Beats Solo 4: Refining a Classic, But Is It Enough?
The Beats Solo line has always occupied a unique space in the audio world: instantly recognizable design coupled with a signature sound. The Solo 4 aims to refine that formula, promising improved audio fidelity, enhanced comfort, and modern connectivity. But in an increasingly crowded headphone market, does the Solo 4 do enough to justify its place among the best? Let’s dive in.
The most immediate change is the sonic signature. Beats has clearly toned down the excessive bass that defined previous generations. While still present and impactful, the bass is now more controlled, allowing mids and highs to shine through. Instrument separation is noticeably better, and the overall sound is clearer and more balanced. The Solo 4 uses custom-built 40mm transducers, and the improvement is evident, resulting in a sound that is significantly more mature than its predecessors. While not audiophile-grade, it’s a satisfying and engaging listening experience, especially for pop, hip-hop, and electronic music.
Design-wise, the Solo 4 maintains the iconic aesthetic. The earcups and headband have been subtly refined for improved comfort. The earcups are now slightly larger and offer better padding, resulting in a more comfortable fit, even during extended listening sessions. Build quality remains solid, with a robust hinge mechanism and a durable matte finish. However, the on-ear design, by its very nature, might not be comfortable for everyone, especially those with larger ears.
Connectivity is modern and comprehensive. The Solo 4 boasts Class 1 Bluetooth for stable wireless connectivity and supports AAC codec for high-quality audio streaming. A 3.5mm headphone jack is also included, allowing for wired listening. Perhaps the most interesting addition is USB-C audio support. This allows for lossless audio playback and can even charge the headphones simultaneously. Battery life is excellent, rated at up to 50 hours.
Despite the improvements, the Solo 4 isn’t without its shortcomings. The lack of active noise cancellation (ANC) is a glaring omission, especially at this price point. While the on-ear design provides some passive noise isolation, it’s simply not enough to compete with headphones featuring ANC. Furthermore, the carrying case, while included, feels somewhat cheap and flimsy compared to the premium feel of the headphones themselves.
Ultimately, the Beats Solo 4 is a solid upgrade, offering improved sound, enhanced comfort, and modern connectivity. However, the lack of ANC and the premium price tag make it a less compelling option for those seeking the absolute best value.
Who is this for? The Beats Solo 4 is best suited for casual listeners who prioritize style and a recognizable brand, and appreciate a balanced sound signature. It’s a good option for those who primarily listen to music in relatively quiet environments and don’t require active noise cancellation.
Where to Buy:
Beats Solo 4 Quick Summary
Key Scores:
- Value: 91%
- Design: 89%
- Performance: 88%
- Quality: 90%
- Popularity: 88%
Top Pros
- ✅ The balanced sound signature is noticeably improved compared to previous models.
- ✅ Battery life is excellent, offering up to 50 hours of playback.
- ✅ The design has been refined for enhanced comfort and a more premium feel.
Key Cons
- ❌ The lack of active noise cancellation is a major omission at this price point.
- ❌ The on-ear design may not be comfortable for all users during long periods.
- ❌ The included carrying case feels cheap and doesn’t match the headphone quality.
