$169.99
When Marshall released the Emberton III in mid-2023, they took their already successful portable speaker line and made some meaningful improvements. After extensive testing, we've found this $169 speaker offers an impressive blend of classic Marshall style with modern tech that makes it worth considering for anyone seeking premium portable audio.
The original Emberton launched in 2020, followed by the Emberton II in 2022. Each iteration brought improvements, but this third generation makes some significant leaps. The most notable advances are the 32-hour battery life (up from 20), Bluetooth 5.3 (upgraded from 5.0), and the addition of Auracast support - a new technology that will allow broadcasting to multiple compatible speakers simultaneously once activated through a future update.
During our testing, the Emberton III's True Stereophonic technology proved to be more than just marketing speak. This system uses two 2-inch full-range drivers and passive radiators to create a genuine 360-degree soundstage. What this means in practice is that you can place the speaker anywhere in a room and get consistent sound quality regardless of your position - something particularly useful during parties or outdoor gatherings.
The Dynamic Loudness feature really shines in real-world use. It's essentially an intelligent EQ system that adjusts the sound profile based on your volume level. At lower volumes, it boosts certain frequencies to maintain fullness, while at higher volumes, it optimizes for clarity without distortion. We found this especially useful when moving between indoor and outdoor environments where volume needs frequently change.
In our listening tests, the speaker handled various music genres admirably. Rock tracks like AC/DC's "Back in Black" demonstrated punchy mids and clear highs, while electronic music showed off the speaker's surprisingly capable bass response - though don't expect subwoofer-level lows from a speaker this size. Classical pieces retained their detail and separation, though the most complex orchestral passages can get slightly muddy at maximum volume.
The build quality feels substantial without being heavy. At 1.5 pounds, it's portable enough for backpack carry but has enough heft to feel premium. The IP67 rating means it's fully dustproof and can handle submersion in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes - we've tested it in light rain and pool splashes without issues.
The rubberized housing and metal grille aren't just for looks; they provide genuine protection. The signature Marshall aesthetic with its textured exterior and brass-colored details manages to look both classic and modern simultaneously.
Bluetooth 5.3 LE provides improved range and stability compared to previous versions. In testing, we maintained a stable connection up to about 30 feet indoors, even through walls. The multipoint connection feature lets you pair two devices simultaneously - handy for switching between your phone and laptop without re-pairing.
The Marshall app deserves special mention. It offers three EQ presets:
We found the default signature sound works well for most music, but the Voice preset makes a noticeable difference for podcast clarity.
The 32-hour battery life claim holds up in real-world use, though volume levels impact this significantly. At moderate volumes (around 50-60%), we consistently got over 30 hours of playback. The quick-charge feature is genuinely useful - a 20-minute charge providing 6 hours of playback saved us more than once during testing.
While primarily designed as a portable speaker, the Emberton III works surprisingly well as a compact home audio solution. The 360-degree sound makes it ideal for:
The speaker really shines outdoors where its features align perfectly:
Its compact size and durability make it an excellent travel speaker. We've found it particularly useful for:
At $169, the Emberton III sits in a competitive price bracket with speakers like the Sonos Roam and JBL Charge 5. What sets it apart is the combination of premium build quality, exceptional battery life, and sophisticated sound processing. The future Auracast support adds value as a feature that could expand functionality significantly once activated.
The Emberton III is ideal for:
It might not be the best choice for:
After extensive testing, the Marshall Emberton III proves to be a thoughtfully designed portable speaker that balances performance, features, and practicality. While it may not be the absolute best in any single category, it excels by doing everything well without any significant weaknesses.
The combination of True Stereophonic sound, exceptional battery life, and robust build quality makes it a versatile choice that should satisfy most users' needs. The promised Auracast support also means this speaker could become even more capable in the future.
For those weighing their options in the premium portable speaker market, the Emberton III represents a solid investment that should provide years of reliable service across a wide range of use cases. Its blend of classic Marshall style with modern technology makes it a compelling choice in the increasingly crowded portable speaker market.
Yes, the Emberton III is worth its $169 price tag if you value premium sound quality, exceptional battery life, and durability. It offers significant improvements over previous models and competes well with other speakers in its price range, especially for those who need a versatile speaker for both indoor and outdoor use.
While primarily designed as a portable speaker, the Emberton III can serve as a supplementary speaker in a home theater setup. Its True Stereophonic 360° sound makes it ideal for filling dead spots or providing ambient audio in adjacent rooms, though it's not designed to replace dedicated home theater speakers.
The battery lasts up to 32 hours on a single charge at moderate volume levels. Quick charging provides 6 hours of playback from just 20 minutes of charging, making it one of the longest-lasting portable speakers in its class.
Yes, with an IP67 rating, the Emberton III is fully waterproof and can be submerged in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes. It's also completely dustproof, making it suitable for beach, pool, or outdoor use.
The Emberton III delivers exceptional sound quality with balanced audio across all frequencies. Its True Stereophonic technology and Dynamic Loudness feature provide consistent, room-filling sound that outperforms many competitors in its price range, though bass response is limited by its compact size.
Yes, the speaker supports Bluetooth multipoint connection, allowing you to connect two devices simultaneously. This makes it easy to switch between sources without re-pairing.
With Bluetooth 5.3 LE, the Emberton III maintains a stable connection up to approximately 30 feet indoors, even through walls. This is an improvement over previous models and most competing speakers.
No, the Emberton III doesn't support voice assistants directly, but it does include a built-in microphone for hands-free calling and can be controlled through your phone's voice assistant when connected.
Yes, through the Marshall Bluetooth app, you can access three EQ presets: Marshall Signature Sound, Push (enhanced bass and treble), and Voice (optimized for podcasts and audiobooks).
The Emberton III improves upon its predecessors with better battery life (32 hours vs 20), upgraded Bluetooth 5.3, and future Auracast support for multi-speaker streaming. It maintains the same compact design while offering enhanced sound quality and durability.
We've done our best to create useful and informative comparisons to help you decide what product to buy. Our research has used advanced automated methods to create this comparison and perfection is not possible - please contact us for corrections or questions. These are the sites we've researched in the creation of this article: techradar.com - bgr.com - androidcentral.com - crutchfield.com - goodhousekeeping.com - bhphotovideo.com - youtube.com - youtube.com - timesofindia.indiatimes.com - bestbuy.com - group.marshall.com
The Sonos Roam 2 takes a more sophisticated approach to portable audio with its dual Wi-Fi/Bluetooth connectivity and integration into the broader Sonos ecosystem. Its standout Automatic Trueplay technology continuously optimizes the sound for any environment, while support for voice assistants and AirPlay 2 adds significant versatility for home use. When connected to Wi-Fi, the Roam 2 delivers notably better audio quality than over Bluetooth, with particularly impressive bass response for its size. The ability to function as part of a multi-room audio system or even as a home theater surround speaker adds considerable value for existing Sonos users.
However, the Sonos Roam 2 falls short of the Emberton III in critical portable-focused features. Its 10-hour battery life is notably less than the Marshall's 32 hours, which could be limiting for extended outdoor use. At $139.99, it's more affordable but requires more frequent charging and careful power management. While its smart features are impressive, they're less relevant when using the speaker away from Wi-Fi, where it becomes a more basic Bluetooth speaker. The vertical-first design, while space-efficient, isn't as stable as the Emberton III's horizontal layout when placed on uneven surfaces outdoors.
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The Marshall Emberton II remains a compelling option at its $99 price point, offering many of the core features that make the III attractive. It delivers impressive 30-hour battery life, shares the same robust IP67 water resistance, and uses identical physical dimensions for easy portability. The II's sound quality, while lacking the newer Dynamic Loudness feature, still provides satisfying audio through its dual 2-inch drivers and passive radiators, reaching a respectable 87dB maximum volume. The speaker's basic True Stereophonic implementation creates an engaging soundstage that works well for most listening scenarios.
Where the II falls short of its successor is primarily in modern conveniences rather than core performance. It lacks a built-in microphone for calls, uses older Bluetooth 5.1 technology, and charges more slowly - taking 3 hours for a full charge versus the III's 2 hours. The II also won't support future Auracast features for multi-speaker setups. However, these limitations need to be weighed against its significantly lower price tag. For users who prioritize basic portable audio quality and durability over the latest features, the Emberton II represents excellent value, delivering most of what makes these speakers popular at a more accessible price point.
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The JBL Go 4 stands out in the budget portable speaker segment at $39.99, offering impressive value with its ultra-compact design and surprisingly capable sound output. Despite its single 4.2W driver setup, it delivers clear audio that works well for personal listening, podcasts, and background music. The IP67 water resistance matches the Emberton III's durability, while its pocket-sized dimensions and mere 0.42-pound weight make it significantly more portable. Battery life ranges from 7-9 hours, which, while modest compared to the Emberton III's 32 hours, remains practical for daily use.
However, the JBL Go 4 makes expected compromises at its price point. The mono sound output and 90Hz frequency response limit mean you'll miss the stereo separation and deeper bass that the Emberton III provides. It also lacks smart features like app control and EQ adjustment, and its maximum volume is better suited for personal listening rather than filling rooms. While it can't match the Emberton III's premium audio experience or feature set, the Go 4 excels in its intended role as an ultra-portable, budget-friendly speaker for casual listening scenarios.
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The Sony XB100 offers a compelling alternative at just $50, focusing on ultra-portability and practical features for everyday use. Weighing only 274g and including a convenient carrying strap, it's significantly more portable than the Emberton III. While it doesn't match the premium audio quality, its single full-range driver and passive radiator combination delivers surprisingly capable sound for its size, particularly excelling with spoken content and personal listening. The 16-hour battery life, while half of the Emberton III's, remains plenty sufficient for most daily use cases, and it shares the same robust IP67 water and dust resistance rating.
For casual listeners and frequent travelers, the XB100's value proposition is strong. Its Sound Diffusion Processor helps create a wider perceived soundstage despite the mono output, and the ability to stereo pair with a second XB100 offers flexibility for those wanting to expand their setup later. While it can't match the Emberton III's room-filling sound or bass response, the XB100's considerably lower price point and ultra-portable design make it an excellent choice for those prioritizing convenience and value over premium audio features. The eco-friendly construction using recycled plastics adds another thoughtful touch to this budget-friendly option.
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The Sony XE200 ($110.99) makes a compelling case as a more affordable alternative, featuring innovative Line-Shape Diffuser technology that excels at dispersing sound throughout larger spaces. This unique approach to sound distribution, inspired by concert audio systems, proves particularly effective for group settings and home theater use. While its 16-hour battery life is half that of the Emberton III, the quick-charge feature providing 70 minutes of playback from just a 10-minute charge helps compensate for this limitation. The Sony's X-Balanced speaker units deliver notably clear vocals and balanced audio, though with slightly less bass impact.
At nearly $60 less than the Marshall, the Sony offers excellent value while maintaining premium features like IP67 water resistance and Bluetooth 5.2 with LDAC support for high-resolution audio. Its larger form factor (8.19 inches long) may not be as travel-friendly, but this translates to more substantial sound output that fills larger spaces more effectively. While it lacks the premium materials of the Marshall, the Sony's practical design and wider sound coverage make it a more versatile choice for varied environments. The Sony particularly shines in scenarios requiring consistent sound distribution, such as outdoor gatherings or home entertainment, though it can't match the Marshall's extended battery life or premium build quality.
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The JBL Flip 6 ($99.99) stands out for its PartyBoost feature, which allows multiple speaker pairing for expanded coverage, and its customizable graphic EQ through the companion app. Its front-firing dual driver system, combining a 1.75" x 3" woofer and 0.6" tweeter, delivers impressive volume output that can actually exceed the Emberton III's capabilities in outdoor settings. The Flip 6 also includes a practical built-in strap and a more rugged design that, while not as premium-feeling as the Marshall, makes it more suitable for active outdoor use.
At $70 less than the Emberton III, the Flip 6 represents excellent value, offering about 90% of the performance at 60% of the price. While it can't match the Emberton III's exceptional 32-hour battery life or refined sound signature, its 12-hour runtime is sufficient for most users, and its louder maximum volume makes it a better choice for outdoor gatherings. The main tradeoffs are shorter battery life and slightly less refined bass response, but for most users, these differences won't justify the Emberton III's premium price point.
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The JBL Flip 5 has carved out its own niche in the portable speaker market by offering impressive value at $79.99, less than half the price of the Emberton III. Its standout features include the PartyBoost function for connecting multiple speakers, a robust IPX7 waterproof design, and JBL's signature bass-forward sound profile that many find perfect for outdoor gatherings. The speaker's single 20W driver and dual passive radiators deliver punchy audio that, while lacking the refined clarity and stereo separation of the Emberton III, proves more than capable for poolside parties and backyard BBQs.
Where the Flip 5 falls short is in its more basic feature set and older technology - Bluetooth 4.2 instead of 5.3, no app control or EQ settings, and a more modest 12-hour battery life. However, its lighter 1.2-pound weight, cylindrical design, and straightforward controls make it an attractive option for users who prioritize simplicity and value over advanced features. For those who don't need audiophile-grade sound quality or extended battery life, the JBL Flip 5 remains a compelling choice that delivers reliable performance at a more accessible price point.
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The JBL Clip 5 takes a fundamentally different approach to portable audio, prioritizing ultimate portability with its integrated carabiner design and lightweight 0.63-pound form factor. While it can't match the Emberton III's room-filling sound, it excels in scenarios where size and convenience matter most. The Clip 5's IP67 water resistance, durable construction, and ability to attach to nearly anything make it an ideal companion for activities like hiking, biking, or travel where every ounce counts. Its companion app offers EQ customization options, and the speaker supports Bluetooth multipoint connection for easy device switching.
At $60, the JBL Clip 5 represents excellent value for users who prioritize portability over maximum sound quality. Its 12-hour battery life is sufficient for most use cases, though notably shorter than the Emberton III's runtime. While its single-driver design with passive radiator can't deliver the same bass response or volume levels as the Emberton III, it produces surprisingly clear audio for its compact size. It's best thought of as a personal listening device rather than a primary speaker - perfect as a secondary speaker or for situations where the Emberton III's larger size would be impractical.
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The Marshall Stockwell II ($129.99) takes a more traditional approach to portable audio, featuring physical EQ controls and a classic 2.1 stereo configuration that delivers precise sound positioning. Its standout features include manual bass and treble adjustment knobs, which many users prefer over app-based controls, and a 3.5mm auxiliary input that provides a reliable wired connection option when needed. While its 20-hour battery life is shorter than the Emberton III's, it still offers the same quick-charging capability, providing 6 hours of playback from a 20-minute charge.
At $40 less than the Emberton III, the Stockwell II presents compelling value for users who primarily listen indoors and appreciate hands-on audio control. Its 20W output (10W woofer, dual 5W tweeters) delivers clear, directional stereo sound that's particularly effective in smaller spaces or when positioned directly in front of listeners. While it lacks the full waterproofing and 360-degree sound of its newer sibling, its IPX4 splash resistance is sufficient for casual outdoor use, and its traditional stereo separation might actually be preferred by audio purists. The main trade-offs are its larger size, heavier weight (3.04 lbs), and less advanced Bluetooth technology, but these may be worthwhile compromises for users seeking a more conventional listening experience at a lower price point.
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The Marshall Willen II takes a different approach from the Emberton III by prioritizing ultimate portability and versatility. At just 4 inches square and weighing less than a pound, it's remarkably compact yet still delivers impressive sound from its single 10W driver setup. The included rubber mounting strap proves incredibly useful for attaching the speaker to backpacks, bike handlebars, or any convenient mounting point, making it more adaptable for active lifestyles. While its 17-hour battery life is roughly half that of the Emberton III, it's still plenty for most use cases, and the quick-charge feature providing 5.5 hours of playback from a 20-minute charge helps compensate for the shorter overall duration.
At $50 less than the Emberton III, the Marshall Willen II represents excellent value for users who prioritize portability over maximum sound output. While it can't match the Emberton III's room-filling capability or bass response, it delivers remarkably good sound quality for its size, especially at personal listening distances. The compact form factor makes it an ideal travel companion or secondary speaker, and its rugged IP67 water resistance means it's just as adventure-ready as its larger sibling. For those who value mobility and versatility over pure audio performance, the Willen II offers a more practical solution without sacrificing the essential Marshall sound signature.
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The Bose SoundLink Flex 2nd Gen stands out with its PositionIQ technology and deeper bass response, making it particularly appealing for bass-heavy music genres and movie watching. At $119.99, it offers significant value, coming in $50 less than the Marshall while maintaining premium features like IP67 water resistance and Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity. Its more focused, directional sound signature delivers exceptional clarity at high volumes, and the custom EQ controls through the Bose app provide greater flexibility in sound customization.
Where the SoundLink Flex falls short is primarily in battery life, offering just 12 hours compared to Marshall's 32 hours, and it lacks a built-in microphone for speakerphone functionality. However, its lighter weight (1.3 vs 1.5 pounds) and more compact design make it more portable, and the Bose SoundLink Flex delivers cleaner sound at maximum volume, making it an excellent choice for those prioritizing portability and bass response over extended battery life and 360-degree sound coverage. The more balanced sound signature particularly shines with electronic music, hip-hop, and movie soundtracks, though it may not match the Marshall's warm midrange performance with rock and guitar-based music.
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The Beats Pill ($99) stands out as a compelling alternative, particularly for budget-conscious buyers who prioritize bass response and straightforward functionality. Its custom-designed racetrack woofer with enhanced neodymium magnets delivers impressive low-end performance, while the 20-degree upward tilt cleverly positions audio toward the listener. The speaker's 24-hour battery life, though not matching the Marshall's endurance, provides ample playback time for most scenarios, and its ability to charge phones via USB-C adds practical versatility.
However, the Beats Pill's directional sound approach can't match the Marshall's room-filling capabilities, and its audio performance noticeably diminishes at higher volumes. While it shares the same IP67 water resistance rating and build quality, it lacks advanced features like Dynamic Loudness adjustment and future Auracast support. At nearly $70 less than the Marshall, the Beats Pill represents solid value for casual listeners who want a reliable portable speaker with strong bass response, but those seeking premium audio quality and advanced features may want to invest in the Marshall's superior technical capabilities.
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The Anker Soundcore Mini at $43 takes a different approach to portable audio, focusing on ultra-portability and value. While it can't match the Emberton III's premium sound quality, it offers impressive features for its price point, including a compact design that fits in a pants pocket, 15 hours of battery life, and IPX7 water resistance. The single 5W driver with passive subwoofer delivers clear audio that works well for personal listening, and additional features like FM radio and micro SD card support add versatility that the Marshall doesn't offer.
Where the Soundcore Mini really shines is in its value proposition and practical everyday use. At just one-quarter the price of the Emberton III, it provides solid performance for desktop listening, travel, or casual outdoor use. While it lacks the room-filling sound and premium build quality of the Marshall, the Anker Soundcore Mini proves that good portable audio doesn't have to break the bank. For users who prioritize basic functionality and portability over premium audio quality, it represents an excellent budget-conscious choice.
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The $44.99 Anker Soundcore 2 stands out in the budget speaker category with its impressive 24-hour battery life, IPX5 water resistance, and surprisingly capable sound from its dual 6W drivers. While it can't match the Emberton III's audio quality, it delivers clear, balanced sound that's more than adequate for casual listening, podcasts, and background music. The inclusion of an AUX input adds versatility for connecting non-Bluetooth devices, and its lightweight 318g design makes it more portable than the Marshall.
Where the Soundcore 2 really shines is its value proposition. At just one-fourth the price of the Emberton III, it delivers roughly half the audio performance - making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious buyers who don't need premium features. The Soundcore 2 handles basic speaker duties admirably, with enough volume for small gatherings, decent splash resistance for occasional outdoor use, and reliable Bluetooth connectivity. While it lacks advanced features like app control, fast charging, or speaker pairing capabilities, it nails the fundamentals that most casual users prioritize.
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The $130 Soundcore Boom 2 SE offers a more feature-rich approach to portable audio, emphasizing power and versatility over refinement. Its 80W total output system, including a 50W subwoofer and dual 15W tweeters, delivers significantly more bass impact, especially with its BassUp technology engaged. The larger boombox design houses party-focused features like a customizable LED light show and the ability to connect up to 100 speakers through PartyCast 2.0. It also includes practical additions like a built-in power bank function for charging devices and IPX7 waterproofing with float capability.
While the Emberton III focuses on premium build and balanced sound, the Soundcore Boom 2 SE provides more bang for your buck at $40 less. Its 9-band EQ offers greater sound customization through the Soundcore app, and though its 24-hour battery life is shorter, it's still plenty for most use cases. The larger size (11.7" x 7.3" x 4") makes it less portable but enables room-filling sound that's ideal for outdoor gatherings and parties. For users prioritizing maximum features and stronger bass response over compact size and refined audio, the Boom 2 SE represents excellent value in the portable speaker market.
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The Bose SoundLink Flex takes a different approach to portable audio with its directional sound design and PositionIQ technology, which automatically optimizes audio based on the speaker's orientation. While it offers less battery life at 12 hours compared to the Marshall's 32, it compensates with stronger bass response and superior vocal clarity, particularly noticeable when listening to podcasts or dialogue-heavy content. The Bose companion app also provides more comprehensive EQ controls and customization options, allowing users to fine-tune their listening experience beyond what Marshall offers.
At $119.99, the Bose SoundLink Flex presents a compelling value proposition, coming in $50 less than the Marshall while maintaining the same IP67 water resistance rating and delivering comparable build quality. Its more compact form factor and lighter weight make it more portable, though you sacrifice the Marshall's 360-degree sound distribution. For personal listening or small spaces, the Bose's focused audio delivery and enhanced bass response might actually be preferable, but it won't fill larger outdoor spaces as effectively as the Marshall's True Stereophonic sound. The choice ultimately comes down to prioritizing either the Marshall's superior battery life and group-friendly sound distribution or the Bose's better value, stronger bass, and more portable design.
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The $49.99 Ultimate Ears MINIROLL takes aim at a different market segment, focusing on ultra-portability and value rather than premium audio features. At just 279g and roughly the size of a coffee mug, it's remarkably more portable than the Emberton III, with a clever integrated silicone strap that makes it easy to attach to backpacks or bike handlebars. While its single 45.6mm driver can't match the Emberton III's audio quality, it still manages to produce respectable 86dBC volume levels that are perfectly adequate for personal listening or small gatherings. The IP67 water resistance matches the Emberton III's durability rating, though in a much more compact package.
The MINIROLL makes some obvious compromises to hit its budget price point - most notably in battery life (12 hours versus 32), audio performance, and advanced features. It lacks the companion app, EQ presets, and future Auracast support found in the Emberton III. However, for those prioritizing maximum portability and value over premium audio quality, the MINIROLL makes a compelling case at just under one-third the price. It's particularly well-suited as a secondary speaker for outdoor activities or travel where space and weight are at a premium, though users shouldn't expect it to match the room-filling sound and bass response of its more expensive competitor.
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The Sonos Era 300 operates in a completely different category, offering premium home audio features that showcase how different these two speakers' purposes are. With its six-driver system and Dolby Atmos support, the Era 300 creates a truly immersive listening experience that can fill large rooms with spatial audio - something the Emberton III wasn't designed to accomplish. The Era 300's ability to integrate into a home theater setup as rear surrounds, combined with its multi-room audio capabilities and voice assistant support, makes it a more versatile option for permanent home installation.
At $449, the Sonos Era 300 represents a significantly higher investment, but delivers features that justify its premium price point for users seeking a more sophisticated audio solution. While the Emberton III excels in portability and outdoor use, the Era 300 brings audiophile-grade sound quality, smart home integration, and future-proof connectivity options including WiFi 6, AirPlay 2, and the ability to expand into a whole-home audio system. For those primarily interested in home theater or permanent indoor audio solutions, the Era 300's superior sound architecture and integration capabilities make it a compelling choice despite the price difference.
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The $299 Morel BIGGIE represents a more audiophile-focused approach to portable sound, featuring a sophisticated two-way driver design that separates high and low frequencies for superior clarity. Its combination of a 1-inch soft dome tweeter and 4-inch woofer, powered by 60 watts of Class D amplification, delivers noticeably more refined and powerful audio than the Emberton III. While considerably heavier at 5.7 pounds, this additional size allows for significantly deeper bass extension down to 40Hz and higher maximum volume levels that can easily fill larger spaces.
However, the BIGGIE's premium audio performance comes with some practical tradeoffs beyond its higher price point. Unlike the Emberton III's go-anywhere design, the BIGGIE is better suited for indoor use or occasional relocation rather than true portability. Its battery life is shorter at 20 hours (though still respectable), and it lacks features like waterproofing and a built-in microphone. For those prioritizing sound quality over ruggedness and primarily using their speaker in controlled environments, the BIGGIE's superior audio performance and more powerful output may justify its additional cost.
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The Sony XE300 ($99.99) approaches portable audio with innovative Line-Shape Diffuser technology and comprehensive sound customization options at a more accessible price point. Its X-Balanced Speaker Unit and dual passive radiators deliver powerful bass response and higher maximum volume, though with some compression at peak levels. Sony's extensive companion app provides full graphic EQ control and Party Connect features for multi-speaker setups, while built-in voice assistant support adds convenient hands-free control. Despite being larger at 1.3kg, the Sony's directional sound projection excels in outdoor settings where sound needs to carry over longer distances.
While the Sony's 24-hour battery life falls short of the Marshall's endurance, it compensates with quick-charging capability that provides 70 minutes of playback from just a 10-minute charge. The rubberized exterior may show scratches more easily than the Marshall's premium construction, but it maintains the same IP67 water and dust resistance rating. At nearly $70 less than the Marshall, the Sony offers superior value for users who prioritize sound customization and outdoor performance over compact size and 360-degree coverage. The trade-off comes mainly in portability and all-around sound distribution, though the Sony's more extensive feature set and lower price point make it a compelling alternative for budget-conscious buyers seeking maximum functionality.
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Original price was: $5,997.99.$5,797.99Current price is: $5,797.99.
