devices. While big-name audio brands focus on incremental tech improvements, km5 breaks the mold with their unique approach to design and sound quality.
SPECIFICATIONS
- Model: Hp1 Lightwear Headphones
- Type: On-ear
- Weight: 3.6oz
- Drivers: 40mm
- Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.4 or USB-C wired option
- Battery Life: Up to 24 hours
- Features: Active noise cancellation, transparent mode
- Price: ¥22,000
Pre-order your own set of Hp1 Lightwear Headphones today through the km5 website in either black or white for ¥22,000 JPY (~$153).
The Hp1 Lightwear Headphones, with its sleek design reminiscent of '90s style, balance contemporary technology vices such as active noise cancellation and modern connectivity options, with a feather-light build that maintains comfort even during extended wear. This retro-inspired piece of technology, packed with 40mm drivers for high-quality audio output, exemplifies km5's philosophy of creating art pieces, combining style and function in one device.