Marshall Kilburn II Review

The Marshall Kilburn II is a portable speaker that impresses with its combination of standout design and robust sound quality. Its classic Marshall aesthetic, featuring a black vinyl finish and vintage-style front fret, is complemented by durable construction, including reinforced corners and a genuine leather handle. However, its weight might be a drawback for those seeking ultra-light portability.

Sound performance is a key strength, offering rich, warm audio with clear mids and deep bass. The inclusion of aptX technology ensures high-quality Bluetooth streaming, though users may need to adjust the bass and treble knobs for optimal sound balance. The speaker can get impressively loud without distorting, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.

The battery life is solid, providing up to 20 hours of playtime, though this can decrease with higher volumes. A quick charge feature offers convenience, and a battery indicator helps manage power levels, albeit with some imprecision.

Connectivity options include Bluetooth 5.0 and a 3.5mm auxiliary input, though the lack of Wi-Fi and NFC may be a downside for some. The ability to pair multiple devices simultaneously is a handy feature. The user interface is straightforward, with analog control knobs for volume, bass, and treble, but lacks physical buttons for track skipping or play/pause.

In terms of value, the Kilburn II is priced higher than some alternatives, but its sound quality, durability, and stylish design make it a worthwhile investment for those who can stretch their budget. Overall, it offers a blend of style, performance, and convenience that stands out in the portable speaker market.

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If you like this review, you might also like our review on the Marshall Tufton BT or Marshall Stanmore III BT or Marshall Stockwell II.

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So, you're in the market for a new mobile speaker, huh? Well, let me tell you about the Marshall Kilburn II. This speaker is one of those rare finds that combines standout looks with stellar sound. Whether you're chillin' at home or having an outdoor adventure, this little beast promises to deliver big. But, let's get one thing straight – it's not just about looks and sound. The build quality and the features it offers make it a serious contender among portable speakers. However, it's not all sunshine and rainbows; there are a few things you might want to consider before making your purchase. Ready to find out if this speaker is the right pick for your next jam session? Keep reading, and let's break it all down.

The design and build quality of this speaker are downright impressive. It's got that classic Marshall look with a modern twist. The black vinyl finish and vintage-style front fret give it a cool, retro vibe that stands out in any room. The solid metal grille and the iconic Marshall script logo just scream rock 'n' roll.

One of the first things you'll notice is its sturdy construction. This thing feels like it could take a few knocks and keep on rocking. The corners are reinforced with metal caps, adding to its durability. And the handle on top? Not just for show. It’s crafted from genuine leather and makes carrying this beast around a breeze.

Still, the speaker is not all perfect. It weighs a bit more than some other portable speakers, which might be a drawback if you plan on lugging it everywhere. But honestly, the build quality more than makes up for that minor inconvenience.

Overall, the meticulous attention to detail in the design and construction really shows. It's clear that Marshall has put a lot of thought into making this speaker both stylish and durable, making it a worthy addition to any music lover's collection.

Alright, let’s talk about what really matters – sound performance. This speaker packs a serious punch for its size. You get a rich, warm sound that’s signature to the brand. The bass is deep and thumping, but it doesn’t drown out the mids and highs. In fact, the mids are clear, making vocals and instruments stand out beautifully. You can feel the details in every strum of a guitar or hit of a drum.

One thing that stands out is the aptX technology. This ensures you get high-quality audio streaming over Bluetooth, which is a step up from the usual Bluetooth speakers. So if you’re streaming your favorite playlist, you won’t lose any of the richness or detail.

However, if you're a fan of heavy bass, you might find yourself tweaking the settings. The speaker has adjustable bass and treble knobs, which is great for customizing your sound. But sometimes it feels like you’re chasing the perfect balance, especially if you switch between different genres of music.

For a speaker its size, it gets impressively loud without distorting. This makes it perfect for both indoor and outdoor use. Whether you're in a small room or having a picnic, this speaker can fill the space with quality sound. But, if you crank it up too high, you might notice a bit of distortion in the upper ranges.

Overall, the sound performance is solid. It’s designed to please the ears of music enthusiasts who appreciate clarity and richness in their audio. Just remember to play around with those knobs to get the sound just right for you.

So, let's talk about one of the most important things for any portable speaker: battery life. The Marshall Kilburn II boasts an impressive 20 hours of playtime on a single charge. That's like having a mini concert that lasts all day and into the night! Whether you're hosting a backyard BBQ or going on a weekend camping trip, this speaker has got you covered. But, here's the reality check: playtime can vary depending on how loud you crank it up. If you love blasting your tunes at max volume, you might see that battery life dip below the 20-hour mark. Still, even at higher volumes, it manages to hold up pretty well, usually giving you around 15 hours or so.

Recharging isn't too painful either. The speaker takes about 2.5 hours to fully charge, which isn't lightning-fast but acceptable. Plus, there's a handy quick charge feature—a 20-minute charge gives you roughly 3 hours of playtime. Perfect for those last-minute plans! In terms of battery management, the speaker has a battery indicator on the top panel, so you always know how much juice is left. No more guessing games. However, some users have noted that the indicator isn't super precise, especially when the battery is running low. Overall, the battery life on the Marshall Kilburn II is pretty solid. Might not be the absolute best out there, but it’s definitely reliable enough for most needs.

Connectivity Options The Marshall Kilburn II offers a variety of connectivity options that cater to different user needs. For starters, it comes equipped with Bluetooth 5.0, which means you get a stable and high-quality connection. This makes it perfect for streaming your favorite tunes from your smartphone, tablet, or laptop without any noticeable lag or drop in sound quality. But what if you prefer a wired connection? No problem! The Kilburn II has you covered with a 3.5mm auxiliary input. This option is great if you want to save some battery on your devices or if you're using an older device that doesn't support Bluetooth. On the downside, the speaker doesn't support Wi-Fi connectivity. So, if you're looking to stream music from online services, you'll have to do it through your connected device.

It’s also worth noting that there's no NFC pairing, which some might find a bit inconvenient. But, honestly, Bluetooth 5.0 is reliable enough that you probably won't miss it. One handy feature is the ability to pair multiple devices simultaneously. This means you and a friend can both connect your phones to the speaker and take turns playing DJ. It's a fun way to share music without constantly reconnecting devices. In summary, while it doesn't have every connectivity option under the sun, the Kilburn II's Bluetooth 5.0 and auxiliary input make it versatile enough for most users.

Portability is one of the standout features of this speaker. At around 5.5 pounds, it’s not the lightest option available, but it's manageable enough to carry around without feeling like you’re lugging a boulder. The speaker comes with a reliable and comfy leather strap that makes it feel like you’re carrying a small handbag. This strap is a game-changer for any impromptu outdoor adventures or on-the-go music sessions.

The compact design easily fits into a backpack or tote bag, making it handy for any trip. However, the weight might be a bit of a downside if you plan on walking long distances or if you’re carrying other heavy items. It’s also worth mentioning that it isn’t water-resistant, so you’ll want to keep it away from the pool or any sudden rain showers. You wouldn't want your tunes to be interrupted by a splash, right?

Overall, the mix of decent weight, handy strap, and compact size makes this speaker pretty portable, but just keep an eye out for any watery hurdles!

The user interface and controls on the Marshall Kilburn II are a blend of simplicity and a touch of old-school charm. On the top panel, you’ll find three analog control knobs for volume, bass, and treble. These knobs not only look retro-cool but also give you precise control over your sound settings. It’s like driving a classic car with a modern engine. Next to the knobs, there’s a Bluetooth pairing button and a small LED light that indicates the connection status. Pairing the speaker is a breeze; just press the button and you’re good to go. However, if you’re a fan of physical buttons for skipping tracks or play/pause, you might be a bit disappointed since those are missing. On the back, there’s a 3.5mm auxiliary input for those moments when you want to connect a non-Bluetooth device. This is great for versatility, but you’ll need to have your own aux cable, as it’s not included in the box. What stands out are the metal grille and the leather strap, which add a touch of ruggedness to the overall design. It’s a functional design choice, making the speaker easy to carry around while adding an aesthetic flair. In summary, the controls are straightforward and user-friendly, but don’t expect a lot of extra buttons or fancy touchpads. It keeps things simple and effective, which is a win for those who prefer a no-fuss approach to their gadgets.

Opening up the box, you'll find a few key items tucked neatly inside. First off, of course, is the Marshall Kilburn II speaker itself. It's wrapped securely to prevent any scratches or damage during shipping. Alongside the speaker, you'll spot a power adapter. It's a standard adapter, nothing too fancy, but it's essential for keeping your speaker charged and ready to go. They also include a quick start guide. This is super handy if you want to get your speaker up and running quickly without fiddling around too much. It covers the basic setup and operation, so you won't be left scratching your head. You might be wondering if there's a carrying strap. Well, good news! There's one included. It's not just any strap though—it's a sturdy, leather-like strap that makes it easy to lug the speaker around while adding a touch of vintage charm. What's notably absent? An aux cable. If you're planning on using a wired connection, you might need to dig around in your drawer for one, or pick one up separately. Here's a quick rundown of what you'll find:

• Marshall Kilburn II speaker
• Power adapter
• Quick start guide
• Carrying strap

It's a relatively simple package, but it includes everything you need to get started. Just don’t forget about that aux cable if you plan to go old-school with your connections!

Video by: GYMCADDY

So, let's talk about the nitty-gritty: the price. The Marshall Kilburn II isn't the cheapest option out there, but is it worth the splurge? You bet. For what you're getting, the price is justified. You're investing in a well-rounded package that includes stunning sound quality, rugged durability, and a design that's sure to catch eyes. Sound performance alone makes it worth considering. It's like having a mini-concert wherever you go. The clarity, the bass – everything's on point. Plus, the battery life is impressive, giving you up to 20 hours of playtime. That's perfect for weekend getaways or extended parties. Now, let's be real. If you're on a tight budget, this might not be your top pick. There are other speakers out there that are more affordable and still offer decent sound. But, if you're looking to invest in a high-quality, long-lasting speaker, the Kilburn II is a solid choice.

• Durability – With its rugged build, this speaker can handle some rough and tumble.
• Connectivity – Multiple options mean you can connect how you like, whether it's via Bluetooth or an aux cord.
• Portability – It's easy to carry around, making it great for on-the-go listening.

All in all, the Kilburn II offers great value for those willing to invest a bit more in their audio experience. It's a blend of style, performance, and convenience that few other mobile speakers can match. If you can stretch your budget, it's a worthy addition to your gadgets.

In conclusion, the Marshall Kilburn II shines as a solid choice for anyone looking for a blend of style and substance in a mobile speaker. Its retro design and rugged build make it a stand-out piece, whether you're placing it on your living room shelf or taking it on a weekend getaway. Sound quality is where this speaker really flexes its muscles. It offers rich, full-bodied audio that can handle everything from soft jazz to bass-heavy tracks without breaking a sweat. Sure, audiophiles might argue it lacks some nuance in the mids, but for the average listener, it more than delivers.

Battery life is another major plus. You get up to 20 hours of playtime, which is perfect for all-day outings or extended listening sessions at home. And if you ever run out of juice, the quick-charge feature is a lifesaver. However, it's not all sunshine and rainbows. In terms of portability, the Kilburn II is a bit on the heavier side compared to other mobile speakers. If you're looking for something ultra-light to chuck in your backpack, this might not be it. But if you can handle the weight, the built-in strap makes it easy to carry around.

The connectivity options are versatile, featuring Bluetooth 5.0 and a 3.5mm input, ensuring you can connect just about any device to it. The user interface is straightforward, though the lack of a dedicated app might be a bummer for those who love tweaking their audio settings on the go. All things considered, the Marshall Kilburn II is a fantastic investment for anyone who prioritizes sound quality and style. It's packed with features that justify its price, making it a valuable addition to your audio arsenal.

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