Marshall Woburn III Bluetooth Speaker Review Powerful Sound and Stunning Design

Description

A Bold Design That Embodies Classic Aesthetics

The Marshall Woburn III Bluetooth Wireless Speaker immediately grabbed my attention with its vintage-inspired design. The textured vinyl covering and iconic salt-and-pepper fret make it feel like a piece of rock history. It’s not just about the looks, though; the sturdy wooden frame adds a sense of durability, making this speaker feel like it’s built to last. I also found the brass plate on the front, etched with the company’s 1962 heritage, a charming nod to the brand’s legacy. While its hefty 16.4-pound weight made it feel solid, it’s worth noting that it’s not exactly the most portable option.

Immersive Sound Built for Audio Enthusiasts

As soon as I powered it up, I noticed how the two 1-inch tweeters and dual 5.25-inch woofers delivered a rich, immersive sound experience. The 110-watt Class D amps give the speaker the ability to hit clean high trebles and deep, resonating bass without distortion. I tested everything from rock to classical, and the mid-range tones were impressively lifelike, adding depth to every track. Bluetooth 5.2 with Qualcomm aptX ensured seamless wireless connectivity, and the audio quality didn’t suffer even when streaming from my smartphone. However, the lack of waterproofing might be a drawback if outdoor use is in your plans.

Control Options That Work for Everyone

I appreciated the dual control options this speaker offers. The top panel features analogue controls, which allowed me to adjust volume, treble, and bass directly. It’s an intuitive and tactile experience, perfect for someone like me who enjoys hands-on adjustments. Alternatively, the Marshall Bluetooth app offered a more modern, digital way to tweak sound settings. While the app worked fine, I did find myself gravitating towards the physical controls because they felt more immediate and satisfying.

A Sustainable Approach to Speaker Design

One feature that truly stood out was its PVC-free build, made with 70% recycled plastic and vegan materials. It feels good knowing that the speaker was designed with sustainability in mind without compromising its robust construction. While this aspect might not directly affect performance, it’s a thoughtful touch that many environmentally conscious buyers might appreciate.

Positives

The key benefits of this speaker are undeniable, especially if you’re someone who values both sound quality and aesthetics.

• Impressive soundstage that delivers rich, immersive audio.
• Classic Marshall design that pairs well with any room decor.
• Durability, thanks to its wooden frame and quality craftsmanship.
• Flexible control options, including physical dials and app-based settings.
• Bluetooth 5.2 ensures seamless connectivity with minimal lag.

Weaknesses

While the speaker excels in many areas, there are some caveats worth mentioning.

• The speaker is not waterproof, limiting its use to indoor environments.
• Its weight and size make it less portable compared to other Bluetooth speakers.
• The price point may feel steep for casual users who don’t prioritize sound quality or design.

Competing Products

When compared to rivals like the Sonos Move or Bose SoundLink Revolve+, the Woburn III holds its own in terms of sound clarity and build quality. The Sonos Move offers better portability and is waterproof, making it more versatile for outdoor use. However, it doesn’t quite match the Woburn III’s vintage charm and customizable controls. The Bose SoundLink Revolve+, on the other hand, excels in 360-degree sound but lacks the raw power and bass depth that the Woburn III delivers. If aesthetics and immersive audio are your priorities, this Marshall speaker edges out its competitors in those categories.

Bang for the Buck

From a price-to-quality ratio, the Woburn III feels like it’s aimed at audiophiles and design enthusiasts who don’t mind paying a premium for exceptional sound and iconic looks. While it may not be the most affordable option, its long-lasting build and advanced Bluetooth capabilities make it a worthwhile investment for those seeking a high-quality listening experience. Still, the lack of portability and waterproofing might deter more casual users or those looking for an all-purpose speaker.

Additional information