Page 26 - Ciaran Kinsella
P. 26

beats                                   Representation                                            b


                                                                                                The Beats Solo 4 headphones are positioned as premium
                                                                                                audio devices that highlight a lifestyle centered on
                                                                                                creativity, music, and urban culture. Their aesthetic design
                                                                      Solo 4                    frequently embodies a contemporary style, catering to
                                                                                                current fashion and cultural movements. Marketing
                                                                                                campaigns commonly present artists, athletes, and
                                                                                                influencers, portraying the headphones as indicators of
                                                    On the official Beats by Dre website, Beats Solo 4 is   status and creative freedom.
                                                    offered to consumers in 3 colours: Matt Black, Slate
                                                     Blue and Cloud Pink. The Matt Black pair offers a   Identity
                                                    modern, focused and professional appeal, whereas
                                                     the Slate Blue and Cloud Pink pairs portray health   The identity linked to Beats headphones is often associated
                                                            and fitness, simplicity and elegance.  with hip-hop culture and youth movements. The brand
                                                                                                encourages consumers to view themselves as part of a
                                                                                                larger cultural narrative by promoting individuality and
                                                                                                authenticity. Consumers can align their identity with the
                                                                                                brand through the choice of colours and collaborations with
                                                                                                celebrities. Buying Beats became a symbol of status,
                                                                                                inclusion, popularity, and pride (Green et al.)
                                                    The form of the product demonstrates the beauty in   Production
                                                      subtle transitions between hard and soft edges.
                                                      Being a premium product, refreshingly the Beats   Beats Solo 4 is created using cutting-edge audio technology
                                                     Solo 4 headphones doesn’t compromise comfort in   and design methods. The company prioritises top-notch
                                                      ergonomics for minimalism. This is shown by the   materials and skilled workmanship, attracting both music
                                                                                                enthusiasts and everyday listeners. Moreover, involving
                                                     product’s UltraPlush ear cushions and padding on
                                                                                                designers and artists in the product development process
                                                     the headband. Softer than soft. It is also a very   showcases a fusion of creativity and contemporary
                                                       lightweight product which adds to its effortless   significance.Beats also produce and sell a range of speakers,
                                                    comfort. At just 217 grams, you could almost forget   earphones, earbuds and phone cases.
                                                     you’re wearing them (“Beats Solo 4 - Matt Black”).
                                                                                                Consumption
                                            A modern style is conveyed through the product’s matte finish. The
                                       descriptions and slogans around the product all give the sense of confidence   Beats Solo 4 consumers are attracted to the product not
                                                                                                only for its audio quality but also for the lifestyle it
                                         and simplicity. Stands out. Stays on. Simplicity in the product’s outer
                                                                                                embodies. The headphones are marketed as a fashion
                                                 form to hide its complex interior gives a sense of humility.
                                                                                                accessory in addition to being a technological device.
                                          “People aren’t hearing all the music”                 Social media has a substantial impact on consumption, as
                                                                                                users display their Beats as an integral part of their
                                                                                                everyday routines, strengthening the brand's cultural
                                                                          Dr. Dre               significance. The price of Beats Electronics is on the higher
                                                                                                end, ranging from $250 - $350. The price contributes
                                                                                                greatly to the consumer feeling as though they have made
                                                                                                a quality purchase (Fields).
                                                                                                Regulation
                                                                                                The Beats brand must adhere to industry regulations, such as
                                                                                                copyright laws for music and advertising standards.
                                                                                                Furthermore, consumer demands for quality and brand
                                                                                                reputation act as a type of regulation, as any adverse publicity
                                                                                                or product defects can influence brand perception and sales.
                                                                                                            H E A R   W H A T Y O U W A N T





          26             Social and Symbolic Meaning Poster                                                     Circuit of Culture Poster
   21   22   23   24   25   26   27   28   29   30   31