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Marshall Milton ANC Review: Premium On-Ear Headphones Deliver Solid Performance

Engadget •
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Marshall's new Milton headphones finally bring active noise cancellation to the company's long-running on-ear line. Priced at $230, these headphones blend design elements from the Major and Monitor series into a distinct third offering. The Milton targets a rare category: premium on-ear ANC headphones that prioritize comfort and brand identity over pure audiophile credentials.

The headphones feature 32mm drivers and borrow heavily from Marshall's existing aesthetic playbook. A brass multi-purpose button handles controls while a customizable left-side button manages ANC, EQ, and voice assistant functions. Unlike typical wireless headphones, wired listening still requires power, which limits battery backup options. However, the user-replaceable battery and ear pads extend longevity significantly.

Marshall's companion app stands out as genuinely useful rather than an afterthought. Users can adjust ANC levels, customize EQ settings, and access features like Spotify Tap and the company's Soundstage spatial audio implementation. The app also supports Auracast broadcasts and integrates with Apple Find My and Google Find Hub for device tracking.

Sound quality leans toward Marshall's signature "fun and lively" tuning with slight bass-forward emphasis. The ANC performs well against constant low-frequency noise like traffic, though the on-ear design lacks the complete seal of over-ear models. Battery life impresses with over a week of daily use on a single charge, making these practical for everyday wear.

The Milton succeeds as a lifestyle-focused on-ear headphone that doesn't sacrifice core functionality for style.