At $299.95, the Solo Pro is pricey but in line with some other flagship over-ear models. The Solo3 Wireless is just $50 more and packs many of the same features. Our current favorite option, the Sony WH-1000XM3, has slightly better sound and the adaptive ANC works very well. The Bose 700 is another very nice set of noise-cancelling headphones, but they’re even more expensive at $399. To me, the extra comfort that all three of those offer is worth the extra money.
And since I use headphones daily for extended listening sessions, that’s something I can’t overlook. If you prefer on-ear headphones though, the Solo Pro is one of the best options available. Where the Solo Pro really shines is overall audio quality and noise cancellation. Like on other recent Beats products, including the Studio3 Wireless and Powerbeats Pro, the tuning is much better here.
Simply pair them as you would any other Bluetooth headphones, and you can then check battery status and control ANC from the Beats mobile app. There’s no AptX or Aptx-HD support, as you’ll find with many high-end Bluetooth headphones, but they’ll play audio via Apple’s AAC codec beats studio3 instead. Since Apple acquired Beats in 2014, Beats headphones have been increasingly optimised for iPhones, iPads and MacBooks. Thanks to the Apple H1 chip, the Solo Pros not only pair instantly with these devices but you can also summon Siri at any time using your voice .
Also featured with these headphones is Transparency Mode. This function allows you to listen to music while still being aware of your surroundings. They sound good, have solid noise cancelling and are comfortable and stable on your head. Bluetooth connectivity is rock-solid and the battery lasts long enough for the weekly commute or flights. The Solo Pro are also some of the best-sounding Beats headphones I have listened to.
When I’m wearing Solo Pro, it feels like my head is in a vice, or like the headphones are bookends to my head. Thanks to Apple’s H1 chip, Solo Pro will instantly pair with your iPhone if it’s nearby as soon as you unfold the ear cups. I love the design, with the sliding headband over the metal structure, and the clean lines and logo. Hilda Scott uses her combined passion for gadgets and bargain shopping to bring you the best prices on all things tech.