Marshall has given its two most portable Bluetooth speakers, the Emberton and Willen, a significant upgrade. The new Emberton III and Willen II boast bigger batteries, Auracast functionality, and microphones for voice calls, making them even more appealing for on-the-go audio enthusiasts.
The Emberton III retains the sleek design of its predecessor but features a slightly larger footprint. This added size translates to a more powerful audio experience and an extended battery life. Marshall claims the Emberton III can deliver over 32 hours of playtime, a slight improvement over the Emberton II’s 30 hours. Like its predecessor, the Emberton III maintains its IP67 rating, making it water and dustproof and even capable of floating, making it a perfect poolside companion. The addition of a microphone allows for hands-free voice calls, a feature that was absent in previous models.
The Willen II also receives a battery boost, increasing its playtime from 15 hours to over 17 hours. Similar to the Emberton III, the Willen II is slightly larger than its original iteration but retains its signature mounting strap. The IP67 rating ensures the Willen II is also water and dust resistant, and it too features a microphone for voice calls.
Both the Emberton III and Willen II will benefit from a post-launch firmware update that enables Bluetooth LE Audio with Auracast compatibility. Auracast replaces Marshall’s existing Stack Mode, allowing the Emberton III to act as an audio sharing source for other Auracast-compatible Marshall speakers.
The Marshall Emberton III and Willen II are available for preorder in black and cream colors starting August 19th, with global availability at multiple retailers beginning August 26th. The Emberton III retails for $170, while the Willen II is priced at $120. These upgrades, coupled with the addition of Auracast and microphones, position these speakers as compelling choices for anyone seeking a versatile and durable portable audio solution.
