The Solo 4, marking an impressive new entry from the brand after years of silence. Priced nearly half as much as the Studio Pro and boasting a similar yet more compact design, the Solo 4 has a wide appeal and delivers an engaging listening experience.
While maintaining a look and feel similar to its predecessor, the Beats Solo 4 introduces several noteworthy upgrades. For starters, it features memory foam comparable to that of the Studio Pro, offering a softer touch than the Solo 3. The cushions are angled at 12 degrees, enhancing comfort by conforming to the shape of your head.
Beats’ Solo headphones are renowned for their unique audio profile, characterized by powerful bass, emphasized mid-range frequencies, and crisp highs. The Solo 4 builds on this legacy with significant improvements in sound design. Notably, the Solo 4 employs passive tuning, meaning the acoustic transducer handles all tuning mechanically, ensuring consistent sound quality across Bluetooth, USB-C, or a 3.5mm headphone jack.
A major upgrade is the inclusion of Spatial Audio with head tracking for Apple devices, delivering immersive Dolby Atmos 360-degree sound. However, it’s worth noting the Solo 4 lacks active noise cancellation (ANC), which may be a drawback for some users accustomed to this feature.
So, how does the Solo 4 perform? Despite the absence of EQ and ANC, the 40mm drivers and passive tuning provide an impressive sound experience. The on-ear design means the ear cups rest on your ears, which can lead to some clamping force after extended use, though the headphones remain comfortable for most listening sessions.
Battery life is another strong point for the Solo 4, lasting up to 50 hours on a single charge—25% longer than the Solo 3. Fast charging has also seen improvement: a 10-minute charge offers five hours of playback, compared to the Solo 3’s three hours from a five-minute top-up.
In summary, the Beats Solo 4 delivers a premium audio experience well beyond its price range. With excellent build quality and a refined sound profile, it’s a solid choice for those seeking high-resolution audio. While it may not cater to audiophiles who prioritize ANC, its immersive sound and extended battery life make it a versatile option for everyday listening.
The Beats Solo 4 might lack noise cancellation, but its bold, impactful audio and extended battery life make it a premium choice for versatile and immersive listening.
Beats Solo 4 will be available in three colors, Black, Blue and Pink, for INR 22,900.