Transparency mode, which uses built-in mics to let you hear your surroundings, is quite effective. And switching between the two modes is as easy as a button tap, so there’s no need to remove the headphones in order to hear someone speaking. A handsome zip-up soft-shell case houses the headphones when they’re folded up, and Beats includes a carabiner that can attach to a loop on the exterior.
With the Solo Pro headphones, Beats essentially takes the popular Solo3 Wireless and adds active noise cancellation . At $299.95, they’re priced to compete with top noise-cancelling models like the Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700. From an ANC standpoint, Beats isn’t quite on par with beats flex review Bose, but you’re also paying less. That said, the price still feels a bit high, though as with Bose, popular branding comes with its own premium. Ultimately, the headphones deliver more than just a familiar logo, with effective ANC and powerful audio that will appeal to bass lovers.
Testing consisted of transferring phone call audio from iPhone to Solo Pro and Solo3 Wireless. Performance depends on device settings, environment, and many factors. The Beats Solo3 Wireless headset is the Beats Solo Pro’s three-year senior, and has outdated hardware. That said, some of this is beneficial, especially for listeners who still want the option to enjoy wired audio; the 3.5mm input makes up for the microUSB charging port.
Your results will vary with your volume levels, as well as your mix of modes. The right earcup’s side panel houses a Lightning port, next to which is a status LED. It’s a surprise to see there isn’t a USB-C charging cable. All headphone controls are built right into the earcups, making it easy to take calls, control the volume and more. Dual-beam forming microphones and speech-detecting accelerometer target your voice while filtering out outside noise so you’re heard on every call you make. Bluetooth stability might not seem like an exciting reason to buy headphones, but let me assure you that many lesser products struggle with Bluetooth interference.
It’s not a deal-breaker, but it is annoying given how expensive the headphones are. I never experienced any connection stutters or skips during testing. Fashion-forward listeners will turn heads at these headphones.