Compare Marshall Monitor III A.N.C. Over-Ear Bluetooth Headphones vs JBL Tour One M3 Headphones

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

Replaceable earpads were a weakness in one review because the cups were not removable.

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

Replaceable pads/headband repairability was weakly supported only by criticism that the cups do not pop off for replacement.

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.

Reviewers valued the analog path mainly for travel and older sources, with the Smart Tx and included AUX/USB-C cabling making airplane and headphone-jack use more practical.

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

Codec support was viewed positively because reviewers noted LDAC, LC3, AAC, and SBC coverage as a useful or strong selection.

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

LDAC was viewed positively for better fidelity, higher resolution, and stronger wireless sound quality.

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

The built-in DAC and hi-res wired playback were praised for improving stability, detail, resolution, and flexibility with USB-C or wired use.

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

Premium feel was a common weakness, with many reviewers saying the plastic design looked or felt less luxurious than rivals.

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

Multipoint reliability was mixed: one review noted stuttering and another noted limited device control, while basic support was present.

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

Audio-video sync was a strength with the Smart Tx and wired-transmitter use, with reviewers reporting no discernible latency, no lag, or clean video sync.

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

High-volume performance was split: one reviewer said composure fell apart at big volume, while another praised the ability to handle more volume clearly.

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

Immersive audio quality was praised in flight/movie use, where the experience felt theater-like and more involving.

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

Voice prompts and feedback were mixed, with useful tap feedback in one review and overly loud or annoying prompts in others.

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

Preset EQ quality was mixed: some reviewers liked or benefited from presets, while others disliked the presets or found bass-heavy modes too boomy.

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

Water/sweat resistance was a weakness overall because reviewers noted no official IP rating, even if one tester found incidental moisture did not stop them.

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

Bluetooth pairing and range received mixed feedback, with easy Apple/Android pairing in one test but weaker-than-expected wireless range in another.

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

USB-C was positively tied to high-resolution wired use and data transfer, making the headphones more flexible than Bluetooth-only models.

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

Build quality was mixed: some reviews found it solid or durable enough, while others criticized cheap-feeling plastic or average construction for the price.

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.

Connectivity options were a signature strength, with reviewers praising the ability to connect to phones, laptops, planes, older devices, and many sources.

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

Reviewers saw the launch feature set as unusually rich, especially the companion app, transmitter, personalization, ANC modes, and travel-focused tools.

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

Noise-canceling background hiss was specifically praised in one review, which found the headphones almost silent with ANC active.

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

The feature set was repeatedly described as loaded, next-gen, or unusually extensive for premium ANC headphones.

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

Headband padding was described as adequate for longer listening, supporting the broader comfort consensus.

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

Ear cup and headband padding were widely praised for softness, plushness, and comfort, with some caveats about heat or sweat over time.

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

Multi-platform compatibility was praised for letting the headphones connect through USB-C, USB-A, headphone jacks, and many device types.

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

Wear-detection auto-pause drew criticism in one travel-heavy review for being too trigger-happy.

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

Wear-detection auto-pause was criticized in one review for false triggers during flight use.

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

The integrated microphone setup was praised for making voices sound clear on calls.

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

Transparency mode was generally praised as natural or effective, with some minor caveats about hiss, muffling, or not matching Apple’s best tone.

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

Wind handling was praised in calls, ANC, and outdoor use, with reviewers noting wind resistance and reduced wind noise.

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

Call microphone quality was generally strong, often described as clear or high quality, though one review found it merely acceptable.

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

The design was seen as understated and discreet rather than flashy, with some reviewers appreciating the low-profile look and others calling it unremarkable.

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

Android setup received a positive note for Google Fast Pair, which made pairing quick and simple.

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

Earpad heat and discomfort were raised in one review, which treated the fake leather as a comfort downside over longer wear.

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

Volume output had limited but positive evidence from one reviewer who found gaming audio loud and clear.

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

Charging feedback was mostly positive thanks to fast top-ups and reasonable full-charge times, though the separate Smart Tx adds another device to charge.

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

Spatial audio was divisive: some reviewers loved the movie immersion, while others found it echoey, disappointing, or merely decent.

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

Auracast support was treated as a forward-looking differentiator for shared listening, though its value depends on compatible devices becoming more common.

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

ANC was broadly praised as strong to excellent, especially for travel and commuting, but a few reviewers found it behind Bose or Sony or somewhat pressure-heavy.

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

Physical controls and buttons were generally praised as easy, certain, and well implemented, especially volume controls and tactile switching.

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

Sound impact from ANC was mostly acceptable: one reviewer heard no sonic penalty, while another said turning ANC off made the sound thinner.

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

Clamp comfort was praised across reviews as snug, secure, and not too tight, supporting long sessions without squeezing.

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

Frequency balance was generally seen as warm, rich, entertaining, or more balanced than many consumer headphones, with some tuning caveats.

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

LE Audio evidence was limited but mildly positive, with one reviewer saying it worked well and another preferring LDAC.

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

Weight comfort was strongly positive, with reviewers repeatedly praising the light feel and reduced head or neck strain.

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

Durability over time had limited but positive evidence, with one review noting no damage after weeks of bag carry and stress testing.

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

Software and setup simplicity were praised through the app’s easy design and broad customization access.

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

Wear-detection performance was inconsistent, with one reviewer turning it off after repeated frustration.

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

Treble was praised for clarity, sparkle, and air in several reviews, though some found it bright, edgy, or close to harsh.

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

The JBL app was a major strength, described as comprehensive, user-friendly, class-leading, and packed with useful control and EQ options.

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

Soundstage was generally above average or expansive, but not universally deep or as spacious as some higher-end rivals.

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

Long-wear comfort was one of the strongest consensus areas, with many reviewers reporting hours of use, flights, or workdays without pain.

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

Travel friendliness was one of the strongest themes, driven by comfort, battery life, compact folding, the case, and the Smart Tx airplane use case.

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

One review preferred the sound with noise cancellation enabled, suggesting ANC can make the presentation fuller rather than worse.

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

Headband adjustability received positive feedback for accommodating different head sizes.

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

Smart Pause performance was inconsistent: some reviews found auto-pause convenient, while others reported lag, false triggers, or missed pauses.

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

Battery life was one of the clearest strengths, repeatedly described as long-lasting, class-leading, or exceptional for travel and extended use.

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

EQ customization was a major strength, with reviewers praising the flexible 10- or 12-band EQ and the ability to noticeably improve the sound.

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

Instrument separation was a clear strength in many reviews, with praise for clarity, spacing, and the ability to pick out details in busy tracks.

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

Design feedback was mostly positive for clean, understated styling, though it rarely reached luxury-level excitement.

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

Included accessories were considered generous, especially the USB-C, 3.5mm, USB-A adapter, pouch, and case setup.

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

Sound quality was mostly praised as clear, punchy, detailed, or excellent, though several reviewers wanted EQ or found stock sound less exciting.

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.

Bass impressions were mixed: many reviewers praised its punch, richness, and control, while a few found stock bass boomy, bland, or overemphasized.

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

Portability was praised for folding, collapsing, and fitting into compact travel cases.

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

Midrange clarity was mostly positive, especially vocals and detail, with a few reviews wanting fuller or clearer mids.

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

Overall recommendations were generally positive, especially for travelers, feature seekers, and buyers who value comfort and flexibility.

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

Smart listening features such as Personi-Fi, Smart Talk, hearing profiles, and ambient tools were useful overall but varied by feature.

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

Microphone noise reduction was a major strength, with reviewers praising wind handling, echo reduction, and background-noise filtering.

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

The carry case was consistently liked for being slim, compact, stylish, travel-friendly, and useful for storing accessories.

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

Passive isolation was praised as impressive and helpful even before active noise cancellation was enabled.

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

Value opinions were split: some reviewers called them strong value, while others thought the price, transmitter cost, and plastic feel hurt the equation.

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

Fit stability was praised in limited evidence, with snug clamp distribution keeping the headphones secure while walking.

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

Auto-off behavior was seen as reliable, with reviewers noting the headphones and transmitter avoid unnecessary battery drain.

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

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

The Smart Tx dongle split opinion: many called it unique, practical, or game-changing for travel, while others found it niche, costly, easy to lose, or unnecessary.

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

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

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

Sidetone/VoiceAware adjustment received a positive user preference note from one reviewer who liked hearing more of his own voice.

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

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

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

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

Touch controls were mixed, ranging from responsive and intuitive to oversensitive, limited, or unreliable in some testing.