Marshall Emberton III – a compact speaker aiming for significant impact. Does it deliver, or fall short?
Most are likely familiar with Marshall’s extensive product line. Perhaps you’re a musician owning a Marshall amplifier for your guitar or bass. Or you may have attended a concert featuring Marshall’s powerful active speakers, either suspended above the stage or flanking it as pillars. More recently, Marshall has expanded into headphones and portable speakers. Today, we’re reviewing their latest portable offering.
Marshall’s products have long been associated with a certain level of quality, yet they sometimes seem to receive less attention than brands like Bang & Olufsen, Bose, or Beats. This raises the question: why? All these companies operate in the audio space, but audio preference is subjective, similar to taste in food.
Now, let’s get to the review. The speaker arrives securely packaged in a stylish box. A particularly welcome surprise was the foam plastic wrapping that unfolds into a small bag. This allows you to conveniently lift the speaker out of the box while it’s still protected – a clever design choice.
Regarding the speaker’s design, some might find it minimalist, even understated. However, the design conveys a sense of style and sophistication with its subtly contrasting lines. 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. This knob boasts a classic brass-colored finish, characteristic of Marshall’s aesthetic.
Between the multi-function control and the power button, a microphone provides hands-free calling. However, the call quality was subpar, rendering this feature largely unusable. The speaker features the 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 playback. Connection can be established via Bluetooth through your mobile device’s settings or through the Marshall Bluetooth mobile application. The app is intuitive and facilitates seamless connection to the speaker.
A minor drawback is the limited EQ customization. The speaker offers three preset modes: voice, optimized for phone calls; push, functioning as a “bass boost”; and Marshall’s signature sound, delivering the classic Marshall sound profile. A custom mode allowing users to tailor the sound to their preferences would be a welcome addition. The speaker’s IP67 rating signifies its water resistance, capable of withstanding submersion in up to one meter of water for thirty minutes. This provides peace of mind against rain or accidental spills, ensuring continued performance.
Another notable feature, likely to become increasingly prevalent, is the Emberton III’s support for Bluetooth LE Audio. This newer technology standard, introduced by Bluetooth in 2020, reduces energy consumption and latency, while also enabling simultaneous audio sharing with multiple devices.
Given Marshall’s heritage, a thorough test necessitates evaluating its performance with hard rock and metal. The speaker impressed with its ability to reproduce everything from high-pitched vocals and guitar solos to guttural growls and heavy drum lines without noticeable distortion. The two 2-inch 10W full-range drivers demonstrated their capabilities effectively. Whether playing quieter genres, hip hop, rock’n’roll, or black metal, the speaker handled each with aplomb – a true sonic omnivore. While a slightly deeper bass response would be appreciated, the Emberton III delivers an impressive soundscape considering its size.
The volume output was also remarkable, particularly given the speaker’s compact dimensions. It achieves a volume level comparable to some larger speakers on the market. Overall, the sound profile is harmonious and genuinely enjoyable.
Summary – Marshall Emberton III
In conclusion, the Marshall Emberton III provided a thoroughly enjoyable audio experience. This compact portable speaker, as Marshall claims, “packs a punch,” and it delivers on that promise for its size. It’s easily portable and suitable for travel. Its 32-hour battery life provides extensive playtime on a single charge. However, at approximately two thousand kronor, the price is relatively high. At this price point, additional features such as a customizable EQ mode, accessible either through the app or via physical controls, would be expected, perhaps in lieu of the hands-free function, which proved largely ineffective. Considering its overall performance and features, the Marshall Emberton III earns a solid recommendation.
Marshall provided a review unit for this evaluation. The provision of review materials does not influence our editorial independence. Our reviews are conducted independently, prioritizing the interests of our readers and consumers.
