Beats Studio Pro: Overview
The Beats Studio Pro headphones, set for release in July 2023 for $349, present a competent option on paper. However, their smaller ear cups may pose challenges for certain users. If you have a smaller head or don’t mind your ears touching the cups, this won’t be a significant issue. However, those who wear glasses should consider alternatives.
Key Specifications
- Dimensions:
- Headphones: 80 x 160 x 180 mm
- Ear cup: 59 x 40 mm
- Cable length: 1.9m
- Weight: 270g
- Model Number: MQTQ3LL/A
- Waterproof: Not specified
Pros, and Cons
What We Like:
- Sound Quality: Exceptional audio experience
- ANC (Active Noise Cancelling): Effective noise reduction
- Battery Life: Long-lasting performance
- USB DAC: Enhanced digital audio connectivity
- Weight: Lightweight design for comfort
What We Don’t Like:
- Fit: May not be suitable for all head sizes
- Comfort: May not accommodate glasses-wearers comfortably
- Construction: Build quality concerns
- Confusing Indicators: The user interface could be more intuitive
Ratings
- NewForTech Rating: 7.4
Sound Quality
- Sound Quality: 9.0
- Bass: 8.0
- Midrange: 8.0
- Highs: 6.0
- Isolation / Attenuation: 7.0
- Active Noise Cancelling: 6.0
- Durability / Build Quality: 6.0
- Value: 7.0
- Design: 6.0
- Connectivity: 10.0
- Portability: 8.0
- Battery Life: 8.0
- Feature: 7.0
- Comfort: 2.9
In conclusion, the Beats Studio Pro headphones offer an appealing audio experience with effective noise canceling, but potential comfort and build quality issues should be considered before purchase.
Apple’s renowned brand, responsible for the mega-popular Beats Studio 3 Wireless headphones, has quietly unveiled its successor, the Beats Studio Pro, in the headphone market. This product presents a challenge in understanding, as it garners both passionate admirers and fierce detractors for straightforward reasons. Which side do you belong to? Let’s delve in.
Studio Pro Review: A Comprehensive Look
Target Audience
The Beats Studio Pro caters to those seeking active noise-canceling (ANC) headphones with USB audio passthrough for wired listening. However, it may not suit individuals with glasses, larger ears, or bigger heads.
User Experience
The Beats Studio Pro offers a basic, affordable set of ANC headphones. Its construction mainly comprises plastic with some metal in the band and foldable hinges for easy storage. The stiff band and minimal padding can apply pressure to the top of your head, impacting comfort. This design harkens back to older Beats models, but not all aspects seem intentional.
Under the hood, the absence of apple“>Apple‘s H1 or H2 chip is surprising. Multipoint functionality and advanced iOS features are also lacking, except for Transparency Mode. Yet, a notable feature is the built-in USB DAC, enabling high-quality wired listening via USB-C, a rarity among Apple headphones.
Apple enthusiasts will appreciate features like head-tracked Spatial Audio, Find My, fast-pairing, and Transparency Mode. While not essential, they enhance the user experience.
The decision to go with small ear cups (59 x 40 mm) may cause fit issues for those with average-sized ears. However, individuals with smaller heads and ears may find them more comfortable.
These lightweight headphones (270g) are portable and can be neatly folded into a carrying pouch. The pouch, although somewhat bulky, fits into most messenger bags and includes internal pockets for storing USB-C and 3.5mm cables.
Controls
Controls on the Beats Studio Pro are straightforward but may take time to get used to, with physical clicky buttons. The Beats logo on the left ear cup and the ring around it house the buttons, while the right ear cup’s “system” button handles power, pairing, and ANC/Transparency mode toggling.
While reliable, the buttons may be frustrating as they require force, potentially breaking the ear seal and causing discomfort. Additionally, the clicking sound they produce can be loud inside the headphones.
Beats Studio Pro: Button Functions
| Button | Single Tap | Double Tap | Triple Tap | Long Press |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Top area (Left logo) | Volume up | Play / Pause | Next track | Previous track |
| Bottom area (System button) | Volume down | N/A | ANC/Transparency toggle | N/A |
USB DAC Mode and EQ Presets
When using USB DAC mode, the headphones offer three EQ presets. However, switching between them is possible only when audio is already playing on your computer. The lack of an audio prompt makes it challenging to identify the active EQ preset. Moreover, you cannot use ANC or transparency mode while listening over USB if no audio is playing. Beware of potential playback issues resulting from accidental double-connection via USB and Bluetooth.
These concerns may be addressed in future updates, though the timeline is uncertain.
Beats App Usage
Is the Beats app a must for the Beats Studio Pro? While we generally advise caution with data-collecting apps, the Beats app for Android becomes essential for certain tasks. It allows you to customize the system button’s behavior, rename your headphones, and perform firmware updates. Staying updated with software is wise, considering the control issues mentioned earlier.
Connection Options
How does the Beats Studio Pro connect? These headphones offer USB connectivity, a rarity in the headphone world. They also connect via 3.5mm male-to-male TRS cables or Bluetooth using SBC or AAC codecs. Versatility is a strong point for Beats.
Pairing Process
How do you pair Beats Studio Pro? Powering them on initiates pairing with the last connected device. For new pairings or unconnected devices, a longer press of the button activates pairing mode. On iOS devices, proximity pairing expedites the process.
Battery Life
What’s the battery life of the Beats Studio Pro? In our tests, they lasted an impressive 31 hours and 25 minutes on a full charge, ideal for a week of commutes. The duration may vary with ANC settings and volume levels.
Fast Charging
Does the Beats Studio Pro support fast charging? Yes, a quick 10-minute charge yields 4 hours of playback, according to the product page.
Studio Pro: Noise Cancelling Performance
How effective is the noise cancellation in the Beats Studio Pro? When fitted well, these headphones excel in noise cancellation, reducing unpleasant sounds by 50-90% across frequencies. While not the absolute best, they perform admirably, although eyeglass wearers may experience reduced performance due to fit issues.
Sound Quality
How does the Beats Studio Pro sound? The default sound profile emphasizes treble, contributing to vocal clarity. The consumer-friendly sound features boosted sub-bass and a balanced treble, making most music enjoyable. Some may find high-pitched instruments or metallic sounds slightly harsh, but overall, it’s a pleasant listening experience.
EQ Presets
For USB-connected listening, three EQ presets are available, each with its strengths and weaknesses. The default setting remains the most balanced. The Entertainment EQ emphasizes bass and treble, potentially appealing to some users.
Microphone Performance
Can you use the Beats Studio Pro for phone calls? The microphone’s frequency response suggests a gradual roll-off after 1kHz. The onboard microphone delivers quiet recordings, and noise rejection appears limited. Microphone performance may improve with future updates.
Purchase Considerations
Should you buy the Beats Studio Pro? The decision hinges on head size. While these headphones excel in various aspects, they are uncomfortable and fit poorly for individuals with average-to-large heads, glasses, or less hair. For those with smaller heads, the Beats Studio Pro could be a reliable commuting companion.
Beats has made significant improvements in its products, and the Beats Studio Pro showcases impressive performance on paper. However, the comfort issue, especially for those with larger heads or eyeglasses, may deter many potential users.
Beats Studio Pro vs. Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless
Comparison
How do Beats Studio Pro and Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless stack up against each other? Besides noise cancellation, there’s little the Beats Studio Pro does better in the same price range. The Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless outperforms it in sound quality, comfort, connectivity, battery life, build quality, control scheme, and even sale price. Notably, it offers an internal USB DAC, allowing digital source playback via USB-C cable.
iPhone Users
While iPhone users may not fully exploit Sennheiser’s capabilities due to limited support for higher transfer rate Bluetooth codecs like aptX HD, it’s still a solid choice for Apple enthusiasts. Unlike the Beats Studio Pro, it lacks EQ presets for USB-C audio but supports third-party equalizer programs. A detailed comparison between the two is available here.
Alternatives to Consider
If ANC is a priority, there are numerous alternatives worth exploring. Check out the best noise-canceling headphones for recommendations that better suit your needs. For cost-conscious buyers, the Sony WH-1000XM4, yet to be discontinued, offers savings. Alternatively, consider the new Sony WH-1000XM5, boasting a superior design, microphone, and a dedicated app for equalizing your music. A comprehensive comparison article is available here.
For budget-conscious shoppers, Anker’s ANC options may suffice. While they may not match sound quality and lack an internal USB DAC, the Anker Soundcore Space Q45 stands out for its fit and affordability.
FAQ
Beats Studio Pro Colors
What colors are available for the Beats Studio Pro? Currently, you can choose from black, deep brown, navy, or sandstone options.
Compatibility
Can the Beats Studio Pro be used with Android and iOS phones? Yes, these headphones are compatible with devices featuring Bluetooth, a 3.5mm headphone jack, or a USB-C port supporting data transfer.