Looking for a high-end portable speaker? Let's dive deep into comparing two compelling options: the brand new Morel BIGGIE ($299) and the established Marshall Stockwell II ($249). While both target premium audio enthusiasts, they take distinctly different approaches to portable sound.
The portable speaker market has evolved significantly in recent years. The Stockwell II, released in 2019, represented a major upgrade in Marshall's portable lineup with its multi-directional sound and improved battery tech. Now in 2024, the BIGGIE arrives with Morel's latest acoustic engineering and contemporary features like Auracast support.
The Morel BIGGIE employs a sophisticated two-way design with a 1-inch soft dome tweeter and 4-inch woofer, powered by 60 watts of Class D amplification. This configuration, typically found in bookshelf speakers, allows for better separation between high and low frequencies. The result? Clearer vocals and more natural instrument reproduction.
The Stockwell II takes a different approach with three amplifiers totaling 20 watts - one 10W for bass and two 5W for treble. While this provides decent output, it can't match the BIGGIE's raw power and clarity.
Here's where we see a significant difference. The BIGGIE reaches down to 40Hz, which means you'll hear those deep bass notes in electronic music or movie soundtracks. The Stockwell II's 60Hz lower limit means it misses some of that bottom end. In practical terms, the BIGGIE gives you that satisfying thump in bass-heavy music, while the Stockwell II offers more of a modest punch.
With its 95dB maximum output, the BIGGIE can easily fill medium to large rooms. The Stockwell II's 80dB maximum makes it better suited for small to medium spaces. That 15dB difference is substantial - it means the BIGGIE can play about three times as loud while maintaining clarity.
Both speakers showcase premium construction, but with different priorities. The Stockwell II features Marshall's signature amp-inspired design with metal grilles and IPX4 water resistance - meaning it can handle splashes but not submersion. The BIGGIE opts for a modern minimalist approach with an MDF cabinet optimized for acoustic performance.
Despite its more powerful hardware, the BIGGIE manages to maintain a reasonably portable form at 5.7 pounds. The Stockwell II is notably lighter at 3.04 pounds, making it easier to carry for longer periods. Both include carrying handles, though the BIGGIE's is removable for a cleaner look when used at home.
The BIGGIE's newer Bluetooth 5.3 implementation provides better range (165 feet) and reliability compared to the Stockwell II's Bluetooth 5.0 (30 feet). This matters if you'll be using the speaker at longer distances or through walls.
True Wireless Stereo (TWS) support on the BIGGIE lets you pair two units for proper stereo separation - great for home theater use. The Stockwell's multi-directional sound attempts to create a wider soundstage from a single unit, though it can't match true stereo separation.
For home theater applications, the BIGGIE's higher power output and deeper bass extension make it more capable as a TV speaker alternative. Its TWS capability also opens up true stereo possibilities if you're willing to invest in two units.
While both speakers perform well outdoors, the Stockwell II's IPX4 rating provides peace of mind during unexpected weather. However, the BIGGIE's additional power helps overcome outdoor ambient noise more effectively.
Both speakers offer around 20 hours of playback, but the Stockwell II's quick charging (20 minutes for 6 hours) edges out the BIGGIE's charging speed (20 minutes for 4 hours). For frequent travelers, this faster charging could be significant.
The Morel BIGGIE at $299 represents the latest in portable speaker technology with superior sound quality and modern features. Its higher price is justified by significantly better audio performance and more powerful amplification.
The Stockwell II at $249 offers a more rugged package with faster charging and classic styling. While it can't match the BIGGIE's audio capabilities, its lower price point and proven reliability make it a solid choice for certain users.
Choose the BIGGIE if:
Choose the Stockwell II if:
The bottom line? For pure audio performance, the BIGGIE is worth the premium. However, the Stockwell II remains a compelling choice for those prioritizing durability and classic design over absolute sound quality.
Remember, both speakers represent significant improvements over budget portable options, and either will serve well in their intended use cases. Your specific needs and preferences should guide the final decision.
| Morel BIGGIE | Marshall Stockwell II |
|---|---|
| Price - Investment required | |
| $299 | $249 |
| Power Output - Determines maximum volume and clarity | |
| 60W total (45W woofer + 15W tweeter) - Powerful enough for outdoor use | 20W total (10W woofer + 2x5W tweeters) - Better suited for indoor use |
| Frequency Response - Range of sound reproduction | |
| 40-20,000 Hz - Deeper bass extension | 60-20,000 Hz - Less low-end presence |
| Maximum Volume - Important for larger spaces | |
| 95dB @ 1m - Can fill large rooms | 80dB @ 1m - Better for small/medium spaces |
| Bluetooth Range - Affects usability | |
| 165 feet with Bluetooth 5.3 - Excellent range | 30 feet with Bluetooth 5.0 - Standard range |
| Battery Life - Impacts portability | |
| 20 hours, 2-hour full charge | 20+ hours, 20-min quick charge for 6 hours |
| Weight - Affects portability | |
| 5.7 lbs - Heavier but still portable | 3.04 lbs - More portable |
| Water Resistance - Outdoor durability | |
| No official rating | IPX4 (splash resistant) |
| Additional Features - Expanding functionality | |
| True Wireless Stereo, Auracast-ready, USB-C power output | Multi-directional sound, analog EQ controls |
| Driver Configuration - Affects sound quality | |
| 1" soft dome tweeter + 4" woofer - Better separation | Three drivers with multi-directional output |
| Size - Physical footprint | |
| 7"W x 7"H x 4.5"D - Compact design | 7.09" x 6.34" x 2.76" - Slimmer profile |
| Charging Port - Future compatibility | |
| USB-C with power bank capability | USB-C standard charging |
The Morel BIGGIE offers superior sound quality with its 60W output and deeper bass extension compared to the Marshall Stockwell II. The BIGGIE's two-way speaker design provides better clarity and separation, making it the higher quality choice for audio performance.
The Morel BIGGIE costs $299, while the Marshall Stockwell II is priced at $249, making a $50 difference between them.
Both the Morel BIGGIE and Marshall Stockwell II offer approximately 20 hours of playback, but the Stockwell II has faster charging, providing 6 hours of playback from a 20-minute charge compared to the BIGGIE's 4 hours.
The Marshall Stockwell II is more portable at 3.04 lbs compared to the Morel BIGGIE at 5.7 lbs. The Stockwell II's smaller size and lighter weight make it easier to carry.
Both can be used outdoors, but the Marshall Stockwell II has IPX4 water resistance for better weather protection. The Morel BIGGIE has more power for outdoor spaces but lacks water resistance.
The Morel BIGGIE is significantly louder with 95dB maximum volume compared to the Marshall Stockwell II's 80dB output. This makes the BIGGIE better for larger spaces and outdoor use.
The Morel BIGGIE supports True Wireless Stereo (TWS) for connecting two speakers in stereo, while the Marshall Stockwell II doesn't offer this feature.
The Morel BIGGIE has superior Bluetooth range at 165 feet with Bluetooth 5.3, while the Marshall Stockwell II offers 30 feet with Bluetooth 5.0.
Yes, both the Morel BIGGIE and Marshall Stockwell II work with any Bluetooth-enabled device, including phones, tablets, and computers.
The Morel BIGGIE delivers better bass with its 40Hz lower frequency response compared to the Marshall Stockwell II's 60Hz limit, resulting in deeper, more impactful bass.
Yes, both the Morel BIGGIE and Marshall Stockwell II feature 3.5mm auxiliary inputs for wired connections.
The Morel BIGGIE is better for home use with its superior sound quality and ability to fill larger rooms, while the Marshall Stockwell II is more suited for smaller spaces and portable use.
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: theabsolutesound.com - ecoustics.com - crutchfield.com - techradar.com - crutchfield.com - tpdhifi.com - audioxpress.com - nlp.stanford.edu - eisa.eu - muzix.eu - 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
