A Review for Montblanc MTB 03. Sonically, it’s like a beautiful melody, though it could use an extra inch in the soundscape for each audio element to shine truly. The ANC provides intriguing options, but it’s good rather than excellent, and the absence of multipoint connectivity at this premium level leaves us a bit disappointed.
Pros:
- Elegant, compact design with a classy finish
- Support for lossless audio codecs
- Offers a supreme sense of ownership and pride
Cons:
- Lacks multipoint connectivity
- Falls slightly short of excellence in expansiveness and detail
- ANC performance is just okay
Montblanc MTB 03: Unveiling Elegance and Audio Excellence
Isn’t it appealing? Imagine pulling these beauties from your Aspinal Mini Paris bag, settling in at a Montmartre café for Café Allongé, and jotting down memoirs (currently in German) with a Montblanc Meisterstück fountain pen.
Compared to top noise-canceling earbuds, Montblanc’s first earbuds, the MTB 03, surpass in aesthetics. They outshine the earlier Montblanc MB 01 Smart Headphones released in 2020. These new earbuds are not only stylish but also comfortably compact.
Featuring aptX Adaptive support, IPX4 water resistance, and a basic yet functional app, the MTB 03 delivers a unique experience. Although not as advanced as the Sony Headphones Connect app, it provides a five-band EQ, noise cancellation, wearer detection, and a visual battery indicator.
Investing in the premium build and iconic snowcap emblem for quality sound is commendable. Sonically, the MTB 03 excels in-depth and neutrality, especially with higher-resolution music like Nine Inch Nails’ Head Like a Hole in Apple Music’s Lossless collection.
Despite the allure, compromises exist. The active noise cancellation (ANC) falls short, lacking multipoint connectivity. Also, no spatial audio processing or customizable controls are available. These flaws, however, may not deter those seeking Montblanc’s aspirational allure.
In this high-end territory, the price invites scrutiny. While the sound is musically cohesive, it may lack the expansive presentation found in competitors like the Technics EAH-AZ80. The MTB 03’s sound shines with high-quality files but reveals shortcomings with lower-quality ones.
Multipoint connectivity is limited to one device, a drawback compared to the Technics May 2023 flagship earbuds. Additionally, the ANC profiles are good but not outstanding. Options like Sports, Office, and Travel offer varied experiences, but they don’t surpass industry leaders.
Montblanc’s earbuds shine in their ‘Live Mode,’ providing Environment, Voice Focus, and Attention options. Voice Focus, utilizing three mics per bud, excels without altering your music. Call quality is excellent, and the case supports wireless and USB-C charging.
The Montblanc MTB 03 emphasizes aesthetic charm over spatial audio prowess. It doesn’t compromise on sound quality, making it a top-tier choice. However, similar investments could yield extra features and slightly improved sound elsewhere in the market.
Montblanc MTB 03: Unveiling Premium Luxury at a Price
Montblanc’s MTB 03, hitting the market on July 1, 2023, demands a considerable $395 / £345 / AU$640. To state the obvious, this is a $95 / £45 premium compared to its rivals.
Looking at heavy-hitters like Bose’s QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds at $299 / £299 / AU$449 or Sony’s 2023 flagship WF-1000XM5 at around $299.99 / £259 / AU$499, and the impressive Technics EAH-AZ80 at $299 / £259 / AU$499, the price gap is clear.
In the world of designer fashion, labels come at a cost. But with Montblanc, it’s not just about the brand – it’s about the palpable build quality. Hold the metallic case, and you’ll sense that extra touch of luxury.
Montblanc MTB 03 specs:
| Specs | Details |
|---|---|
| Drivers | 7mm Beryllium |
| Active noise cancellation | Yes |
| Battery life | 6hrs (earbuds), 18hrs (case) |
| Weight | 6g per earbud |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.2, USB-C, aptX Adaptive |
| Frequency range | 20Hz – 20kHz |
| Waterproofing | IPX4 |
| Other features | Sound tuned by Axel Grell, Qi wireless charging |
Considering the Montblanc MTB 03?
Here’s the lowdown:
| Buy if… | Reasons |
|---|---|
| You want the look and feel | The metal case and premium feel are undeniable, providing an expensive touch. |
| Your ears are delicately small | These earbuds are among the smallest and most comfortable, with a thoughtful touch – a depression to guide your taps. |
| You subscribe to top-tier music services | AptX Adaptive compatibility makes them ideal for Tidal, Qobuz, or Apple Music users, but they may not favor lower-quality files. |
| Don’t buy if… | Considerations |
| Do you prefer fit tests and listening profiles? | Opt for devices like Denon PerL Pro or Nothing Ear (2) if you seek detailed hearing tests and customizable listening experiences. |
| You desire multipoint connectivity | Unfortunately, the MTB 03 lacks this feature. |
| You need top-tier ANC | While effective, Montblanc’s ANC may not match the excellence found in options like Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds. |
Considering the Montblanc MTB 03? Let’s weigh it against some contenders:
| Aspect | Montblanc MTB 03 | Bose QuietComfort Earbuds Ultra | Technics EAH-AZ80 | Sony WF-1000XM5 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $395 / £345 / AU$640 | $299 / £299 / AU$449 | $299; £259; AU$499 | $299.99 / £259 / AU$499 |
| Drivers | 7mm Beryllium | 9.3mm | 10mm | 8.4mm |
| Active noise cancellation | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Quoted battery life | (Up to) 6h (buds); (up to) 18h (case) | (Up to) 6h (buds); (up to) 24h (case inclusive) | (Up to) 7h (earbuds); (up to) 25h (charging case) | 8 hours (buds); 24hrs total with case |
| Weight | 6g per earpiece | 6.24g per earpiece | 7g per earpiece | 4.2g per earpiece |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.2, aptX Adaptive, USB-C and Qi wireless charging | Bluetooth 5.3, aptX Adaptive | Bluetooth 5.3, LDAC | Bluetooth 5.3, LDAC |
| Frequency range | 20Hz – 20kHz | Not stated | 20Hz – 40kHz | Not specified |
| Waterproofing | Yes, IPX4 | Yes, IPX4 | Yes, IPX4 | Yes, IPX4 |
| Other features | N/A | Immersive Audio | Dirac Virtuo | Sony 360 Reality Audio |
