Monster's current range mixes premium positioning with genuinely affordable options, though not every product delivers equal value. The Stinger Headphones at £329 sit at the luxury end, while the Wireless Bluetooth Over-ear Headphones at £69.99 and Superstar S110 at £59.99 target budget-conscious buyers — each serving different needs and budgets.
Why Monster?
Monster has built its reputation on audio engineering since 1973, starting with high-end cables and expanding into headphones, speakers, and portable audio. The brand positions itself between consumer electronics and luxury audio: prices are higher than mainstream brands like JBL or Anker, but lower than Bose or Sennheiser. Monster specialises in bass-forward tuning and portable wireless products, making them popular with music fans who prioritise punch over neutral sound profiles. Their current UK range focuses on Bluetooth convenience and everyday durability rather than studio-grade performance.
Top Picks
Monster Stinger Headphone — Dark Gold — £329.00
Best for: statement-making premium listeners. The Stinger represents Monster's flagship design — dark gold finish, over-ear cushioning, and wired audiophile credentials, though the condition varies (new stock at £329, very good condition at £339, which is unusual pricing). The premium price reflects heritage branding and build quality, but you're paying partly for the aesthetic. Verdict: strong if you want design prestige, but the price-to-specs ratio doesn't beat competitors at this level.
Monster Wireless Bluetooth Over-ear Headphones — £69.99
Best for: everyday listening on a tight budget. At under £70, this is Monster's value play — wireless connectivity, over-ear comfort for extended wear, and the brand name without the flagship cost. No active noise cancellation or premium materials here, but the price makes it genuinely accessible. Verdict: excellent for commuters or casual listeners who want wireless audio without spending £200+.
Monster Superstar S110 Portable Bluetooth Speaker — Black — £59.99
Best for: portable music in compact spaces. The Superstar S110 undercuts even the wireless headphones and delivers speaker functionality for travel, beach trips, or small rooms. At 59.99, it's an impulse-buy price point. Without seeing exact specs (battery life, wattage, range), assume it trades professional audio quality for portability and value. Verdict: worth it for casual outdoor use; don't expect studio-grade sound.
Quick Comparison
| Product | Price | Best For | Standout Feature | |---------|-------|----------|------------------| | Stinger Headphone (Dark Gold, New) | £329.00 | Premium audio enthusiasts | Flagship design and heritage branding | | Stinger Headphone (Dark Gold, Very Good) | £339.00 | N/A — worse value than new | Same specs at higher price — avoid | | Wireless Bluetooth Over-ear | £69.99 | Budget commuters | Sub-£70 wireless audio | | Superstar S110 Speaker | £59.99 | Portable and compact listening | Lowest entry point to Monster audio |
What to Look For
- Wireless vs. wired trade-offs: The Stinger suggests wired audiophile roots (likely superior sound), while the sub-£70 options go Bluetooth-only. If sound quality matters most, the Stinger's wired heritage is its advantage; if convenience wins, go wireless.
- Driver size and impedance: Larger drivers (typically 30-50mm in over-ear headphones) produce deeper bass and fuller volume — Monster traditionally emphasises bass, so check whether that matches your taste. The £69.99 over-ear likely uses smaller drivers than the Stinger.
- Battery life and charging: The Superstar S110 and wireless headphones are Bluetooth, so verify battery hours — 8-15 hours is typical for portable speakers and budget headphones; premium models often stretch beyond 20 hours.
- Build material and weight: The Stinger's dark gold finish suggests metal accents; budget models use more plastic. If portability or durability matters, weight and material specs matter — lightweight doesn't always mean cheap, and heavy doesn't always mean premium.
The Bottom Line
The Monster Wireless Bluetooth Over-ear Headphones at £69.99 offer the best value for most buyers — solid wireless audio without paying for flagship branding. The Stinger Headphones (new condition, £329) are genuinely premium but face stiff competition at that price point; consider them only if the design appeals or you want Monster's heritage specifically. The Superstar S110 at £59.99 is a fun budget speaker for casual listening, though it's likely outgunned by JBL or UE Boom alternatives in the same category. Monster works best as a mid-market choice, not a budget catch-all or true luxury play.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Monster good value for money?
Monster's value depends on the model. The £69.99 wireless headphones and £59.99 speaker offer legitimate affordability and entry into the brand. The £329 Stinger is expensive for what you get — you're partly paying for design and heritage. At mid-range prices (£50–£100), Monster competes well; at £300+, brands like Sony, Bose, and Sennheiser offer more features for the money.
What's the difference between the Stinger at £329 and £339?
The only stated difference is condition: new stock is £329, and "very good" used condition is £339. This pricing reversal is a red flag — used items should never cost more than new equivalents. The specs and functionality are identical; always choose the new unit at £329.
Are Monster speakers as good as JBL or UE Boom?
Monster's Superstar S110 at £59.99 is a direct budget competitor to JBL Flip or UE Boom models, but typically trails them in battery life, durability, and sound clarity. JBL Flip (similar price range) generally offers 8–10 hours of battery; check Monster's specs before buying. If you want proven portability, JBL or UE Boom are safer; if you want the Monster brand at a low price, the Superstar works.
Do Monster headphones have noise cancellation?
The current range doesn't list active noise cancellation (ANC) on any model. The Stinger may include passive isolation (thick padding), but neither the £69.99 over-ear nor the budget speakers appear to have ANC. If noise cancellation is essential, you'll need to spend more or choose a different brand — Sony WH-CH720 or Anker Soundcore offer ANC well under £150.
