Introduction
The Marshall Emberton II is a continuation of the iconic Marshall Emberton line, embodying the distinctive amp-like design that has become synonymous with the brand. Renowned for its quality and portability, the Emberton II is a compact, battery-powered Bluetooth speaker designed to deliver robust sound wherever you go. This review delves into its features, performance, and overall value, highlighting what sets the Marshall Emberton II apart in the crowded portable speaker market.
Design and Build Quality
The Marshall Emberton II maintains the classic Marshall aesthetic with its retro, amp-like design. It features a rugged build that not only looks stylish but is also built to withstand the elements. The speaker has an IP67 rating, which means it is both dust-tight and can be submerged in up to one meter of water for 30 minutes, making it ideal for outdoor use.
Portability
Weighing in at just under 700 grams and measuring approximately 6.3 x 2.68 x 2.99 inches, the Emberton II is highly portable. Its compact size makes it easy to slip into a backpack or carry around without hassle, ensuring your music can travel with you wherever you go.
Sound Quality
The Marshall Emberton II offers a balanced sound profile that caters to a wide range of audio content. Its mid-range is particularly well-tuned, providing clear and present vocals and lead instruments. There is a slight enhancement in the bass range, adding warmth and boom to the sound, though it does lack the deep low-bass that some may desire for bass-heavy genres.
True Stereophonic Sound
One of the standout features of the Emberton II is its True Stereophonic sound, a unique form of multi-directional audio that ensures every spot around the speaker is a sweet spot. This technology creates an immersive soundstage, making the listening experience more engaging.
EQ Presets
While the speaker does not offer a graphic equalizer for fine-tuning, it does come with EQ presets accessible through the Marshall Bluetooth app. These presets allow users to select a sound profile that best suits their preferences, adding a layer of customization to the listening experience.
Connectivity
The Marshall Emberton II primarily relies on Bluetooth for connectivity, boasting a seamless and straightforward pairing process. It does not support Wi-Fi, voice assistants, or speakerphone functionalities, which could be a downside for some users looking for those features.
Bluetooth and App Integration
The Bluetooth connectivity is robust, ensuring a stable connection with minimal dropouts. The speaker is also compatible with the Marshall Bluetooth app, which enhances the user experience by providing access to EQ presets and allowing firmware updates via Over-the-Air (OTA) updates.
Stack Mode
A notable feature of the Emberton II is Stack Mode, which enables users to connect multiple Emberton II speakers together for a more expansive and louder sound. This multi-speaker session can significantly enhance the audio experience, especially in larger spaces or outdoor environments.
Battery Life
One of the most impressive aspects of the Marshall Emberton II is its battery life. It offers over 30 hours of playtime on a single charge, making it an excellent choice for extended outings and events. When the battery does run low, it can be fully recharged in about three hours, ensuring minimal downtime.
Durability
The durability of the Marshall Emberton II is another strong point. Its IP67 rating ensures it can handle dust and water with ease, making it a reliable companion for outdoor adventures. The rugged build also means it can withstand minor bumps and drops without compromising its performance.
User Experience
Ease of Use
The Marshall Emberton II is designed with simplicity in mind. Pairing the speaker with your device is quick and easy, and the physical controls are intuitive. The Bluetooth app adds another layer of convenience, allowing users to adjust settings and keep the speaker up to date effortlessly.
Sound Performance in Various Environments
Whether used indoors or outdoors, the Emberton II delivers consistent sound quality. Its balanced profile and immersive soundstage ensure a pleasant listening experience in most environments. However, it performs best in smaller to medium-sized spaces due to its compact size and power output.
Comparison with Predecessor
Improvements Over the Original Emberton
The Marshall Emberton II builds on the strengths of its predecessor with several key improvements. These include better battery life, the addition of EQ presets via the app, and the introduction of Stack Mode. These enhancements make the Emberton II a more versatile and user-friendly option compared to the original Emberton.
Design and Aesthetic Consistency
Despite these upgrades, the Emberton II retains the classic Marshall design that fans love. The aesthetic consistency between the two models ensures that the Emberton II feels like a true continuation of the Emberton line, appealing to both new users and those looking to upgrade.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Balanced Sound Profile: The Marshall Emberton II delivers a well-rounded audio experience with clear mids and a touch of bass warmth.
- EQ Presets: The availability of EQ presets through the app allows for some degree of sound customization.
- Fantastic Soundstage: True Stereophonic sound provides an immersive listening experience.
- Long Battery Life: Over 30 hours of playtime on a single charge.
- Durable Design: IP67 rating for dust and water resistance.
Cons
- Lacks Deep Low-Bass: May not satisfy those who prefer bass-heavy music.
- Limited Connectivity Options: No Wi-Fi, voice assistant, or speakerphone features.
Ideal Use Cases
The Marshall Emberton II is well-suited for a variety of scenarios:
- Outdoor Activities: Its durability and long battery life make it perfect for camping, hiking, and beach trips.
- Indoor Listening: Provides excellent sound quality for small to medium-sized rooms.
- Parties and Gatherings: Stack Mode allows for multiple speakers to be connected, enhancing the audio experience for larger groups.
Recommendations
For Casual Listeners
If you are a casual listener looking for a reliable and stylish portable speaker, the Marshall Emberton II is an excellent choice. Its balanced sound profile and ease of use make it suitable for everyday listening.
For Audiophiles
While the Emberton II offers high-quality sound, audiophiles might miss the ability to fine-tune the audio with a graphic EQ. However, the EQ presets provide some level of customization that may suffice for many users.
For Outdoor Enthusiasts
The rugged design and IP67 rating make the Emberton II an ideal companion for outdoor activities. Its long battery life ensures that your music won’t be interrupted, even on extended trips.
Conclusion
The Marshall Emberton II stands out in the portable speaker market with its iconic design, robust build, and impressive sound quality. While it may lack some advanced features like Wi-Fi and voice assistants, its strengths lie in its simplicity and reliability. Whether you’re at home, on a hike, or at a party, the Emberton II delivers a consistent and enjoyable audio experience. For those seeking a stylish, durable, and high-performing portable speaker, the Marshall Emberton II is a compelling choice.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, this Marshall Emberton II Speaker Review highlights the speaker’s ability to blend style with functionality. It offers a well-rounded sound experience, ease of use, and durability, making it suitable for various environments and use cases. While it has some limitations, the overall performance and design of the Emberton II make it a worthwhile investment for music enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers alike.
Recommendation
Considering its balanced sound profile, durable design, and impressive battery life, the Marshall Emberton II is highly recommended for those in need of a reliable and portable Bluetooth speaker. Its unique features, such as True Stereophonic sound and Stack Mode, add to its appeal, making it a versatile choice for different listening needs. Whether for personal use or as a gift, the Marshall Emberton II is a product that delivers on its promises and lives up to the Marshall legacy.