Marshall has introduced two new additions to its popular line of portable Bluetooth speakers: the Emberton III and the Willen II. Both speakers, which are available for pre-order and will officially launch on August 26, feature improvements in battery life, sound performance, and durability.

The Emberton III is the latest iteration of Marshall's compact speaker, known for its rugged design and powerful audio output. Building on the success of its predecessors, the Emberton III retains the classic aesthetic reminiscent of a mini guitar amplifier, a nod to Marshall's roots in the music industry.

Equipped with two 38W Class D amplifiers, the Emberton III delivers what Marshall describes as "True Stereophonic" sound—a unique multi-directional audio experience that envelops listeners in a spatial and immersive soundscape. This technology aims to provide a more comprehensive and balanced sonic performance, catering to both audiophiles and casual listeners alike.

Battery life is one of the main features of the Emberton III. With over 32 hours of playtime on a single charge, it surpasses many competitors in its category, including popular models like the JBL Charge 5. The speaker's durability is also noteworthy, boasting an IP67 rating for dust and water resistance. 

This makes the Emberton III a reliable companion for outdoor adventures, including beach outings and poolside gatherings, as it can withstand submersion in water up to one meter deep for 30 minutes.

One of the new additions to the Emberton III is the inclusion of a microphone, a feature that had fallen out of favor in many Bluetooth speakers over the past few years but is now making a comeback. This allows users to take voice calls directly through the speaker, adding a layer of convenience to its use.

Furthermore, the Emberton III is future-proofed with Bluetooth LE Audio and Auracast compatibility. Auracast is a technology that facilitates audio sharing across multiple devices, enabling the Emberton III to act as a source for other nearby Auracast-capable speakers. This feature, which will be available through a post-launch firmware update, replaces Marshall's previous Stack Mode, enhancing the speaker's versatility in multi-device environments.

“It's been a pleasure to see this generational update come to life. We’ve created something unique in the portable speaker category. On the outside of the speaker, the focus has been on improved material choices and usability, but the biggest update is on the inside," said Hanna Wallner, Marshall’s product manager.

“Both products come ready for the next Bluetooth technology LE Audio, enabling Auracast. With Auracast you can turn the speakers into Bluetooth transmitters to unlimited listeners with Auracast compatible earbuds.”

Alongside the Emberton III, Marshall has introduced the Willen II, a compact and portable Bluetooth speaker designed for those who prioritize mobility without sacrificing sound quality. The Willen II is a slight upgrade from its first-generation counterpart, featuring improved drivers that offer a wider frequency response and a more balanced acoustic performance.

Despite its small size, the Willen II packs a punch with its enhanced bass response and overall audio quality. It is slightly larger than the original Willen, allowing for a bigger soundstage. The battery life has also seen an improvement, with the Willen II offering up to 17 hours of playtime on a single charge, making it a strong contender in the portable speaker market.

Like the Emberton III, the Willen II is built to endure the elements, with an IP67 rating for dust and water resistance. This rugged design, combined with its lightweight and compact form factor, makes it an ideal choice for on-the-go listening. The Willen II also features a microphone for voice calls and is Bluetooth LE Audio-ready, ensuring it is equipped for future audio advancements.

Both the Marshall Emberton III and Willen II are available for pre-order in two colors: black and cream. They will officially go on sale globally on August 26.