Lady Gaga Heartbeats 2.0 Headphones

The 1st Generation Lady Gaga HeartBeats were large, flashy, and unique, just like the pop star herself. The new second generation Heartbeats are still unique and flashy, but in a whole new way. The triangle design is gone, and an edgier and rock-star look is in. With the pointy leather studs, the headphones give off a punk rock look that will make anyone feel like a badass rocker.

Sound quality on the new Heartbeats is much better than expected. While the amount of bass has never been a problem with any of the Beats by Dre headphones, the highs and mid sound quality has. Unlike some other Dre in-ear headphones, the Heartbeats have a good balance between thumping bass and rich sound. Comfort has also improved from the previous generation Heartbeats, but it's still not at the level of some competitors products. There are a few features that have stayed the same, like Monster's ultra popular tangle-free and super-flexible cord. Since Lady Gaga reinvents herself so frequently, it comes as no surprise that the latest Heartbeats headphones are such a departure from the first generation. They are available in 2 colors: Black or White/Gold

Price: $130
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Pros

• Much Improved Sound Quality
• ControlTalk
• Stylish Design

Cons

• Durability
• Price
• Mediocre Comfort

Overall Rating: 8/10

Chrome Beats by ColorWare

While there are countless uniquely customized Studio Beats by Dre Headphones, there are none like the Chrome ones. Back in April, ColorWare created 50 pairs of these "Chrome Beats" headphones and at $1000, I'm surprised why they won't sell more. This limited edition design reminded me of the Gold Motorola Razr that was also absurd in price, yet extremely popular. I know the price is ridiculous, but I would do just about anything to get me a pair of these sold out Chrome Beats.

Price: $1000
Almost Impossible to Find

Aerial7 Royale Luxury Headphones

The Royale series headphones by Aerial7 are not intended for the causal music enthusiast. This pricey model designed by Aerial7's top series, A-List, is definitely not messing around. At first glance, the professional over-the-ear DJ style Royale's seam a bit large and imposing. The large size assures a comfortable listening experience with an adjustable patent full-grain leather headband that is complemented by soft premium ear cushions.

These headphones provide sound of highest quality, delivering crystal clear low's, mid's, and high's through their 50mm speakers. The over-the-ear headphones allow for clear isolation of beats to repel any ambient noise. What I like about these headphones is that while they seem optimal for DJ's, they are also a fashionable alternative for any music-listener. While there is no doubt that the quality of sound delivered by the Royale's is great, the $400 dollar price tag is anything but great. The high price tag isn't warranted, as there are other options with similar sound quality for half the costs. Unless you love the Aerial7 Royale design, there are several alternatives that are much more affordable. They are available in 2 designs: Bourbon & Absolute White.

Price: $399.99

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Pros

• Great Sound Quality
• Comfortable
• Unique Look

Cons

• High Price Tag
• Boxy Design
• Large Size

Overall Rating: 7/10

Roxy JBL On-Ear Headphones

Roxy and JBL have come out with two new designed headphones for the summer. Back in February, I reviewed the first collaboration between Roxy / JBL, the Roxy Reference 430 JBL Headphones. While they are different from the 430's, they still have the same compact, colorful, youthful design. They come in two color combinations: White with black stripes, and a striking sunshine yellow.

Price: $99
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MLB & BiGR Audio Collaboration

One new trend in audio products is the collaboration between major professional sports leagues and headphone companies. The NBA has SkullCandy products, NHL has Coloud Headphones, NFL has IZIP, and now the MLB has BiGR Audio. Since this is just the beginning of their collaboration, BiGR Audio will only debut four teams designs. The first four teams to have their own headphones are the Giants, Red Sox, Padres, and Yankees. As soon as they are released, I will have a full review for you.

Price: $199

Available Soon

Philips/O'Neill Covert Headphones

The Covert headphones are one of the two in-ear headphones in the Philips/O'Neill line. These earbuds have soft ear caps that are designed to fit directly in the ear, as apposed to the long earpieces which have to be forced deep into the ear. Like with all in-ear headphones, comfort depends on the individual. What could be extremely comfortable to one person, could cause major discomfort to another. With that said, most people would agree that this style of earbud is more comfortable than the extra long earpieces you find in some earbuds like the Tour Beats. One aspect I find strange is the fact that the Covert headphones are only offered in one color, a mint green with little white specks. Sound quality is good, but for $50, there are better and cheaper options. The tangle free cord features an in-line track, volume, and mic control designed for any Apple product. While the Philips/O'Neill Covert headphones offers a nice product in an eye-catching design, there a better options available for a similar price.

Price: $49.99
Available Now


Pros

• Small and discreet size
• Inline Controls
• Tangle Free Cord

Cons

• Average Sound Quality
• Pricey
• No Color Options

Overall Rating: 6/10

The Beats Pro by Dr. Dre

The Beats Pro by Dr. Dre are serious headphones in every way. With the extremely large size, expensive price tag, and overall styling, the Beats Pro are not kidding around.  If you must have a Beats headphone and the Studio ones aren't doing it for you, then the Pros are your only option.

The Bears Pro's are not intended for the casual music listener, but for the DJ or music audiophile. Monster has given the Pro's a good number of features. There is a dual input/output audio port for communal listening (also found in the UrbanEars Plattans). Ear cushions can be removed to be cleaned or replaced. Another nice design feature is the ability to place the thick rubber red cord into either earcup. Since they don't require batteries, not all MP3 players (like the Ipod Shuffle) are able to output enough power for the headphones. Depending on who you are or what you plan on using the headphones with, this could be a pro or con. While durability is a problem with other Beats models, the Pro's construction is top-notch. A common drop on the floor or toss on a table is not going to mess them up at all. One problem I found with them is that although they are large in size, they don't fit snug on the head. Therefore, if you are bumping your head to the strong bass there is a good chance the headphones will slide off.

Every model in the Beats by Dre line emphasizes bass, and these are no exception. The amount of bass is great but the overpowered highs and mids is not. With that said, sound quality is definitely above average. The big drawback to the Pro's, and all Beats headphones for that matter, is the price. While there is no question they are a little overpriced, the Monster Pro Beats by Dre are intended for the DJ who wants a stylish set of headphones for when they are spinning on stage. They are available in 2 colors: Black & White.

Price: $322
Available Now

Pros

• Great Bass
• Durable
• Design Features

Cons

• Heavy
• Price
• Soft Travel Case

Overall Rating: 8/10