One is the AirPods Max, and the other is something that’s worth 5x.
In the recent YouTube segment “10 Things Marques Brownlee Can’t Live Without,” hosted by GQ, Marques Brownlee, also known as MKBHD, reveals the gadgets he considers essential. Among these, he names two headphones integral to his everyday life – the AirPods Max and the 64 Audio Volür.
Praised by Google’s former senior VP as “the best technology reviewer,” Brownlee’s tech insights are highly valued. With almost 20 million subscribers and 3.93 billion views by December 2023, his choices influence the tech community significantly.
Why He Can’t Live Without the AirPods Max
Despite their drawbacks, the AirPods Max still secure a spot on Marques Brownlee’s list of must-haves.
At the start of the segment, Brownlee is upfront about these headphones’ issues.
However, there are at least two features of the headphones that truly win him over.
Launched by Apple in 2020, the AirPods Max are priced at more than $500. These headphones distinguish themselves by offering high-fidelity audio, ANC, Transparency mode, Personalized Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking, and seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem.
Why He Can’t Live Without the 64 Audio Volür
Marques Brownlee’s choice of the 64 Audio Volür in-ear monitors is rooted in their unmatched sound quality.
He further highlights the critical role these IEMs play in letting him concentrate on the finer aspects of sound when editing his videos.
Priced at $2,499, the 64 Audio Volür stand out with their 10-driver hybrid system. However, Brownlee dismissed this feature while still praising their sound quality.
The Volür are also valued for their expansive soundstage and the Apex system‘s reduction of listener fatigue, essential for Brownlee’s long editing periods. This level of sound clarity and comfort is why the 64 Audio Volür remains indispensable in Brownlee’s tech collection.
Diverse User Opinions: From Praise to Skepticism
Marques Brownlee’s choice of headphones has sparked a mix of responses.
Some people agreed with his choices. This is especially because of his reasoning behind them, which users have thought to be very practical and expected.
On the other side, skeptics highlight a different viewpoint. Since Brownlee decided to feature an IEM, which he says he uses for editing, some audiophiles have pointed out that his choice isn’t the best.
Criticism also came from those who view the inclusion of such high-end accessories in a “can’t live without” list. These users claim that this indicates excessive luxury rather than essential utility.
However, some people also defended Brownlee. They say that these are just his personal opinions based on his preferences instead of technical recommendations of “the best headphones.”
Beyond Headphones: Brownlee’s Other Tech and Lifestyle Must-Haves
Aside from his headphones, Brownlee’s list of essentials covers a wide array of gadgets and personal items that balance his interests.
This includes:
- Camera and Lenses: He uses a RED Digital Camera and a SIGMA 24-35 lens for creating high-quality videos like the detailed tech reviews he’s known for.
- Sports Equipment: For this, he chose the ultimate frisbee. This is expected due to his 16 years of experience in the sport.
- Computing: His go-to is a 16-inch MacBook Pro. He likes it for its reliability and how well it handles video editing, which is key for his work.
- Phones: He carries both an iPhone and a Google Pixel. This lets him stay current with both major phone operating systems, which is useful for his tech reviews.
- Backpack: He uses a Peak Design Everyday Backpack. He chose it for its durability and how easy it is to get to his stuff, saying it fits his tech and personal items well.
- Watch: He wears an Apple Watch Ultra 2. He says this helps him stay connected and keep track of his fitness, and it has a long battery life.
- Writing Tools: He says he carries a pen and Sharpie to give autographs.
- Shoes: He featured the waterproof shoes he designed – the Atoms Model 251, for this one.