When it comes to portable audio, the choice between the Marshall Stockwell II ($129.99) and Anker Soundcore 2 ($44.99) represents a common dilemma: should you invest in premium features or stick to reliable basics? Let's dive into what makes each speaker unique and help you decide which best fits your needs.
Bluetooth speakers have come a long way since their early days of tinny sound and unreliable connections. Released in 2019, the Marshall Stockwell II arrived as part of the third generation of premium portable speakers, bringing features like adjustable EQ and multi-directional sound. The Anker Soundcore 2, launched in 2017 and updated in 2018, represents the maturation of budget-friendly speakers, offering impressive battery life and water resistance at an accessible price point.
The Stockwell II delivers sound quality that justifies its premium positioning. Its multi-directional output (meaning it projects sound in multiple directions) uses three dedicated amplifiers: one 10W amp for bass and two 5W amps for higher frequencies. This separation allows for clearer sound reproduction across different types of music.
The speaker's adjustable bass and treble controls make a real difference in everyday use. Whether you're listening to bass-heavy electronic music or vocal-focused acoustic tracks, you can tune the sound to match your preferences. The frequency response range of 60-20,000 Hz means it can reproduce deeper bass notes than many portable speakers.
The Soundcore 2 takes a simpler approach, using dual drivers and a passive radiator (a special type of speaker component that helps improve bass response without requiring additional power). While it can't match the Stockwell II's sound quality, it performs admirably for its price point.
The fixed EQ tuning means you can't adjust the sound profile, but Anker has chosen a balanced sound signature that works well for most popular music genres. The speaker's BassUp technology (Anker's term for their bass enhancement system) helps compensate for the typical lack of low-end response in small speakers, though it can't match the depth of the Marshall.
The construction quality difference between these speakers reflects their price points but in interesting ways. The Stockwell II features premium materials like metal grilles and robust analog control knobs that feel satisfying to use. However, its IPX4 water resistance rating means it can only handle splashes - not immersion.
Surprisingly, the more affordable Soundcore 2 offers superior water resistance with an IPX7 rating, meaning it can survive being submerged in up to 1 meter of water for 30 minutes. Its rubberized exterior might not feel as premium, but it's arguably more practical for outdoor use.
Both speakers offer impressive battery life, but with different characteristics:
A noteworthy technical advancement in the Stockwell II is its USB-C charging port, which provides faster charging and better durability compared to the Soundcore 2's older micro-USB connection.
The Stockwell II's Bluetooth 5.0 implementation provides better range and stability compared to the Soundcore 2's Bluetooth 4.2. In practical terms, this means fewer dropouts and better audio quality when using compatible devices. The Marshall also supports connecting two devices simultaneously, useful for switching between phone and laptop.
The Marshall Stockwell II excels as a home speaker. Its adjustable EQ and stronger amplification make it suitable as a primary speaker for a small room. The multi-directional sound helps fill spaces more effectively than the directional output of the Soundcore 2.
For beach trips or poolside use, the Soundcore 2's superior water resistance and lower price point make it the more practical choice. You'll worry less about damage, and its compact size makes it more portable.
Both speakers travel well, but serve different purposes:
The price difference between these speakers ($85) could buy you almost two Soundcore 2s, which raises interesting possibilities. For some users, having multiple budget speakers placed around their space might provide more utility than a single premium speaker.
Since these speakers' releases, we've seen several technological advances:
However, both speakers remain competitive in their respective categories, particularly the Stockwell II with its premium features.
Consider these key factors when making your choice:
The Marshall Stockwell II represents the premium choice with superior sound quality and build, while the Anker Soundcore 2 offers remarkable value and practicality. Your decision should align with your primary use case and budget constraints rather than purely technical specifications.
For most users, either speaker will provide satisfactory performance. The key is matching your choice to your specific needs and understanding the trade-offs involved in each option.
| Marshall Stockwell II | Anker Soundcore 2 |
|---|---|
| Price - Overall Investment | |
| $129.99 (Premium tier) | $44.99 (Budget-friendly) |
| Sound Output - Determines overall volume and clarity | |
| 20W total (1x10W woofer, 2x5W tweeters) | 12W total (2x6W drivers) |
| Frequency Response - Range of sound reproduction | |
| 60-20,000 Hz (better bass extension) | 70-20,000 Hz (slightly less bass depth) |
| Sound Features - Control over audio experience | |
| Adjustable bass/treble controls, multi-directional sound | Fixed EQ, BassUp technology |
| Battery Life - Time between charges | |
| 20+ hours, 20-min quick charge for 6 hours | 24 hours at moderate volume |
| Water Resistance - Durability for outdoor use | |
| IPX4 (splash resistant) | IPX7 (fully waterproof up to 1m) |
| Bluetooth Version - Connection quality and range | |
| 5.0 (better range and stability) | 4.2 (older standard, shorter range) |
| Physical Controls - Ease of use | |
| Premium analog knobs for volume/EQ | Basic rubber buttons |
| Size and Weight - Portability | |
| 7.09 x 6.34 x 2.76 in, 3.04 lbs | 6.5 x 2.2 x 1.77 in, 0.78 lbs |
| Charging Port - Connection type | |
| USB-C (faster charging, more durable) | Micro-USB (older standard) |
| Additional Features - Extra functionality | |
| Multi-host connection, battery indicator gauge | True Wireless Stereo pairing capability |
| Build Quality - Durability and feel | |
| Premium materials, metal grille, silicone exterior | Durable plastic, rubberized coating |
The Marshall Stockwell II ($129.99) offers notably better sound quality with its 20W total output and dedicated tweeters. The Anker Soundcore 2 ($44.99) provides decent sound but can't match the Marshall's clarity and bass response, especially when used in a home theater setting as ambient speakers.
Yes, both speakers can connect to smart TVs or via auxiliary cables. The Marshall Stockwell II performs better in this role due to its multi-directional sound and adjustable EQ, making it more suitable for movie audio and surround effects.
The Marshall Stockwell II costs $129.99, while the Anker Soundcore 2 is priced at $44.99, making it $85 less expensive.
The Anker Soundcore 2 offers slightly longer battery life at 24 hours, compared to the Marshall Stockwell II's 20 hours. However, the Marshall features quick charging capability.
Yes, both are portable and water-resistant. The Anker Soundcore 2 has superior water resistance (IPX7) compared to the Marshall Stockwell II's IPX4 rating, making it better suited for outdoor use.
The Anker Soundcore 2 is more durable against water and drops, while the Marshall Stockwell II features premium build quality but is more susceptible to water damage.
Yes, both speakers can connect to smart TVs via Bluetooth or auxiliary cables. The Marshall Stockwell II provides better TV audio quality and more precise control over sound settings.
The Marshall Stockwell II performs better in large rooms due to its multi-directional sound and stronger output compared to the Anker Soundcore 2.
The Marshall Stockwell II features physical knobs for adjusting bass and treble, while the Anker Soundcore 2 has a fixed EQ with basic bass boost function.
The Anker Soundcore 2 is more portable at 0.78 lbs compared to the Marshall Stockwell II's 3.04 lbs weight.
The Marshall Stockwell II is better suited for movie watching with its superior sound quality and adjustable EQ, while the Anker Soundcore 2 works adequately but lacks the same audio depth.
For basic needs, the Anker Soundcore 2 offers excellent value at $44.99. However, if sound quality is paramount, the Marshall Stockwell II's premium features justify its higher price of $129.99.
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: bestbuy.com - stuff.tv - idownloadblog.com - stereoguide.com - kendallgiles.com - termagoods.com - aplaze.com - manua.ls - youtube.com - sg.tcacoustic.asia - marshall.com - youtube.com - community.anker.com - forums.androidcentral.com - community.anker.com - youtube.com - community.anker.com - community.anker.com - wirelessplace.com - cnet.com - youtube.com - walmart.com - us.ankerwork.com - support.soundcore.com
