The Marshall Middleton portable Bluetooth speaker delivers a cinematic audio experience that defies its compact size. This in-depth review explores its exceptional sound quality, robust build, and practical features, putting it head-to-head with other Marshall offerings and competitors in the market. From its premium feel and durable construction to its impressive 20-hour battery life and IP67 rating, we delve into every aspect of this powerful speaker.We examine the Middleton's performance in various scenarios, highlighting its strengths in delivering rich, full-bodied audio ideal for movie nights and outdoor adventures. We also address minor drawbacks, such as occasional connectivity issues, to provide a balanced perspective. Ultimately, we assess whether the Marshall Middleton's combination of portability, durability, and exceptional sound justifies its price point and earns its place as a top contender in the portable speaker arena.
Pros And Cons
- High-end portable speaker with great sound quality for cinema and music.
- Completely fills a large room even at half volume.
- IP67 waterproof and ruggedized design.
- Long battery life (up to 20 hours).
- Can be used as an external power bank.
- Durable and sturdy build with recycled materials.
- Nice angular design with soft rounded edges.
- Good bass levels with a nice rounded sound.
- Clarity in trebles without being harsh.
- 360-degree sound stage.
- On the large side for a portable speaker.
- May have some difficulty switching between different devices (Windows, Android, Apple).
- Lacks stereo separation in party mode; sound is repeated from one speaker to another.
- No option for separate left and right channels in multi-speaker setup.
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Unboxing and Initial Impressions
Upon receiving the Marshall Middleton, the first thing that struck me was its robust build quality. The angular, boxy design with soft rounded edges felt incredibly premium in hand. The texture, similar to my Sony camera, hinted at exceptional durability. The speaker boasts 55% recycled plastic, aligning with environmentally conscious practices.
The unboxing experience was straightforward; the packaging is simple but stylish, reflecting the Marshall brand's aesthetic. The included USB-C cable was standard, though I appreciated its inclusion. The speaker's weight (1.8kg) and dimensions (24cm x 9.5cm x 11.9cm) feel reasonably compact given its powerful sound output.
Sound Quality and Performance
The Marshall Middleton's sound quality is exceptional. It delivers rich, full-bodied audio with clear vocals and well-defined bass. The dual passive radiators and dedicated woofer create a remarkably immersive soundscape, especially when watching movies, filling my 6x9m studio with ease, even at half volume. The 360-degree sound dispersion ensures even audio distribution throughout the room.
I used it extensively for movie nights, projecting onto a large screen, and the audio quality perfectly complemented the visual experience. The soundstage is expansive and detailed, producing a cinematic listening experience without distortion even at higher volumes. The mid-range frequencies are well-balanced, never overpowering other sonic elements.
Features and Functionality
Beyond its amazing audio, the Middleton offers practical features. Its IP67 rating ensures waterproofing and dust resistance, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. The intuitive controls, including power, pairing, volume, and battery level indicator are easily accessible on the top panel. It also functions as a power bank, useful for charging devices on the go.
The built-in battery boasts an impressive 20-hour playtime, offering extended use between charges. Connectivity is straightforward, with both wired (USB-C) and wireless options available. The included carrying strap is comfortable and enhances portability. However, device switching could be smoother; it sometimes struggled to switch seamlessly between my Windows laptop and my Android/Apple devices.
Comparison and Value
Compared to other Marshall speakers like the Willen and the larger home-focused Acton III, the Middleton occupies a unique niche. While the Acton III delivers superior sound in a home setting, its lack of portability makes it unsuitable for the on-the-go lifestyle the Middleton caters to. The Willen, being smaller and more affordable, sacrifices power and sound quality.
At its retail price of $299 (often discounted to $200-$250), the Middleton offers exceptional value considering its premium features, build quality, and sound performance. While cheaper options exist, few match the Middleton's combination of portability, durability, and sonic excellence. The ability to easily connect multiple Marshall speakers in party mode is a great bonus for gatherings.
Conclusion
The Marshall Middleton is a fantastic portable Bluetooth speaker that punches well above its weight in terms of sound quality and features. While some minor connectivity hiccups exist, its robust build, long battery life, and exceptional audio performance make it a compelling option for those seeking premium sound on the go. The immersive cinematic sound, especially at higher volumes, is a significant highlight.
Overall, the Marshall Middleton gets a strong recommendation. Its blend of portability, durability, and impressive audio makes it a worthy investment, especially when considering its frequent discounts. If you value robust sound in a portable package, the Middleton is hard to beat.