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Marshall Mode Eq Review | 93 Data compared

Avg. price: ~£60
Form factor: in-ear
Connectivity: wired
Battery life: N/A hours
Active noise cancellation (ANC): no

Marshall Mode Eq review. Compare 93 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among headphones and if it is worth buying.

5.6

Good

4.8

Poor

8.7

Excellent

2.1
Gaming
Score components:
35.0%
0.0
Audio latency
25.0%
0.0
Low-latency game mode
20.0%
10
Can be used as a headset
12.0%
1.0
Noise-canceling microphone
8.0%
0.0
Battery life
2.1
Travel
Score components:
28.0%
1.0
Active noise cancellation (ANC)
24.0%
0.0
Battery life
18.0%
10
Weight
16.0%
0.0
Multipoint support
14.0%
0.0
Ambient sound mode
2.7
Calls
Score components:
28.0%
1.0
Noise-canceling microphone
24.0%
10
Can be used as a headset
18.0%
0.0
Multipoint support
16.0%
0.0
Battery life
14.0%
0.0
Companion app
5.0
Workout
Score components:
28.0%
10
Weight
24.0%
1.0
Water resistance
20.0%
4.0
IP rating
16.0%
0.0
Battery life
12.0%
10
Can be used as a headset

Best prices in UK

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Best rankings

Verdict

The Marshall Mode EQ is a wired in-ear headphone featuring custom-tuned 9mm dynamic drivers that deliver a wide frequency response of 20Hz–20kHz with a sensitivity of 99dB and an impedance of 39 ohms. Its standout characteristic is a dedicated EQ switch on the inline remote, allowing users to toggle between two distinct sound profiles: 'EQ I' for a warm, bass-heavy signature and 'EQ II' for a brighter output emphasizing mids and highs. Key pros include a durable build with a spring-reinforced 3.5mm L-plug, a tangle-resistant rubber-coated cable, and a secure fit supported by four sizes of ear sleeves. However, notable cons include the lack of integrated volume controls on the remote and the absence of a protective carrying case in the box.

Technical Specifications of Marshall Mode Eq

Overall score

5.6

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Popularity

What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the headphones.

When it matters: When you prefer headphones that have already been chosen and reviewed by many other users.

Sound

3.9

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Active noise cancellation (ANC)

What it is: Reduces background noise using active technology

When it matters: When blocking office, travel, or aircraft noise is a priority.

Importance: HIGH

Driver type

What it is: Type of speaker driver technology used

When it matters: When the underlying sound character and driver technology matter to you.

Importance: MEDIUM

dynamic

Driver size

What it is: Diameter of the speaker driver unit

When it matters: When you want extra hardware context behind how the headphones may handle bass weight, scale, or overall presentation.

Importance: MEDIUM

Number of drivers

What it is: Total number of speaker drivers per earcup

When it matters: When multi-driver designs are part of your buying criteria.

Importance: LOW

Lowest frequency

What it is: Lowest audio frequency the headphones can reproduce

When it matters: When deeper bass extension matters for your music or movie listening.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <=10 Hz

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Calls & Controls

5.4

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Noise-canceling microphone

What it is: Built-in microphone reduces background noise during calls

When it matters: When you take calls in busy spaces and want your voice to stay clearer.

Importance: MEDIUM

Can be used as a headset

What it is: Shows whether the headphones can handle voice chat and calls in addition to normal audio playback.

When it matters: When one pair needs to cover music, calls, meetings, and gaming chat.

Importance: MEDIUM

Number of microphones

What it is: Total number of built-in microphones

When it matters: When call pickup quality and beamforming support matter to you.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=2

Boom microphone

What it is: Includes detachable boom microphone for voice clarity

When it matters: When you need stronger voice clarity for gaming, streaming, or work calls.

Importance: LOW

Microphone SNR

What it is: Signal-to-noise ratio of the microphone

When it matters: When call clarity matters and you want your voice picked up more cleanly instead of buried in background hiss.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >80 dB

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Connectivity

2.9

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Connectivity

What it is: Available connection methods (wired, wireless, Bluetooth, etc.)

When it matters: When the headphones need to match how you listen across wired and wireless devices.

Importance: HIGH

Bluetooth version

What it is: Version of Bluetooth technology supported

When it matters: When wireless stability, efficiency, and feature support matter more than treating Bluetooth as a box-check spec.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=5.0

N/A

Maximum Bluetooth range

What it is: Maximum wireless operating distance from source device

When it matters: When you move around rooms and want fewer dropouts from your source device.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=10 m

N/A

Audio latency

What it is: Delay between audio and video in wireless mode

When it matters: When you watch video or play games and need sound to stay in sync.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: <60 ms

N/A

Multipoint support

What it is: Supports simultaneous connections to multiple devices

When it matters: When you switch often between a phone and a laptop during the day.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A

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Features

5.9

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Ambient sound mode

What it is: Allows external sounds to pass through for awareness

When it matters: When you need to stay aware of traffic, voices, or announcements.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A

EQ support

What it is: Allows customization of sound profile via equalizer

When it matters: When the stock tuning is not enough and you want to shape bass, mids, or treble to match your taste.

Importance: MEDIUM

Companion app

What it is: Dedicated mobile app for customization and updates

When it matters: When software customization, updates, and extra controls matter.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A

Adjustable ANC levels

What it is: Allows adjustment of noise cancellation intensity levels

When it matters: When you move between quiet rooms, offices, streets, and public transport and do not want one ANC setting for every situation.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=4

N/A

Voice assistant support

What it is: Compatible with voice assistants like Siri, Alexa, or Google Assistant

When it matters: When hands-free control is part of your daily routine.

Importance: LOW

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Battery

4.9

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Battery life

What it is: Playback time on a single charge

When it matters: When you commute, travel, or work long shifts and do not want charging breaks to interrupt listening.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >45 hours

N/A

Battery life with ANC

What it is: Playback time with active noise cancellation enabled

When it matters: When you plan to keep noise cancellation on for most of the day.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >40 hours

N/A

Charging time

What it is: Time required for a full battery charge

When it matters: When you often need the headphones ready again after short breaks.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <=2 hours

N/A

Quick charge

What it is: Provides quick playback time with short charging period

When it matters: When a short top-up needs to deliver useful playback before you leave.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A

Battery capacity

What it is: Total energy storage of the internal battery

When it matters: When you are estimating how much battery headroom the design may have before relying only on the official runtime claim.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=720 mAh

N/A

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Design

8.3

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Brand name

What it is: The manufacturer or brand of the product.

When it matters: When you prefer a specific ecosystem, support network, or design philosophy.

Importance: MEDIUM

Marshall

Form factor

What it is: Overall design type of the headphones (over-ear, on-ear, in-ear, etc.)

When it matters: When comfort, portability, and isolation depend on the overall headphone style.

Importance: HIGH

in-ear

Weight

What it is: Total weight of the headphones

When it matters: When long listening sessions make wearing comfort more important.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <150 g

Acoustic design

What it is: Type of acoustic design (open-back, closed-back, semi-open)

When it matters: When you need the right balance of isolation, leakage, and soundstage.

Importance: HIGH

closed-back

Clamp force

What it is: Amount of clamping pressure applied to the head

When it matters: When comfort and fit security matter during long sessions.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A

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Marshall Mode Eq vs the average headphone

Why is Marshall Mode Eq better than the average headphone?

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EQ customization
Marshall Mode Eq supports EQ customization, the average headphone does not. 23.3% of headphones support EQ.
What it is: Allows customization of sound profile via equalizer
When it matters: When the stock tuning is not enough and you want to shape bass, mids, or treble to match your taste.
Importance: MEDIUM
Marshall Mode Eq supports EQ customization, the average headphone does not. 23.3% of headphones support EQ.
90.8% lower weight
Marshall Mode Eq is lighter than the average headphone (20 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
What it is: Total weight of the headphones
When it matters: When long listening sessions make wearing comfort more important.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: <150 g
Marshall Mode Eq is lighter than the average headphone (20 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.20 g vs 218 g
In-line controls
Marshall Mode Eq includes in-line controls, the average headphone does not. 36.4% of headphones support in-line controls.
What it is: Controls available on in-line remote of wired cable
When it matters: When your wired setup depends on cable-mounted buttons or call controls.
Importance: LOW
Marshall Mode Eq includes in-line controls, the average headphone does not. 36.4% of headphones support in-line controls.
Wind noise reduction
Marshall Mode Eq reduces wind noise, the average headphone does not. 34.1% of headphones support wind noise reduction.
What it is: Reduces wind interference for clearer outdoor calls
When it matters: When you take calls outdoors while walking, cycling, or commuting.
Importance: LOW
Marshall Mode Eq reduces wind noise, the average headphone does not. 34.1% of headphones support wind noise reduction.
Quick mic mute
Marshall Mode Eq includes a quick mic mute, the average headphone does not. 33.5% of headphones support a mute function.
What it is: Ability to mute microphone during calls
When it matters: When you need to silence the mic quickly during meetings or multiplayer games.
Importance: LOW
Marshall Mode Eq includes a quick mic mute, the average headphone does not. 33.5% of headphones support a mute function.
9.3% higher user score
Marshall Mode Eq has a higher user score than the average headphone (8.74 vs 8.000).
What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the headphones.
When it matters: When you want to understand how headphones perform in real listening and how reliable they are in terms of comfort, audio quality, battery life, and long-term use.
Marshall Mode Eq has a higher user score than the average headphone (8.74 vs 8.000).8.74 vs 8
2.15x more popular
Marshall Mode Eq is more popular than the average headphone (10.00 vs 4.646).
What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the headphones.
When it matters: When you prefer headphones that have already been chosen and reviewed by many other users.
Marshall Mode Eq is more popular than the average headphone (10.00 vs 4.646).10 vs 4.65
90.8% lower weight
Marshall Mode Eq is lighter than the average headphone (20 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
In-line controls
Marshall Mode Eq includes in-line controls, the average headphone does not. 36.4% of headphones support in-line controls.
Wind noise reduction
Marshall Mode Eq reduces wind noise, the average headphone does not. 34.1% of headphones support wind noise reduction.
Quick mic mute
Marshall Mode Eq includes a quick mic mute, the average headphone does not. 33.5% of headphones support a mute function.
EQ customization
Marshall Mode Eq supports EQ customization, the average headphone does not. 23.3% of headphones support EQ.

Calls & Controls

Why is Marshall Mode Eq worse than the average headphone?

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Fixed cable
Marshall Mode Eq has a fixed cable, while the average headphone has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
No travel bag
Marshall Mode Eq does not include a travel bag, the average headphone does. 65.2% of headphones include a travel bag.
31 mm smaller driver size
Marshall Mode Eq has smaller driver size than the average headphone (9 mm vs 40 mm). The average headphones use a driver size of 40 mm.
1.7 % higher distortion
Marshall Mode Eq has a higher total harmonic distortion than the average headphone (2 % vs 0.3 %). The average headphones have total harmonic distortion of 0.3 %.
2 Hz weaker bass extension
Marshall Mode Eq has a higher lowest frequency than the average headphone (20 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.
3 dB/mW lower sensitivity
Marshall Mode Eq has a lower sensitivity than the average headphone (99 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.
11 dB lower max SPL
Marshall Mode Eq has a lower max SPL than the average headphone (99 dB vs 110 dB). The average headphones reach a max SPL of 110 dB.
95% lower input power handling
Marshall Mode Eq has a lower max input power than the average headphone (5 mW vs 100 mW). The average headphones handle max input power of 100 mW.
No voice assistant support
Marshall Mode Eq does not support voice assistants, the average headphone does. 60.8% of headphones support voice assistants.
31 mm smaller driver size
Marshall Mode Eq has smaller driver size than the average headphone (9 mm vs 40 mm). The average headphones use a driver size of 40 mm.
What it is: Diameter of the speaker driver unit
When it matters: When you want extra hardware context behind how the headphones may handle bass weight, scale, or overall presentation.
Importance: MEDIUM
Marshall Mode Eq has smaller driver size than the average headphone (9 mm vs 40 mm). The average headphones use a driver size of 40 mm.9 mm vs 40 mm
1.7 % higher distortion
Marshall Mode Eq has a higher total harmonic distortion than the average headphone (2 % vs 0.3 %). The average headphones have total harmonic distortion of 0.3 %.
What it is: Percentage of harmonic distortion in audio output
When it matters: When cleaner sound reproduction matters at louder volumes.
Importance: LOW
Good value: <=1%
Marshall Mode Eq has a higher total harmonic distortion than the average headphone (2 % vs 0.3 %). The average headphones have total harmonic distortion of 0.3 %.2 % vs 0.3 %
No voice assistant support
Marshall Mode Eq does not support voice assistants, the average headphone does. 60.8% of headphones support voice assistants.
What it is: Compatible with voice assistants like Siri, Alexa, or Google Assistant
When it matters: When hands-free control is part of your daily routine.
Importance: LOW
Marshall Mode Eq does not support voice assistants, the average headphone does. 60.8% of headphones support voice assistants.
Fixed cable
Marshall Mode Eq has a fixed cable, while the average headphone has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
What it is: Cable can be removed or replaced
When it matters: When you care about easier cable replacement, simpler storage, or the option to swap to shorter, longer, or upgraded leads.
Importance: MEDIUM
Marshall Mode Eq has a fixed cable, while the average headphone has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
2 Hz weaker bass extension
Marshall Mode Eq has a higher lowest frequency than the average headphone (20 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.
What it is: Lowest audio frequency the headphones can reproduce
When it matters: When deeper bass extension matters for your music or movie listening.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: <=10 Hz
Marshall Mode Eq has a higher lowest frequency than the average headphone (20 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.20 Hz vs 18 Hz
3 dB/mW lower sensitivity
Marshall Mode Eq has a lower sensitivity than the average headphone (99 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.
What it is: Sound pressure output level per unit of input power
When it matters: When you plan to use weaker sources like phones, handhelds, or entry-level dongles and still want enough volume.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: >=106 dB/mW
Marshall Mode Eq has a lower sensitivity than the average headphone (99 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.99 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW
No travel bag
Marshall Mode Eq does not include a travel bag, the average headphone does. 65.2% of headphones include a travel bag.
What it is: Comes with a protective carrying case or pouch
When it matters: When protection in transit matters right out of the box.
Importance: LOW
Marshall Mode Eq does not include a travel bag, the average headphone does. 65.2% of headphones include a travel bag.
11 dB lower max SPL
Marshall Mode Eq has a lower max SPL than the average headphone (99 dB vs 110 dB). The average headphones reach a max SPL of 110 dB.
What it is: Maximum safe sound pressure level
When it matters: When high-volume headroom is part of your use case.
Importance: LOW
Good value: >=116 dB
Marshall Mode Eq has a lower max SPL than the average headphone (99 dB vs 110 dB). The average headphones reach a max SPL of 110 dB.99 dB vs 110 dB

Graphic comparison of Marshall Mode Eq and

Attribute category

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Third-party reviews

United Kingdom

United States

(Reviews last updated: Jun 2026)

What customers like about Marshall Mode Eq?

Versatile EQ switch allowing users to toggle between warm, bass-heavy and bright, mid-focused sound profiles
Stylish and iconic black and gold aesthetic inspired by Marshall amplifiers
Durable gold-plated L-plug with a protective spring to prevent cable strain and snapping
Tangle-resistant rubber-coated cord for better portability and management
Comfortable and secure fit with four sizes of silicone ear tips included
Crisp and clear high-frequency performance without excessive distortion at high volumes
Integrated microphone and remote for convenient hands-free calling and music control

What customers dislike about Marshall Mode Eq?

Lack of inline volume control on the remote, requiring adjustments on the source device
Issues with long-term durability reported by users, specifically one side failing or cable insulation tearing
Poor microphonics, with noticeable cable noise or rubbing sounds carrying into the ears
Low-quality remote placement on the cable can make it difficult to reach when worn under layers of clothing
Thin ear tips may lead to poor sound isolation in noisy environments like public transport
The EQ button or remote unit can feel bulky or heavy for some users
No carrying case or protective pouch included in the standard retail packaging

Expert reviews

soundstagexperience.com

01/05/2015

Marshall Headphones Mode EQ Earphones - SoundStage! Xperience

The Marshall Headphones Mode EQ are a solid pair of $99 USD dynamic driver earphones that offer a neutral, well-balanced sound profile with a unique flair. A major highlight is the inline equalization switch, which provides two highly usable sound profiles: EQ1 for a warm, bass-heavy presence, and EQ2 for a brighter focus on the mids and highs. Unlike competing products with...Read more

uk.pcmag.com

28/01/2015

Marshall Mode EQ Review - PCMag UK

The Marshall Mode EQ is a $99 in-canal earphone pair featuring a distinct black-and-gold design reminiscent of classic Marshall amplifiers, complete with a protective metallic L-shaped 3.5mm plug. Its standout feature is an integrated EQ switch on the inline remote compartment, which allows users to easily toggle between a neutral, treble-focused mix when switched down, and a...Read more

loudersound.com

20/02/2025

Best Marshall headphones 2026: Top picks across the range

The Marshall Monitor III A.N.C. headphones are highly recommended as the best overall option for rock music fans looking for impressive performance, daily usability, and exceptional battery endurance. They feature a comfortable over-ear design with flexible headbands and soft ear cups that are easy to wear during long commutes or extended listening sessions. Equipped with 32mm...Read more

consumerreports.org

N/A

Marshall Mode EQ Headphones Review - Consumer Reports

The Consumer Reports review of the Marshall Mode EQ wired in-ear headphones highlights a versatile two-position EQ switch, where the "down" setting offers very good, warm sound, while the "up" setting produces boomy, overblown bass. Technical performance in standard mode features deep, though slightly undefined, bass with a gritty midrange and thin treble. Consumer ReportsPros...Read more

reviewed.com

22/12/2014

Marshall Mode EQ Headphones Review - Reviewed

The Marshall Mode EQ in-ear headphones ($99.00 MSRP) successfully balance a premium, eye-catching aesthetic with high-quality, customizable audio performance. Visually, they boast a sophisticated black-and-gold color scheme and an in-line controller with a gold shirt clip. Acoustically, they offer an impressive performance that closely mimics an equal-loudness contour, delivering...Read more

soundstagesolo.com

01/05/2015

Marshall Headphones Mode EQ Earphones - SoundStage! Solo

The Marshall Mode EQ earphones ($99 USD) are dynamic driver in-ear monitors featuring an inline microphone/remote and a signature guitar-cable aesthetic with gold accents. A standout feature is the built-in mechanical equalization switch that allows users to toggle between two distinct sound profiles: EQ1 for a warm, bass-heavy presentation, and EQ2 for a brighter,...Read more

pcmag.com

28/01/2015

Marshall Mode EQ Review - PCMag

The Marshall Mode EQ wired earphones feature a unique integrated inline switch that allows users to toggle between a flat, crisp sound profile and a warmer, bass-heavy option, delivering a clean, distortion-free performance at high volumes. With a comfortable fit and a distinct, gold-accented, retro-inspired aesthetic, the earphones are designed for secure, daily use. However, key...Read more

musiker-board.de

03/04/2020

Marshall Mode EQ - Marshall sound for your ears

The Marshall Mode EQ is an in-ear headphone featuring 9mm dynamic drivers, a 100 dB SPL, and an integrated microphone with smartphone controls. Tested primarily as a stage monitor for a church band, the reviewer notes that the device provides a well-balanced and powerful sound through the upper mids, performing well even for bass frequencies when firmly seated. A key functional...Read more

kopfhoerer.de

12/05/2017

Marshall Mode EQ review on kopfhoerer.de

The Marshall Mode EQ in-ear headphones offer a budget-friendly option (priced around €60) featuring a neutral, well-balanced sound profile with clear mids and highs without overemphasising the bass. Visually, they deliver a subtle but unique aesthetic by incorporating classic Marshall design cues, including a gold-on-black colour palette, the brand's iconic "M" logo on the earbuds,...Read more

leclaireur.fnac.com

17/12/2018

Marshall Mode EQ Lab Test: An equalizer that makes the difference

The Marshall Mode EQGo are compact, wired in-ear headphones that earn a solid 4 out of 5 stars from the Labo Fnac test lab. These everyday earbuds feature an offset design that fits securely in the ear and a style inspired by classic rock amplifiers. Their main highlight is a built-in equalizer switch on the cable remote control. This switch lets users quickly jump between a...Read more

frandroid.com

04/03/2021

Marshall Mode II - Earphones - Frandroid (Note: mentions Mode EQ as the wired predecessor)

The Frandroid review awards the Marshall Mode II true wireless earbuds an overall score of 8/10, highlighting their excellent, detailed sound quality powered by 6 mm drivers, Bluetooth 5.1, and aptX codec support. Released for 179 euros, these compact, IPX4-certified in-ear headphones feature a stylish design inspired by iconic guitar amplifiers. Key strengths noted are the highly...Read more

techcetera.co

04/01/2023

Marshall Mode EQ: Some of the best sound you'll ever hear!

for the Marshall Mode EQ wired earphones: The Marshall Mode EQ is reviewed as a highly durable and stylish pair of wired earphones that beautifully embodies Marshall's iconic, vintage rock identity. The reviewer heavily praises its robust build quality, specifically highlighting the protective metal reinforcement on the cable, a sturdy L-shaped connector plug, and an inline control...Read more

Video reviews

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