Marshall Middleton Review: A Classy Portable Powerhouse

PROS

• Iconic Design
• Dynamic Soundstaging
• IP 67 rated (for Dust and Water)
• Stack Mode

CONS

• Limited EQ Customization
• Voice Assistance Unavailable

When it comes to portable Bluetooth speakers, Marshall has established itself as a brand synonymous with quality sound and classic design. The Marshall Middleton, the latest addition to the company's lineup, combines the iconic guitar-amp aesthetics with impressive audio performance, making it a compelling option for those who crave both style and substance. In this review, we'll dive into the features, design, sound quality, and overall performance of the Marshall Middleton to help you decide if it's the right portable speaker for your needs.

Design: Signature Aesthetics and Durability

The Marshall Middleton exudes a timeless and classic charm, resembling the brand's legendary guitar amplifiers. With a brass-hued logo on its front grille, this black speaker effortlessly captures attention and radiates a touch of elegance. Its textured cabinet not only adds to its aesthetic appeal but also contributes to its rugged durability. The Middleton boasts an IP67 rating, which means it can withstand dust and be submerged in water up to a meter deep for 30 minutes, making it a rock solid companion for outdoor adventures and poolside parties.

At 4.29 x 9.06 x 3.74 inches (109 x 230 x 95 mm) and 1.8 kg, the Middleton strikes a balance between portability and robustness. While it might be slightly heavier than some of its competitors, the included rubber strap ensures that carrying it around is a breeze. The control layout on top is intuitive, featuring a brass multifunction button that handles power, playback, and track navigation. Notably, the Middleton introduces dedicated bass and treble controls, allowing you to fine-tune the audio experience to your preferences without needing to dive into the companion app.

Symphony of Sound: Audio Performance

When it comes to sound quality, the Marshall Middleton delivers a performance that punches well above its compact size. Equipped with two 3" 15W woofers, two 3/5" 10W tweeters and two passive radiators, this speaker delivers frequency range from 50 Hz-20,000 Hz with a balanced and immersive soundstage. Its quad-driver setup, which strategically places drivers on all four sides, contributes to its True Stereophonic technology, offering multi-directional and expansive sound.

Alright, picture this: you're in your bedroom, chilling, and you hit play on the Marshall Middleton. Suddenly, you're not just listening to music; you're in the front row of a live gig. It's that surreal. Now, here's a little secret: while the usual advice is to keep your speaker away from the wall, I decided to throw caution to the wind. I parked that bad boy right up against the wall, cranked up the bass, and let the magic happen. And let me tell you, that was the sweet spot for me.

Why, you ask? Well, it's like this speaker has a backstage pass to a concert. The bass goes a bit boomy, and the walls join the party by bouncing those audio waves around. The result? A room that's practically pulsating with full, thumping bass. It's like bringing the stadium to your living room. So, if you're all about that concert-like experience, don't be afraid to cozy up your Middleton to the wall and let those bass vibes flow. It's like having your own personal concert.

The clarity and definition of midrange frequencies, along with crisp highs, ensure that vocals and instruments stand out prominently in the mix. I put the middle through extreme test of a wide variety of songs, from Mooroo's Main Koun Hoon to the Joint In The Booth by Seedhe Maut and it's safe to say that Middleton shines in reproducing a rich and resonant bass, defying expectations for a speaker of its dimensions. Whether you're enjoying pop, rock, or electronic music, the bass remains punchy and controlled. Even at higher volumes, the Middleton maintains its composure and avoids distortion, delivering a satisfying and dynamic sound.

Bluetooth: Connectivity and App Control

Pairing your devices with the Marshall Middleton is a seamless process, thanks to its Bluetooth 5.1 support. This ensures a stable and reliable connection, even at extended distances of up to 334.6 feet (102.0 meters). The Middleton offers low latency, making it suitable for watching videos without encountering distracting audio sync issues.

The dedicated Marshall Bluetooth app enhances your control over the speaker's settings. The app provides access to volume, bass, and treble EQ sliders. However, I wish there was support for multi-band EQ to finely tune sound to match personal preferences which would've been a cool addition. Nonetheless, the app supports multi-hosting for two smartphones and lets you activate the Stack mode, allowing multiple Middletons to be connected and synchronized for an even more immersive sound experience.

Battery: Longevity and Quick Charge

The Marshall Middleton boasts an advertised battery life of over 20 hours on a single charge, making it an excellent choice for extended outdoor outings, gatherings, and road trips. It also has a dedicated button which on one press, lights up the LED strip to preview the battery status. In real-world testing, the speaker still managed to provide a commendable 7 hours of playback, which is sufficient for most listening sessions. The quick-charge feature is a standout, offering two hours of playtime with just a 20-minute charge. Moreover, the USB-C input doubles as an output, allowing you to charge your other devices while on the move.

Verdict: A Melodic Mix of Style and Performance

The Marshall Middleton is a portable Bluetooth speaker that effortlessly marries style with audio prowess. Its iconic guitar-amp design, coupled with an IP67 rating for dust and water resistance, ensures it can withstand the rigors of outdoor use. While it may be slightly heavier than some competitors, the inclusion of a removable carrying strap makes it easy to transport. The Middleton's audio performance is where it truly shines, offering a wide and immersive soundstage, powerful bass, and balanced sound reproduction.

The intuitive controls, including dedicated bass and treble adjustments, make fine-tuning your listening experience a breeze. The Bluetooth app enhances your control and allows for multi-device pairing and synchronization, adding versatility to your setup. The battery life, though slightly below the advertised duration, still provides ample playback time for most occasions. Although voice assistance is absent, the signature design and dynamic soundstage effortlessly overshadow this minor setback.

The Marshall Middleton earns a solid recommendation for both indoor and outdoor use. Its rugged build, superior audio quality, and thoughtful design elements make it an enticing option for music enthusiasts who are always on the go. While it may not be the most budget-friendly choice, its combination of style, durability, and audio performance justifies its price tag. For those who prioritize a harmonious blend of aesthetics and function, the Marshall Middleton is a worthy addition to your portable audio arsenal.