Beats Solo 2 review
WHAT ARE THE BEATS SOLO 2?
The Beats Solo 2 headphones take over from the Beats Solo HD, a massively popular set of on-ear headphones that has become a defining symbol of the popularisation of expensive sets.
We thought the last lot were pretty poor, but Beats has made significant improvements to the sound quality this time. These still aren’t headphones for audio purists, but neat styling and some sensible design moves mean they’re likely to continue the pattern of success.
BEATS SOLO 2 – DESIGN
The Beats Solo 2 are fundamentally similar to the Beats Solo HD in their construction. These are largely plastic, fold-up headphones that have one eye on style, the other on portability.
Thankfully, these priorities work in harmony, meaning there’s no sense of a cross-eyed designer being behind the Solo 2. Looks-wise, they take on most of the design tweaks seen in the 2014 Beats Studio.
In these new models, the look is a bit curvier, a little less severe than the ‘classic’ Beats style. There’s not a grand visual gulf between these and the old Solo HD, but we think this new look is likely to prove more accessible to a wider age group. For the younger (or more exuberant) Beats buyer, the Beats Solo 2 headphones come in some very loud shades as well the Beats-classic red-on-black, and white.
What has been admirable about the Beats Solo headphones to date is that they never stuck out too far from your head. So while you might attract a bit of attention because of the brand and design, there isn’t a ridiculous-looking headband drawing any gazes.
The same is true this time around, and as usual the stems of the headband fold inward to make the Beats Solo 2 easier to stash in a bag when not worn.
Beats has put some effort into making these headphones as versatile as possible, too. The combo of a rubber-topped headband, light weight and mid-firm headband tension mean you can wear the Beats Solo 2 out running without them falling off your head.
