Hello there friend and Welcome aboard!!
Before we get into the Monster DNA vs. Beats Solo HD comparison, grab a snack, sit back and relax because..
You’ve come to the right place!!
What I will bring you in this review
Today I will quickly outline the similarities and differences between these two buddies, and give a recommendation towards the end. ?
- Beats Solo Timeline
- Introduction
- Similarities & Differences
- Final Word
Now without further ado, let’s get rolling!
Beats Solo Timeline
- Monster Beats Solo (2011). The original incarceration. Really crappy.
- Beats Solo HD (2012). The second generation. A little better, but still pretty crappy.
- Beats Solo HD “drenched in color” 2.0 (2013). Really? Should be drenched in poop.
- Beats Solo 2 (2014). Decent.
- Beats Solo 3 (2016). The best out of the bunch. Actually very solid across the board. More on that in a jiffy.
Introduction
For the purposes of this review, I will compare the DNA with the original Solo HD version. The important thing to note about each successive model is simply the fact that each iteration gets better, i.e. the Solo 2 is better than the Solo HD, and the Solo 3 is better than the Solo 2.
Learn more: Beats Solo3 Review!
If you’re looking for a Monster DNA vs. Beats Solo comparison (comparing the DNA with the Solo 2 and Solo 3):
Fundamentally speaking, they are almost identical in appearance and the sound deviates a little bit in that it gets better. The original Solo (dubbed the Solo HD), looked a little different than Both the Solo 2 and Solo 3.
I will also be talking in the past tense for this comparison, as the Solo HD’s are discontinued.
Similarities & Differences
Similarities
- Both are closed back headphones. Closed back vs. Open back headphones.
- Both are fold-able.
- Neither is made for amplification. How to choose a Headphone Amp!
Differences
- Design. The Beats Solo HD are a lot more utilitarian in appearance contrasted with the somewhat alien feel of the Monster DNA.
- Cable. The Solo HD’s came with one cable, while the DNA’s came with 2.
- Build quality. The Monster DNA seems extremely durable, and can bend and twist in ridiculous ways without cracking, breaking, snapping, or even making a sound. The Solo HD by contrast was clunkier and made noise if you shook them. They were loose and flabby, and weren’t nearly as durable as the DNA.
- Cushioning. The DNA’s ear-pad cushions are a little stiffer than the Solo HD’s.
- Comfort. Because of this, the Solo HD’s are more comfortable than the DNA’s.
- Bass. The Solo HD’s definitely had more bass than the DNAs. The DNA’s bass was more subdued and toned down, but it came across as tighter and better defined.
- Mid-range and Treble. The mid-range and treble on the DNA’s are both notably better than the Solo HD. The mids come across as more present and alive. The mid-range on the Solo HD tends to get drowned out by the bass, which is a common problem in most beats headphones.
- Case. The Monster DNA has a drawstring pouch while the Solo HD’s can be stored in a soft case. The case on the Solo HD is a lot nicer and has compartments for the cable, etc.
- Dual insert. The DNA’s cable is detachable and can be plugged into either side of the headphones. The Solo HD’s also have a detachable cable, but it can only be plugged into the left ear cup.
Final Word
The Beats Solo HD edges out the DNA in only one category: comfort. The DNA’s win in both sound and build quality, and come across as more natural and transparent. I would definitely recommend the DNAs if you’re looking for less of a bass-head sound but still need something Wireless and compact.
SEE THEM FOR YOURSELF ON AMAZON!!
If you’re looking for a consumer type of bass oriented sound, the Beats Solo 3 is the solution. It’s a wireless Bluetooth can that really surprised me. I was extremely impressed with the sound quality, comfort, and durability, and would recommend it in a heartbeat to the guy or gal looking for a big, fun sound. Interested in learning more?
CHECK OUT MY BEATS SOLO3 REVIEW!!
If you’re looking for an audiophile type of bass head sound, the V-Moda Crossfade M100 is the solution. It’s got a walloping low end, but comes across as more detailed and nuanced. In my opinion, the mid-range clarity here is pretty impressive for a headphone with a lot of bass, but no part of the frequency seems forced or unnatural. They are more durable than the Solo 3’s and are also more affordable with a better sound in my opinion. Interested in learning all about them?
CHECK OUT MY OFFICIAL V-MODA CROSSFADE M100 REVIEW!!
Well that’s about it for today my friend! I hope you’ve enjoyed this article on the Monster DNA vs. Beats Solo HD.
Questions? Comments? Requests? Did I miss the mark on something? Please let me know down below or Contact me!!
Which of these are you more likely to go with? I would love to hear from you. Until next time..
All the best and God bless,
-Stu
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