A couple years ago ANC was a defining headset feature. Few headsets had it, and the ones that did were typically expensive. Overtime companies have found ways to deliver this feature in more enticing packages. One such company is Monoprice, which added it to their recently released BT-600ANC headset. Given the popularity of this feature, quality people associate with the brand, and a great price it looks to be quite the value. However, with so many things that can go wrong, is BT-600ANC a slam dunk, or an okay headset for the price?
One thing I like about Monoprice is they have a diverse range of packaging. BT-600ANC looks different from M1000ANC, and is only reminiscent of their Workstream headset. Here you have basic features on the front, a slightly expanded version on the back, plus some information about Monoprice on the side. It’s pretty straightforward without trying to getting lost in the details like so many other headsets do.
Simple Design
After removing the slipcover you’ll find the included case, along with the user manual below. I was honestly surprised by how nice the case is. I’ve gotten a few that feel like an afterthought, yet Monoprice’s feels pretty good for the price. Textured lines cover the hardshell on both sides with a water-repellent zipper. Interestingly, no Monoprice branding exists on either side, giving it an appealing look.
Inside is a small pouch on one side for wires, which this product comes with a 1′ or so USB-A to USB-C cable and 6′ 3.5mm, or whatever else you might want. On the other side is a wide opening that features a small fabric divider that can be freely moved. This allows for any headset that fits in the opening to be usable with this case. It’s a small but welcome touch. The only downside is the lack of external loop. Most headphone cases feature some version of this so they can be hung outside of your bag, or in a variety of places.
It is a Snazzy Case
At first glance BT-600ANC is not much to look at. Most of the body is plastic, with only part of the headband, ear pads, and outer cup featuring leather. It’s hard to explain, but the plastic feels rough to the touch. It’s something I can’t say I’ve encountered with many headsets, though it makes BT-600ANC feel like it’s on the cheaper end. Despite this Monoprice was nice enough include a metal headband. This should add some much needed durability if you frequently use headsets, or are rough with them.
While the plastic could be a bit better, leather portions feel nice. They’re soft to the touch with a fair amount of coverage. Interestingly, a thin leather pad was included on the outer earcup. These feel just as nice to touch, though they’re going to be a divisive feature.
Since BT-600ANC features touch controls, these leather pads feel nicer than the usual plastic or metal surface found on most headsets. However, because they’re a softer material they’re fairly easy to damage. After storing them for an extended period in the case I saw marks left from the wires/pouch appear on one of the earcup. This went away after a couple hours, though you won’t always be so lucky. I had a different set of marks appear from the start and have yet to disappear. Due to the touch application I won’t be surprised if a nail inadvertently damages them. These are all things I’d keep in mind, even if I still enjoy how they feel.
Speaking of controls, I can’t say I’m a fan. Monoprice included many standard features, such as directional swipes for volume/track controls, taping to play/pause/answer calls, covering the right earcup for a conversation mode, and so forth. In practice I found the controls were hit/miss. Tapping always worked, it was some of the swiping gestures that would not register on my first or second attempt. It also takes a fair amount of time for certain features to activate, such as summoning a voice assistant, at which point you might as well just use your actual phone.
In addition to touch controls there is a physical power, Bluetooth, and ANC button. These work flawlessly. ANC can also be switched between ANC, ambient mode, or disabling both. These are always great to have in multiple places that are easily accessible.
Comfort is going to depend a lot on the wearer. As nice as they feel, they’re not the most plush headset. I’d estimate it will only take a couple hours before fatigue sets in. This amount will decrease the tighter fit you decide to go with. I can also say even when they’re securely placed there is a fair amount of sound bleed. It isn’t to the point where everyone will know what you’re listening to, though certainly high enough where someone fairly close will have a decent idea.
Sound performance was good, but not great. While I appreciate the sound profile being less bass centric, they don’t particularly stand out. When testing my usual songs, I found BT-600ANC to be on the flatter side of things. It’s enough where I could get a feel for the music, just not the nuances present in the tracks. Given the feature set I am not surprised by this, though higher audio fidelity would be nice.
Similar things apply to ANC. Using my usual air multiplier test it did okay at best. There is a clear noise reduction, though nowhere near the almost magical levels higher tier products offer. It’s to the point where it’s better than nothing, though not quite where it’s a defining feature.
Monoprice BT-600ANC Review Verdict
At its core BT-600ANC is a fairly average headset. It sounds fine, ANC performance is okay, and construction is expected. There are some nice touches, mostly the case, leather on the outer earcup, plus wired support; though these are contrasted by dodgy touch controls, and that leather being easy to damage. In the end they won’t revolutionize your listening experience, though they should perform slightly better than a number of offerings at its price point.
[Editor’s Note: Monoprice BT-600ANC was provided to us for review purposes.]
