Comparing Premium Portable Speakers: Finding Your Perfect Audio Companion

When it comes to portable Bluetooth speakers in 2024, we're seeing an interesting divide between pure audio quality and lifestyle versatility. Let's dive deep into two compelling options: the brand new Morel BIGGIE ($299) and the established Marshall Emberton II ($169).

The Landscape of Portable Audio

Portable speakers have evolved dramatically in recent years, moving far beyond basic battery-powered music boxes. Today's premium options offer impressive sound quality that can rival small bookshelf speakers, while maintaining the convenience of wireless connectivity and portable design.

The category essentially splits into two camps: audio-first devices aimed at discerning listeners, and lifestyle-oriented products built for versatility and durability. Our two contenders perfectly represent these different approaches.

Sound Quality: A Tale of Two Philosophies

The Morel BIGGIE takes a traditional audiophile approach, using a two-way speaker design that separates high and low frequencies between dedicated drivers (a tweeter for highs and a woofer for lows). This is similar to how high-end home speakers are built, and it shows in the sound quality. The 1-inch soft dome tweeter handles the delicate high frequencies with remarkable clarity, while the 4-inch woofer delivers surprisingly robust bass for such a compact unit.

What's particularly impressive is the BIGGIE's 60-watt amplification system, split between the drivers (45W for the woofer, 15W for the tweeter). This bi-amplification approach, combined with digital signal processing (DSP), helps maintain audio clarity even at higher volumes. The ported MDF cabinet (similar to materials used in high-end speakers) reduces unwanted vibrations that can muddy the sound.

The Emberton II takes a different route, using two 2-inch full-range drivers plus passive radiators. This simpler approach still delivers enjoyable audio, but it can't match the BIGGIE's frequency separation and clarity. However, the Emberton II's 360-degree sound dispersion makes it more forgiving of speaker placement, which can be a real advantage in casual listening situations.

Real-World Performance

Having spent time with both speakers, the performance differences become clear in certain scenarios:

Indoor Listening

The BIGGIE truly shines in a controlled indoor environment. Its more sophisticated driver arrangement creates a wider, more detailed soundstage – you can hear distinct separation between instruments and vocals. Bass response is remarkably full for a portable unit, though it won't replace a proper subwoofer.

The Emberton II sounds good indoors but lacks the same level of detail and punch. Its 360-degree sound is convenient for casual listening but can actually be a disadvantage if you're trying to create a focused listening space.

Outdoor Use

Here's where the Emberton II fights back. Its IP67 water resistance rating means you can use it confidently by the pool or in light rain. The more rugged construction and lighter weight (1.5 lbs vs BIGGIE's 5.7 lbs) make it much more practical for outdoor adventures.

The BIGGIE, while technically portable, is really designed for moving between rooms or occasional outdoor use in good weather. Its superior audio quality is less noticeable in outdoor spaces where sound dissipates quickly anyway.

Battery Life and Connectivity

The Emberton II boasts an impressive 30-hour battery life, though real-world testing typically yields closer to 22 hours. It charges fully in 3 hours, with a quick-charge feature providing 4 hours of playback from just 20 minutes of charging.

The BIGGIE's battery life isn't quite as long, but it uses newer Bluetooth 5.3 technology (compared to the Emberton II's 5.1) and offers significantly better range – 165 feet versus 30 feet. This can be particularly useful in larger homes or outdoor spaces.

Special Features and Future-Proofing

Released in early 2024, the BIGGIE includes some forward-looking features. It's Auracast-ready (a new Bluetooth broadcast technology that will allow multiple people to listen to the same audio source) and supports True Wireless Stereo for pairing two units in stereo mode.

The Emberton II, released in 2022, has its own multi-speaker feature called Stack Mode, though this is more focused on increasing volume than creating true stereo separation.

Value Proposition

At $299, the BIGGIE represents a significant investment but delivers audio quality that competes with similarly priced bookshelf speakers while adding portability. It's best suited for:

• Audio enthusiasts who prioritize sound quality
• Home use with occasional outdoor needs
• Those interested in creating a wireless stereo setup
• Listeners who appreciate accurate bass response

The $169 Emberton II offers excellent value for:

• Active lifestyles requiring durability
• Outdoor and travel use
• Casual listeners who want good but not audiophile-grade sound
• Those wanting maximum battery life

How to Decide

Consider these key questions:

1. Where will you primarily use the speaker?
2. How important is water resistance?
3. Do you prioritize audio quality or versatility?
4. What's your budget?

If you're primarily using the speaker indoors and audio quality is paramount, the BIGGIE's superior sound and more powerful amplification make it worth the premium price. Its ability to pair for true stereo is a significant advantage for home theater use or critical listening.

However, if you need something that can handle outdoor adventures, pool parties, or frequent travel, the Emberton II's durability and lighter weight make it the more practical choice. Its lower price point and longer battery life are significant bonuses.

Remember, the best speaker is the one that fits your specific needs and use cases. Both of these options excel in their intended roles – they just serve different purposes and audiences.

Morel BIGGIE Portable Bluetooth Speaker Deals and Prices

Marshall Emberton II Portable Bluetooth Speaker Deals and Prices