Honestly, I cant shoot you a straight answer because monster tends to change design and packaging throughout the cycle of a products life; it may be possible they were once manufactured that way.
Before I made the initial investment, I decided to buy a $30 pair of fakes to save me from the disparity of being duped by someone; I'll admit, they sound really good for what they were($30 fakes), but they're nowhere near the real thing. The most obvious things I noticed about the fakes was the 100% shrinkwrap job, mesh inserts, and accessories(only 1 pair of supertips, and 1/4" jack was obviously a substitute from a parts store); otherwise the bud's themselves look pretty convincing.
If you're doubtful, give Monster a call and see if your seller is an authorized dealer. here's a good list to start from, although they may have omitted a few sellers.
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