When comparing VE Monk Plus vs HC RET, the Slant community recommends VE Monk Plus for most people. In the question“What are the best earbuds under $50?” VE Monk Plus is ranked 2nd while HC RET is ranked 4th. The most important reason people chose VE Monk Plus is:
The highs of the VE Monk Plus sound pretty great, with a level of detail and resolution that is rare for budget in-ear headphones yet does not come off as harsh. The mids are full and smooth as well, which gives good presence to vocals and guitars. These budget in-ears are great for rock and pop music.
Specs
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Pros
Pro Detailed sound despite the affordable price
The highs of the VE Monk Plus sound pretty great, with a level of detail and resolution that is rare for budget in-ear headphones yet does not come off as harsh. The mids are full and smooth as well, which gives good presence to vocals and guitars.
These budget in-ears are great for rock and pop music.
Pro Earbud design results in a more open soundstage
The design of the VE Monk Plus does not create a very tight seal, instead allowing a bit more air into the ears while wearing them. This results in a wider soundstage with great instrument separation.
Pro Powerful bass and decent clarity
The bass from these earphones is quite powerful. It has a lot of punch and thump, so bass hits will definitely sound full and forward. The mids are tight, while the highs are able to provide decent detail. These can actually be a step-up from stock earbuds that come with your mobile devices.
Pro Good bass and good design.
The bass is very powerful and as long as they're not at full volume they are pretty amazing.
Pro Good bass and good design.
The bass is very powerful and as long as they're not at full volume they are pretty amazing.
Pro Cables do not tangle easily
You won’t have too much issue with the earphone cables tangling up when in your pocket or bag. The cables are quite flexible and do not tangle easily.
Pro Inline mic with remote
The mic and remote is a truly welcome feature to have, considering the price. The mic produces decent audio quality. The remote, despite being just a single button, allows you to respond to calls and control your music player.
Cons
Con Bass may sound too lean
The sound signature is more biased to the highs and the mids while the lows take more of a backseat. While present, the low frequencies do not have too much oomph behind them, which can be made worse by the poor seal that these may have.
Con Ambient noise can be heard with while wearing these
Since these earbuds do not seal the ear canal very well, these are not the earbuds for you if you want to focus on your music.
Con Foam covering can get uncomfortable
The thin foam cushions feel a bit scratchy and can be uncomfortable, especially when these are used for extended periods.
Con Bass may be too powerful
The bass is quite dominant and can overpower the other frequencies, resulting in audio that may be too muddy for you.
