The beat is on with new headphones from Dr. Dre and Monster

Dr Dre Beats

The aim, says Monster, was to provide "a new level of headphone performance, with extreme clarity, deep bass and full power". Dr. Dre and Monster worked in collaboration with Jimmy Iovine, chairman of Interscope Geffen A&M Records.

In order to recreate the quietness of an isolated recording studio, the Beats use powered ambient noise isolation, and are designed for use with any portable music device.

And for customers who have an iPhone, Blackberry or other music-enabled phones, Monster offers an optional Monster iSoniTalk headphone cable with integrated microphone and answer button.

Says Dr. Dre: "Artists and producers work hard in the studio perfecting their sound, but people can't really hear it with normal headphones, which can't handle the bass, dynamics and detail. 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."

The Beats by Dr. Dre come with a hip carrying case, wide adjustable headband, soft hinged ear cups and use Monster cable.