Battle of the Bluetooth Speakers: Marshall Willen II vs Anker Soundcore 2

The Evolution of Portable Audio

Portable Bluetooth speakers have come a long way since their early days of tinny sound and unreliable connections. Today's models offer impressive audio quality in surprisingly compact packages, with features like waterproofing and extended battery life becoming standard. Let's compare two popular options: the premium Marshall Willen II ($119.99) and the budget-friendly Anker Soundcore 2 ($44.99).

Sound Quality: The Heart of the Matter

When it comes to audio performance, both speakers take different approaches to delivering quality sound. The Marshall Willen II, released in 2022, employs a sophisticated single 2-inch driver paired with dual passive radiators. Passive radiators are like unpowered speakers that move in response to air pressure from the main driver, enhancing bass response without requiring additional power. This clever engineering allows the Willen II to produce surprisingly full sound from its compact frame.

The Soundcore 2, while older, takes a more traditional approach with dual drivers delivering a combined 12 watts of power. This setup creates a wider soundstage - meaning the audio appears to come from a broader space rather than a single point. However, the newer technology in the Willen II provides clearer separation between frequencies, especially noticeable in complex musical passages.

In real-world testing, the differences become apparent:

• The Willen II excels at vocal clarity and instrumental detail
• The Soundcore 2 delivers more bass punch and volume
• Both handle mid-range frequencies well, but the Willen II has a more refined sound

Build Quality and Durability

The construction quality difference reflects their price points. The Marshall Willen II features:

• IP67 rating (fully protected against dust and can survive 30 minutes submerged in water)
• Premium rubberized exterior
• Metal grille protecting drivers
• Multi-directional control knob
• Mounting strap for securing to bags or bikes

The Soundcore 2 offers:

• IPX5 rating (protected against water splashes but not submersion)
• Durable plastic construction
• Basic button controls
• Grippy rubber base

Battery Life and Charging

Both speakers impress with their longevity, but approach power management differently:

Marshall Willen II:

• 17 hours playback
• Quick-charge feature (20 minutes for 5.5 hours use)
• USB-C charging
• Auto-shutdown after 20 minutes idle

Anker Soundcore 2:

• 24 hours playback
• Standard charging speed
• Micro-USB charging
• Manual power management

Smart Features and Connectivity

The technological gap between these speakers becomes most apparent in their smart features. The Willen II supports:

• Bluetooth 5.3
• Marshall companion app with EQ control
• Future Auracast support (allowing multiple speaker linking)
• Dual device connectivity
• Built-in microphone for calls

The Soundcore 2 offers more basic functionality:

• Bluetooth 4.2
• No companion app
• Basic device pairing
• Built-in microphone

Real-World Performance

Using these speakers in various settings reveals their strengths and limitations. The Willen II shines in:

• Outdoor environments where durability matters
• Situations requiring clear audio at moderate volumes
• Active lifestyle use (biking, hiking, beach)
• Modern smart home setups

The Soundcore 2 performs best in:

• Indoor casual listening
• Background music scenarios
• Budget-conscious setups
• Situations where longer battery life is crucial

Value Proposition

The price difference between these speakers ($75) requires careful consideration of what you're getting for the money:

Marshall Willen II advantages worth the premium:

• Superior build quality and waterproofing
• More advanced audio engineering
• Smart features and app support
• Future-proof technology

Soundcore 2 value benefits:

• More watts per dollar
• Longer battery life
• Solid basic performance
• Lower replacement cost if damaged

Recent Updates and Support

Marshall has maintained the Willen II with regular firmware updates, adding features and improving performance since its 2022 release. The upcoming Auracast support demonstrates their commitment to keeping the speaker current with new technology.

The Soundcore 2, while older, represents a mature and reliable design. However, it lacks the potential for feature additions through software updates.

Making the Choice

Consider these scenarios when deciding:

Choose the Marshall Willen II if:

• You want the best possible sound quality in a compact form
• Durability and water resistance are crucial
• Smart features and future updates matter
• Budget allows for premium features

Choose the Anker Soundcore 2 if:

• Value is your primary concern
• You need maximum battery life
• Basic water resistance is sufficient
• You prefer simpler operation without apps

The Verdict

Both speakers serve their intended purposes well, but they target different users. The Marshall Willen II represents the premium end of portable speakers, offering superior sound quality and features at a higher price point. The Soundcore 2 delivers impressive value, providing solid performance at a budget-friendly price.

For those seeking the best possible portable audio experience and willing to pay for it, the Willen II is the clear choice. However, if you need a capable speaker that won't break the bank, the Soundcore 2 remains a fantastic option that punches above its weight class.

Remember that the best speaker is the one that fits your specific needs, budget, and use cases. Consider how you'll primarily use the speaker and choose accordingly.

Marshall Willen II Portable Bluetooth Speaker Deals and Prices

Anker Soundcore 2 Portable Bluetooth Speaker Deals and Prices