The ubiquitous Beats By Dre headphones look stunning, but critics say they're all style, no substance. We review some of the most popular over-the-ear pairs, inside and out
Most eye-catching
Skullcandy Roc Nation Aviators ($199.99)
More about style than music – much like Jay-Z himself lately.
Sound: Bright and robust on louder things, a tad bland on quieter ones.
Tunes: For best results, break out something punchy, whether it’s Mobb Deep or Megadeth.
Looks: Their sunglasses-inspired design is so fresh that the nice sound is merely a bonus.
Audiophile’s choice:
Audio-Technica ATH-M50 ($179.99)
Like being in a recording studio, in the dark.
Sound: Easily the best value for money. Crisp highs, warm mids, clear bass.
Tunes: Everything sounds good on them, though bass addicts may miss the over-the-top thump of less precise units.
Looks: Dull as dishwater. But if all you care about is audio, search no further.
Biggest bass
Pioneer HDJ-1000 ($168.99)
For real DJs, and those who wish they were.
Sound: If bass is the first thing you listen for, you’ll love them. Otherwise, they’re a bit muffled.
Tunes: Anything that you’d hear in a nightclub with subwoofers you can feel in your ribcage.
Looks: Less boring than most, though that’s not saying much.
Best celeb-endorsed pair:
AKG Q701 Quincy Jones Signature Line ($399.95)
An old-school pro endorses headphones for old-school pros.
Sound: Well balanced over all, but particularly shines in the warm, rich mids.
Tunes: Great with anything, though they impress most with (surprise!) jazz and soul.
Looks: Trendy? Nah, but they’re not bad for a man his age.
Most colourful
Urbanears Plattan ($69.99)
They go with your outfit. Bonus: they also make noises.
Sound: Better than your iPod earbuds, but only just. The highs can be gratingly tinny.
Tunes: You and your BFF’s karaoke jam – they come with an extra jack so you can both listen at once.
Looks: With 11 styles, these are fashion accessories first and audio gear second.
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