Marshall has unveiled the Middleton II, a successor to its popular portable Bluetooth speaker, offering significant upgrades in audio quality, battery life, and functionality. Maintaining the launch price of its predecessor, the Middleton II aims to capture the attention of audiophiles and casual listeners alike with its improved features and classic design.
The announcement comes as Marshall continues to innovate within the portable audio market. The Middleton II retains the signature aesthetic of Marshall’s speaker lineup, yet introduces several enhancements that distinguish it from the original Middleton released over two years ago. Notably, the speaker now boasts a longer battery life, improved audio performance, and the addition of a built-in microphone for hands-free calls.
Enhanced Audio and Battery Life
One of the most significant upgrades in the Middleton II is its audio capabilities. Marshall has equipped the speaker with its proprietary True Stereophonic technology, providing 360° sound that promises to fill any room with rich, immersive audio. The company claims that the new model delivers deeper bass and more precise sound reproduction, even at maximum volume.
In addition to audio improvements, the Middleton II offers a substantial increase in battery life. Users can now enjoy over 30 hours of playback on a single charge, a marked improvement from the 20+ hours offered by the original Middleton. This extended battery life is complemented by the speaker’s ability to function as a power bank, allowing users to charge their devices on the go.
New Features and Design
The Middleton II introduces a built-in microphone, a feature absent in its predecessor, enabling users to make hands-free calls directly from the speaker. This addition sets it apart from other models in Marshall’s lineup, such as the Kilburn III, which lacks this functionality.
Despite these enhancements, the Middleton II maintains the rugged design elements that Marshall is known for. It includes a carrying strap for portability and an IP67 rating for dust and water resistance, ensuring durability in various environments. The speaker also retains physical controls for adjusting bass and treble, alongside a battery indicator, while offering additional sound customization through a companion app.
Market Position and Availability
The move to introduce the Middleton II at the same price point as its predecessor—€299—demonstrates Marshall’s commitment to providing value without compromising on quality. The speaker is available for purchase on Marshall’s website in Black and Beige, with retail availability set for July 15.
According to industry experts, the inclusion of LE audio support is a strategic enhancement that not only improves audio quality but also enhances power efficiency, aligning with consumer demands for longer-lasting, high-performance devices.
“The Middleton II represents a thoughtful evolution in Marshall’s portable speaker lineup, balancing classic design with modern technological advancements,” said audio industry analyst, Sarah Thompson.
Looking Ahead
As Marshall continues to expand its product offerings, the Middleton II is poised to strengthen its position in the competitive portable speaker market. The combination of enhanced audio capabilities, extended battery life, and new features like the built-in microphone positions it as a compelling choice for consumers seeking both style and substance in their audio devices.
Looking forward, Marshall’s commitment to innovation and quality suggests that future iterations may continue to build on these advancements, potentially incorporating even more cutting-edge technology and design improvements.
With the Middleton II, Marshall not only reinforces its reputation for producing high-quality audio equipment but also sets the stage for future growth and innovation in the portable speaker segment.
