When Marshall released the Emberton II in 2022, it set a new standard for portable Bluetooth speakers in its price range. Now, with the 2024 release of the Emberton III, we're seeing meaningful improvements that push portable audio technology forward - but are they worth the higher price tag? Let's dive deep into what makes these speakers different and who should choose each one.
Today's portable speakers need to balance multiple priorities - sound quality, durability, and battery life are just the starting point. Modern users expect features like water resistance for poolside use, multi-speaker pairing for parties, and enough battery life to last through weekend trips. Both Emberton models excel in these areas, but with notable differences.
The Emberton III and II share similar basic hardware - both use dual 2-inch drivers paired with passive radiators. However, the III introduces two significant audio improvements that make a real difference in daily use:
This new feature in the III automatically adjusts frequency response based on volume level. At lower volumes, where speakers typically lose bass response, the III compensates to maintain fuller sound. It's particularly noticeable when listening at background levels, where the II can sound a bit thin in comparison.
While both models offer Marshall's True Stereophonic technology (which creates a wider soundstage than typical mono portable speakers), the III's implementation is more sophisticated. The sound separation is more distinct, and the "sweet spot" for optimal listening is larger. In practical terms, this means better sound quality when the speaker isn't positioned perfectly.
The III pushes to 90dB versus the II's 87dB maximum volume. While this 3dB difference might seem small, it represents about a 25% perceived volume increase - helpful for outdoor use or larger rooms.
The Emberton III makes significant strides in connectivity:
Bluetooth 5.3 brings better range and stability, while LE Audio support enables future features like Auracast - a technology that will allow broadcasting to multiple compatible speakers simultaneously. The addition of a microphone makes the III more versatile for work-from-home setups or casual calls.
Both speakers offer excellent battery life, but the III edges ahead:
More importantly, the III charges fully in 2 hours versus the II's 3 hours. In real-world use, this means less waiting when you've forgotten to charge before a trip.
Both models feature:
The build quality is essentially identical - both can survive submersion in 1 meter of water for 30 minutes and are equally dust-proof. The III uses more recycled materials in its construction, reflecting Marshall's increased focus on sustainability.
The Emberton II at $99 represents excellent value for basic portable speaker needs. The III at $159 demands a $60 premium but justifies it with:
Using both speakers side by side reveals subtle but important differences:
The III's Dynamic Loudness feature makes a noticeable difference when playing background music. Bass remains fuller at lower volumes, and the improved stereophonic implementation creates a more immersive listening experience. The II still sounds excellent but can't quite match the III's refined sound signature.
Both speakers handle outdoor environments well, with the III's extra volume helping in windy conditions or larger spaces. The water resistance proves valuable during unexpected rain or pool splashes.
While neither speaker is primarily designed for home theater use, the III's improved connectivity and future Auracast support make it more versatile for household audio. The ability to take calls through the speaker is a convenient bonus for home office setups.
The Marshall Emberton III represents a meaningful evolution over the II, with improvements in sound quality, connectivity, and charging speed. While the II remains an excellent value option, the III's upgrades justify its higher price for users who will appreciate its advanced features.
For most users, the decision comes down to how they'll use the speaker. If it's primarily for casual listening and basic portable audio needs, the II offers tremendous value. However, if you're particular about sound quality or want the most future-proof option, the III's improvements make it worth the investment.
Both speakers uphold Marshall's reputation for quality, but they target slightly different users. The II is the value champion, while the III pushes the boundaries of what's possible in a compact portable speaker.
| Marshall Emberton III | Marshall Emberton II |
|---|---|
| Price - Key consideration for value assessment | |
| $159 (2024 release) | $99 (2022 release) |
| Sound Output - Impacts volume capability and clarity | |
| 90dB max SPL, improved spatial audio | 87dB max SPL, standard spatial audio |
| Battery Life - Critical for portable use | |
| 32+ hours, 6 hours from 20-min charge | 30+ hours, 4 hours from 20-min charge |
| Charging Time - Affects convenience | |
| 2 hours to full charge | 3 hours to full charge |
| Bluetooth Version - Impacts connection quality and features | |
| 5.3 with LE Audio, Auracast-ready | 5.1, standard features only |
| Audio Features - Affects sound quality experience | |
| Dynamic Loudness, Enhanced True Stereophonic | Basic True Stereophonic |
| Communication Features - Adds functionality | |
| Built-in microphone for calls | No microphone |
| Frequency Response - Determines sound range | |
| 65Hz - 20kHz | 60Hz - 20kHz |
| Water/Dust Protection - Important for outdoor use | |
| IP67 rated | IP67 rated |
| Construction - Impacts durability | |
| Metal grille, silicone exterior, more recycled materials | Metal grille, silicone exterior |
| Size and Weight - Affects portability | |
| 1.5 lbs, 6.3" x 2.7" x 3" | 1.5 lbs, 6.3" x 2.7" x 3" |
| App Support - Enables customization | |
| Marshall app with 3 EQ presets, future Auracast | Marshall app with basic EQ presets |
The Marshall Emberton III costs $60 more than the Emberton II. The upgrade is worth it if you value better sound quality at low volumes, faster charging, and hands-free calling capabilities. The III's Dynamic Loudness feature makes it particularly better for background music in home settings.
The Emberton III offers superior sound with its enhanced True Stereophonic technology and Dynamic Loudness feature. While both speakers use similar drivers, the III reaches 90dB versus the II's 87dB, providing noticeably better volume and clarity, especially in larger rooms.
While neither speaker is primarily designed for home theater use, the Emberton III is better suited due to its improved spatial audio and future Auracast support. It can serve as a decent temporary solution for small spaces or as supplementary audio in secondary rooms.
The Emberton III offers 32+ hours of playback, while the II provides 30+ hours. The III charges faster, reaching 6 hours of playback from a 20-minute charge compared to the II's 4 hours.
Yes, both the Emberton III and II feature IP67 water resistance, meaning they can be submerged in 1 meter of water for up to 30 minutes without damage.
The Emberton III performs better outdoors due to its higher maximum volume (90dB vs 87dB) and improved spatial audio. Both have identical weatherproofing, but the III's enhanced features make it more versatile for outdoor situations.
The Emberton III will support Auracast (via future update) for multi-speaker connectivity. The II supports basic Stack Mode for connecting multiple Marshall speakers.
Only the Emberton III has a built-in microphone for hands-free calling. The II lacks this feature entirely.
The Emberton III features newer Bluetooth 5.3 with LE Audio support, while the II uses Bluetooth 5.1. The III's newer technology provides better range and connection stability.
Both speakers work with the Marshall app, but the Emberton III offers three distinct EQ presets compared to the II's more basic sound adjustments.
The Emberton III charges fully in 2 hours, while the II takes 3 hours. The III also provides more playback time from quick charging (6 hours vs 4 hours from a 20-minute charge).
No, the Emberton III and II share identical dimensions (6.3" x 2.7" x 3") and weight (1.5 lbs), making them equally portable and easy to place in any setting.
We've done our best to create useful and informative comparisons to help you decide what product to buy. Our research uses 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 - techradar.com - dreamwaveus.com - crutchfield.com - soundguys.com - gadgets360.com - rtings.com - youtube.com - youtube.com - youtube.com - shop.ash-asia.com - crutchfield.com - gadgetstyler.com - youtube.com - avstore.in
