Compare Marshall Monitor III A.N.C. Over-Ear Bluetooth Headphones vs Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S3 Headphones

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 is the strongest consensus point, with many reviewers calling the Px7 S3 class-leading, refined, or highly enjoyable.

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

SoundGuys' measurements and commentary point to unusually strong immersiveness for spatially oriented content.

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

Tom's Guide specifically praises the ANC for making little to no audible change to the sonic character.

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

Tom's Guide describes ANC's impact on the audio itself as minimal, a positive contrast to algorithms that alter the sound.

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

Spatial audio is not yet proven in reviews, but Audioholics is genuinely interested in B&W's planned implementation.

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

A couple of reviewers report a mild pressurized or adjusting sensation with ANC, making the background behavior good but not perfectly invisible.

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

TechRadar praises the frequency balance for avoiding obvious overstatement or understatement across the range.

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

Soundstage is generally spacious and well defined, though a few reviewers describe it as focused or not the widest.

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

Microphone noise reduction is generally good, reducing background noise, but some road noise or muffling remains.

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

LE Audio readiness is treated as an upcoming feature, but the reviewer expresses limited excitement before hands-on results.

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 is usually praised for control, depth, slam, and texture, though a few reviewers find it elevated or less sub-bass-heavy than some rivals.

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

Reviewers broadly find ANC improved and often very good, though several still place Sony, Bose, or AirPods Max ahead in specific noise scenarios.

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

Wear detection performance receives a mixed note, with one reviewer finding the sensor less reliable than Bose or Sony.

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

Wind performance is split, with TechRadar flagging susceptibility while another reviewer praises windy call handling.

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

Passive isolation benefits from an easy seal and contributes meaningfully to noise reduction.

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

Codec support is viewed as ample and premium, with aptX Lossless and high-resolution options standing out.

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

Auracast is discussed as an upcoming capability, but reviewer enthusiasm is cautious rather than proven by hands-on performance.

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

Value is viewed positively for the sound, build, and feature mix, though the price is still considered premium and market-dependent.

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

Multipoint is a standout when mentioned, with reviewers praising fast and seamless switching.

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

aptX support is treated as a meaningful high-quality and future-looking benefit, especially for non-iOS listeners with compatible devices.

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.

Review evidence treats the included analog cable option as a practical premium accessory for wired use, not just a box-checking extra.

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

The built-in DAC and hi-res USB playback are appreciated, though one reviewer hears little improvement over strong wireless codecs.

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

Streaming integration is mixed: it supports direct services, but reviewers doubt many users will prefer it and note local-library gaps.

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

Portability is mixed: the case and lay-flat design help, but the headphones do not fully fold and can take more bag space.

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

Cable quality is viewed positively when reviewers mention the included cables, though one reviewer wishes for longer cables.

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

Ear cup padding is praised in one review as plush, while another says the cushions feel less supportive than previous B&W models.

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 are considered flexible, especially USB-C and wired modes, but dead-battery wired listening is a noted limitation.

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

Transparency mode is generally good to excellent, with several reviewers calling it natural, close to not wearing headphones, or conversation-friendly.

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

Travel friendliness is helped by the protective case and lay-flat design, but some reviewers dislike the larger non-folding footprint.

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

Treble is often praised for crispness and detail, though some reviewers hear sibilance or grating highs in certain situations.

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

The swivel and rotation range earns praise from one reviewer who specifically likes the inward and outward twisting motion.

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

Headband adjustment earns praise for smooth, well-damped movement and resistance.

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

Headband padding is usually praised, but one reviewer notes slight top-of-head pressure.

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

Replaceable pads and headband improve repairability, but reviewers note the process may require B&W service.

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

Replaceable earpads are a positive repairability point, although service involvement makes the process less convenient.

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 is useful for wired audio, but one reviewer reports occasional skipping over USB-C.

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

Instrument separation is one of the most consistent audio strengths, with reviewers praising clarity, layering, and imaging.

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 are strongly positive, especially for buyers prioritizing sound, build, and style over absolute ANC dominance.

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

The slimmer, more discreet profile is repeatedly praised for looking less bulky while preserving Bowers & Wilkins' premium identity.

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

The integrated microphones are judged positively by at least one reviewer for everyday conversation use.

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

Fit stability is positive in the limited evidence, with reviewers saying the headphones feel secure during movement.

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

Repairability is better than many rivals thanks to replaceable cushions and headband parts, though battery replacement remains a limitation.

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

LDAC absence is treated as a drawback by reviewers who prefer that more common high-res Android codec.

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

The TrueSound-style preset is described as giving the headphones a dynamic signature without requiring much user adjustment.

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

Auto-pause wear detection is mentioned as useful but less reliable than leading rivals in one review.

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

Midrange impressions are mixed: several praise natural vocals and body, while RecordingNow finds stock mids recessed.

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

Launch features are good but incomplete, with some promised functions missing at release.

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

Volume output is praised as very loud compared with peers.

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

The hard case is consistently praised as sturdy, premium, protective, and well finished.

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

Audio46 praises the louder output for staying clean without distortion.

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

Included accessories are described as practical and premium, especially the case and both USB-C and analog cables.

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

Reviewers describe the headphones as premium-feeling and worth their price visually and physically.

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

Clamp is the main comfort caveat: some reviewers find it secure or well judged, while others feel pressure or tightness.

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

Weight comfort is mixed: the headphones are not extremely heavy, but reviewers still notice their mass compared with lighter rivals.

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

Comfort is mostly strong across long sessions, helped by padding and fit, though clamp, heat, or glasses pressure appear in some reviews.

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

Design earns strong consensus for being elegant, understated, attractive, and premium-looking.

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

Material choices get a positive note for avoiding leather while still feeling soft and premium.

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

Build quality is a major strength, with repeated praise for premium materials, finish, and construction.

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

Advanced software is intentionally restrained: reviewers appreciate the fundamentals but note fewer rich extras than Sony, Bose, or Sennheiser-style rivals.

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

Call microphone quality is mostly good to excellent, though a few reviewers find it less clear than Apple or Sony.

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

Physical controls are widely liked for being tactile, reliable, and easier than touch panels, despite some limitations in available shortcuts.

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

The app is generally seen as clean, useful, and easy to use, though not especially full-featured compared with richer competitors.

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

Software/setup simplicity is praised for users who want good sound without constant settings fuss.

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

The 5-band EQ is widely welcomed as a big upgrade, though some reviewers still find it limited versus deeper EQ systems.

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

Bluetooth performance is generally praised for reliable pairing and flexible transmission quality, with one reviewer noting rare hiccups.

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

Battery life is considered solid and sufficient at around 30 hours, but reviewers do not treat it as class-leading.

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

Fast charging earns strong praise, especially the short top-up that adds several hours of playback.

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

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

Tom's Guide's audio award recognition reinforces the product's strong overall standing in its price class.

Ecosystem integration is a useful extra for owners of other supported Bowers & Wilkins devices.

The firmware roadmap is seen as encouraging because reviewers expect missing features to help the headphones catch up.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Voice assistant access works, but one reviewer dislikes that using it can require sacrificing the ANC toggle behavior.

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

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

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