Choosing Between Today's Top Portable Speakers: A Detailed Comparison

When it comes to premium portable speakers in 2024, the Sonos Roam 2 at $139.99 and Marshall Emberton III at $169.99 represent two different approaches to solving the same problem: delivering great sound on the go. Let's dive into what makes each unique and who they're best for.

Understanding Modern Portable Speakers

Today's portable speakers have evolved far beyond simple Bluetooth boxes. They're now sophisticated audio devices that can integrate with our smart homes, withstand outdoor elements, and in some cases, form part of larger whole-home audio systems. The key is understanding which features actually matter for your specific needs.

Sound Quality Advances

The Sonos Roam 2 uses advanced digital signal processing (DSP) - think of it as a tiny computer constantly adjusting the sound - along with its Automatic Trueplay technology. This means the speaker literally listens to itself and adjusts its output based on its surroundings, whether you've placed it in a bathroom, backyard, or bedroom. It's particularly impressive for bass response, which is usually the weakest point for portable speakers.

The Marshall Emberton III takes a different approach with its True Stereophonic technology. Instead of automatic adjustment, it focuses on creating consistent 360-degree sound using carefully positioned drivers and passive radiators. The Dynamic Loudness feature is especially clever - it adjusts the sound balance as you change volume, ensuring you don't lose bass response when listening quietly.

Connectivity and Ecosystem Integration

Here's where we see the biggest philosophical difference between these speakers. The Roam 2 is designed as both a portable speaker and a gateway to the Sonos ecosystem. It can:

• Stream over Wi-Fi for better sound quality
• Work with other Sonos speakers for multi-room audio
• Support AirPlay 2 for Apple users
• Connect via Bluetooth when away from home
• Integrate with voice assistants

The Emberton III is more focused, offering:

• Bluetooth 5.3 with LE support
• Future Auracast capabilities for multi-speaker setups
• Simpler, more straightforward operation
• Better battery efficiency due to no Wi-Fi radio

Real-World Performance

Having tested both speakers extensively, the performance differences become clear in daily use. The Roam 2 excels in home environments where its Wi-Fi connectivity and smart features shine. The sound quality over Wi-Fi is noticeably better than Bluetooth, with more detail and better dynamics. However, its 10-hour battery life can feel limiting during longer outdoor sessions.

The Emberton III's 32-hour battery life is transformative for outdoor use. You can take it on a weekend camping trip without worrying about charging. Its sound signature is more consistent across different volume levels, though it doesn't quite match the Roam 2's bass response when the latter is operating in ideal conditions.

Home Theater Integration

While neither speaker is primarily designed for home theater use, the Roam 2 can integrate with a Sonos-based home theater system as surrounds or for extending audio to other rooms. This flexibility adds value for those already invested in the Sonos ecosystem. The Emberton III doesn't offer home theater integration, staying true to its pure portable audio focus.

Technical Innovation and Updates

Since their releases (Roam 2 in early 2024, Emberton III in mid-2023), both speakers have received firmware updates improving their performance. The Emberton III's promised Auracast support will enable broadcasting to multiple speakers simultaneously - a feature that could be game-changing for outdoor gatherings.

The Roam 2's regular software updates have improved its auto-tuning capabilities and smart home integration. Its ability to switch seamlessly between Wi-Fi and Bluetooth remains unique in this category.

Durability and Design

Both speakers feature IP67 water and dust resistance, meaning they can handle submersion in 1 meter of water for 30 minutes. However, their designs reflect different priorities:

Roam 2:

• More vertical orientation
• Lighter at 1.53 lbs
• Available in multiple colors
• Can stand vertically or horizontally

Emberton III:

• Traditional horizontal design
• Slightly heavier at 1.5 lbs
• Classic Marshall aesthetic
• More stable base design

Value Assessment

The Sonos Roam 2 at $139.99 represents excellent value if you'll use its smart features and Wi-Fi capabilities. Its integration with other Sonos products and voice assistants can make it the center of a smart home audio setup.

The Marshall Emberton III at $169.99 justifies its higher price through superior battery life and more consistent audio performance. It's the better value for purely portable use, especially if you don't need smart features.

How to Decide

Consider these questions:

1. Do you already own Sonos products?
2. How important is battery life?
3. Will you primarily use it at home or outdoors?
4. Do you need smart home integration?
5. How important is multi-room audio?

Choose the Roam 2 if you:

• Want smart home integration
• Already use Sonos products
• Primarily use it at home
• Value auto-tuning features
• Need voice assistant support

Choose the Emberton III if you:

• Need maximum battery life
• Want simpler operation
• Prefer consistent sound
• Don't need smart features
• Value durability over connectivity

Both speakers represent the current state of the art in portable audio, but they serve different user needs. The Roam 2 is the swiss army knife of portable speakers, while the Emberton III focuses on doing one thing exceptionally well: playing music wherever you are, for as long as you need it.

Sonos Roam 2 Portable Speaker Deals and Prices

Marshall Emberton III Portable Bluetooth Speaker Deals and Prices