When it comes to portable Bluetooth speakers in 2024, we're seeing some exciting innovations in sound quality and features. Let's dive into a detailed comparison of two newly-released contenders that take different approaches to portable audio.
The portable speaker market has evolved significantly from simple battery-powered units to sophisticated audio systems. Modern speakers pack impressive sound quality into increasingly durable packages, while adding features like waterproofing, extended battery life, and smart device integration.
What matters most in a portable speaker depends heavily on how you'll use it. Someone planning mostly poolside parties has very different needs than someone wanting refined sound for personal listening. Let's explore how these two speakers address these varying needs.
The $129.99 BOOM 2 and $169.99 Emberton III represent two distinct philosophies in portable audio. Released in early 2024, both speakers bring fresh features to the market, but target different users.
The BOOM 2 delivers impressive volume with its 80W output system, using what Soundcore calls "BassUp 2.0" technology. This system actively analyzes and adjusts bass frequencies in real-time, boosting low-end presence without muddying the overall sound. The speaker uses a 50W subwoofer paired with dual 15W tweeters (small speakers specialized for high frequencies) to create a powerful, bass-forward sound signature.
In contrast, the Emberton III takes a more refined approach with its True Stereophonic system. While offering less raw power at 30W, it focuses on balanced, accurate sound reproduction. The speaker uses two 2-inch full-range drivers and passive radiators (unpowered speakers that enhance bass response) to create a 360-degree soundfield that's impressive for its size.
Here's where we see the biggest physical difference. The BOOM 2 embraces a larger form factor, measuring 11.7 x 7.3 x 4 inches and weighing 3.6 pounds. This larger size allows for bigger drivers and more powerful sound, but it's definitely more of a "transportable" than truly portable speaker.
The Emberton III maintains Marshall's compact design philosophy at just 6.3 x 2.7 x 3 inches and 1.5 pounds. It's genuinely pocket-capable in a large jacket or easily stowed in a bag, making it more suitable for daily carry.
Both speakers offer impressive durability, but with different emphasis:
Battery technology has improved significantly in recent years, and both speakers showcase this:
In practical use, these speakers excel in different scenarios. The BOOM 2 truly shines at outdoor gatherings, where its powerful output and light show create a party atmosphere. The bass response is impressive for its size, though it can become slightly overwhelming at maximum volume.
The Emberton III delivers a more nuanced listening experience. Its balanced sound profile handles various music genres well, from classical to rock. The 360-degree sound dispersion means you don't need to worry about speaker orientation, though it won't match the BOOM 2's raw volume output.
While neither speaker is primarily designed for home theater use, they can serve as temporary solutions. The BOOM 2's higher power output makes it better suited for movie watching, while the Emberton III's more balanced sound might be preferred for dialogue-heavy content.
Choose the BOOM 2 if:
Choose the Emberton III if:
Both speakers represent the latest in portable audio technology, with the Emberton III's pending Auracast support particularly interesting for future multi-speaker setups. The BOOM 2's PartyCast feature already offers similar functionality, though limited to compatible Soundcore speakers.
At $129.99, the BOOM 2 offers impressive value for its power output and feature set. The Emberton III's $169.99 price point reflects its premium build quality and refined sound signature. Neither speaker disappoints in its intended use case, making the choice more about personal preferences than absolute performance.
Remember, the best speaker is the one that fits your specific needs. Consider how and where you'll use it most often, and choose accordingly. Both the BOOM 2 and Emberton III represent excellent choices in their respective categories, offering different but equally valid approaches to portable audio in 2024.
| Soundcore BOOM 2 | Marshall Emberton III |
|---|---|
| Power Output - Determines maximum volume and sound presence | |
| 80W total (50W woofer + 2x15W tweeters) | 30W total (2x15W full-range drivers) |
| Size - Affects portability and ease of transport | |
| 11.7 x 7.3 x 4 inches (3.6 lbs) | 6.3 x 2.7 x 3 inches (1.5 lbs) |
| Battery Life - Important for extended use without charging | |
| 24 hours (varies with volume/features) | 32 hours (includes fast charging) |
| Water/Dust Protection - Critical for outdoor use | |
| IPX7 (water only, floatable) | IP67 (water and dust proof) |
| Sound Technology - Impacts audio quality and experience | |
| BassUp 2.0, 2.1 channel with crossover | True Stereophonic, 360° sound with Dynamic Loudness |
| Additional Features - Adds value beyond basic playback | |
| LED light show, power bank, PartyCast 2.0 | Auracast ready, premium build, multi-point connection |
| Bluetooth Version - Affects connection quality and range | |
| 5.3 with 100m range | 5.3 LE with Auracast support |
| Price - Value proposition | |
| $129.99 (better value for party features) | $169.99 (premium for sound quality) |
| EQ Options - Sound customization capability | |
| Full custom EQ via app | 3 preset EQ modes only |
| Multi-Speaker Support - Expands sound coverage | |
| Up to 100+ speakers via PartyCast 2.0 | Future Auracast support (pending update) |
The $129.99 BOOM 2 is better suited for movie watching due to its higher 80W power output and stronger bass response. While neither speaker is ideal for permanent home theater use, the BOOM 2's larger size and 2.1 channel system provides more impactful audio for temporary movie setups compared to the Emberton III.
The $169.99 Marshall Emberton III offers superior battery life with 32 hours of playback, compared to 24 hours on the BOOM 2. The Emberton III also features fast charging, providing 6 hours of playback from a 20-minute charge.
Both speakers are waterproof, but the BOOM 2 has IPX7 rating and floats, while the Emberton III has IP67 rating with additional dust protection. Both are suitable for outdoor use, though the BOOM 2's larger size and higher volume make it better for outdoor gatherings.
The Marshall Emberton III delivers more balanced, refined sound with its True Stereophonic system, while the BOOM 2 focuses on louder volume and stronger bass. For critical listening, the Emberton III provides better sound quality, but the BOOM 2 offers more powerful output.
The BOOM 2 supports connecting up to 100+ speakers through PartyCast 2.0, while the Emberton III will support Auracast connection in a future update. Currently, the BOOM 2 offers better multi-speaker capabilities.
The Marshall Emberton III is significantly more portable at 1.5 pounds and 6.3 x 2.7 x 3 inches, compared to the BOOM 2's 3.6 pounds and 11.7 x 7.3 x 4 inches size. The Emberton III is better suited for daily carry and travel.
Neither speaker is designed for true surround sound. While the BOOM 2 and Emberton III can be used as temporary audio solutions, they're not recommended for permanent home theater surround sound setups.
The BOOM 2 delivers stronger bass with its dedicated 50W subwoofer and BassUp 2.0 technology, outperforming the Emberton III in low-frequency output. This makes it better for bass-heavy music and movie effects.
Neither the BOOM 2 nor Emberton III has built-in voice assistant capabilities, though both can play audio from devices using voice assistants.
The $129.99 BOOM 2 offers better value with its higher power output and additional features like LED lights and power bank functionality, while the $169.99 Emberton III justifies its higher price with premium build quality and balanced sound.
While both can connect to TVs via Bluetooth, the BOOM 2 is better suited for TV audio due to its higher volume output and stronger bass response compared to the Emberton III. However, neither is an ideal permanent TV speaker solution.
Both speakers are well-built, but the Emberton III has superior dust protection with its IP67 rating, while the BOOM 2 offers IPX7 water resistance and floating capability. The Emberton III's premium build quality gives it a slight edge in overall durability.
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: soundcore.com - audioholics.com - community.anker.com - trustedreviews.com - soundcore.com - manuals.plus - soundcore.com - youtube.com - community.anker.com - soundandvision.com - techradar.com - bgr.com - androidcentral.com - crutchfield.com - goodhousekeeping.com - bhphotovideo.com - youtube.com - youtube.com - timesofindia.indiatimes.com - bestbuy.com - group.marshall.com
