Compare Cambridge Audio Melomania P100 SE Headphones vs Marshall Monitor III A.N.C. Over-Ear Bluetooth Headphones

The lack of a built-in 3.5mm analog jack was a repeated drawback, even though USB-C-to-3.5mm wired listening is possible.

ANC is generally judged good or improved, though not always elite; reviewers praised effectiveness while noting Sony/Bose-class options can still outperform it.

ANC was usually judged good, solid, or decent for daily use, but several reviewers said it still trails Bose, Sony, or the top tier.

Advanced software features such as DynamEQ and app changes are useful but taste-dependent, with some reviewers liking the added energy and others preferring simpler original tuning.

Advanced software features were considered solid and modern, but reviewers did not see them as uniquely class-leading.

Aesthetics split reviewers: some liked the clean design and blue color, while another found the wide look silly when worn.

Aesthetics were distinctive and often praised, but some reviewers noted the retro Marshall look will not suit everyone.

Background noise reduction is viewed as improved and effective, but not the quietest in the class according to comparison-focused reviewers.

ANC background noise performance was decent: one review measured strong overall noise reduction, and another said white noise was not bad.

ANC's effect on the sound signature is mixed: one review praised the lack of tonal shift, while another found ANC-on tuning messier on the SE.

ANC-off listening measured slightly better in one review, suggesting ANC can subtly affect the sound signature.

ANC sound impact is similarly split, with TechRadar praising tonal consistency and RecordingNow hearing a more problematic change with ANC on.

ANC slightly affects audio performance, with one review noting higher sound-quality scores when ANC is disabled.

Android setup worked smoothly in the tested pairing flow, with the reviewer connecting quickly to a Samsung foldable device.

Android compatibility was positive in one review that found the headphones sounded good on Android.

The app is widely praised for EQ, controls, and clean layout, though one reviewer wanted clearer EQ frequency labeling.

The app was viewed positively for customization, controls, battery options, and a generally intuitive experience.

aptX Lossless support is treated as part of the impressive specification.

aptX support was criticized as absent, especially for Android or lossless-codec users.

Gaming/low-latency performance was judged snappy and suitable for videos and fast-paced games.

Audio-video sync was a concern for gaming because one reviewer tied the lack of low-latency codecs to more noticeable latency.

Auracast support was treated as a positive future-facing feature, especially for Android and LE Audio readiness.

Wear-detection auto play/pause mostly worked but showed a brief audio cutout in one hands-on test.

Auto-play and wear detection worked but was slow to react in one test.

RecordingNow gave the product a strong S-Tier expert score, reflecting award-style recognition in that review.

Bass earns strong praise for impact and EQ potential, but some reviewers found the SE tuning too bass-forward or not fully controlled.

Bass was usually described as punchy or well-balanced, though several reviewers said it could use more impact, cleaner control, or stronger low-end weight.

Battery life is one of the clearest strengths, repeatedly called excellent, incredible, extraordinary, or best-in-class.

Battery life had the strongest agreement: reviewers repeatedly described it as class-leading, incredible, extraordinary, or far ahead of competitors.

Bluetooth-related experiences were largely positive where judged through pairing and multipoint behavior.

Bluetooth performance was praised in one review as stable and high-performance.

Bluetooth version support was tied to a stable, high-performance wireless connection in one review.

Build quality is consistently praised as sturdy, premium, or strong for the price, with only minor creaking noted in one review.

Build quality was generally strong and rugged, with praise for durability and materials, offset by one report of creaking.

Hi-res playback support was a weakness because reviewers repeatedly noted no hi-res Bluetooth audio support.

Physical button controls are praised for usability and responsiveness.

Button controls were a standout strength, with reviewers preferring the tactile joystick and physical buttons over touch controls.

Cable quality receives a positive note for the included USB-C and 3.5mm cables.

Cable quality received praise in one review for the black cable with brass tips and premium-feeling presentation.

The hard case is generally sturdy and solid, but its size hurts compactness.

The carry case was usually praised as sturdy, compact, premium, or travel-friendly, though a few reviewers found it bulky or unnecessary.

Charging was praised for fast top-ups, with reviewers citing up to 12 hours of playback from a short charge.

Clamping force is mostly acceptable or well judged, though one review found the fit snug compared with rivals.

Clamping comfort was rated very highly, with reviewers reporting little to virtually zero pressure.

Codec support is praised through aptX Adaptive and aptX Lossless support, but wireless LDAC absence is a separate limitation.

Codec support was a clear weakness because reviewers noted no hi-res, lossless, or low-latency codec support.

Comfort is mixed: some reviewers found it comfortable or improved, while others criticized weight, snugness, or headband pressure over time.

Comfort was one of the strongest consensus wins, with reviewers repeatedly praising all-day wear, soft fit, and low fatigue.

Wired listening options are appreciated as part of the broader connectivity package.

Connectivity options were mixed: wired and wireless playback were useful, but the lack of a built-in 3.5mm jack and coiled cable hurt convenience.

Design is usually viewed positively, especially the clean lines and color options, although the look is not universally loved.

Design and aesthetics were mostly praised for the distinctive Marshall look, premium detailing, and rugged styling, though taste varied.

Durability is judged positively through solid materials and a reviewer description of the headphones as durable overall.

Durability over time was viewed positively because reviewers described more durable, repairable construction and long-term toughness.

Ear cup padding and space are generally praised for plushness, roominess, and comfort.

Ear cup padding was widely praised as extremely soft, plush, pillow-like, and important to comfort and sealing.

Ear cup rotation is judged useful and flexible where reviewed.

Ear cup rotation and swivel helped portability, though one reviewer found the twisting mechanism odd on the head.

One reviewer heard slight creaking during movement, but described it as minor.

Earpad/body-borne noise was a notable negative for one reviewer, who heard footsteps and heartbeat-like sounds.

EQ customization is a major strength, with reviewers praising the seven-band EQ and how well the headphones respond to tuning.

EQ customization was broadly useful and responsive, though one reviewer wanted more precision than the five-band setup provides.

Feature coverage is viewed positively, with reviewers noting modern ANC-headphone features and useful app-based controls.

Features at launch were adequate but not standout, with one reviewer saying the standard feature set lacked a truly distinctive tool.

Frequency-response impressions are mixed because the SE sounds warmer and less flat than the original, even though the tonal balance can be adjusted.

The default frequency response was judged broadly listener-friendly, especially for casual listeners.

Headband adjustability was not evaluated directly beyond factual mechanism mentions.

Headband adjustability earned a small positive note for visible adjustment numbering.

Headband padding is one of the more divisive comfort points, ranging from improved and comfortable to stiff or not meaningfully changed.

Headband comfort was praised for reducing top-of-head pressure through light weight and support-strap design.

Hinge feel and arm construction are praised for tightness, friction, and premium movement.

Hinge durability was praised for being able to twist without showing signs of breaking.

Immersion is praised through wide, effortless soundstage comments, even without spatial audio.

Immersive audio quality was mixed, with some reviewers enjoying the added atmosphere and others finding the effect limited or not truly immersive.

Included accessories are appreciated, especially the case and cable management touches.

Included accessories received praise for the attractive red-velvet case and included cables.

Detail retrieval and instrument separation are praised in both written and hands-on listening tests.

Instrument separation was a consistent strength when mentioned, with reviewers noting solid layering, instrument placement, and separation across bass, mids, and highs.

Microphone quality is good in quiet conditions, but noise suppression is less impressive in background noise.

Integrated microphone feedback was mixed, with clear/crisp quiet-room results but criticism of vocal clarity or noisy-environment performance.

LDAC is a clear omission for reviewers who expect high-res wireless codec support.

LDAC was only discussed as an absent higher-quality codec, making it a codec-support weakness.

LE Audio readiness was treated as a positive future-proofing feature by multiple reviewers.

Clarity at higher volume is praised, with reviewers noting strong clarity and no distortion at raised levels.

Maximum-volume clarity was strong in the reviews that addressed it, with no audible or max-volume distortion reported.

Microphone noise reduction is weaker than some competitors, with one reviewer saying it does not filter as much background noise.

Microphone noise reduction was praised for handling simulated or real wind well, despite some vocal-clarity caveats elsewhere.

Microphone quality itself is good in quiet conditions, even if background noise filtering is less strong.

Call microphone quality received strong praise from one reviewer, especially for windy phone calls.

Mids are frequently praised as clear, rounded, and strong with vocals or instruments.

Midrange impressions were mixed: some praised vocals and instruments, while others heard under-emphasized mids, prominent high mids, or occasional clutter.

Multi-platform compatibility was positive where tested on both iOS and Android.

Multipoint generally works, but switching can require pausing and there is no automatic switching in one test.

Multipoint reliability was strong where tested, with seamless switching or extremely reliable two-device use.

Passive noise isolation is a notable strength, with reviewers praising how much noise is blocked before ANC.

Passive isolation was praised for the soft cushions and seal, which helped block noise even before ANC was considered.

Overall recommendations are very positive, especially for sound-first buyers and value seekers, with caveats around ANC, comfort, and bulk.

Overall recommendations were positive but caveated: reviewers liked the package, especially for travel and rock-focused listening, while noting ANC, codecs, and wired tradeoffs.

Portability is a weakness because the headphones and case are not especially compact.

Portability and foldability were major strengths thanks to the compact folding design and small travel footprint.

Premium feel is praised through materials, finish, and comparisons to more expensive headphones.

Premium feel was praised through richer materials, superior build impressions, and a luxurious presentation.

Preset and DynamEQ-style tuning are useful but taste-dependent; some presets are usable while DynamEQ can be divisive.

The preset EQ experience was praised in one review, especially the bass boost setting for adding dynamic sound without excess bass.

Replaceable earpads and battery-related serviceability are repeatedly praised as longevity-friendly.

Replaceable earpads were praised as easy to remove or replace and useful for longevity.

Replaceable components receive praise where reviewers focus on the user-replaceable battery as a long-term ownership benefit.

Replaceable pads and headband parts were a repairability plus where described.

Sensor performance is mostly positive through wear-detection testing, though resume behavior had a minor glitch in one review.

Sensor performance was a concern because one reviewer reported random wear-sensor triggers.

Sidetone/voice passthrough needs improvement according to one reviewer who wanted clearer, louder self-voice feedback.

Smart listening features such as DynamEQ are useful for low-volume listening but not universally preferred.

Smart listening features were mixed: adaptive volume, Spotify Tap, and battery preservation drew praise, while missing convenience features held the score down.

Smart Pause works quickly in hands-on testing, though one reviewer observed a brief audio glitch when resuming.

Smart Pause performance was criticized for random triggering in one longer test.

The off-white finish receives a small positive note for resisting a dirty-looking appearance over time.

Setup and software are generally smooth, clean, and intuitive, with fast firmware and app interactions noted.

Setup simplicity received praise from one reviewer who called pairing/setup easy.

Sound leakage was viewed positively in one review because the plush ear cups helped minimize leak.

Sound quality is the strongest repeated praise, described as detailed, clear, engaging, and high value for the price.

Reviewers generally liked the sound, describing it as pleasing, energetic, balanced, or excellent, with the strongest praise for rock and instrument-driven listening.

Soundstage is generally wide and spacious, though one reviewer heard it as more intimate than wide.

Soundstage width drew mixed reactions, from solid or opened-up presentation to narrow, cluttered, or not true-spatial enough.

Spatial audio is absent, which some reviewers list as a limitation, though others say the natural soundstage reduces the sting.

Spatial audio was divisive: some liked the extra space, but others found it unnatural, underwhelming, or below true Atmos-style experiences.

Connection stability was praised as stable and high-performance in one review.

Streaming service integration was praised strongly for Spotify Tap, especially for starting playback without pulling out a phone.

Sustainability and repairability are praised thanks to recyclable packaging, recycled materials, user-replaceable batteries, and removable pads.

Sustainability and repairability were praised for replaceable parts and repair-minded design, with a caveat that batteries are not user-replaceable.

Sustainability materials earn praise from TechRadar, especially the recycled plastic and driver material claims.

Sustainability materials received a modest positive note for recycled plastic use.

Transparency mode ranges from natural and useful to merely acceptable and less airy than competitors.

Transparency mode was considered usable and sometimes natural, but reviewers also noted hiss, limited realism, or weaker performance than the best rivals.

Travel friendliness is mixed: battery life is excellent for long trips, but the large case and limited folding hurt portability.

Travel friendliness was a major strength due to battery life, compact folding, wired flexibility, and protective case design.

Treble is often praised for detail, shine, and sparkle, but DynamEQ can make the sound more aggressive for some listeners.

Treble feedback was split between clear, impressive highs and complaints about sibilance, fatigue, or sharpness on some tracks.

USB-C connectivity is positively mentioned as part of the wired-listening and cable package.

USB-C was useful for charging and wired listening, but reviewers criticized the one-port limitation and need for power in wired use.

Value is one of the strongest themes, with reviewers repeatedly calling the P100 SE well priced or exceptional for sound quality per dollar.

Value was generally fair to good, especially on sale, but reviewers noted strong cheaper or better-performing rivals.

Voice assistant access worked cleanly in hands-on testing.

Voice prompts stand out positively, especially the Matt Berry/Southwark option.

Voice prompts and feedback added personality through Marshall-style guitar sounds during power and pairing.

Volume output is mixed: some found it loud enough or very loud, while another wanted more Bluetooth/3.5mm loudness.

One reviewer found the headphones plenty loud, with comfortable listening volume well below maximum.

Water resistance is a weakness because one reviewer warns users to be careful due to no rating.

Water and sweat resistance was a weakness because reviewers noted the headphones are not waterproof and should avoid rain or gym use.

Wear-detection auto-pause is fast, though the broader wear-detection behavior was not flawless.

Wear detection auto-pause was only moderately successful, working but reacting slowly.

Wear detection performed quickly but had a resume-side glitch that the reviewer wanted fixed.

Wear detection performance was a weakness in one longer test because the sensor randomly triggered.

Weight comfort is mixed to negative, with one reviewer calling it among the heaviest in class while another found it substantial but acceptable.

Weight comfort was a major strength, with reviewers repeatedly calling the headphones light for the class and easy to wear.

Wind handling is mixed: one review criticized wind noise in transparency mode, while another found ANC outdoor wind handling very good.

Wind handling was mixed: one reviewer found wind susceptibility in ANC/transparency, while another found moderate wind manageable.