Marshall Emberton II Review – Ultimate Portable Bluetooth Speaker

In the world of portable audio, few brands evoke as much passion and nostalgia as Marshall. Known for their iconic amplifiers and a rich heritage in rock ‘n’ roll, Marshall has successfully transitioned into the realm of Bluetooth speakers with their Emberton series. The Marshall Emberton II Bluetooth speaker is a striking blend of timeless design and modern technology, promising to deliver a powerful audio experience in a compact form factor. In this review, we’ll dive deep into its design, build quality, features, and sound performance to see if it lives up to the legendary Marshall name. Whether you’re an outdoor adventurer or a home listener, the Emberton II aims to enhance your musical journey. Let’s explore what makes this speaker a standout choice in the portable audio market.

Marshall Emberton II Review – The Design

The Emberton II maintains the classic Marshall aesthetic that fans love. It features a rugged black vinyl exterior, reminiscent of vintage amplifiers, complete with the iconic Marshall script logo prominently displayed on the front. The compact dimensions (6.3 x 4.0 x 2.4 inches) make it easy to slip into a bag, while its lightweight construction (1.5 lbs) ensures portability.

One of the standout design elements is the textured fabric grille that not only enhances the speaker’s vintage appeal but also protects the internal components. The top of the speaker features tactile control knobs that allow users to adjust volume and skip tracks with ease. These controls feel sturdy and are intuitively placed, making them user-friendly even in low-light conditions.

Aesthetic Elements:

• Dimensions: Compact at 6.3 x 4.0 x 2.4 inches, making it easy to carry.
• Weight: Weighing just 1.5 lbs (0.68 kg), it’s lightweight yet feels substantial in hand.
• Control Interface: The top features a tactile control interface with knobs for volume and a button for playback control, which adds a nostalgic feel while remaining functional.
• Color Options: While the black version is the most iconic, the Emberton II is also available in other colors like cream, catering to various style preferences.

Build Quality

Marshall has a reputation for creating durable products, and the Emberton II lives up to that standard. The IP67 rating means it is both dustproof and waterproof, making it suitable for outdoor adventures—whether at the beach, a picnic, or a camping trip. The sturdy housing can withstand everyday wear and tear, while the rubberized base ensures it remains stable on surfaces. Overall, the build quality is top-notch, instilling confidence in its durability.

Robust Construction:

• Materials: Made from high-quality components, including a sturdy plastic housing wrapped in a textured fabric grille.
• Water and Dust Resistance: With an IP67 rating, the speaker is both waterproof and dustproof, meaning it can withstand splashes and brief submersion, as well as exposure to dust and dirt—ideal for outdoor activities.
• Rubberized Base: The rubber base prevents slipping, ensuring stability on different surfaces.

Marshall Embertion II Portable Bluetooth Speaker – Specs & Features

Key Specs

Here’s a quick breakdown of the essential specifications:

• Dimensions: 6.3 x 4.0 x 2.4 inches (160 x 102 x 61 mm)
• Weight: 1.5 lbs (0.68 kg)
• Battery Life: Up to 30 hours, a significant improvement over many competitors.
• Charging: Fully charges in approximately 2.5 hours via USB-C; quick charging capabilities provide 4 hours of playtime from just charging for 20 minutes.
• Bluetooth Version: Equipped with Bluetooth 5.1 for a more stable and extended connection range (up to 30 feet).
• Drivers: Two custom-designed, full-range drivers and dual passive radiators enhance the audio output.
• IP Rating: IP67 (waterproof and dustproof)

Technical Specifications

• IP Rating: IP67 (waterproof and dustproof)
• Driver Configuration: Dual custom-designed full-range drivers and dual passive radiators
• Frequency Range: 60 Hz to 20 kHz
• Maximum Sound Pressure Level (SPL): 87 dB SPL @1m
• Power Amplifies: 20 watts (RMS) 2 x 10 W Class D amplifiers
• Equalizer Presets: Find the right sound with 3 equalizer presets
• Multi-Host Functionality: Can connect to two Bluetooth devices simultaneously
• Control Interface: Tactile knobs for volume and playback control
• LED Indicator: Displays battery status and Bluetooth connectivity

These specifications highlight the Emberton II’s robust design and performance features, making it a compelling choice for portable audio enthusiasts.

Features

The Emberton II is loaded with user-friendly features designed for convenience and enhanced functionality:

• Multi-Host Connectivity: This allows you to connect two devices at once, making it easy to switch between different sources without needing to disconnect.
• LED Battery Indicator: A simple LED indicator lets you know the battery status at a glance, helping you keep track of power levels.
• Fast Charging: A quick 20-minute charge can provide up to 5 hours of playback, making it perfect for on-the-go use.
• Control Knobs: The top-mounted controls allow for seamless volume adjustments and track navigation, providing a tactile experience reminiscent of traditional audio gear.
• Simple Pairing: The speaker pairs quickly with devices, ensuring a hassle-free setup process.
• Custom Control Layout: The intuitive knob and button design not only looks good but also allows for easy adjustments without fumbling through a smartphone.

Best Portable Bluetooth Speaker Under $100 – Sound Quality

When it comes to sound quality, the Marshall Emberton II truly impresses, positioning itself as one of the best portable Bluetooth speakers in its class. With its custom-designed drivers and dual passive radiators, it delivers a well-rounded audio profile that caters to various musical genres.

Balanced Audio Performance

The speaker offers rich bass that is warm and punchy without overwhelming the mids and highs. Vocals are clear and articulate, making it perfect for everything from rock anthems to acoustic ballads. The crisp highs ensure that even the most intricate details in your favorite tracks are preserved, creating an immersive listening experience.

Impressive Volume and Clarity

What sets the Emberton II apart is its ability to reach impressive volume levels without distortion. This capability allows it to fill larger spaces—whether you’re having a gathering or enjoying a day at the beach—while still maintaining clarity across all frequencies.

For those seeking the best portable Bluetooth speaker under $100, the Emberton II’s audio quality is worth noting, even though its price may be slightly higher. While there are budget-friendly options, few can match the combination of sound depth and performance that the Emberton II provides. If you value exceptional sound in a stylish and durable package, this speaker is a top contender that justifies its investment.

Why You Should Buy the Marshall Emberton II

• Iconic Design: The Emberton II features a classic Marshall aesthetic that combines vintage rock ‘n’ roll style with modern functionality. Its distinctive look makes it a stylish addition to any setting, whether at home or outdoors.
• Exceptional Sound Quality: With custom-designed drivers and dual passive radiators, the Emberton II delivers a rich, balanced sound profile. It offers impressive bass response, clear mids, and crisp highs, making it suitable for a wide range of music genres.
• Long Battery Life: The speaker boasts an outstanding battery life of up to 30 hours on a single charge, allowing for extended listening sessions without frequent interruptions. Quick charging capabilities also mean you can get up to 5 hours of playtime from just 20 minutes of charging.
• Durable and Portable: With an IP67 rating, the Emberton II is both waterproof and dustproof, making it ideal for outdoor adventures like beach outings, picnics, or camping. Its lightweight design ensures easy portability, fitting effortlessly into bags or backpacks.
• User-Friendly Features: The Emberton II includes multi-host functionality, allowing you to connect two devices simultaneously, and tactile controls for easy operation. An LED indicator keeps you informed about battery life and connectivity.
• Versatile Use: Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a quiet night in, or going on a trip, the Emberton II adapts to your environment. Its impressive volume and sound clarity make it suitable for both intimate settings and larger gatherings.
• Build Quality: The robust construction ensures that the speaker can withstand everyday use and minor impacts, giving you peace of mind during travel and outdoor activities.
• Brand Reputation: Marshall has a long-standing legacy in the audio industry, known for quality and performance. Investing in the Emberton II means you’re getting a product backed by decades of expertise.

In summary, if you’re looking for a portable Bluetooth speaker that offers a unique design, excellent sound quality, long battery life, and durability, Marshall Emberton II is an outstanding choice that delivers on all fronts.

Compare Marshall Emberton II to Other Portable Bluetooth Speakers

Marshall Emberton II Review – Pros and Cons

Marshall Emberton II Portable Bluetooth Speaker – Final Verdict

The Marshall Emberton II is more than just a portable speaker; it’s a stylish audio companion that brings a touch of classic rock ‘n’ roll flair to modern listening experiences. With its durable design, impressive battery life, and outstanding sound quality, it stands out in a crowded market.

For those who value aesthetics as much as performance, the Emberton II is hard to beat. While it comes with a higher price tag, the quality of sound and build, combined with its portability, make it a worthy investment. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet evening at home or throwing a party by the pool, the Emberton II delivers an exceptional listening experience that resonates with both casual listeners and audiophiles alike. If you want a speaker that looks as good as it sounds, the Marshall Emberton II should definitely be on your radar.

Where to buy Marshall Embertion II