Compare Beats Studio Pro Headphones vs Cambridge Audio Melomania P100 SE Headphones

ANC performance is generally considered strong for commuting and office use, especially against low-frequency rumble, but not the category leader. Multiple reviews note more leakage of voices or higher tones than Sony or Bose flagships, and some report audible hiss with ANC engaged. Noise control is mostly presented as mode-based rather than fine-grained, typically toggling between ANC, transparency, and sometimes off. Several reviewers wish for adjustable strength or a transparency intensity slider.

ANC is generally rated as strong for the price and improved versus the original P100 in several comparisons, but most reviewers still stop short of calling it class-leading versus Sony or Bose. Reviewers note multiple ANC strength levels plus quick switching via button/app, making it easy to tailor noise reduction to the environment.

Android support is repeatedly called a highlight thanks to Google Fast Pair and helpful multi-device behavior within Google-linked devices. Android users still face codec limitations and the same lack of adjustable EQ.

On iOS, Studio Pro relies heavily on system integration for basic settings; on Android, the Beats app provides control tweaks, battery readouts, and firmware updates. Overall, the app experience is functional but not feature-rich.

The Melomania app is typically described as clean and functional for firmware, battery, ANC and EQ; the SE adds DynamEQ, and most find it easy to navigate.

Reviews clearly state there is no Apple H2 chip, and Beats uses a proprietary platform instead. This helps cross-platform goals but removes some Apple-chip perks and future-proofing tied to H-series features.

Reviews consistently report no aptX support, limiting higher-quality Bluetooth options on many Android devices.

aptX support (including Adaptive/Lossless where source devices allow) is consistently mentioned as a key differentiator at this price.

Low-latency or gaming mode is mentioned as helpful for video and gaming, reducing perceived lip-sync issues to a generally acceptable level.

Bass is generally described as punchy and better controlled than older Beats, with satisfying sub-bass that usually avoids bloat. A few listeners want either more thump or less heft, but distortion at high volumes is rarely reported.

Bass is commonly described as impactful and powerful, especially with DynamEQ, but a few reviewers find it can get boomy or overpowering on the stock SE tuning and can vary by track.

Battery life is a strong point: the common claim is up to 40 hours with ANC off and around 24 hours with ANC or transparency on. Independent tests span roughly the low 20s to low 30s hours depending on settings and volume. Battery replacement is not framed as user-replaceable, but at least one review mentions an official battery service option expected to be available. That suggests serviceability exists, though with cost and convenience tradeoffs.

Across reviews, battery life is repeatedly described as class-leading and is often verified in real use: around 60 hours with ANC on and up to 100 hours with ANC off. The user-replaceable battery is repeatedly singled out as a big longevity and sustainability win, uncommon among mainstream ANC headphones.

Bluetooth stability is usually reported as reliable, with some noting strong range consistent with Class 1 Bluetooth. Lab testing and real-world impressions vary on maximum distance, but dropouts are not a common complaint.

Bluetooth connectivity is generally stable in daily use, though a few reports mention pairing friction when switching between the original P100 and the SE model.

Build impressions are mixed: several reviewers call the construction sturdy or durable, while others describe it as plasticky or less premium than similarly priced rivals. Long-term concerns focus more on the folding joints and finish than immediate structural weakness.

Build quality is repeatedly described as premium and sturdy for the price, with only occasional mentions of minor creaking.

Physical controls are widely considered intuitive and reliable, especially for playback and volume. Common downsides are that clicks can be loud, some buttons feel clunky, and the power or mode button can be small or hard to locate.

Physical button controls are consistently praised for being responsive and reliable, with clear mappings for playback, volume, ANC modes and assistant access.

Included cables are generally described as good quality and part of a well-considered accessory bundle.

The soft case is praised for being small and including pockets for cables, though some wish for a more protective hard shell at the price. Ease of removing or storing the headphones can vary depending on the zipper and folding orientation.

The hard travel case is frequently described as sturdy and premium, with helpful cable storage, but it can be larger than rivals because the headphones do not fold especially small.

Fast charging is consistently highlighted, with about four hours of playback from a 10-minute charge. Full recharge time is commonly described as around two hours.

Fast charging is consistently highlighted as useful, with claims of a brief charge (around 5 minutes) delivering multiple hours of playback depending on ANC use.

Clamping force is commonly described as on the stronger side, which helps stability and seal but can cause discomfort over time for some users. The clamp can also worsen fit issues for glasses wearers.

Clamping force is commonly described as well-judged or slightly reduced on the SE, though a few listeners still find the fit snug.

Codec support is consistently limited to SBC and AAC, which is fine for Apple devices but restrictive for Android users seeking higher-quality Bluetooth codecs. Multiple reviewers call out the lack of higher-res Bluetooth options at this price.

Codec support is repeatedly cited as a strength, with broad compatibility including aptX Adaptive and aptX Lossless alongside standard Bluetooth codecs.

Comfort is highly head-dependent: some can wear them for hours, while many mention the shallow or small cups and pressure points. Glasses wearers and people with larger ears are frequently warned they may struggle with long sessions.

Comfort is generally good and improved with the SE headband updates for some users, but weight and a sometimes-stiff headband cushion can create pressure over long sessions.

Design is often described as mature, minimalist, and stylish, with subdued colorways compared with older flashy Beats models. A few reviews call the look familiar or unchanged, but still iconic.

Design is usually described as clean and upscale with a new blue option, but at least one reviewer finds the headband look wide or goofy when worn.

Included wired options (USB-C to USB-C and USB-C to 3.5mm) are viewed as convenient for travel and hi-res playback without relying on Bluetooth.

The updated UltraPlush-style pads are often noted as an upgrade that improves seal and feel, but the cup depth and size still draw criticism. Several reviewers describe the foam as firm or the cups as pressing on the ear rather than fully around it.

Earpads are described as plush and spacious with a good seal; a recurring minor note is that they can get warm during long listening.

Earcup rotation is frequently praised as flexible enough to lie flat and to fit a range of head shapes comfortably.

A recurring complaint is the lack of a true adjustable EQ for wireless listening. Most reviewers say you are largely stuck with the default tuning unless you use external system or streaming-app EQ, and the built-in presets only appear in USB-C mode.

EQ control is repeatedly called effective and highly responsive, enabling meaningful tuning changes; a minor recurring gripe is limited granularity/labeling of EQ steps.

Find My support is commonly mentioned as useful for locating lost headphones, with compatibility on Apple and Google device-finding networks. Precision finding is generally not positioned as a core strength.

Tuning is widely described as more balanced than older Beats, but still stylized with boosted lows and bright highs rather than strict neutrality. Purist listeners may prefer a more accurate, less sculpted alternative.

Tonal balance is often described as slightly warm rather than strictly neutral; DynamEQ and the SE retune can shift bass/treble balance, so accuracy depends on settings.

Adjustability is typically described as straightforward, with detents or a wide range that helps achieve a consistent fit. Fit success still depends on earcup size and seal, not just headband adjustment.

Adjustability is reported as sufficient for a range of head sizes, but comfort outcomes depend more on headband cushioning and weight distribution than on range.

Hinges are generally seen as functional for folding and improved versus older durability concerns, but some reviewers mention hair-catching joints or worry about long-term wear. Few report actual failures during testing.

Hinges and moving parts are generally viewed as robust, though a small number of users report slight creaks when moving around.

Accessories are generally seen as solid, with both USB-C and 3.5mm cables plus a travel pouch. Reviewers appreciate the included wires and storage, even if they want a sturdier case.

Included accessories are routinely noted as generous for the price, especially the hard case plus multiple cables and documentation.

Instrument separation is frequently praised, with good placement of elements in complex mixes and clear vocals in busy tracks. Most reviewers still stop short of calling it class-leading compared with the very best premium models.

Instrument separation and layering are highlighted as strong, contributing to a more hi-fi style presentation and easy-to-follow mixes.

Reviews consistently report no LDAC support, so Bluetooth listening does not offer a hi-res codec path.

Multiple reviewers explicitly note there is no LDAC support, which may matter to users invested in that ecosystem.

Most impressions suggest the Studio Pro stays clean at louder levels, with little buzz, hum, or obvious distortion. A few note that treble can become sharper as volume climbs, which can reduce perceived clarity on bright recordings.

At higher volumes, clarity is generally reported as holding up well with strong dynamics and little audible strain or distortion.

Noise reduction on calls can be effective at suppressing background sounds, but several tests suggest it may also suppress or thin the speakers voice, making calls quieter. Performance appears inconsistent across test methods and environments.

Background noise reduction for calls is described as decent but behind top rivals, with some reviewers noting more noise leaks through in loud settings.

Call quality is mixed across reviews: some praise clear, natural voice pickup, while others measure or hear low mic volume and a muffled sound. It tends to work best in moderate noise rather than chaotic environments.

Call quality is usually rated as good in quiet environments and acceptable overall, though not typically viewed as best-in-class.

Vocals and mids are often clear and forward, helping dialogue, podcasts, and pop vocals cut through. Some reviewers note a slightly sculpted presentation rather than a strictly neutral midrange.

Midrange is widely described as clear and well-rounded, keeping vocals present and intelligible even with elevated bass.

Cross-ecosystem support is a defining strength: multiple reviews emphasize convenient pairing, syncing, and feature access on both iOS and Android. The tradeoff is that some Apple-exclusive perks and universal multipoint behaviors are missing.

Multi-device use across iOS, Android and computers is reported as smooth overall, helped by Bluetooth 5.3, multipoint and app support on both mobile platforms.

Most reviews do not find universal multipoint support across any two devices; instead, multi-device behavior is often limited to Android or specific ecosystem switching. Several note Apple users generally have to switch sources manually, and mixed Android plus Apple pairing is not seamless.

Multipoint is widely reported to work, but switching behavior is sometimes manual (for example, pausing on one device before playing on another) and auto-switching is not always present.

Passive isolation depends heavily on seal: the strong clamp and updated pads help, but the shallow or smaller cups can leak with glasses or larger ears. When the seal breaks, both bass and noise control can drop noticeably.

Passive isolation is frequently praised thanks to the seal and pads, with some reviewers saying it blocks a lot even before ANC is enabled.

Portability is one of the biggest strengths: the headphones fold and pack down easily for travel. Several reviewers call them among the most bag-friendly over-ears in their class.

Portability is a mixed point: the headphones can travel fine in the included case, but limited foldability and case size make them less packable than some competitors.

USB-C mode offers a small set of presets such as Signature, Entertainment, and Conversation that can be useful for movies, games, and voice-heavy content. Reviews like having options but criticize the limitation to wired use and the lack of clear in-headset prompts.

Preset EQ profiles are seen as useful starting points, though some reviewers say differences can be subtle and custom EQ is where the headphones shine.

At least one review warns official replacement earpads are not offered, pushing users toward third-party options. That makes long-term upkeep less straightforward than rivals that sell official pads.

Replaceable earpads are called out as easy to swap, supporting long-term comfort and maintenance.

Multiple reviews highlight the lack of on-head detection sensors, so playback does not auto-pause when you remove the headphones. This is widely seen as a missing staple feature at the launch price.

Wear detection/sensors are generally convenient and responsive, but a few users report occasional pause/resume glitches.

Sidetone/voice passthrough during calls is mentioned as an area for improvement, with at least one reviewer wanting clearer amplification of their own voice.

Darker finishes are often said to show fingerprints and grime easily, while lighter colors such as Sandstone hide marks better. Smudge sensitivity is therefore color-dependent rather than a universal issue.

Setup is usually quick thanks to fast pairing, but some reviews complain about unclear indicators, odd mode behavior when using USB-C, or a lack of helpful voice prompts for settings and presets.

Setup and software are usually described as straightforward, but there are a few reports of pairing or sensor quirks that may require firmware updates or re-pairing.

Reviews agree Studio Pro is the best-sounding Beats over-ear to date, with a lively, consumer-friendly tuning that works across many genres. Most still call it less refined or less dynamic than Sony, Bose, or Sennheiser flagships, especially over Bluetooth.

Sound quality is a standout theme: detailed, engaging, and competitive with more expensive headphones; however, several note the SE stock tuning can lean bass-forward and benefits from EQ to taste. Wired listening via USB-C (and via included USB-C to 3.5mm cable) is described as a strong option, often sounding excellent and sometimes driving higher volume than Bluetooth.

Soundstage is usually described as moderate and somewhat closed-in for the price, with limited openness compared with top competitors. Several reviewers say staging improves with a strong seal, wired listening, or spatial audio, but it is not a wide, airy presentation.

Many reviews describe a wide, immersive stage, though a minority characterize the presentation as more intimate than the widest options in the category.

Spatial audio support is generally viewed as a worthwhile extra for movies, with head tracking on Apple devices in particular. Some reviewers treat it as a fun novelty, and Android support is often more limited.

Spatial audio is commonly noted as absent, but several reviewers say the natural soundstage is wide enough that many listeners may not miss it.

Some reviews note increased use of recycled materials and access to trade-in or recycling programs, but detailed environmental reporting is limited. Sustainability efforts exist but are not presented as a major differentiator.

Sustainability is a recurring positive: recyclable packaging, recycled materials, and end-user replaceable battery/earpads are emphasized.

Transparency mode is one of the most consistently praised features, often described as natural, clear, and easy for quick conversations. A minority find it slightly hollow or digital compared with the very best implementations.

Transparency mode is considered usable and sometimes very natural, but multiple reviewers say it is not as airy/clear as top competitors and can suffer from wind noise.

Treble is commonly called crisp and detailed, but multiple reviews warn it can sound bright or sharp on certain tracks, especially at higher volumes. Listeners sensitive to sparkle may prefer a warmer rival or external EQ.

Treble performance is repeatedly praised for clarity and detail, with some noting extra sparkle/brilliance when DynamEQ is enabled.

USB-C is widely celebrated for modern charging and for enabling hi-res wired playback through the internal DAC. The key drawback repeated across reviews is that ANC and transparency are disabled in USB-C audio mode, and iPhone Lightning compatibility may require adapters or can be finicky.

USB-C is the core port for charging and wired audio; reviews generally like the flexibility, though some note it means there is no traditional analog 3.5mm jack on the headphone itself.

Hands-free Siri is commonly mentioned as working well for iPhone users, and voice assistant access is generally available via the on-headset controls. Android assistant behavior is more phone-dependent than a headline feature.

Voice assistant integration is available via button shortcuts and is generally reported to work as expected.

Perceived loudness varies: some reviewers find the headphones play very loud, while others report needing higher phone volume and wanting more headroom. In general, they reach high levels without obvious breakup, but volume-hungry listeners may want more.

Overall loudness is usually sufficient and can get very loud, but some reviewers still wish for a bit more headroom over Bluetooth compared to wired use.

Multiple reviews note there is no IP rating or stated water resistance, making them a poor choice for sweaty workouts or wet conditions.

At least one reviewer notes there is no water/sweat resistance rating, so these are not ideal for workouts or wet conditions.

Weight is generally considered manageable for an over-ear at roughly 260 to 270 grams, and it is noticeably lighter than AirPods Max. Comfort complaints more often stem from clamp and cup geometry than weight alone.

Weight is repeatedly cited around 330g, which is heavier than many peers and can impact comfort for those sensitive to top-of-head pressure.