Marshall Major V Review

Summary / TL;DR

The Marshall Major V headphones aim to stand out in a crowded market with their blend of style, sound quality, and usability. Known for their rock-inspired design, these headphones offer a robust build with a classic vintage vibe, though the foldable design may initially feel stiff. The sound performance is solid, featuring deep bass and a wide soundstage, but the mids can feel overshadowed, and highs might be sharp at high volumes. Battery life impresses with up to 30 hours of playtime and quick charging via USB-C, though wireless charging is absent.

Connectivity is reliable with Bluetooth 5.0, and the multi-directional knob offers convenient control, though there's no app for sound customization. Comfort is generally good, though extended wear might be warm, and the fit may feel tight for some. Competitively, the Major V offers a unique sound profile and style at a reasonable price, though it lacks advanced features like noise cancellation found in some rivals.

Overall, the Marshall Major V is a strong choice for those prioritizing style and sound, though it may not satisfy those seeking the latest tech features or perfect audio balance.

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If you like this review, you might also like our review on the Marshall Monitor III ANC.

Introduction

In the bustling market of headphones, finding the right pair can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. Enter the Marshall Major V, a contender that's trying to make some noise. This review kicks off by looking at what these headphones bring to the table. Marshall, known for its iconic amplifiers, has been crafting headphones that carry a legacy of bold sound and retro charm. But how does this latest model stack up? Is it all rock 'n' roll or does it hit a few flat notes?

The Marshall Major V promises a combination of style, sound, and usability, targeting music lovers who appreciate both aesthetics and audio quality. They're aiming to please both audiophiles and casual listeners alike, a task easier said than done. These headphones come with a host of features, designed to meet the needs of today's tech-savvy users, but do they truly deliver?

While excitement is high, it's important to approach these with a balanced perspective. Are these headphones just about flashy branding, or do they genuinely bring something worthwhile to your listening experience? Hold on tight as we break it down, piece by piece, to see if these headphones hit the right notes in the crowded world of audio gear.

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Design and Build Quality

The design and build quality of these headphones is something that immediately catches the eye. They've got that classic, vintage vibe that Marshall is famous for, but with a modern twist. The headphones are mostly black with gold accents, making them look sleek and stylish. It's like wearing a piece of rock history on your head.

The construction feels sturdy and robust. The headband is reinforced with a metal frame, which gives you confidence in its durability. You won't be worried about these snapping or breaking easily. The earcups are made from a durable plastic material, designed to withstand everyday use without showing too much wear and tear.

One thing you might have to get used to is their foldable design. It's super handy for storing them in a bag without taking up too much space, but the hinges can feel a bit stiff at first. It might take a few folds and unfolds to loosen them up to the point where you're not worried about forcing them.

The materials used give it a high-end feel without sending your bank account into shock. The vegan leather on the ear cushions and headband feels soft and premium, but it might not be as breathable as real leather. This could be a slight downside if you plan on wearing them for extended periods, especially in warm weather.

Overall, the design combines style and practicality. They're not just a pretty face; these headphones are built to last and endure the hustle and bustle of daily life. But, like anything, they're not perfect. If you're someone who sweats a lot or uses them in a hot climate, you might find your ears getting a bit toasty after a while.

Sound Performance

Let's talk about how these headphones sound. When it comes to sound performance, the Marshall Major V delivers a pretty solid experience, but there are a few things to keep in mind. First off, the bass is deep and punchy, perfect for those who love a bit of thump in their tunes. It's like having a mini concert right on your ears!

The mids are clear but slightly recessed, which means that vocals and instruments can sometimes feel a bit overshadowed by the bass, especially in bass-heavy tracks. This can be a bummer for audiophiles who crave a more balanced sound.

As for the highs, they’re crisp and bright, adding a nice sparkle to your music. However, at higher volumes, they can get a little sharp, which might not be everyone's cup of tea. Turning down the volume a notch usually solves this without losing the overall listening enjoyment.

One thing that truly stands out with this pair is its soundstage. It’s surprisingly wide, especially for a pair of on-ear headphones. This gives your music a more spacious feel, almost as if you’re at a live performance.

In a nutshell, while the sound profile is generally pleasing and energetic, it might not satisfy those looking for a perfectly flat response. But for everyday listeners who enjoy a lively and engaging sound, the Marshall Major V does a commendable job.

Battery Life and Charging

If you're the kind of person who forgets to charge your headphones (like, all the time), you’ll be pretty happy with the battery life of the Marshall Major V. With a solid battery performance, these headphones are built for those who don’t want to be tethered to a charging cable frequently.

Battery Longevity

The Major V boasts an impressive 30 hours of playtime on a single charge. That's like listening to your entire playlist non-stop for days without worrying about the battery dying on you. For most casual users, this means you might only need to charge them once a week!

Charging Speed

When it comes to juicing them up, the charging time is relatively quick. In under three hours, you can go from zero to full charge. And if you're in a rush, a quick 15-minute charge might just give you enough juice to last a few hours. Think of it like a power nap for your headphones.

Charging Method

The Marshall Major V uses a USB-C port for charging. Finally, a headphone manufacturer realized we’re all tired of juggling different cables. Plus, USB-C is pretty universal these days, so you probably already have a compatible charger lying around.

Potential Downsides

One downside to note, though, is that while the battery life is excellent, there’s no wireless charging option. It's not a deal-breaker, but if you're a tech enthusiast who loves cutting cords, this might seem a bit old-school. In summary, the battery life and charging capabilities of these headphones are quite strong. They strike a good balance between longevity and convenience, making them a reliable choice for music lovers who live life unplugged.

Connectivity and Features

Alright, let's dive into the connectivity and features of these headphones. First up, they come with Bluetooth 5.0, which ensures a stable connection and decent range. This means you can wander around your house without losing your jam session. Gone are the days of tangled wires and tripping over cords—thank goodness!

Now, onto the buttons. The Marshall Major V sports a nifty multi-directional control knob. This little fella allows you to play, pause, skip tracks, and adjust the volume with just a flick or a press. It's like having a DJ controller on the side of your head. You can even answer calls and activate voice assistants, which is pretty sweet if you're on the move.

Speaking of calls, the built-in microphone does its job well. It’s not crystal clear, but it’s totally good for quick chats or planning your next pizza night. You might want to switch to your phone if you're in a noisy spot, though.

For those who like sharing tunes, there’s a 3.5mm jack on the headphones. This means you can let a buddy plug in their own headphones and join your musical adventure. Sharing is caring, after all!

On the downside, the Marshall Major V doesn't come with any fancy app support for customizable EQ settings or firmware updates. If you’re a tech geek who likes to fine-tune their listening experience, this might feel like a missed opportunity. However, the sound profile is pretty solid out of the box, so most folks won't find this to be a big deal.

So, in short, these headphones have a good mix of features that cater to both the casual listener and the music lover. They keep things straightforward and easy, which is something to appreciate in a modern gadget.

Comfort and Fit

When slipping on the Marshall Major V, comfort and fit are right up there with what you'd expect from a top-notch pair of headphones. Adjustable hinges make it easy to find that sweet spot for your head size, offering a customized fit without much hassle. It’s like that perfect pair of sneakers – snug but not too tight.

The ear cushions are crafted from soft leatherette, providing a plush feel against your ears. It's almost like your favorite armchair, inviting you to settle in for a long listen. But hey, if you're planning a marathon session, you might want to take a break now and then; some folks might find them a tad warm over extended use.

Weight-wise, these headphones strike a good balance. They're lightweight enough that you won't feel like you're carrying dumbbells on your head, yet they still have that reassuring heft that tells you they're built to last. It’s a bit like the Goldilocks zone – just right.

For those glasses-wearers out there, you’ll be pleased to know that the Marshall Major V doesn’t press too hard around your frames. However, if you've got an unusually large noggin, you might experience a bit of a squeeze after a while.

In the end, the comfort and fit of these headphones cater well to most users, with minor tweaks needed here and there for individual preferences. A quick adjustment, and you're ready to rock and roll, or chill and mellow, depending on your playlist.

What's in the Box

Curious what's inside that sleek box of the Marshall Major V? Let's unpack it together!

First off, you'll find the headphones themselves, neatly folded up. They're ready to rock, right out of the box. The compact design makes it feel like unboxing a treasure chest of sound. Alongside the headphones, you'll get a USB-C charging cable. Yes, USB-C is the new standard, so say goodbye to those old tangled cords.

There’s also a detachable 3.5mm audio cable. This is for those times when you just want to plug in and go old school or when the battery decides to take a break. Speaking of breaks, the inclusion of a quick start guide helps you skip any headaches. It's your go-to for figuring out all the nifty features without needing a tech degree.

And lastly, there’s some obligatory warranty info. It’s one of those things you hope you never need, but it's comforting to know it's there. Unfortunately, there's no carrying case, which would have been a nice touch for protecting your investment on the go.

So, while the essentials are covered, a few little extras could have made it an even sweeter package. But hey, what's there gets you up and running, and that's what matters most, right?

User Experience

Using the Marshall Major V headphones is like slipping into your favorite pair of shoes – well, almost. The user experience is mostly smooth, with a couple of quirks that might catch you by surprise.

Ease of Use

These headphones are pretty straightforward when it comes to daily operation. Pairing them with your device is a breeze, and once connected, they stay connected. The buttons are tactile and easy to locate, even when you’re not looking. This makes adjusting volume or skipping tracks a simple task.

Controls

The multi-directional control knob is a nifty feature. It’s intuitive and lets you navigate tracks, control volume, and handle calls without needing to pause your listening experience to fumble with your phone. However, it might take a little getting used to at first, and sometimes it doesn't register a press if you’re not firm enough.

Bluetooth Connectivity

The Bluetooth connectivity is generally solid, with a strong range that lets you wander from room to room without experiencing dropouts. Still, if you find yourself in a crowded area with lots of devices, you might notice some occasional stuttering. It's like when you're driving and hit a small patch of bumps – a bit annoying, but you recover quickly.

App Integration

There’s no dedicated app for the headphones, so you don’t get those fancy EQ presets or sound customization options that other brands may offer. This might feel like a miss if you're into tweaking your audio settings for perfection.

Voice Assistants

These headphones play nice with voice assistants like Siri or Google Assistant. Activating them is easy, and they respond promptly to your commands. It's like having another friend in the room who’s ready to help at a moment’s notice.

Overall Experience

All in all, using these headphones is a mostly pleasant experience. From the seamless connectivity to the responsive controls, they make your daily routine easier. But, like any good friend who occasionally forgets a detail or two, there might be small hitches here and there that you'll need to overlook.

Video by: Tom’s Guide

Competitor Comparison

Let's dive into how the Marshall Major V stacks up against its fiercest competitors. First up, we have the Sony WH-CH710N. These headphones are known for their killer noise-cancellation feature, which might outshine the Major V’s passive sound isolation in bustling environments. However, what the Major V lacks in this department, it makes up for with its signature Marshall sound profile – rich, warm, and engaging, which many users find more lively compared to Sony's sometimes overly neutral tone.

Then there's the JBL Live 660NC. JBL's offering is all about that bass, delivering a punchy low-end that bass lovers adore. While the Major V also has a solid bass presence, it manages to keep the mids and highs clearer, appealing to those who prefer a more balanced sound. Plus, JBL's noise-cancelling feature is a notch above, but again, if you're all about the music quality, you might favor Marshall’s approach.

Let's not forget about the Beats Solo Pro. Beats has a reputation for stylish, vibrant sound, but they come with a heftier price tag. The Major V offers similar style vibes without breaking the bank, though it might not sport the same level of brand prestige or the advanced ANC technology. But hey, it’s all about what matters to you: is it the fashion statement or the musical experience?

Lastly, we have the Anker Soundcore Life Q30, a budget-friendly option that surprisingly packs a punch with its features. It offers excellent battery life and ANC, giving it a leg up in terms of bang for your buck. However, audiophiles might notice the difference in sound quality, where the Major V still shines with its classic rock-inspired acoustics. In the end, choosing between these headphones depends on what floats your boat. Need hardcore noise cancellation? Maybe the Sony or JBL are your go-to. Looking for budget features? Anker might be your pal. But if you're all about timeless sound and aesthetics with a splash of rock 'n' roll attitude, the Marshall Major V could be just what you're jamming for.

Conclusion

In wrapping up, let’s take a closer look at what makes the Marshall Major V a noteworthy pick in the headphone market. If you're into great sound and a stylish design, these headphones hit the sweet spot. They deliver rich, immersive audio, and they look pretty cool doing it.

The design and build quality are solid, giving you that classic rock ‘n’ roll vibe while feeling durable enough to withstand daily use. However, if you’re someone who’s all about the tiniest details, the plastic components might not scream high-end luxury. Sound performance is where these headphones truly shine. They offer a well-balanced soundstage that caters to all types of music genres, from thumping bass lines to crisp vocals. But, if you’re a hardcore audiophile, you might notice a lack of depth in the extreme highs and lows.

As for battery life, it’s impressive. You won’t find yourself constantly reaching for the charger, which is a big plus for long commutes or travel. The quick charge feature is also a lifesaver for those moments when you're in a pinch. Yet, some might wish for even longer battery life, because who doesn't want that?

Connectivity and features have kept up with the times, offering seamless Bluetooth pairing and a reliable connection. While it covers the basics well, don't expect a myriad of high-tech features like noise cancellation or app support that some competitors provide. Comfort-wise, they are generally good, but if you wear headphones for hours on end, you might find them a bit tight. It’s advisable to try them on first if possible to ensure the fit suits you. In summary, the Marshall Major V is a strong contender for those seeking a mix of style, sound, and functionality at a reasonable price. Although it’s not perfect and there’s room for improvement in certain areas, it’s still a solid choice for many music lovers.

FAQ

Q: Can I use the Marshall Major V headphones while charging?
A: Nope, unfortunately, you can't use them while they're charging. It's a bit of a bummer, especially if you're someone who loves to multitask.

Q: Are these headphones compatible with voice assistants?
A: Yep, they work with most popular voice assistants like Siri and Google Assistant. You just have to press a button, and you're good to chat with your digital helper.

Q: How's the mic quality for calls?
A: The mic is pretty decent for everyday calls. It gets the job done for casual conversations, though it might struggle a bit in super noisy environments.

Q: Are the Marshall Major V headphones water-resistant?
A: They don't come with any water-resistance rating, so I'd say keep them away from rain or workouts that might get too sweaty. You know, better safe than sorry!

Q: What's the wireless range?
A: The wireless range is around 30 feet (or 10 meters if you're metric). So, feel free to wander around your room without losing your tunes!

Q: Is there a quick charge feature?
A: Yes indeed! A quick 15-minute charge gives you about 3 hours of playtime. Handy if you're in a rush and need a quick power-up.

Q: Can I connect these headphones to multiple devices?
A: Unfortunately, they don't support multi-device pairing. You'll have to disconnect from one device before connecting to another. It can be a bit of a hassle if you're always switching between gadgets.

Q: Do they come with an app for customization?
A: Nope, there's no dedicated app. You're stuck with the default settings and can't tweak the sound profile through an app, which might be a letdown for audiophiles who like to fine-tune their audio experience.

Q: Are the ear cushions replaceable?
A: Yes, they are. If you ever wear them out, you can swap them out for new ones. It's like giving your headphones a breath of fresh air!

Q: How's the noise isolation?
A: There's no active noise cancellation, so don't expect to be in a bubble of silence. They do provide decent passive isolation, though it's not entirely going to block out the world around you. ```

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Pros & cons

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Technical specifications