Marshall’s portable Bluetooth speakers have long been a cool presence in a field dominated by sporty devices, and the Willen ($119.99) continues that trend.
This speaker has a classic, rock-inspired look and produces sounds that are surprisingly powerful for its size.
Holistic Review?
We particularly appreciate the utilitarian features, such as the built-in carrying strap and the sturdy construction.
However, in terms of audio, it falls short of justifying its price.
When compared to similarly priced competitors like the more powerful JBL Flip 6 ($129.95).
Keep in mind that none of the competitors has the same rock-and-roll swagger as you.
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Powerful But little
As of this writing, Marshall Willen is available in black and brass, with a cream colour coming later this year.
With a simulated grain-leather body (which has a rubbery, waterproof feel).
And a front-facing, crosshatched grille reminiscent of a classic guitar amp, it maintains the company’s rock image.
It weighs 10.9 ounces and measures 4.0 by 4.0 by 1.6 inches (HWD).
The $169.99 Marshall Emberton II (2.7 by 6.3 by 3.0 inches, 1.5 pounds).
And the JBL Flip 6 (7.0 by 2.6 by 2.8 inches, 1.0 pounds) are also much larger.
A 10W Class-D amplifier powers the full-range, 2-inch speaker behind the grille, while dual passive radiators give bottom depth.
What About Bluetooth Complaince?
The Willen is Bluetooth 5.1 compliant and uses the SBC Bluetooth codec; AptX.
And AAC isn’t supported, but that’s not a big concern because Willen only plays mono audio.
However, by pushing the Bluetooth button numerous times, you can pair multiple Willen speakers together.
A brass Marshall script logo can be found on the front.
And a brass multifunction button can be found in the top right corner.
The provided USB-C-to-USB-A charging cable plugs into an exposed USB-C connector on the left side.
The speaker also contains a strap on the back panel that may be used to secure it to various surfaces, such as a bicycle handlebar.
What About The Other Features?
Power (hold it down) and playback (press it), as well as volume (nudge it up or down).
And track navigation is all controlled by the multifunction button (push it left or right).
It’s a practical, simple-to-use control that also looks excellent.
You’ll find Bluetooth pairing controls, and a speakerphone mic button (push it to switch calls between your phone and the Willen’s speakerphone).
A status LED, and a battery life metre on the top of the device (both are red).
The IP67 rating of the Willen is excellent—the speaker is completely dust-proof and waterproof.
It can be submerged for up to 30 minutes at depths of up to 1 metre and rinsed clean under a faucet.
Splashes from the pool or strong downpours should not be a problem.
Marshall predicts that the Willen’s battery will last about 15 hours.
That estimate is fantastic, but depending on your average volume level, your outcomes may differ.
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What About The Power System?
The JBL Flip 6 offers a 12-hour battery life in comparison. It takes three hours to fully recharge.
The Marshall Bluetooth app (for Android and iOS) has three EQ presets the standard Marshall sound, Push (boosted treble and bass).
And Voice (enhanced vocal clarity).
These EQ presets can’t be tweaked, but that’s not something we’d expect from a speaker in this class.
Aside from that, the app provides firmware upgrades as well as management over the Stack mode.
Power (hold it down) and playback (press it), as well as volume (nudge it up or down).
And track navigation, is all controlled by the multifunction button (push it left or right).
It’s a practical, simple-to-use control that also looks excellent.
You’ll find Bluetooth pairing controls, and a speakerphone mic button (push it to switch calls between your phone and the Willen’s speakerphone).
A status LED, and a battery life metre on the top of the device (both are red).
It Is Dust And Water Proof As Well!
The IP67 rating of the Willen is excellent—the speaker is completely dust-proof and waterproof.
It can be submerged for up to 30 minutes at depths of up to 1 metre and rinsed clean under a faucet.
Splashes from the pool or strong downpours should not be a problem.
Marshall predicts that the Willen’s battery will last about 15 hours.
That estimate is fantastic, but depending on your average volume level, your outcomes may differ.
The JBL Flip 6 offers a 12-hour battery life in comparison.
It takes three hours to fully recharge.
What About Sound Quality?
Sound Is Bright and Relatively Strong
Although the Push EQ setting appears to add a little additional bass depth, a speaker of this size is incapable of very deep bass.
And this option sacrifices some midrange.
However, whether you employ the Marshall or Push modes is a question of personal preference.
Each has advantages and disadvantages.
We primarily used the Marshall mode to test the speaker.
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Premium Sound, Premium Design
Marshall Willen is simple to use, has a nice sound for its size, and is stylish.
However, in light of more powerful competitors in this price range, such as the JBL Flip 6.
And the similarly huge Anker Soundcore Motion Boom ($89.99), the price seems a little high.
