Daisy One Enters the High-End Noise-Canceling Market at $399

California-based startup Daisy Sound has unveiled its first proprietary brand headphones, the Daisy One, priced at $399. By focusing on both design and affordability, the company aims to challenge the premium noise-canceling headphone market dominated by products like Apple’s AirPods Max and Sony’s WH-1000XM6.

Entry from an Unconventional Industry

Daisy Sound’s CEO and founder, Jack Mulroe, shared his thoughts in an interview with WIRED, stating, “The premium headphone market is dull. It’s all black and similar designs, with companies caught up in a specs war to determine who makes the best headset.” The company’s vision is to create headphones inspired by California that help people relax.

Mulroe describes his team as “industrial designers coming from outside the audio industry.” Daisy Sound also boasts former engineers from Harman Professional Solutions, a Samsung-owned company renowned for its professional audio systems.

Design and Specifications of Daisy One

The Daisy One features an aluminum body, with the headband made from TR90 composite material, commonly used by headphone manufacturers. Weighing 318 grams, it is slightly heavier than competing models, but the design prioritizes the premium feel and durability of the aluminum alloy. The ear pads are magnetically detachable for easy replacement.

The headphones support Bluetooth as well as wired connections via USB-C and 3.5mm analog inputs. They come in three color options: silver, Pacific blue (inspired by the ocean), and Kelp, a greenish-brown hue.

The battery life is approximately 35 hours with noise-canceling enabled and 45 hours with it turned off, which is on par with or exceeds most competitors. However, the battery is built-in and is not intended for user replacement.

Built-In Soundscapes and Unique Features

The Daisy One’s acoustic system is developed in collaboration with Utah-based company (nxc) systems. A standout feature is the inclusion of pre-installed ambient sounds recorded in California, such as ocean waves and the forest ambiance of Big Sur, designed to promote relaxation.

Additionally, the headphones are equipped with guided breathing exercises aimed at relieving stress in environments like airports. This positions the Daisy One not just as a pair of headphones but also as a digital well-being tool.

Competitive Pricing

At $399, the Daisy One is clearly priced below competitors like the AirPods Max ($549) and WH-1000XM6 ($450–$550). Mulroe confidently stated, “We are aware of the competition from giants like Sony, Bose, Beats, and Apple, but we are not intimidated.”

However, the headphone market is fiercely competitive across all price points. London-based Nothing has made waves with its flashy over-ear headphone designs, while Anker’s Soundcore brand offers excellent cost performance at lower price ranges. In the high-end segment, heritage brands like Bowers & Wilkins and Grado maintain a stronghold with their established reputations. The key to Daisy Sound’s success will lie in how effectively it can differentiate itself.

Editorial Opinion

A startup entering the highly competitive headphone market faces challenges not only in creating a high-quality product but also in building brand recognition. Daisy One attempts to stand out with its aluminum build, California-inspired design, and $399 price point. However, the inability to replace the battery raises concerns about the durability of a product that aims to emphasize longevity. If the company truly wants to promote “long-term use,” offering a battery replacement option would align better with that message.

In the short term, targeting users who are not tied to Apple or Sony’s ecosystems will be crucial. The Daisy One’s inclusion of features like ambient soundscapes and breathing exercises offers an experience beyond traditional noise-canceling, making it a compelling option for some.

In the long term, the spotlight will be on whether a design team with no prior audio industry experience can build a strong reputation for sound quality and brand trust. While having engineers from Harman adds credibility, sustaining the business independently will be challenging without expanding the product lineup and securing retail channels. Otherwise, Daisy Sound risks fading into obscurity as a one-hit wonder.

References

• Wired — Published on 2026-06-30