MobiKin Assistant for Android: Fast, easy device management (review)

Overview:

MobiKin Assistant for Android is a PC-based device management tool for Android devices that offers easy to use data backup tools but doesn’t come cheap.

• Developer: Mobikin
• Cost: $29.95 for full version (free trial version is available)

Setup

The application itself works with any Android or iOS device and is fairly easy to work with. Android devices generally work better, however, as they can enable USB debugging easier through the developer options. There are two ways to connect your device to MobiKin Assistant for Android: USB or WiFi. The WiFi option works surprisingly well, but for the sake of more consistent connection, I’d suggest sticking with USB.

Setup is fairly easy, all you need to do is run the app, plug in your phone and let it work. MobiKin Assistant for Android installs a .APK file to your device for facilitating the transfer of data, and that’s all it takes.

Once your device is recognized, the program gives you a nice visual menu that lists all your data by category and allows you to import and export them, delete them, or make save files for backup and restore. It’s simple, straightforward, and does everything quickly.

Impressions

Everyone should back up their data from time to time. It helps keep your device safe, and also allows you to clear out storage so you can add even more. Those without expandable storage phones could especially benefit from data backup and device management software. That is the primary focus of MobiKin Assistant for Android. It is a PC application for device management that allows you to backup everything from contacts and text messages to applications and photos to an easily recoverable file for safe-keeping or as a device restore option.

MobiKin Assistant works well and has a good set of features for managing the storage space on your device, including external storage on supported devices. It does, however, come at a price, and the free trial version really doesn’t give the full picture on what this software can really do.

MobiKin Assistant for Android can be a powerful tool for a lot of people who want to make a reliable local copy of their data, and the free trial should do a better job of showing just how useful it can be.

The user interface is simple and doesn’t have a lot going on. It just has a few tabs for your assorted data, and what you can do with it. Also, it offers some extensions that you can download to add additional functionality but I don’t necessarily think you’d need them.

There is not too much to say about the actual look and feel of the program, as it just does the job plain and simple. The mobile app the PC version installs does even less, as it only runs when your phone is plugged in and in USB debugging mode, only showing you a static screen. You can’t use it to do any sort of data management from your device itself, which is a bit of a disappointment.

One other thing I have to complain about is the price, as the free version only lets you see the data and not manipulate it in any way, so in order to get any features, you have to shell out thirty bucks or more.

I would have liked to see a bit more from the free version, especially since there are definitely other options out there for Android data management. Also, a lot of people may not see the point of a backup program in general, seeing as there are other options as well as built-in backup from Google and other apps through the cloud. A physical backup is never a bad idea, however, and this app is a great tool for those who like to have a reliable local backup of all their data and info.

Really, this app may be the most beneficial for those who root their devices and want to create a more easily accessible backup of their data in case they mess up. For those who are just looking to make space, I’d recommend the cloud storage options available as they are easier and can be set to back up automatically.

Conclusion

MobiKin Assistant for Android is a fine option for those looking to back up data or increase their storage capacity in their devices. However, it’s definitely not the cheapest option for data backup, and the cloud is slowly becoming more popular and is a reliable, usually more affordable way to back up your data.

If you need to use your PC to manage your Android device data and don’t mind dropping the cash on some decent software, then I’d definitely recommend MobiKin Assistant for Android. It works, and it’s easy enough for almost everyone to use.

Download MobiKin Assistant for Android from their website here

Tired of getting telemarketing or spam calls to your cell number? Give the Truecaller Dialer app a try (app review)

Getting an unsolicited cell phone call is one of the most annoying habits human beings have invented. If you own a phone line that goes to your house (landline), I am sure you’re used to getting dozens of spam calls a week. Even with the government with the National Do Not Call Registry, run by the FTC, telemarketers break the law daily by calling your registered number. Your cell phone is personal though. It almost feels as if you’re being violated when you get a spam caller.

At least there is a way to identify the person on the other end with caller ID. Some people avoid answering any unknown numbers, but for people like me, who use their personal cell as a business line too, we take all calls. The sad part about caller ID is some phone companies charge a fee to identify who is on the other end of the line. Like they don’t charge us enough to begin with.

That’s where Truecaller ID & Dialer comes in. It’s an app available at the Google Play Store and the iOS App Store and is free to download and use.

About the App

This app isn’t rocket science. It’s a phone dialer app that replaces your stock app once installed. If you want to go Pro it will cost $1.99 a month. Going Pro removes ads within the app, but they aren’t intrusive. Everyone has to monetize their products somehow.

I’d love to show screenshots of the app, but it contains personal information that I’d like to keep private. I’m sure my friends, business associates, and family appreciate that too.

Just like other phone dialer apps, it keeps track of who you call, and missed calls. The dialer itself is very clean and basic.

There’s nothing confusing about it. There’s a contacts folder, a dialer and a search option to look up specific numbers from a database of 2 billion contacts. The contacts folder reminds me of the Google Dialer where it shows a picture of your contact, if you have it associated to your account, next to their name.

How to make it your default dialer

The beauty of Android is you’re free to change out any apps you want. That includes the app that makes phone calls.

Once downloaded and installed, go to your Settings:

Enable “Allow notification access” within Truecaller > menu > settings > general.

You can then drag your stock dialer icon off the screen to delete it and then replace it with the Truecaller Dialer.

How did it perform?

I admit, I wasn’t in the know about the app even though over 100M users have downloaded the app. After three solid weeks of using the Truecaller ID and Dialer app as my default dialer, I fell in love with it. I cancelled the $2.99 fee that AT&T was charging me for caller identification.

The app uses a network of over 200M users to identify fraudulent or spam numbers, and I got over a dozen calls in three weeks that it picked up. There were a few instances where it didn’t identify the caller when my phone was ringing and I let the number go to voicemail. Within about a minute, the app did identify the number though and it helped me decide if I needed to call back.

In more important cases though it did help identify SPAM callers.

After testing the caller ID functionality, I then enabled the Auto Block feature which doesn’t allow for calls to come through that are identified as Spam.

The app wasn’t perfect but in more cases than not, it performed admirably. While there are in app purchases to go Pro, you really don’t need to pay for the fee. The ads are minimal, and understandable for a company that needs to support its developers. I highly recommend the True Caller ID & Dialer app.

Get the Truecaller ID & Dialer App at the Google Play Store.

House of Marley Get Up Stand Up Bluetooth Speaker: Cutting edge sound in a sustainable and modern package (review)

House of Marley is a company that was founded by Bob Marley’s family. It is only fitting that the company’s value directly reflects his primary beliefs. Bob Marley was a musical icon, whose unique style put reggae on the map. As a notable Rastafarian, Bob Marley valued equality, sustainability, and charity. House of Marley’s Get Up Stand Up speaker truly reflects all of Bob Marley’s value with its sustainable design and sound quality.

Sustainability is an important factor to consider when it comes to limiting our footprint on this world. The amount of waste humans generate is only increasing, so finding ways to minimize our environmental impact is imperative. My roommates and I try to be responsible inhabitants of Earth by minimizing waste and recycling, but our trash cans still fill up quickly. That’s with only three people, can you imagine the waste created by all seven billion people in the world?

Sustainability is extremely important in the tech world. Lately, it seems as though the majority of consumers are upgrading their devices every time a new phone or tablet comes out. I know people who even upgrade their laptops every year.

Tech-related waste is especially harmful to the environment because of their components. Toxic metals and non-recyclable materials find their way into off-site locations such as Ghana. E-waste is only increasing with the amount of technology we have at our disposal and it is a problem we cannot ignore anymore.

Build

The package includes the Get Up Stand Up speaker, power cord, and remote (batteries included).

The Get Up Stand Up speaker addresses the environmental issues facing our planet by going with a sustainable design. The front of the speaker is made of FSC-certified birch wood with a walnut finish. The speaker sports two dual 4.5 inch woofers and two 1 inch tweeters.

House of Marley went with simplicity when it comes to the controls. There are only four buttons located at the top of the speaker. The small remote control allows all the same options as the physical buttons on the speaker with the addition of dedicated buttons for skipping and rewinding music.

The back of the speaker features a recycled plastic enclosure. There is a bass port on the side to let the large woofers move air in and out allowing for a fuller sound. Red and white stereo auxiliary inputs, and a 3.5 mm auxillary input are located on the back to play music from devices that do not have Bluetooth. The addition of a USB port allows charging of various devices even while the Get Up Stand Up speaker is turned off.

Sound

The premium build of the Get Up Stand Up speaker is accompanied with high quality audio. This is due to the aptX technology which uses a unique compression algorithm to produce higher sound quality over Bluetooth.

I found this speaker to offer well-balanced and detailed sound. The highs were incredibly crisp due to the presence of the dual tweeters. The bass has a warm and full presence that doesn’t overpower the complete dynamic range. Most wireless speakers feature only one driver which tends to muddle up the highs and lows, but with four, this speaker manages to sound very clear.

The location of the speaker also had a huge impact on how it sounded. I played Black Beatles with the speaker next to a wall and the bass sounded incredibly rich, deep and punchy. In open space, the Get Up Stand Up speaker has more of a balanced sound. Even at the lowest volume, the vocals were clear and wasn’t overpowered by the highs or lows.

Due to the well-balanced sound, this speaker is exceptional for most genres. The versatility of the speaker was evident being able to play reggae all the way to pop. John Coletrane’s saxophone sounds incredibly detailed on the Get Up Sound Up. I had to put on Get Up Stand Up in honor of Bob Marley, and I could feel the soul emanating from the speaker. When I closed my eyes, it really felt like he was right in front of me performing the song. It was such a great auditory experience even though reggae is not the type of music I normally listen to.

Usage

The Get Up Stand Up Home audio system is not a portable speaker. There is no battery in the device so it needs to be plugged into an outlet. However, due to its heavy frame (15.6 pounds) I couldn’t imagine why you would want to move it around frequently.

The pictures of this speaker do not do it justice. It is absolutely beautiful with its rustic and wooden design. The attention to every aesthetic detail and premium wood finish looked almost too good for my apartment. It’s like seeing a classic 1955 Chevy Bel Air next to your used 1998 Honda Accord. The best part comes from the conscientious decision of using a sustainable product that will have minimal impact on the environment. You don’t have to sacrifice quality, sound, or design for the sake of the planet.

I primarily used the speaker in the living room and connected it via stereo audio auxiliary input into my television. I previously had a sound bar connected to the television and this speaker blew it out of the water. Those people who don’t want to invest in an expensive surround sound system can opt out for this less pricier option. It was effortless to connect my phone via Bluetooth and play Spotify from the comfort of the couch.

Conclusion

Bob Marley’s legacy is present in the vision of House of Marley. The company reflects the values of equality, sustainability, and charity derived from the music legend. Bob Marley truly cared for the planet and it is echoed in the Get Up Stand Up Bluetooth Audio System. In an industry that produces a great deal of waste, it is refreshing to see companies like House of Marley taking an initiative on the e-waste issue.

This is a premium speaker that you can be proud to own knowing that you are actively making an impact on reducing e-waste. The Get Up Stand Up speaker is made from FSC-certified birch in the front and a recyclable plastic enclosure in the back. 

The use of multiple woofers and tweeters leads to a well-balanced sound that is versatile with any type of music. This is a speaker you want to display proudly with its rustic and wooden design that is a nice fit for any home.

The Get Up Stand Up speaker is only $329.99 on House of Marley or $294.00 on Amazon with free shipping. The speaker is an investment into a technology that will be with you for many years to come. If you eventually decide to upgrade to another device, you can be comforted knowing that this was designed to have a minimal impact on the environment.

91 Launcher and 91 Locker: Can these apps revamp your phone? (Review)

With the countless number of launchers and lock screen replacements in the Play Store, it can be a daunting task to find one that fits your personality. In this review, we’re taking a look at a launcher and lock screen combo that I had never heard of before – 91 Launcher and 91 Locker. Will these be the next apps to adorn your smartphone? Let’s find out.

Setup

Setup for these apps is mostly the standard stuff for all launchers and lock screen apps. After downloading them from the Play Store, you need to select 91 Launcher as your default launcher, and that is the extent of the setup for that app. 91 Locker is slightly more involved because you have to open the app and enable it along with allowing it access to things like notifications and your camera. If you only want 91 Locker to be your lock screen, you will need to disable the default lock screen on your phone, too.

Experience

For the last several days, I have been using 91 Launcher and 91 Locker as my only launcher and lock screen on my phone. My experience with them has been mixed so let’s take a look at 91 Launcher first. Unlike other big name launchers, 91 Launcher does not try to make everything look like stock Android but instead relies on a theme system that allows you to change the entire look of your phone with one click. Pressing and holding anywhere on the home screen will bring up a menu with several personalization options. There are normal options here for adding apps and widgets to the home screen, but others such as Effects, Quick Beauty, and Personality might not be recognizable at first glance.

Effects contains all of your options for changing transitions between homescreen pages as well as folders and the app drawer. Along with normal transitions, you can also set animations for finger presses on the homescreen. While I personally was not a fan of the effects, I imagine there are some who would love to have fireworks explode on the screens everywhere they tapped. Quick Beauty is the theme selection page where you can choose between themes you have downloaded or search the fairly large database for any theme you like. I would have liked to see a theme that imitates stock Android, but for those looking to add personal flair to their phone, the themes available are great. Personalization also brings you to the themes menu, and I wonder why they would have two buttons leading to essentially the same app.

Finally, you have a Settings button that I assumed would take you into the settings for the app, but it actually takes you into a phone settings menu but not stock one on your phone. You’ll see options for WiFi, Bluetooth, and Battery but tapping on any of them will take you to the stock page for that setting on your phone. If you are looking for the settings of the app itself, you need to tap on Preferences instead.

In the Preferences app, you have the normal swath of options such as desktop layout, wallpaper settings, and icon settings, but none of them are as full featured as I have seen from other apps. Just as an example, while you can change the icon size, you do not have the option to apply icon packs. Quick Screen Search is a page at the very left of your homescreens that seems to function as nothing more than ad space. While I assumed it would be more of a BlinkFeed style selection of news, it actually a single search bar with some website links and app recommendations. Thankfully, it can be turned off.

There are a few gesture options in the Preferences menu, and I would recommend taking a look at them because the presets are not great. Swiping up will bring you to the search option that allows you to search through your apps and contacts but at the expense of viewing more ads. The same can be said for the default app that opens when you swipe down. Dubbed “91 Know,” this pull-down shade seeks to be a news aggregation page, but with no way to select news sources and a plethora of ads among the stories, it got in the way more than it helped.

My biggest complaint with 91 Launcher can be summed up in a single word – inconsistency. I first noticed this when the Settings button redirected to a separate settings app but clicking on a setting would open the stock option. Why not just have the Settings button redirect to the stock settings app on your phone? Also for most things, tapping the home button on your phone will take you back to the homescreen, but when you are on the Quick Screen Search page or in a folder, you have to hit the back button to return to the homescreen instead. Inside the Preferences menu, some options were labeled with capital letters while others were fully lowercase.

Finally, the app itself would have to randomly reload. I cannot count the times when I was on my homescreen and everything would go blank only to have the icons pop back up one at a time. About every-other-time I opened the app drawer, it would be blank for a second or two while the apps loaded. I didn’t think much of this at first, but when it was still happening a week later, I began to get annoyed.

91 Locker is a much simpler app and replaces your lock screen with a more customizable option. In order for the app to work as best as possible, you need to give it access to your notifications so they can be displayed on the lock screen as well as your camera so you can take advantage of the quick launch feature. In the app itself, you can select from a ton of different lock screen themes that you can add your own pictures to. One thing I would like to see is the option to search for a theme as the only options currently are to pick from the latest or trending themes.

Since you have to disable your stock lock screen to get the best experience, you might be worried about losing your security, but 91 Locker has you covered with some passcode options. There are two very reminiscent of iOS’s number pad and Android’s pattern lock, but the others add a bit more style. While the rest are all in the passcode style, instead of the standard grid of numbers you can choose between several shapes and even add pictures to each of the buttons for a more personalized and probably more secure lock screen.

Unfortunately, my phone has a fingerprint scanner that I could not use with 91 Locker for obvious security reasons. But if your phone does not have a fingerprint scanner on it, I think you would definitely be able to find a security option that fits your needs. These are all of the customization options you are given aside from choosing what way to slide the lock screen to unlock your phone and what apps can show notifications on the lock screen.

As far as using the lock screen, I had mixed feelings. While the customization features were a welcome addition, I missed the ability to unlock my phone with my fingerprint. Also, the “quick launch” camera option takes considerably longer than I expected. In fact, I don’t think you’re saving much time over just unlocking your phone and opening the app that way. That being said, 91 Locker does exactly what it promises and adds a nice dose of personality to your lock screen, and those looking for that will be pleased with the options this app offers.

Conclusion

So are 91 Launcher and 91 Locker the next apps you should download. It depends on what you want. If you are looking for a launcher that is going to mimic stock Android, you should look somewhere else. But if you are looking for a launcher that adds a ton of personality to your phone and can deal with some of the inconsistencies and bugs, 91 Launcher is definitely one to try out. As for 91 Locker, it does a great job of letting you customize your lock screen, and I imagine you know if that’s something your interested in. If you are, 91 Locker is one of the best that I have tried.

The Monoprice Melody Bluetooth Speaker is a great Christmas gift option

I don’t know about you, but music is constantly on around me. Whether it’s coming from my home entertainment system, my phone’s speakers, a Bluetooth speaker, or headphones, I constantly have something going. I’m by no means an audiophile, but I do enjoy quality sound reproduction for some of the more demanding tracks that I listen to.

When Monoprice offered me the chance to check out the Melody Bluetooth Speaker, I was intrigued because I’ve been familiar with Monoprice for years. Before I wrote for AndroidGuys I was just a normal consumer and bought its HDMI cables exclusively. Since I’ve gotten into writing, I was lucky enough to team up with Monoprice to review its fun and colorful USB type-C cables. Monoprice has always impressed me with the line it walks between truly outstanding prices and products with excellent quality. I was hoping that wonderful combination would show up in the Melody Bluetooth Speaker too.

Build

The Monoprice Melody Bluetooth Speaker is made of a hard plastic body and an equally plastic front grill. I would’ve like to see a metal grill in the front for a bit more premium build, but the plastic is just fine. There’s a bit of flex when you press on it, but nothing that should cause any problems unless something is coming at it at high speeds.

The top is a smooth surface with a rather barren hard plastic construction. You’ll find only three buttons on top- a previous track/volume down button, a next track/volume up button and a play/pause button that also accepts incoming calls. They’re flush with the surface with small cutouts inside them so you may not know exactly which button you’re touching if you’re going on feel alone. But, they do feel nice and clicky with an audible thump when pressed, so high marks there.

The rear of the device houses an on/off switch, USB port for charging your phone, an aux jack, a headphone jack and a DC power input port. The power button is a switch on this device so you can definitely tell when your speaker has been switched off. No holding down a button waiting for a beep. The USB port allows you to charge another device off the 6500mAh battery but is capped at 5V/1A so it won’t be a quick charge by any means. The audio in jack allow you to plug your phone directing into the device bypassing the Bluetooth functionality, and the headphone jack allows you to pull audio out device into your headphones.

Overall the build quality is pretty decent. I’ve not had any issue throwing it in my bag or throwing it in my back seat. It’s going to be a bit big for some bags like purses since it comes in at 10.2″ x 4.3″ x 3.8″, but if you have a bigger messenger bag, gym bag, or duffel bag, you should be set. While this doesn’t have the highest build quality in the world, there are way worse out there. Through extended use, mine still looks like the day I got it so I would have to say Monoprice has done well here.

Sound

What’s the point if it doesn’t sound good, right?

The Monoprice Melody Bluetooth Speaker gets loud as hell. There’s isn’t another way to state it. If you’re looking to fill an entire room, the Melody will do right by you. There are louder speakers out there like the ridiculous Braven BRV-XXL or the UE Megaboom, but they cost much, much more than the Melody.

One of the little quirks of the Melody is that a single tap on the next track/volume up button will skip to the next track and you have to hold the button down to raise the volume. This can make it hard to get the exact volume that you want and can lead to some pretty loud accidents. I’d like to see them switch the functionality of the buttons in future speakers to avoid this.

Where the Melody shines is overall clarity of audio. Some speakers can suffer from muddy audio quality where everything just sounds like it has a cloth over the speaker. That’s not the case here. Instruments can be picked out and voices are very clear. Again, this isn’t an audiophile grade speaker or pair of headphones with a massive soundstage, but for a $50 Bluetooth speaker, I am impressed at the quality of the mids and highs.

Where the Melody can suffer just a tad is in the lows. Yes, there is some bass that comes through, but not enough in my opinion. When I sit the speaker next to my keyboard while typing and play some electronic music, I can feel a bit of a thump so I know the effort is there. But, the execution leaves a little to be desired. Low booming bass is something that makes music come alive in my opinion, and really the only flaw that I can point out with the audio quality of this speaker is that sometimes music feels a little flat because of the lack of bass. I’ve certainly heard less bass in speakers, but you may want to pass on this one if you’re a basshead.

Conclusion

Popular YouTuber Unbox Therapy has a series of videos named “Does it suck?”. This is always the first question I have when unboxing a new product. Is this going to suck? The Monoprice Melody Speaker gets a big fat NO. It doesn’t suck.

Are there other speakers on the market that provide better sound? Yep, but be prepared to pay. Are there other speakers on the market that are cheaper? Yep, but be prepared to be disappointed with the audio.

Monoprice has struck a happy medium between build quality, audio quality, and price. Sure, there are a few quirks like the mixed up volume controls and the USB port only charging at slow speeds, but I don’t think any of those should disqualify it. A Bluetooth speaker’s first job is to sound good and the Melody Bluetooth Speaker delivers there.

If you’re looking to pick up a Bluetooth speaker for your kid who just went away to college, an outdoor weekend warrior, or someone looking to fill up the basketball court with some quality audio, check out the Monoprice Melody Bluetooth Speaker.

Purchase Link: Monoprice | Amazon

Buyer’s Guide: Bluetooth Speakers

AndroidGuys

Bluetooth has been a standard means of connectivity in smartphones since the first days of Android. And, because of its flexibility, other devices such as laptops and computers will often include the technology. For many of us we’re now routinely pairing a set…

Read more

Master & Dynamic MW60 Wireless Over-Ear Headphones: Audio heaven reached (review)

I recently had a discussion with a close friend of mine about the topic that music no longer is a form of entertainment that people enjoy on its own. We have access to dozens of video streaming services that fight for our attention – Netflix, Hulu, and YouTube to name a few. Or we are creating our own media through Instagram, Facebook and Snapchat.

Media is changing and music and audio has become a lost art. Or has it?

I thought about the topic on my own for a period of time and think music is lost in the background for many, because we treat it with disrespect with our generic audio products.

Imagine if the painting Starry Night was done with colored pencils instead of oil paints. It definitely wouldn’t convey the beauty that it does. That’s what we are doing to our music when we listen to it with generic earbuds that come as an afterthought with our smartphones.

There are those of us who still love our music and the accuracy of it; we call it audiophilia.

We are a rare breed but we are as passionate about our audio products as anyone else with a specific hobby. Audiophiles will sit for hours at a time enjoying music the way it was recorded.

We audiophiles are willing to spend extraordinary amounts of money on audio products mainly because it is a journey that is never ending. Our demands are higher than most – we expect everything from sound quality excellence to long lasting comfort and durable build quality.

That’s where today’s review is focused; The Master & Dynamic MW60 Wireless Over-Ear Headphones.

Main Features

• Dimensions: 200mm x 185mm x 50mm
• 45mm Neodymium Drivers
• Impedance: 32 ohms
• Weight: 345g
• Over-Ear Fit
• Omni-directional microphone
• Bluetooth 4.1 with AptX

Beauty at first sight

Ever sit in a German automobile like a BMW or Porsche? The attention to detail and use of quality materials help you understand why the cars demand a premium and that’s even before the car is turned on. That’s the feeling I get with the MW60 Wireless Over-Ear Headphones every time I look at them. The craftsmanship is rare in a set of mobile accessories as almost everything is made of plastic these days, including headphones from Bose and Beats which costs hundreds of dollars.

Premium grade heavy grade cowhide is used to cover the headband and exterior, while lambskin is used on the earcups for ultimate comfort. It’s the kind of leather that looks better over time.

Stainless steel is used in all areas where the headphones need extra durability. Steel does add a bit of weight to these headphones, but not so much that someone would notice. The overall fit and feel of the headphones is so comfortable that they almost conform to your head like whipped cream melts over a hot fudge sundae. Aluminum is used in the antenna which is machined into the body of the earpiece that allows for a skip and lag free wireless signal.

The build conveys a message that I will be using these headphones for many years to come.

Controls and smart features

Similar to what you would find on many wireless headphones are controls for volume, track, play/pause, and answering/ending phone calls. The controls are built into the sides and have good feedback so you don’t accidentally change things when you don’t want to.

What’s a particularly nice feature about the MW60 Wireless Over-Ear Headphones is the ability to plug in a 3.5mm cable into them to use them passively. It’s perfect for when you forget to recharge the battery or simply don’t want to deal with wireless connections.

The finest attention to detail was even given to the microUSB charging and 3.5mm audio cables. They’re wrapped in braided cotton that make the cables extremely flexible, while reducing microphonics. Microphonics is the noise that transfers from the cable into the headphones, and the wrapping on the M&D cables prevents that noise. It’s the little details like this that make the headphones a complete package.

Sound and Usage

Most audiophiles understand that all headphones are tuned differently. While some premium headphones are extremely analytical, the MW60s are rich and warm. This sound may not meet the typical audiophile’s profile for the perfect set of headphones, but it meets my daily desire for quality sound that I can listen to for hours per session.

I understand that extreme detail is one of the best quality in headphones that cost more than $500, but that detail gets tiring really quick. Most ears aren’t able to handle the highs for long periods of time, and that’s why I think the engineers at M&W tuned the MW60s to sound rich.

Rich is a good way to say the lows and mids are pronounced, with enough effort from the highs to round out the overall sound profile. What makes these headphones great are details in the mids, which in my opinion is where the money is at. Our ears hear the most sound frequencies in what is defined as the mid-range, 250-2000Hz. The 45mm Neodymium drivers are tuned deliver an unparalleled level of separation that I have never experienced in wireless headphones. The detail is so clear, that I would challenge almost any audiophile to pit the MW60s against any wired headphone in the same price range in a blind test. I highly doubt 99% of users could tell which headphones are wired and which are not.

Many assume the low-range is all about low and deep bass. There’s really more to the low-end than that though. Lower end speakers and headphones pump out high levels of bass to make up for the lack in detail to make them sound more fun. They also jack up the power levels so users can crank up the volume to make up for inadequate sound. For those looking for just deep bass, just go with Beats Audio. Looking for massive bass is like buying a car that has 1000 horsepower, but can’t take a corner without flipping. There are very few songs that have an unnatural abundance of bass when they’re recorded.

For those who take the time to give music a little more attention, they know bass comes in a wide range of frequencies. Without getting technical, there’s bass that is quick and punchy, low and rumbly, and somewhere in between too.

A song I always use to test bass is Brass Monkey by the Beastie Boys. It has wide range of low-end that can sound one-note on lesser headphones, and can also overpower the rapper’s lyrics. Using TIDAL as a source of Hi-Fi audio, in combination with the Astell&Kern portable player, the MW60s separate every low-frequency detail with perfection. It does it without piercing your ears too.

In Blitzkrieg Bop by the Ramones, I can discern the snare drum and tambourines like I was sitting right in front of them. I find myself playing air drums on my own a little too often when listening to the Ramones. The sound stage is massive. It reminds me of when I played the drums back in high school.

Even though I said the highs round out the sound, they are still very detailed. They’re just a tuned down a bit to remove the piercing sound that can cause ear fatigue.

No matter what genre of music I throw at the MW60s, I find myself immersed so deep in my music that I enjoy it like it I am at the actual concert. It also brings me back to a time when I was a teen and would lay on the bed and enjoy my music. It’s therapeutic and entertaining at the same time.

Master & Dynamic managed to find the right balance of price, power, sound and build in the MW60 Wireless Over-Ear Headphones

Make no mistake, the price alone will eliminate many consumers from ever trying the MW60 Wireless Over-Ear Headphones. They’re not cheap at $549, but they’re also not ridiculously priced like other high-end headphones. It’s clear that M&D is targeting a very discerning audience. For those who don’t appreciate audio, they won’t appreciate the price. Or even the physical weight for that matter. Sometimes quality needs a little weight, just like a Bentley or Rolls Royce will always be heavier than a Honda or Toyota, or how a Rolex will be heavier than a Casio watch.

In a world of disappearing audio jacks, having the options to stream high-res music over Bluetooth or use the headphones with a cable is a luxury most competitors do not offer.

The headphones will sound spectacular no matter how you decide to use the MW60 headphones.

While the price is a bit high for most, I respect Master & Dynamic for putting its money in the headphones rather than paying high advertising fees to appeal to the masses. It gives audiophiles like me an all-around experience that very few headphones can.

For those who love audio, and for those with bigger budgets, look no further. The comfort, strong Bluetooth connection, high-quality materials, high-fidelity playback and attention to detail make the Master & Dynamic MW60 Wireless Over-Ear Headphones my favorite of 2016.

If you want to learn more about the MW60 Wireless Over-Ear Headphones, check out http://www.masterdynamic.com. If you decide to grab a set, make sure you purchase direct so your warranty is honored in full if any problems were to arise.