Marshall Middleton II Review: A Mid-Sized Speaker with Big Sound
â–¼ Summary
– The Marshall Middleton II is a premium Bluetooth speaker praised for its exceptional stereo sound, balanced audio, and impressive 30-hour battery life.
– Its design is considered premium and rugged with an IP67 waterproof rating, but it is noted as being heavy and awkwardly sized for its class.
– The speaker’s high price point makes it a challenging value proposition, especially when compared to the more powerful and feature-rich Marshall Kilburn III, which is only slightly more expensive.
– Key missing features include placement compensation, a multi-speaker pairing option, and higher-resolution Bluetooth codecs like LDAC or aptX.
– Overall, it is a strong performer with excellent sound quality and build, but it is best suited for buyers prioritizing audio in a smaller form factor over ultimate portability or the best value.
The Marshall Middleton II carves out a compelling niche as a mid-sized Bluetooth speaker that delivers a surprisingly expansive stereo performance wrapped in the brand’s signature rugged, amp-inspired design. It stands out with exceptional soundstage clarity and a robust IP67 rating, making it a versatile companion for both indoor listening and outdoor adventures. While its premium price and somewhat awkward portability place it in a competitive spot within Marshall’s own lineup, its audio prowess and build quality demand serious consideration for anyone seeking a statement piece with substance.
This speaker impresses most where it counts: the listening experience. The stereo separation achieved from its compact chassis is genuinely remarkable, creating a wide, immersive soundscape that belies its dimensions. Bass response is impactful and reaches satisfyingly low, while mids and treble remain clear and balanced. You can fine-tune the sound through a capable five-band EQ in the Marshall app, though purists might note the absence of high-resolution Bluetooth codecs like LDAC. At maximum volume, some bass compression occurs, but this is typical for speakers in this class. The overall sonic character is engaging and detailed, offering a nuanced listen that easily surpasses many mono competitors.
Beyond sound, the feature set is solid. The colossal 30-hour battery life is a major selling point, ensuring the music plays on through extended trips or multiple gatherings. A built-in microphone handles hands-free calls clearly, and Auracast connectivity is a welcome modern touch. Some omissions are noticeable, however. The speaker lacks the placement compensation technology and customizable ‘M’ shortcut button found on other Marshall models like the Kilburn III. The ability to pair two units for a wider stereo setup is also missing, though the inherent stereo sound from a single Middleton II is so good this feels less critical.
Visually, the speaker is unmistakably Marshall. The premium faux-leather exterior, iconic script logo, and distinctive fret detailing give it a classy, retro-modern aesthetic. The gold multi-directional control knob on top adds a touch of luxury. Build quality feels excellent, contributing to a weight of 3.9 pounds that signals sturdy construction but also impacts portability. It’s too heavy for effortless one-handed carry, and it lacks a proper handle, relying instead on a fabric strap. This places it in an awkward middle ground: not as grab-and-go as the lighter Emberton III, yet not as powerful or feature-rich as the larger Kilburn III.
This positioning directly influences its value proposition. Priced closely to the Kilburn III, the Middleton II faces stiff competition from within its own family. The Kilburn offers more raw power, deeper bass, additional features, and that signature carry handle for a relatively small price increase. Conversely, the more affordable Emberton III provides greater portability for those constantly on the move. The Middleton II shines brightest for those who prioritize its specific blend of compact(ish) size, premium stereo sound, and rugged design. It’s an excellent speaker that feels caught between two outstanding alternatives.
When considering rivals, the Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 3rd Gen presents a similarly priced option with exquisite design and superb instrument separation, though it requires two units for a stereo experience. For budget-conscious buyers, the JBL Charge 6 offers formidable waterproofing, great sound, and much lower cost, albeit without the same audio refinement or aesthetic prestige.
Ultimately, the Marshall Middleton II is a high-quality speaker that makes a strong auditory argument for itself. Its stellar stereo imaging and robust build are significant strengths. Your decision may come down to balancing priorities. If you desire the most powerful, feature-packed Marshall portable and can manage the size, the Kilburn III is the smarter investment. If ultimate portability is key, the Emberton III wins. But if you seek a distinctive, great-sounding speaker that sits between those extremes, the Middleton II delivers a performance that’s hard to fault.
(Source: techradar)
