Review: Monster’s Beats by Dr. Dre High Definition Headphones

The headphones that come with the iPhone 3G are not the worst out there but they aren’t the best either. If you’re looking for a headphone upgrade you’re better off getting the Helium Digital HD-340 Boombuds or spending a bit extra for a set of noise canceling headphones. Today we’re going to take a closer look at the latest high definition headphones created by Monster, Beats by Dr. Dre.

Dr. Dre Makes Headphones? Cool! What’s in the Box?

These headphones come in a stylish black and red box jam packed full of goodies. Here’s what you get inside:

– Beats Studio headphones
– Monster Cable headphone cable
– Monster iSoniTalk™ iPhone enable headphone cable with built-in answer button and microphone
– Rigid Tour case
– Anti-Microbial Cleaning cloth
– 1/8″ to 1/4″ Adapter
– Two AAA batteries

Specifications
– Weight: 260 grams, 270 grams with batteries
– Headphone cable length: 1.3 meters
– Connector: 1/8 inch (3.5mm), gold-plated

The entire setup as you read above includes all the cables you need. What was important for me was that the included iSoniTalk iPhone headphone cable works exactly as advertised. This ensures that you can also control your iPhone while listening to music.

How is the Sound Quality of these Headphones?

These headphones are created with enabling users to listen to music and sounds just like how they were intended to sound like in the studio. They were released to much fanfare in the US and now they have hit Canadian shores.

I’ll be the first to admit that I am no audiophile. However, after testing out these headphones with the included audio tracks, my MP3 collection, and playing Call of Duty 4 on my MacBook I must say these headphones sound amazing! Vocals are super clear, highs are detailed and the bass sounds like I’m back to my high school days of cruising with subs in the trunk (come on, who didn’t rock their stereo with the windows rolled down?!).

Are They Comfortable? How is the Build Quality?

The comfort of these headphones are second to none. I tested them on my head for over an hour and I didn’t feel any discomfort around my ears. The padding is fairly soft and the noise isolation qualities are excellent. One feature I enjoy is the included “mute” button on the right side of the headphones. Just hold down on the Beats logo and the sound is muted instantly.

The headphones take two AAA batteries to operate the extra large drivers and powerful digital amplifier and can be turned ON/OFF via a switch on the right side (it has an LED indicator as well). The headband is adjustable and the ear cups are hinged and very plush. These headphones are definitely what you call the cream of the crop when it comes to noise canceling headphones.

These headphones are foldable and fit right inside the included zippered carrying case. They are very stylish however I ran into a slight problem. Maybe I was a bit too aggressive but the top left side of the headband cracked on me when I was opening the headphones to put onto my head. It was either my carelessness, my head being too big, or the build quality of the plastic headband! This was something that I didn’t expect to happen–oops!

Conclusion: These are Premium Headphones with Excellent Sound Quality

It is very clear that Monster and Dr. Dre have created a superior product compared to the competition. It comes bundled with an assortment of cables and extras that help round out the entire product. With all the work put into these headphones and the quality you will receive, it is reflected in the Canadian retail price of $399 (available at FutureShop.ca).

Want some words from the man himself? In the words of Dr. Dre:

“People aren’t hearing all the music. Artists and producers work hard in the studio, perfecting their sound. But people can’t really hear it with normal headphones. Most headphones can’t handle the bass, the detail, the dynamics. Bottom line: the music doesn’t move you. With Beats, people are going to hear what the artists hear and listen to the music the way they should: the way I do.”

Are they worth the price? Well, if you’ve got some deep pockets you can expect to receive some comfortable, high definition noise canceling headphones that are the epitome of superior sound quality associated with Dr. Dre and the reputation of Monster. Get ready to treat your ears to a party with Monster’s Beats by Dr. Dre is all I gotta say!

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