Marshall Emberton III – A compact speaker with significant potential, or an underwhelming offering?
Many are familiar with Marshall’s product range. Perhaps you’re a musician with a Marshall amplifier for your guitar or bass, or you’ve attended a concert featuring their large-scale active speaker systems. In recent years, Marshall has also expanded into headphones and portable speakers. We recently had the opportunity to evaluate their latest portable speaker, the Emberton III.
Marshall products have traditionally been associated with quality and a distinct aesthetic. While perhaps not receiving the same level of mainstream attention as brands like Bang & Olufsen, Bose, or Beats, Marshall maintains a strong reputation among musicians and audiophiles. Audio preference, like taste in food, is subjective.
Now, let’s delve into the specifics. The speaker arrives securely packaged in a stylish box. The unboxing experience includes a practical element: the speaker is nestled in a folded foam plastic sheet which transforms into a protective bag – a clever design choice.
Regarding the speaker’s design, its minimalist approach might be perceived as understated. However, the “soft-straight” lines impart a sense of refined style. The top of the speaker features only three controls: power, Bluetooth pairing, and a multi-directional control knob for volume, play/pause, and track skipping, accented with a classic brass finish.
Positioned between the multi-function control and the power button is a microphone for hands-free calling. Unfortunately, call quality was subpar and is unlikely to be a frequently used feature. The speaker’s exterior boasts a classic black Marshall finish with a textured surface reminiscent of alligator skin.
In terms of performance, the battery life is exceptional, offering up to 32 hours of playtime. A full charge requires approximately two hours, but a quick 20-minute charge provides six hours of use. Connectivity is achieved via Bluetooth pairing or through the Marshall Bluetooth mobile app, which provides a user-friendly and seamless connection experience.
A minor limitation lies in the EQ options, which are limited to three preset modes: voice (optimized for phone calls), push (a bass boost), and Marshall’s signature sound. The inclusion of a customizable EQ mode would enhance the user experience. The speaker is IP67-rated, providing water resistance up to one meter for thirty minutes, ensuring durability against rain or accidental spills.
The Emberton III incorporates Bluetooth LE Audio, a technology standard introduced in 2020, which offers reduced energy consumption, lower latency, and the ability to share audio with multiple devices simultaneously. This feature is expected to become increasingly prevalent in future audio devices.
As a Marshall product, a rigorous test necessitates evaluating its performance with rock and metal genres. The speaker handled complex arrangements, including vocals, guitar solos, and heavy instrumentation, without noticeable distortion. The two 2-inch 38W full-range drivers deliver impressive performance across various musical genres, demonstrating its versatility. While a slightly more pronounced bass response would be appreciated, the Emberton III delivers a commendable soundscape for its size.
The volume output is remarkable, particularly considering the speaker’s compact dimensions. The Emberton III achieves a sound level comparable to some larger speakers, providing a harmonious and engaging listening experience.
Summary – Marshall Emberton III
Overall, the Marshall Emberton III offers an enjoyable audio experience. This compact portable speaker delivers a powerful sound for its size. Its portability and 32-hour battery life make it an excellent travel companion. However, the price point is relatively high. At this price, additional features such as a customizable EQ mode, accessible via the app or physical controls, would be a valuable addition, perhaps as an alternative to the somewhat redundant hands-free function. Considering its strengths and weaknesses, the Marshall Emberton III is a worthwhile contender in the portable speaker market.
Marshall provided a review sample for this evaluation. The provision of review materials does not influence our editorial independence. Our reviews are conducted independently with a focus on providing accurate information for our readers and consumers.
