Marshall Monitor II ANC Review2025: The Ultimate Wireless Noise-Canceling Headphones

In the world of premium audio, Marshall Monitor II ANC headphones stand out as a top contender for audiophiles and travelers alike. Known for their superior active noise cancellation (ANC), 30-hour battery life, and iconic Marshall design, these over-ear headphones promise an immersive listening experience. Whether you're a music enthusiast, a daily commuter, or a frequent traveler, the Marshall Monitor II ANC might just be your perfect companion.

In this detailed review, we will dive deep into its features, sound quality, noise cancellation performance, design, comfort, battery life, connectivity, and user experience while also comparing it to other premium headphones on the market.

Unboxing and First Impressions

Upon opening the box, you are greeted with a sleek, black leather-textured finish, embodying Marshall’s signature rock-inspired aesthetics. The package includes:

Marshall Monitor II ANC headphones

USB-C charging cable

3.5mm audio cable for wired listening

Carrying pouch for protection and portability

User manual

The collapsible design makes it easy to store and carry, reinforcing its travel-friendly appeal.

Design & Comfort: Premium Yet Practical

The Marshall Monitor II ANC headphones boast a stylish retro-inspired design with a rugged and durable build. The black matte finish, textured ear cups, and subtle gold accents make these headphones a statement piece.

Key Design Features:

Over-ear, cushioned ear cups for maximum comfort during long listening sessions

Collapsible and foldable frame for compact storage

Multi-directional control knob to play, pause, adjust volume, and answer calls

Physical ANC button to toggle noise cancellation

Comfortable headband padding for extended wear

At just 11.3 ounces (320 grams), the headphones feel lightweight but sturdy. The adjustable ear cups and headband provide a snug fit, making them ideal for long flights or work sessions without causing discomfort.

Sound Quality: Rich, Balanced, and Immersive

Marshall is synonymous with high-quality sound, and the Monitor II ANC headphones are no exception. These headphones deliver a warm, balanced audio profile with deep bass, clear mids, and crisp highs.

Audio Performance Breakdown:

Bass: Punchy yet controlled, ideal for rock, hip-hop, and electronic music

Mids: Well-defined, making vocals and instruments sound natural

Highs: Crisp and detailed without being harsh

Soundstage: Wide and immersive, offering a live concert-like experience

The customizable equalizer (EQ) settings via the Marshall Bluetooth app allow users to tweak the sound to their preference, whether they enjoy booming bass or a more neutral sound profile.

Active Noise Cancellation (ANC): Blocks Out the World

The active noise cancellation technology in the Marshall Monitor II ANC headphones is designed to reduce ambient noise and let you focus on your music. Whether you're in a busy café, commuting on a noisy subway, or working in an office, the adaptive ANC technology works to eliminate distractions.

ANC Performance:

Effectively blocks out low-frequency noises (e.g., airplane engines, traffic sounds)

Reduces mid-range noises (e.g., chatter, background TV sounds)

Doesn’t completely mute high-frequency sounds but dampens them significantly

A dedicated ANC button on the headphones lets you switch between ANC mode, Transparency mode (to hear surroundings), and Standard mode.

Battery Life & Charging: Built for Long Listening Sessions

Battery life is one of the standout features of the Marshall Monitor II ANC headphones.

30 hours of wireless playback with active noise cancellation

45 hours of battery life without ANC

Quick charge feature – 15 minutes of charging gives 5 hours of playtime

USB-C charging for faster and more efficient power delivery

Compared to competitors like the Sony WH-1000XM5 and Bose QuietComfort Ultra, the Marshall Monitor II ANC holds its own in battery longevity.

Connectivity & Controls: Seamless Wireless Experience

The headphones utilize Bluetooth 5.0 technology, ensuring a stable and lag-free connection with devices.

Connectivity Features:

Supports multi-device pairing – Easily switch between phone, laptop, or tablet

Low-latency Bluetooth – Ideal for watching videos and gaming

3.5mm headphone jack – Offers a wired option for high-fidelity audio

The multi-directional control knob and touch-sensitive controls make it easy to adjust volume, playback, and calls without reaching for your phone.

Comparison: How Does It Stack Up Against Competitors?

The Marshall Monitor II ANC competes with top-tier noise-canceling headphones like:

Pros & Cons

Pros:

✔ Excellent battery life (30 hours with ANC, 45 without)

✔ Classic Marshall design with premium build

✔ Balanced sound with deep bass and crisp highs

✔ Collapsible, travel-friendly design

✔ Multi-directional control knob for easy navigation

✔ Wired and wireless listening options

Cons:

❌ ANC is good but not industry-leading

❌ No support for high-resolution audio codecs like LDAC or aptX HD

❌ Touch controls can be a bit sensitive

Who Should Buy the Marshall Monitor II ANC?

Music lovers who appreciate a warm, balanced sound

Travelers and commuters who need long battery life and ANC

Marshall fans who love the brand’s signature rock-inspired design

Students and professionals looking for stylish, durable headphones with good ANC

Are They Worth It?

The Marshall Monitor II ANC headphones are an excellent choice for those who value sound quality, style, and battery life. While they may not have the absolute best ANC on the market, they deliver an immersive audio experience with a classic Marshall aesthetic. If you’re looking for a premium pair of over-ear headphones with a strong battery life and balanced sound, these are a solid investment.

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