Beats Studio Pro Review: Out From Apple’s Shadow – SlashGear

I tend toward skeptical when tech companies tell me they have an “iconic” product. After all, some of the most important tipping points of the gadget world have been when important devices suddenly get overshadowed by something newer and better. The wireless ANC headphones market has seen no shortage of upheaval — noise cancellation drifting down from being an expensive, luxury feature to attainable on cheap models — and sticking to a recipe that has worked before can end up as much a drag as a distinguishing feature.

Thankfully for Beats, then, the new Studio Pro headphones aren’t so thoroughly enchanted by the success of their predecessors that they ignore what’s necessary today. They sound great, have excellent ANC and a natural Transparency mode, and the flexibility of USB-C audio, plentiful battery life, and equal treatment of iOS and Android users help take the sting from the $350 price tag.

They’re not perfect, of course. Being unable to use USB-C and ANC simultaneously is a shame, and it’s not like Beats was short of space had it wanted to add some volume controls. As always, too, you should audition with your favorite music if you get the chance, as audio tuning can vary significantly across different brands. Nonetheless, the Beats Studio Pro pick up the torch of their predecessors, keep what works, and combine it with a well-rounded listening experience that does just enough to distinguish them in the crowded headphones segment.