## Marshall Emberton III Review: Don’t Tweak What’s Already Great
The Marshall Emberton series has been a go-to choice for audiophiles and Bluetooth speaker aficionados for years. With the launch of the **Marshall Emberton III**, Marshall has adopted the philosophy of “if it’s working well, leave it be,” providing subtle yet impactful enhancements over the Emberton II. The outcome? A speaker that preserves the iconic Marshall audio experience while introducing features that enhance its allure for users seeking the ultimate Bluetooth speaker priced under $200.
### Design and Construction Quality
On first sight, the **Emberton III** appears almost indistinguishable from the Emberton II, which is a positive aspect. The speaker keeps its hallmark leather-and-metal aesthetic, radiating the premium quality that Marshall is renowned for. Offered in two timeless colors—**Black & Brass** and **Cream**—the Emberton III remains a chic addition to any environment.
A notable physical alteration is the introduction of a **dedicated power button**, along with a **new bracket** that enables the attachment of hooks or carabiners, enhancing the speaker’s portability. Additionally, the speaker features an **IP67 rating for water and dust resistance**, meaning it can be submerged in water up to 1 meter deep for 30 minutes without suffering damage. This makes it a sturdy choice for outdoor activities, whether you’re relaxing by the pool or embarking on a hike.
### Audio Quality
The **audio performance** is where the Emberton III excels. Marshall has preserved its exemplary tuning, offering a well-rounded sound profile capable of filling a large space effortlessly. The speaker achieves a noticeably greater volume than its forerunner, thanks to enhanced loudness capabilities, and continues to deliver **360-degree multi-directional audio** through its front and back grills. Marshall’s proprietary **True Stereophonic technology** guarantees that the sound is spatially engaging and immersive, ideal for parties or events.
While bass levels aren’t particularly heavy, the sound remains vibrant and full-bodied, featuring **clear high frequencies** and impressive detail. The speaker also provides EQ presets through the Marshall app, though it still does not offer customizable EQ settings. Nevertheless, the well-crafted presets make this shortcoming easy to overlook.
### Battery Performance and Charging
A key enhancement in the Emberton III is its **battery performance**. Marshall has increased the already notable 30-hour battery life of the Emberton II to **32 hours**. Moreover, the speaker now supports **fast charging**, allowing for a full charge in just two hours. This makes it an excellent option for long journeys or extended usage without frequent charging interruptions.
### Connectivity and Features
The Emberton III includes **Google Fast Pair**, simplifying the connection process with Android devices. Once the speaker is turned on, a notification appears on nearby Android devices, enabling swift and seamless pairing. This capability also extends to smart televisions, positioning it as a versatile choice for home entertainment.
A highlight of the Emberton III is its **Bluetooth Auracast** compatibility. Although Auracast isn’t yet widely accessible on most devices, this feature ensures that the Emberton III is **future-ready**. Auracast allows for both public and private broadcasts via Bluetooth LE, marking significant progress in Bluetooth technology. As Auracast becomes more widespread, the Emberton III will be primed to leverage its benefits fully.
### Portability and Resilience
Marshall has enhanced the Emberton III’s portability by including a **bracket** for hooks and lanyards, facilitating easier transportation. Coupled with its **IP67 rating**, the speaker is ideal for outdoor escapades, whether hiking, camping, or simply relaxing by the pool. Its robust design ensures that it withstands various conditions, while the fast charging and extended battery life make it a dependable partner for long trips.
### Advantages and Disadvantages
#### Advantages:
– **Google Fast Pair** for effortless connectivity
– **Bluetooth Auracast** ready for future compatibility
– **Enhanced battery life** (32 hours)
– **Louder audio** with great clarity and balance
– **New bracket** for improved portability
– **Fast charging** (complete charge in 2 hours)
#### Disadvantages:
– **Absence of customizable EQ** settings (only presets provided)
### Price and Availability
The **Marshall Emberton III** is priced at **$169.99** and can be found at major retailers such as Amazon, Best Buy, and Crutchfield. Although the **Emberton II** is often available for around $100 during promotions, the additional features and future-proofing of the Emberton III make the extra cost worthwhile.
### Concluding Thoughts
The **Marshall Emberton III** may not represent a drastic shift from its predecessor, but it brings all the essential upgrades to an already stellar device. With enhanced sound
