Marshall, a name synonymous with rock ‘n’ roll and unparalleled sound quality, has once again stepped into the wireless earbuds market with the Marshall Minor 4. Known for their classic design and superior audio performance, Marshall promises a refined experience with their latest offering. Let’s delve deeper into the intricacies of the Minor 4 and see how they stand out in an increasingly crowded market.
Unboxing and First Impressions
The unboxing experience of the Marshall Minor 4 is nothing short of premium. The earbuds come in a sleek, matte black box adorned with the iconic Marshall logo. Inside, you’ll find the earbuds nestled in a sturdy charging case, a USB-C charging cable, and a set of different-sized ear tips. The attention to detail is evident right from the start, setting high expectations for the device.
Design and Build Quality
Marshall has always been a trendsetter in design, and the Minor 4 is no exception. The earbuds feature a minimalist yet sophisticated look, with the classic Marshall script logo adding a touch of vintage charm. The build quality is exceptional, with a durable plastic construction that feels solid and premium in hand. The earbuds are IPX4 rated, making them resistant to sweat and light rain—ideal for both workouts and everyday use.
The ear hooks are made of a soft, flexible material that provides a secure and comfortable fit. This is particularly useful for those who engage in physical activities, as the earbuds stay in place without causing any discomfort. The charging case is compact and robust, fitting easily into pockets or bags, and the magnetic closure ensures the earbuds remain secure when not in use.
Comfort and Ergonomics
Comfort is paramount when it comes to earbuds, and the Minor 4 excels in this area. The adjustable ear hooks allow for a customizable fit, catering to various ear shapes and sizes. We found the earbuds to be exceptionally comfortable during extended listening sessions, with no signs of ear fatigue. The lightweight design further enhances comfort, making them almost unnoticeable when worn.
Audio Performance
Marshall’s reputation for outstanding audio quality is well-deserved, and the Minor 4 lives up to this legacy. The earbuds feature custom-tuned dynamic drivers that deliver a rich, immersive sound experience. Here’s a breakdown of the sound profile:
– Bass: The bass response is deep and punchy without being overwhelming. It adds a powerful foundation to the music, perfect for genres like hip-hop, EDM, and rock.
– Mids: The mids are clear and well-defined, bringing out the details in vocals and instruments. Whether it’s a delicate acoustic track or a full-blown rock anthem, the mids shine through with precision.
– Highs: The highs are crisp and articulate, adding a touch of brightness to the overall sound signature. They ensure that cymbals, strings, and high-pitched vocals are reproduced with clarity.
The soundstage is impressively wide for a pair of wireless earbuds, creating a sense of space and depth in the music. This is particularly noticeable in live recordings and orchestral pieces, where the separation of instruments enhances the listening experience.
Noise Isolation and Call Quality
While the Minor 4 does not feature active noise cancellation (ANC), the passive noise isolation is commendable. The snug fit and ergonomic design help block out ambient noise effectively, allowing you to focus on your music or calls. Speaking of calls, the Minor 4 is equipped with dual microphones that deliver clear and crisp call quality. Background noise is minimized, ensuring that your voice comes through clearly on the other end.
Battery Life and Charging
Battery life is a critical factor for wireless earbuds, and the Minor 4 delivers impressively. Each earbud provides up to 12 hours of playback on a single charge, which is more than sufficient for a full day of use. The charging case offers an additional 20 hours of battery life, bringing the total to a remarkable 32 hours. A quick 15-minute charge provides around 2 hours of playback, making it convenient for those on the go.
The transition from wired to wireless charging is seamless with the Minor 4. The case supports wireless charging, allowing you to place it on any Qi-compatible charging pad. This feature, combined with USB-C fast charging, ensures that your earbuds are always ready for use.
Connectivity and Controls
The Marshall Minor 4 utilizes Bluetooth 5.2, ensuring a stable and efficient connection. Pairing the earbuds with my devices was quick and hassle-free, with the connection remaining strong even at a distance of up to 30 feet. The earbuds support multi-point connectivity, allowing you to connect to two devices simultaneously—a handy feature for those who switch between a phone and a laptop.
The touch controls on the Minor 4 are intuitive and responsive. Each earbud has touch-sensitive areas that allow you to control playback, adjust volume, manage calls, and activate voice assistants. The controls are well-designed and easy to use, though there is a slight learning curve to master the various gestures.
Marshall Bluetooth App: Features and Performance
The Marshall Bluetooth app is an essential companion for the Minor 4, providing a range of customization options and added functionality. The app allows you to adjust the EQ settings, ensuring that you can tailor the sound profile to your preference. The interface is user-friendly, with a sleek design that mirrors the premium aesthetic of the earbuds.
One of the standout features of the app is the ability to customize the touch controls. You can assign different functions to the touch-sensitive areas on the earbuds, enhancing the overall user experience. Additionally, the app provides firmware updates, ensuring that your earbuds are always running the latest software for optimal performance.
During my testing, the app performed smoothly without any glitches. The EQ adjustments made a noticeable difference in the sound quality, allowing for a more personalized listening experience. The customization options for touch controls were particularly useful, making it easier to navigate through different functions without relying on preset gestures.
Smart Features and Usage Review
One smart feature worth mentioning is the wear-detection sensor. The earbuds automatically pause playback when you remove them and resume when you put them back in. This is a small but convenient feature that enhances the overall user experience.
Having extensively used the Marshall Minor 4 for various activities—from commuting to workouts and leisure listening—We can affirm that these earbuds excel in almost every aspect. The design is both stylish and functional, and the comfort level is exceptional. The audio performance is outstanding, with a balanced and dynamic sound profile that caters to different music genres.
The battery life is impressive, and the convenience of wireless charging adds to the appeal. Connectivity is reliable, and the touch controls are intuitive once you get used to them. The only notable omission is active noise cancellation, but the passive isolation is effective enough for most environments.
Overall, the Marshall Minor 4 offers a compelling package for anyone seeking high-quality wireless earbuds with a touch of classic Marshall style. They are perfect for both casual listeners and audiophiles, delivering an immersive and enjoyable audio experience.
With its blend of stylish design, superior sound quality, robust performance, and comprehensive app support, it offers excellent value for money. Whether you’re a music enthusiast, a frequent traveler, or someone who values both form and function, the Minor 4 is a worthy investment.
Marshall has once again proven that they are not just a legacy brand but a forward-thinking company that understands the needs of modern consumers. The Minor 4 earbuds are a testament to their commitment to quality and innovation.
