Overview
The Marshall Woburn III is an impressive, large Bluetooth speaker characterized by its nostalgic design and robust control knobs. Engineered to deliver an expansive and harmonious soundscape, this speaker boasts a five-driver system and offers customizable equalization settings. It caters to individuals seeking a powerful audio solution with a classic look, although it comes with a premium price.
Features and Connectivity
For those on the hunt for a high-performance Bluetooth speaker, the Woburn III stands out. Alongside its wireless capabilities, it offers multiple connection options that enhance its versatility. The Woburn III can seamlessly link to a variety of devices, including record players and televisions, making it a multifunctional audio system.
Bluetooth Version
Equipped with Bluetooth 5.2, the Woburn III ensures a stable and quick wireless connection. It allows for easy pairing with various devices, enhancing your audio experience.
Input Options
This speaker doesn’t limit itself to Bluetooth alone; it also supports connections via RCA, HDMI, and a 3.5mm AUX input. The inclusion of diverse input types makes it an exceptional choice for those wanting to utilize it for various multimedia purposes, not just audio streaming.
Power and Performance
With a sound pressure level of 100.5dB measured at a distance of one meter, the Woburn III is capable of filling expansive spaces with its powerful output.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Rich and loud audio output
- Multiple connectivity options
- Attractive vintage design
- Physical knobs and buttons for easy control
Cons
- Lacks Wi-Fi connectivity
- Designed for stationary use only; no battery included
Price and Availability
Currently, the Woburn III is available for purchase at $579.99 in black and cream variations, while the newer brown model is priced at $599.99.
A Classic Design in a Modern Bluetooth Speaker
Marshall’s range of Bluetooth speakers draws influences from its iconic guitar amplifiers, resulting in a nostalgic aesthetic. The Woburn III, in particular, is emblematic of this design philosophy due to its large size and classic look. It features substantial knobs which facilitate user interaction, differentiating it from most Bluetooth speakers that typically use rubber buttons or touch controls.
Users will appreciate the tactile feel of the knobs for volume adjustment, which adds to the overall experience. The speaker’s design is not only stylish but also functional, as the volume settings on the speaker directly correspond with adjustments made on your phone.
Sound Quality
The Woburn III is equipped with a five-driver setup hidden behind its elegant grill, which consists of a 90W Class D woofer, two 15W mid-range drivers, and two 15W tweeters. This setup allows the speaker to produce rich and powerful audio, capable of handling a wide range of musical genres with ease.
The ported design enhances its low-end reproduction, making it suitable for bass-heavy tracks as well. Users have reported that the audio is well-balanced and warm, with the bass maintaining clarity without overshadowing higher frequencies.
For those seeking customization, the speaker offers adjustable EQ settings via physical knobs and a mobile application compatible with both iOS and Android. The app affords even greater control over various frequency bands, allowing for a tailored listening experience. It can also automatically adjust settings based on the speaker’s placement in relation to walls or other surfaces, enhancing sound quality.
Comparison with the Stanmore III
If you’re considering a Marshall speaker but are weighing options between the Woburn III and the smaller Stanmore III, both models have their strengths. While the Stanmore III is aptly loud for use in smaller settings like bedrooms or offices and features RCA connections, the Woburn III excels in power and volume output. It also adds an HDMI input for connecting to TVs, a feature the Stanmore III lacks.
Final Thoughts on Purchasing the Marshall Woburn III
The Marshall Woburn III sets itself apart as a premium wireless speaker that combines excellent sound quality with a visually appealing design. Its capability to function both wirelessly and with wired connections is impressive. However, potential buyers should note the absence of battery support for portability and the lack of Wi-Fi functionality for uninterrupted streaming.
With a price point nearing $580, the Woburn III falls into the luxury speaker category. This cost is justified by its versatile design and audio performance, especially if utilized in multi-device connections. Therefore, if you are in search of a singular speaker that meets diverse audio needs, the Woburn III could be your ideal choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a more compact option without HDMI support, the Stanmore III may be worth considering as well.
