Beats have successfully penetrated the audio industry previously dominated by big names such as Sony and Bose and shows no signs of slowing down. In 2010 upwards of 1.3 million units were sold, more than doubling sales in 2009. Priced at $349.99 many would look away in disgust at the thought of paying such an exorbitant amount for headphones. If the price is thought to be so ridiculous why has it become a common occurrence to see guys everywhere sporting these on their head or around their neck?
Since the original release of the “Studio” headphone in 2008 Beats has expanded their product line by releasing several versions of headphones in a wide array colors and styles. Each version of the headphone appeals to a different kind of person such as the “Powerbeats” which are geared towards athletes because of their in-ear design.
Beats headphones have had great exposure by being featured in a variety of music videos for popular artists, such as “Poker Face” by Lady Gaga and have even partnered with celebrities such as P. Diddy and Justin Bieber to design custom headphones consequently appealing to their respective fans.
Beats capitalized on their success and in 2010 expanded their product into a new market by partnering with Hewlett-Packard to launch notebook and desktop computers with increased audio capabilities.
I have sampled different versions of the headphones and was amazed by the high-power digital amplifier and powered noise-cancelling. Not only that, but they looked cool and have proven to be one of the most durable headphones on the market. Are these good enough reasons for me to purchase this product? As much as I want these I’m still reluctant to drop a pay cheque on headphones. Given their success, however, they sure have been good enough for millions of people.