Did you ever think you’d see someone using a Google Pixel in what’s technically an Apple marketing photo? You have now. Image: Beats
Beats has completely reworked the acoustic architecture of the Studio Pros, fitting them with new 40mm drivers “engineered for optimal clarity, with near-zero distortion even at high volume.” The active noise cancellation system has also been upgraded with a better microphone array — and the Studio Pros add transparency mode, which the Studio 3s lacked altogether. The outer ear pads have been redesigned and now combine memory foam with a top layer of seamless leather.
Beats Studio Pro headphones review: leaning on a legacy
The new headphones support wired playback via the included 3.5mm headphone cable, and for the first time in an Apple headphone, they also support lossless audio over USB-C. When listening through a wired USB-C connection, Beats includes sound profiles for different use cases like music, movies, and voice calls / podcasts.
The Studio Pros also try to toe the line between picking a side in the ecosystem wars. Beats includes support for a handful of native features on both iOS and Android. For either OS, you get one-tap setup, syncing across devices signed in to your account, and the ability to find your misplaced headphones. And despite using its own proprietary chip and not Apple-branded silicon, the Studio Pros are offering support for dynamic head tracking and personalized spatial audio; both of these were previously exclusive to the AirPods lineup.
I’ve been testing the Studio Pros for several days now, and they’ve proven to be a fascinating product — even if they won’t be for everyone. You can read my full review before deciding if you want to give Beats’ new flagship headphones a go.
