With the continuous advancement of technology and the growing demand for high-quality sound, portable Bluetooth speakers have become an essential part of modern life. Whether it’s for outdoor camping, travel, or relaxing at home, a high-quality portable speaker can provide an excellent audio experience. Many brands have launched various types of speakers on the market, and two standout models are the Marshall Emberton II and the Sonos Roam. Both speakers offer outstanding sound performance, portability, and stylish designs.
1. Brand Background
1.1 Marshall
Founded in 1962 in the UK, Marshall is a globally renowned audio brand, famous for its sound quality, design, and brand history, especially its influence in the guitar amplifier industry. In recent years, Marshall has expanded its audio expertise into consumer electronics, launching a series of high-quality portable Bluetooth speakers. Marshall’s speakers often feature classic retro designs and powerful sound, winning the hearts of music enthusiasts.
1.2 Sonos
Founded in 2002 in the USA, Sonos is a smart audio brand known for its innovative technology and exceptional sound performance. Sonos has a wide range of products, from home theater systems to portable speakers. The brand is particularly famous for its powerful smart features, which allow seamless integration with smart home devices, as well as its excellent multi-room audio systems. The Sonos Roam, as part of its portable speaker lineup, has won the favor of many consumers due to its impressive performance and smart features.
2. Design and Portability
2.1 Marshall Emberton II Design
The Marshall Emberton II speaker continues the brand’s classic retro design style, with a metal mesh grille, leather appearance, and iconic Marshall logo. The design is both stylish and highly recognizable. The speaker has a compact size of about 16.5 x 8.5 x 8.5 cm and weighs 0.7 kg. Compared to many other portable speakers, it emphasizes elegance and a premium feel.
The Marshall Emberton II also offers improved water resistance, featuring an IP67 rating, meaning it’s completely dustproof and can withstand immersion in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes, making it suitable for outdoor use. Additionally, it comes equipped with Bluetooth 5.0 for fast and stable connectivity.
2.2 Sonos Roam Design
The Sonos Roam, on the other hand, has a more modern, minimalist design, with a sleek and compact look that is easy to carry anywhere. It measures 16.8 x 6 x 6 cm and weighs approximately 0.43 kg, making it lighter and more portable than the Marshall Emberton II. The Roam also has an IP67 rating, making it both dustproof and waterproof up to 1 meter for extended periods, positioning it as a truly outdoor-friendly speaker.
The Roam is designed with practicality in mind, using high-quality plastic for the surface, a USB-C charging port, and support for wireless charging. It also utilizes Bluetooth 5.0 for stable and efficient connectivity.
2.3 Comparison Analysis
In terms of design, the Marshall Emberton II’s retro style has a strong brand identity and offers a more high-end, elegant appearance, ideal for those who appreciate classic design. The Sonos Roam, on the other hand, is more modern, simple, and focuses on portability, making it ideal for frequent travelers. Both speakers are highly resistant to water and dust, making them great for outdoor use. However, the Sonos Roam has an edge in terms of weight and compactness, making it easier to carry.
3. Sound Performance
3.1 Marshall Emberton II Sound Performance
As a speaker from a renowned audio brand, the Marshall Emberton II delivers excellent sound quality. It features two 10W full-range drivers and two passive radiators, providing clear, rich, and dynamic sound. The bass is deep and powerful, while the treble is crisp and clear, resulting in a balanced overall sound that is suitable for a wide variety of music genres.
The Emberton II also uses aptX technology, supporting high-quality wireless audio transmission, ensuring that the sound signal is clear and stable. For users who care about sound performance, the Marshall Emberton II is undoubtedly a recommended option, offering powerful bass and a live, immersive listening experience.
3.2 Sonos Roam Sound Performance
Although the Sonos Roam is smaller in size, it doesn’t fall short when it comes to sound performance. It features two high-performance drivers, one for bass and the other for treble, delivering full bass and clear high frequencies. Sonos’ Trueplay technology allows the Roam to adjust its sound based on its surroundings, ensuring the best audio experience. The sound is clear, natural, and particularly rich in the midrange, offering excellent detail.
The Sonos Roam supports both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connections, allowing it to sync with other Sonos devices for a better audio experience. It also supports voice assistants like Alexa and Google Assistant, making the Roam more than just a speaker; it’s a smart device.
3.3 Comparison Analysis
When it comes to sound performance, the Marshall Emberton II offers stronger and more immersive bass, ideal for those who enjoy a fuller, punchier sound. The Sonos Roam, on the other hand, provides more balanced and detailed sound, especially in the midrange and treble, making it perfect for listeners who appreciate clarity and high-fidelity audio. From a sound quality perspective, both have their strengths, and the choice depends on personal preference. If you prefer punchy bass, the Marshall Emberton II is a great option. If you value balanced sound and clarity, the Sonos Roam is the better choice.
4. Smart Features and Compatibility
4.1 Marshall Emberton II Smart Features
While the Marshall Emberton II is a premium speaker, its smart features are relatively basic. It supports Bluetooth 5.0, which allows connection to most Bluetooth devices, but it doesn’t offer Wi-Fi connectivity or voice assistant integration. As a speaker focused on sound quality and classic design, the Emberton II’s functionality is simple, catering to users who don’t require advanced smart features.
4.2 Sonos Roam Smart Features
Sonos Roam stands out with its more advanced smart features. It supports both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, and it can sync with other Sonos devices to create a multi-room audio setup. The Roam also supports voice assistants like Alexa and Google Assistant, enabling you to control the speaker with voice commands. Furthermore, the Sonos app allows for more personalized settings and control.
4.3 Comparison Analysis
In terms of smart features, Sonos Roam has a clear advantage, especially with its voice assistant integration and Wi-Fi connectivity, providing a more intelligent user experience. The Marshall Emberton II, on the other hand, focuses more on sound and classic design with fewer smart functionalities. If you prefer a more intelligent experience, the Sonos Roam would be the better choice. If smart features aren’t a priority for you, the Marshall Emberton II will suffice for basic functionality.
5. Price and Value for Money
5.1 Marshall Emberton II Price Analysis
The Marshall Emberton II is priced on the higher end of the portable speaker range. As a well-known brand, its price is higher compared to many other portable speakers. However, considering its exceptional sound performance and classic design, the price offers reasonable value for money. For those who prioritize sound quality and brand prestige, the Marshall Emberton II is definitely worth the investment.
5.2 Sonos Roam Price Analysis
The Sonos Roam is also in the premium price range, but due to its support for Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and voice assistants, along with its overall performance, it offers good value for money. If you need a speaker that combines both smart features and sound quality, the Sonos Roam is priced reasonably for the range of functionalities it offers.
5.3 Comparison Analysis
Marshall Emberton II and Sonos Roam are excellent premium portable speakers, each with its own unique advantages. The Marshall Emberton II is beloved for its classic retro design and exceptional sound performance, making it ideal for users who appreciate sound quality and aesthetics. The Sonos Roam, on the other hand, excels in smart features, sound balance, and compatibility with other Sonos devices, making it perfect for users who desire a more intelligent and convenient audio experience.