In the world of audio, few brands command as much recognition and respect as Beats. With a unique blend of style, comfort, and performance, their products have earned a privileged spot in the market. The Beats Studio3 Wireless Headphones are no exception to this, combining high-end technology with premium design elements, to deliver an immersive audio experience. It’s a headphones model that has generated a significant buzz since its launch, becoming a go-to choice for many music enthusiasts, gamers, and podcast lovers alike.
Our aim in this review is to break down the Beats Studio3 experience from every angle — sound quality, comfort, design, features, and, of course, value for money. Whether you’re a seasoned audiophile, a casual listener, or someone venturing into high-quality personal audio for the first time, this analysis will shed light on whether these headphones are worth your investment.
Let’s embark on this sonic journey, unboxing the Beats Studio3 to reveal what awaits your ears. It’s time to discover the true potential of this audio accessory and discern if its performance lives up to its significant reputation. Stay tuned, the Symphony of Beats Studio3 is about to begin.
Table of Contents
Beats Studio3 product information
History
Tracing the legacy of Beats Studio3 Headphones takes us back to the establishment of Beats Electronics. Founded in 2006 by renowned music producer Dr. Dre and record industry mogul Jimmy Iovine, Beats has always been a brand that epitomized the union of audio performance and style. The company’s initial focus was on creating headphones that would bring the energy, emotion, and excitement of a recording studio to everyday personal audio equipment.
In their early years, Beats succeeded in capturing a significant market share, gaining popularity especially among younger consumers due to their bass-heavy sound and trendy design. Beats became a cultural icon in itself, with the headphones making frequent appearances in music videos, movies, and celebrity social media feeds.
In 2014, the company was acquired by Apple, opening a new chapter in its history. The acquisition brought with it an infusion of Apple’s design philosophy and technological advancements, which have been progressively incorporated into Beats products since then.
The Beats Studio3 Wireless headphones, unveiled in 2017, are a culmination of this journey. They represented the company’s commitment to maintaining the core characteristics that originally propelled Beats to popularity, while also integrating newer technologies for improved functionality and performance. Apple’s influence can be seen in the incorporation of the Apple W1 chip, which allows for seamless pairing with Apple devices, better power management, and high-quality audio streaming.
While the history of Beats Studio3 isn’t decades long, it is firmly rooted in a brand legacy that has been at the forefront of the fusion of music, technology, and style for the past decade and a half. These headphones aren’t just a product of design and engineering expertise, but also a reflection of Beats’ continuing commitment to enriching the personal audio experience.
Specification
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Year of Manufacture | 2017 |
| Company | Beats by Dr. Dre (Apple Inc.) |
| Official Website | www.beatsbydre.com |
| Fit Type | Over-Ear |
| Item Dimensions | 6.3 x 4.72 x 8.94 inches |
| Item Weight | 9.17 ounces |
| Special Features | ANC (Adaptive Noise Cancellation), Apple W1 Chip |
| Driver Size | N/A |
| Frequency Response | N/A |
| Impedance | N/A |
| Bluetooth Version | 4.2 |
| Bluetooth Range | Up to 30 feet (approximately 10 meters) |
| ANC Modes | Two modes (Active, Passive) |
| Audio Codec | AAC, SBC |
| Battery Life | Up to 22 hours with ANC on, 40 hours with ANC off |
| Charging Time | 2 hours |
| Quick Charging | 10 minutes of charging = 3 hours of play |
| Controls | On-Ear Controls for Music and Phone Calls |
| Price | Varies, depending on the region, approximately $350 at launch |
What is included in the delivery set?
The Beats Studio3 Wireless Headphones package is designed to offer everything you need for a premium audio experience. The contents included in the box are:
- Beats Studio3 Wireless Headphones
- Carrying case
- 3.5mm RemoteTalk cable
- Universal USB charging cable (USB-A to USB Micro-B)
- Quick Start Guide
- Warranty Card
The carrying case is designed to be sturdy yet stylish, providing excellent protection for the headphones when not in use. The RemoteTalk cable is a welcome addition for those who prefer a wired connection or want to conserve battery life. The cable also has a built-in microphone and controls for phone calls and music playback. The universal USB charging cable is used for recharging the headphone’s battery.
What about design, materials, assembly?
Design:
The Beats Studio3 Wireless Headphones epitomize the design philosophy that Beats has become known for – a blend of modern aesthetics with a hint of luxury. The sleek, streamlined design, coupled with an array of available color options, makes these headphones not just an audio accessory, but a statement piece.
The headphones are an over-ear model, ensuring they fully encompass your ears for optimum noise isolation. The ear cups are pivoting, which allows them to adapt to the unique shape and angle of each user’s head, enhancing comfort during long listening sessions.
Materials:
The Beats Studio3 headphones are built with a combination of plastic and metal. The headband structure uses metal for added durability, while the exterior parts primarily consist of high-quality plastic to keep the weight down.
The ear cups are cushioned with a soft, breathable material that not only enhances comfort but also aids in noise isolation. The leatherette material used on the earpads brings a touch of luxury, and it’s also easy to clean and maintain.
Assembly:
The assembly of the Beats Studio3 headphones reflects their premium positioning in the market. Despite having a predominantly plastic body, there’s nothing flimsy about these headphones. The overall construction feels sturdy, and the headphones have a decent amount of weight to them, adding to the sense of quality. The ear cups attach firmly to the headband with no noticeable wobble. The extendable parts of the headband glide smoothly, allowing users to adjust the size with precision.
The control buttons are well-integrated into the design and offer good feedback when pressed. The charging port and the 3.5mm jack are solidly built and strategically placed so they don’t interfere with usage.
All in all, the design, materials, and assembly of the Beats Studio3 headphones reflect their standing as a premium product. The attention to detail and overall build quality make it clear that these headphones are built to deliver an elevated audio experience while withstanding the rigors of daily use.
| Aspect | Score (Out of 10) | Comments |
|---|---|---|
| Design | 9 | Sleek and stylish, with variety in color options and a design that suits various head shapes. Point deducted for being slightly bulky, which might not appeal to all users. |
| Materials | 8 | Quality plastic and metal components, along with leatherette ear pads, ensure durability and comfort. Points deducted for not using more premium materials throughout, given the product’s price point. |
| Assembly | 9 | Solid construction with well-integrated components. Deducted a point for a slight wobble in the extendable parts of the headband. |
What about ergonomics and usability Beats Studio3?
Ergonomics:
Ergonomics plays a significant role in the design of the Beats Studio3 headphones. The over-ear design, along with the pivoting ear cups, ensures that the headphones adapt to the user’s head shape and size, providing a comfortable fit for prolonged use.
The cushioning on the ear cups is soft and breathable, minimizing heat build-up during extended listening sessions. The headband is also padded, reducing pressure on the top of the head.
The headphones also feature controls on the ear cup for music playback and calls, negating the need to frequently reach for your connected device. These controls are easily reachable and offer good tactile feedback.
Usability:
Beats Studio3 headphones are designed for ease of use, with features catering to a wide range of users. The inclusion of the Apple W1 chip makes pairing with Apple devices incredibly simple and fast. For non-Apple devices, traditional Bluetooth pairing is available.
The headphones offer both wired and wireless modes, enhancing usability based on individual preferences or specific circumstances (like conserving battery life).
The Adaptive Noise Cancelling (ANC) feature is a significant usability benefit, allowing users to immerse themselves in their audio environment without external distractions. It’s particularly useful in noisy environments like busy streets or during air travel.
The battery life of up to 22 hours with ANC on (and up to 40 hours with ANC off) means less frequent charging, making these headphones suitable for long travel or extended listening sessions.
The only downside in usability might come for those who wear glasses, as the over-ear design might create pressure points, but this is subjective and varies on a case-by-case basis.
In summary, the ergonomics and usability of the Beats Studio3 headphones are well thought out, ensuring a comfortable and seamless audio experience for the majority of users.
| Aspect | Score (Out of 10) | Comments |
|---|---|---|
| Ergonomics | 8.5 | Comfortable for long usage with soft padding and adjustable features. Points deducted for potential discomfort for users with glasses and for the slightly bulky design which may not appeal to everyone. |
| Usability | 9 | Intuitive controls, both wired and wireless functionality, and easy pairing (especially with Apple devices) add to usability. Adaptive Noise Cancellation is a major plus. Deducted a point for potential connectivity issues with non-Apple devices and for lack of customization options for sound profiles. |
What about connection, control and software?
Connection:
The Beats Studio3 headphones are equipped with Class 1 Bluetooth technology, which offers extended range and reliability. The inclusion of the Apple W1 chip enables seamless and quick pairing with Apple devices. Non-Apple devices can connect via traditional Bluetooth pairing.
Control:
The on-ear controls are a key feature of the Beats Studio3. They’re intuitive and easy to use, allowing you to control music playback and calls without needing to reach for your connected device.
Software:
The headphones don’t come with a dedicated app for customization or control, which can be a downside for users looking to tweak sound profiles. However, the ease of connection and integration with Apple devices somewhat offsets this.
Here’s a summary of these features on a 10-point scale:
| Aspect | Score (Out of 10) | Comments |
|---|---|---|
| Connection | 9 | Reliable and extended range with Class 1 Bluetooth. Seamless pairing with Apple devices via W1 chip. Point deducted for potential connectivity issues with non-Apple devices. |
| Control | 9 | Intuitive on-ear controls with good tactile feedback. Point deducted for lack of customization options. |
| Software | 7 | Beats Studio3 lacks a dedicated app for customization of sound profiles or controls. However, the integration with Apple devices and basic functionalities are smooth and reliable. |
How’s the sound quality?
Sound Quality:
The Beats Studio3 delivers a sound experience that caters primarily to the modern music listener, with a signature Beats sound profile that emphasizes the lower frequencies.
Bass:
The bass response on the Beats Studio3 is robust and punchy, perfect for genres like hip-hop, EDM, and pop where the bass is a driving factor. However, the bass can sometimes overshadow the mid and high frequencies, which may not appeal to those who prefer a more balanced sound profile.
Midrange:
The midrange, while somewhat recessed due to the emphasized bass, is clear and well represented. Vocals and instruments still shine through, making these headphones suitable for a range of music genres.
Treble:
The treble on the Beats Studio3 is crisp and detailed. High frequencies come through clearly without harshness or sibilance, adding to the overall sound quality.
Soundstage & Imaging:
Given that these are closed-back headphones, the soundstage isn’t as broad as what you might experience with open-back headphones. However, the imaging is good, allowing for a fair amount of detail and separation between instruments.
Noise Cancellation:
The Adaptive Noise Cancellation (ANC) on the Beats Studio3 is a standout feature. It effectively minimizes external noise, allowing you to focus on your music or calls. It might not be on par with some high-end ANC headphones, but it does a commendable job for most real-world scenarios.
Here’s a summary of these features on a 10-point scale:
| Aspect | Score (Out of 10) | Comments |
|---|---|---|
| Bass | 9 | Powerful and punchy, slightly overpowering for those seeking a balanced sound profile. |
| Midrange | 8 | Clear and well-represented, although slightly recessed due to the emphasis on bass. |
| Treble | 8.5 | Crisp and detailed without being harsh or sibilant. |
| Soundstage & Imaging | 7 | Soundstage is somewhat limited due to the closed-back design, but imaging is good with clear detail and instrument separation. |
| Noise Cancellation | 8.5 | Effective in most scenarios, but not quite at the level of some high-end ANC headphones. |
As with any audio product, personal preference plays a significant role in how you perceive sound quality. What sounds fantastic to one person might not resonate the same way with another. Therefore, these ratings should be taken as general indications, and you should always try to listen to a pair of headphones yourself before making a purchasing decision.
What about the energy efficiency and battery life?
Beats Studio3 wireless headphones are designed with efficiency in mind, largely thanks to the inclusion of the Apple W1 chip. This chip not only enables seamless connectivity with Apple devices but also significantly enhances battery life.
The headphones offer up to 22 hours of playback with Adaptive Noise Cancellation (ANC) turned on. When the ANC is turned off, the battery life extends up to an impressive 40 hours. This makes the Beats Studio3 a reliable companion for long trips or extended listening sessions.
Adding to the efficiency, the headphones also have a Fast Fuel charging feature. With this, you get around 3 hours of playback from just a 10-minute charge, a handy feature when you need a quick top-up.
The only downside is that the Beats Studio3 uses a Micro-USB port for charging instead of the more modern USB-C. While this doesn’t affect the battery life or charging speed, it could be a minor inconvenience for those who have moved their other devices to USB-C and prefer to carry a single type of cable.
Despite this minor caveat, the Beats Studio3 stands out as a high performer in terms of energy efficiency and battery life, making it suitable for both everyday use and travel.
Comparison & Review
What headphones are similar in features and cost?
- Bose QuietComfort 35 II: Known for its industry-leading noise cancellation, comfortable fit, and balanced sound profile. The Bose Connect app provides customization options, which is something the Beats Studio3 lacks.
- Sony WH-1000XM4: Boasts impressive sound quality with a customizable EQ in the Sony Headphones Connect app. Its noise cancellation is top-tier, and it has a longer battery life than the Beats Studio3.
- Sennheiser Momentum 3: Offers excellent sound quality and robust build. The Sennheiser Smart Control app provides sound customization, but its noise cancellation isn’t as effective as some competitors.
- JBL Club One: Features great sound quality with a focus on bass, excellent noise cancellation, and customization through the JBL Headphones app.
- Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT: Offers great sound quality for audio purists with a focus on accuracy over bass boost. It has fewer bells and whistles, lacking active noise cancellation, but it comes in at a lower price point.
- Bowers & Wilkins PX7: Delivers immersive sound and robust noise cancellation. It’s more expensive, but the design and build quality reflect that.
In more detail:
Bose QuietComfort 35 II: These headphones are a favorite among travelers and daily commuters due to their excellent comfort and noise cancellation. They provide a balanced sound profile suitable for a wide range of music genres. However, the ANC feature, while outstanding, can’t be turned off, which drains battery life quicker.
Sony WH-1000XM4: These headphones are a powerhouse, offering some of the best noise cancellation on the market, a customizable EQ, and LDAC codec support for high-quality audio streaming. The battery life is stellar at up to 30 hours with ANC on. The sound quality is excellent across the board, making these headphones suitable for audiophiles and casual listeners alike.
Compare with similar items
| Specification | Beats Studio3 | Bose QuietComfort 35 II | Sony WH-1000XM4 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year of Manufacture | 2017 | 2017 | 2020 |
| Company | Beats by Dr. Dre | Bose | Sony |
| Official Website | beatsbydre.com | bose.com | sony.com |
| Fit Type | Over-Ear | Over-Ear | Over-Ear |
| Item Dimensions | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Item Weight | 9.17 ounces | 8.3 ounces | 8.96 ounces |
| Special Features | Adaptive Noise Cancelling, Apple W1 Chip | Noise Cancelling, Action button for Google Assistant | Noise Cancelling, Multiple device pairing, LDAC support |
| Driver size | N/A | N/A | 40mm |
| Frequency Response | N/A | N/A | 4Hz-40kHz |
| Impedance | N/A | N/A | 47 ohm (1kHz) (when connecting via the headphone cable with the unit turned on) |
| Bluetooth Version | 4.2 | 4.1 | 5.0 |
| Bluetooth Range | Class 1 Bluetooth | Class 1 Bluetooth | Line of sight approx. 30 ft (10 m) |
| ANC Modes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Audio Codec | AAC, SBC | AAC, SBC | SBC, AAC, LDAC |
| Battery Life | Up to 22 hours (ANC On), 40 hours (ANC Off) | Up to 20 hours (ANC On) | Up to 30 hours (ANC On) |
| Charging Time | About 2 hours | About 2.25 hours | Approx. 3 hours (Full charge) |
| Quick Charging | 10 mins for 3 hours playback | 15 mins for 2.5 hours playback | 10 mins for 5 hours playback |
| Controls | On-Ear Controls | On-Ear Controls | Touch Controls |
| Price | $349.95 | $349.00 | $349.99 |
How do Beats Studio3 users describe their experience with these headphones?
- Sound Quality: Most users appreciate the Beats Studio3’s powerful bass and overall sound quality. However, some audiophiles note that the bass can sometimes overshadow the mids and highs, leading to a less balanced sound.
- Comfort and Design: Users often mention the stylish design and comfort of these headphones, making them suitable for extended wear. However, some users with glasses report discomfort during long listening sessions.
- Battery Life: The extended battery life is a major selling point for many users. The fast charging feature also gets notable praise.
- Noise Cancellation: Users are generally pleased with the ANC feature, though some note that it’s not as effective as some high-end competitors.
- Connectivity: The seamless integration with Apple devices thanks to the W1 chip is frequently lauded by users, though some non-Apple users report minor issues with Bluetooth connectivity.
- Price: Some users consider the Beats Studio3 to be slightly expensive compared to other headphones with similar features. However, many still find it worth the cost due to the premium design and sound quality.
- Durability: Opinions on the build quality seem mixed. While some users have reported issues over time, others have found the headphones to be quite durable with proper care.
Pros and cons of headphones Beats Studio3
| Positive Aspects | Negative Aspects |
|---|---|
| Impressive battery life with fast charging | Bass can sometimes overshadow mids and highs |
| Stylish and comfortable design | Slightly expensive compared to competitors |
| Adaptive Noise Cancellation (ANC) feature | ANC not as effective as high-end competitors |
| Seamless integration with Apple devices thanks to the W1 chip | Occasional Bluetooth connectivity issues with non-Apple devices |
| Punchy and robust bass ideal for modern music genres | Some users report discomfort during long listening sessions, especially if wearing glasses |
| Fast Fuel feature for quick top-ups | Uses Micro-USB for charging instead of more modern USB-C |
| High-quality, clear sound | Mixed reviews on overall durability with time |
Conclusions
In conclusion, the Beats Studio3 wireless headphones are a compelling choice for those seeking a blend of style, comfort, and impactful sound. Powered by the Apple W1 chip, they offer seamless integration with Apple devices, and their robust battery life makes them suitable for extended use. The inclusion of Adaptive Noise Cancelling technology provides an immersive listening experience, even though it might not be as effective as some high-end competitors.
The headphones excel in delivering a strong and punchy bass, making them perfect for modern genres of music. However, audiophiles seeking a more balanced soundscape might find the bass overpowering the mids and highs. Despite this, the overall sound quality is quite commendable.
Beats Studio3’s design is not just about aesthetics; it’s also about comfort, allowing for prolonged periods of wear. However, some users, particularly those wearing glasses, might experience discomfort during longer sessions.
A point of contention might be the price, as some might find the Beats Studio3 slightly more expensive than competitors offering similar features. Nevertheless, many users still find them worth the investment due to the high-quality sound and premium design.
The Beats Studio3 does have a few potential drawbacks to consider. Some users reported occasional Bluetooth connectivity issues with non-Apple devices, and the headphones use a Micro-USB port for charging, which might not suit those who have switched to the more modern USB-C.
In summary, the Beats Studio3 wireless headphones bring a lot to the table. They combine a stylish design with strong performance, making them a solid choice for music lovers, particularly those who prefer a bass-heavy sound and are invested in the Apple ecosystem. As with any tech purchase, potential buyers should consider their specific needs and preferences to decide if these headphones are the right fit for them.
This concludes our comprehensive review of the Beats Studio3 wireless headphones. Happy listening!
Our Review
Beats Studio3. Basic questions, basic answers
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How old is Beats Studio 3?
As of July 2023, the Beats Studio3 Wireless headphones, which were launched in September 2017, would be almost 6 years old.
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How is the microphone quality on the Beats Studio3 for phone calls?
The Beats Studio3 headphones feature a built-in microphone that provides decent call quality. It works well for personal calls or casual use. However, in noisy environments, some users report that it can pick up background noise.
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Are these headphones suitable for workout or sports activities?
While the Beats Studio3 headphones offer a secure fit and are reasonably comfortable, they are not specifically designed for sports or workout activities. They are not water or sweat-resistant, which is usually a desirable feature for sports headphones.
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Can I connect the Beats Studio3 to multiple devices at the same time?
The Beats Studio3 headphones do not natively support multi-device connectivity. This means you can’t connect them to two devices simultaneously like some other headphones. You need to manually disconnect from one device before connecting to another.
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Are these headphones compatible with Android devices?
Yes, the Beats Studio3 headphones are compatible with Android devices. However, the seamless pairing and switching feature provided by the Apple W1 chip is only available on Apple devices.
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What happens when the battery runs out? Can I use them as wired headphones?
Yes, the Beats Studio3 headphones can be used as wired headphones when the battery runs out. They come with a 3.5mm RemoteTalk cable for this purpose. However, you will need a lightning to 3.5mm adapter to connect it to devices without a headphone jack.
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Can the Beats Studio3 headphones be folded for travel?
Yes, the Beats Studio3 headphones have a foldable design and come with a hard-shell carrying case, making them easy to store and travel with.
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Is the noise cancellation adjustable on the Beats Studio3?
The Beats Studio3 has Adaptive Noise Cancelling (ANC) which adjusts to the external environment to provide optimal noise cancellation. However, the level of noise cancellation is not manually adjustable by the user.
Last Updated on August 29, 2023
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2 comments
As the author of this review, I deeply value your thoughts and experiences. Our community thrives on shared knowledge and diverse viewpoints. Whether you already own the Beats Studio3, considering a purchase, or simply exploring options, your insights could be incredibly beneficial to others.
So, do you agree with the assessments made in this review? Have you had a different experience with the Beats Studio3 headphones? Or perhaps there’s an aspect that you feel deserves more attention? No matter what it is, I encourage you to share it. Let’s discuss, debate, and delve deeper.
Remember, your opinion matters, and it could help fellow audiophiles make an informed choice. So don’t hesitate to drop your comments, feedback, or questions below. Happy listening and discussing, everyone!
Finally, a balanced review of the Beats Studio3! As an owner, I concur with the points on bass-heavy sound. As a bass-head, I enjoy it, but it might not be everyone’s cup of tea.