Marshall has up to date its two most moveable Bluetooth speakers with larger batteries and Auracast performance, which makes it simpler to share audio between a number of audio system. The Marshall Emberton III ($170) and Willen II ($120) can be found for preorder in two colours (black and cream) on August 19 and will probably be provided globally at a number of retailers beginning August 26.
The Emberton III retains the identical traces as its predecessor, however is barely bigger. That larger measurement brings barely extra highly effective sound and elevated battery life. The Emberton III has a claimed 32-plus hours of playtime, up barely from the Emberton II‘s 30 hours. As earlier than, the speaker is successfully water and dustproof with an IP67 rating. It additionally floats, making it a very good poolside companion.
But maybe the largest change is the addition of a microphone for voice calls. Mics have been as soon as customary on many Bluetooth audio system, however the characteristic started to vanish in new fashions between 2019-2023. They’ve since began to make a return, with many 2024 audio system just like the Sony ULT Field 1 and Beats Pill together with the characteristic.
Also new for the Emberton III is Bluetooth LE Audio with Auracast compatibility. Though it gained’t be accessible at launch, Marshall says that Auracast replaces the corporate’s current Stack Mode, and lets the Emberton III act as an audio sharing supply for some other close by Auracast-capable Marshall audio system.
The Willen II additionally will get a battery bump from 15 hours to 17-plus hours. Like the Emberton III, its measurement and form are a bit larger than the unique Willen, although its signature mounting strap stays on the again.
The Willen II can also be IP67, and like its bigger sibling, it will get a microphone for voice calls. It’s additionally slated to obtain the post-launch firmware improve to allow LE Audio and Auracast.