Monster Beats by Dre iBeats review

Possessing more then a touch of bling, the iBeats offer a great noise-isolation seal and smooth, flexible bass as well Tested at £80

What Hi-Fi? Verdict

We think these Beats are stylish and classy, offering smooth, bassy richness

Pros

  • +

    Flexible bass, rich, chunky delivery, good noise-isolation seal

Cons

  • -

    Some may not like the looks, sound can get a bit domineering

Why you can trust What Hi-Fi? Our expert team reviews products in dedicated test rooms, to help you make the best choice for your budget. Find out more about how we test.

As we’ve quickly come to expect from Beats, the iBeats feel very well made.

How you feel about the red cord and white detail will depend on taste, but we’re still unsure of the Star Destroyer-shaped control unit, especially as it’s the only part that feels a touch flimsy.

Still, it’s in a sensible place under the chin and, as a three-button unit, lets you adjust volume as well as control playback.

The iBeats create a comfy, noise-isolating seal that gives you the peace to enjoy your tunes. And enjoy them you will, especially if you’re keen on bass.

These reach much deeper than most in-ears, and there’s real flexibility to bass, making for a rich, chunky delivery that also benefits from impressive spaciousness.

It can get a touch domineering, which rather drowns out the bass and treble, but for smooth, bassy sounds, they’re ace.

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What Hi-Fi?

What Hi-Fi?, founded in 1976, is the world's leading independent guide to buying and owning hi-fi and home entertainment products. Our comprehensive tests help you buy the very best for your money, with our advice sections giving you step-by-step information on how to get even more from your music and movies. Everything is tested by our dedicated team of in-house reviewers in our custom-built test rooms in London, Reading and Bath. Our coveted five-star rating and Awards are recognised all over the world as the ultimate seal of approval, so you can buy with absolute confidence.

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