Marshall Tufton BT Review

Summary / TL;DR

The Marshall Tufton BT is a portable speaker that combines classic design with robust sound performance. Its aesthetic is reminiscent of Marshall's iconic guitar amplifiers, featuring a rugged build that is both stylish and durable. Weighing around 10 pounds, it offers portability but may not be the lightest option for frequent travel. The speaker's sound quality is impressive, delivering crisp and powerful audio with a three-way driver system, though the bass can sometimes overshadow vocals.

With a battery life of up to 20 hours and a quick charge feature, the Tufton BT is suitable for extended use. Connectivity options include Bluetooth 5.0 and a 3.5mm aux input, though it lacks modern features like NFC and aptX codec. The speaker's controls are straightforward, with analog knobs for sound adjustment, but the absence of a dedicated app may limit customization for some users.

Compared to competitors like the JBL Boombox 2 and Bose SoundLink Revolve+, the Tufton BT excels in sound customization and battery life but might fall short in portability and additional tech features. Overall, it offers a solid mix of style and substance, ideal for those who prioritize sound quality and classic design.

---

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

Introduction

In today's world, having great audio on the go is more than just a luxury—it's practically a necessity. Whether you're jamming out in your living room, hosting a backyard barbecue, or chilling at the park, a solid mobile speaker can elevate the whole experience. Enter the Marshall Tufton BT, a portable speaker that promises to deliver powerful sound wrapped in a classic design.

When you think of Marshall, the first thing that might come to mind is their iconic guitar amplifiers. They've taken that rock 'n' roll heritage and injected it into their line of portable speakers, including the Tufton. But does this speaker live up to its name, or is it just another brick in the wall of options out there? Let's find out.

On first glance, it’s clear this speaker is designed for those who prioritize both sound and style. But beyond its rugged looks, how does it really perform in everyday use? This review will cover everything from its design and build quality to sound performance and portability, helping you decide if it deserves a spot in your musical arsenal.

Best offers of the Marshall Tufton BT at Amazon.com Check price

Design and Build Quality

When you first lay eyes on the Marshall Tufton BT, you can't help but notice its rock-and-roll-inspired design. It's like a classic Marshall amp shrunk down into a portable speaker, complete with that iconic vinyl covering and signature script logo. The aesthetic is spot-on for music lovers who appreciate a touch of nostalgia.

Let's talk about its build quality. This speaker is built like a tank. It's substantial, and you can feel it as soon as you pick it up. The solid construction is reassuring, especially if you plan to take it on some outdoor adventures. The outer casing and metal grille give it a rugged feel that suggests it can withstand a few bumps and bruises.

However, this sturdiness comes with a bit of a trade-off. Weighing in at around 10 pounds, it's not the lightest speaker out there. If you’re planning to carry it around regularly, you'll get an arm workout for sure. So, while it's portable, it might be a tad cumbersome for some folks.

On the top panel, you'll find some analog control knobs for volume, bass, and treble. These add a nice tactile element to the speaker and allow you to fine-tune your sound to your liking. There's also a battery indicator, so you always know how much juice you've got left.

The design also includes an IPX2 rating, which makes it splash-resistant. This isn’t exactly waterproof, so you wouldn't want to dunk it in the pool, but it can handle a bit of rain or kitchen splashes just fine.

In summary, the Marshall Tufton BT has a design that's both visually striking and robust. It's built to last, but you'll need to weigh up that durability with its heavier weight. Ideal for those who value style as much as substance.

Sound Performance

Alright, let's talk about the sound performance of this beast. To put it simply, it's like having a concert in your living room. The Marshall Tufton BT pumps out a crisp and powerful sound that's sure to get your feet tapping. With its multi-directional sound capability, the music fills the room evenly, offering a rich and immersive experience. You can practically feel the bass thumping in your chest!

The speaker houses a three-way driver system that's pretty impressive. There's a woofer, a tweeter, and a mid-frequency driver all working together to produce a balanced sound profile. This means you get to enjoy clear vocals, punchy bass, and detailed highs without any distortion, even at higher volumes. It's like each instrument has its own spotlight and your ears are the VIP guests.

However, not everything is pitch-perfect. At times, the bass can feel a tad overpowering, especially if you're into more vocal-heavy tracks. But fear not! The speaker comes with analog controls that let you tweak the bass and treble to your liking. It's like having your own mini sound studio.

One thing to keep in mind though, if you're an audiophile looking for nuanced, crystal-clear highs, you might notice the highs can sometimes blend a bit too much into the mids. It's not a deal-breaker, but something to be aware of.

Overall, whether you're blasting party anthems or chilling with some soft acoustic tunes, this speaker delivers a sound that's bound to impress. It's like having a rockstar in a box!

Battery Life and Charging

Battery life is a big deal when it comes to mobile speakers, and the Marshall Tufton BT doesn't disappoint. With a whopping 20 hours of playtime on a single charge, it's like having a concert on the go. Need to rock out all day long? No problem.

Charging this beast is pretty straightforward too. It uses a standard AC adapter, so you're not hunting for some rare cable like you're on a scavenger hunt. But, let's be real, a USB-C option would have been nice in this day and age. So, keep that in mind if you're a USB-C devotee.

Quick Charge Feature

Ever had those moments where you’re running late, and your speaker’s dead? The Tufton BT has got your back. Thanks to its quick charge, you can get up to 4 hours of playtime with just a 20-minute charge. That's like having a shot of espresso for your speaker!

Charging Time

Fully charging the speaker takes about 2.5 to 3 hours. While it's not lightning-fast, it's reasonable given the extended battery life. Think of it like filling a large tank with gas – it takes a bit, but once it’s filled, you're good to go for a long drive.

Overall, the battery performance of the Marshall Tufton BT is impressive. It's perfect for those who love long outdoor adventures or parties without having to bring a backup power source.

Connectivity and Features

The connectivity options on this speaker are pretty decent, making it easy to hook up to your devices. It primarily connects via Bluetooth 5.0, which ensures a stable connection and a decent range. So, you can walk around your house with your phone in hand without worrying about the music cutting out. No one likes those awkward silences when the connection drops, right?

Another cool feature is the ability to pair two devices simultaneously. This means you and a friend can take turns playing DJ without having to disconnect and reconnect each time. It’s a neat trick, especially when you’re hosting a party and want to keep the music flowing.

Additional Features

• Auxiliary Input: Apart from Bluetooth, it also has an 3.5mm aux input. This is great if you want to connect it to a device that doesn’t support Bluetooth. It’s like having a backup plan, just in case.
• Control Knobs: The speaker comes with analog control knobs on the top. You can adjust the bass, treble, and volume to your liking, giving you ultimate control over your sound experience. It’s kind of like being your own sound engineer!

Now, let’s talk about the downside. Unfortunately, there's no support for modern features like NFC for quick pairing or aptX codec for higher quality Bluetooth streaming. While these aren't deal-breakers, they could have made the speaker a tad more futuristic. It's like having an awesome car but wishing it had heated seats!

All in all, the connectivity and features are pretty solid. If you're looking for a straightforward connection with some added flexibility, this speaker's got you covered. However, if you're a tech enthusiast looking for the latest and greatest, you might find it lacking some frills.

What's in the Box

So, you've just purchased the Marshall Tufton BT and you're eager to see what's inside the box, right? It feels a bit like opening a little treasure chest, doesn't it? Well, let's have a look at what goodies you get:

• Marshall Tufton Speaker: Of course, the star of the show! It's neatly packed and ready to rock your world with its sound.
• Power Cord: You'll find a standard power cord to juice up your speaker. Just a heads-up: it is a bit on the shorter side, so you might need an extension cable depending on where you plan to place the speaker.
• Quick Start Guide: This little booklet is your fast track to getting your speaker set up and playing tunes in no time. It's straightforward and easy to follow, so no need to worry about pulling your hair out trying to figure things out.
• Legal and Safety Information: Not the most exciting read, but definitely important. It's your go-to for understanding safety precautions and warranty details.

That's it! Pretty straightforward, right? No unnecessary frills, just what you need to get you started. However, it might be worth noting that there's no carrying case included, which could've been a nice touch for those who plan to tote their speaker around more often. But hey, you can't have everything, right?

User Experience and Portability

Let’s talk about the user experience and portability of this mobile speaker. First off, the Marshall Tufton BT really makes an impression with its grab-and-go design. It's like the golden retriever of speakers—always ready to go wherever you need it. The carrying strap is a game-changer, making it easy to lug around to picnics, beach outings, or even just from your living room to the backyard.

However, this speaker isn't what you'd call lightweight. It tips the scales at around 10 pounds, which might not sound like a lot, but you'll definitely feel it after a while. It's akin to carrying a small bag of groceries. So, for a day-long adventure, you might want to consider this if you're planning on covering a lot of ground on foot.

Now, when it comes to setup and usage, the Tufton BT keeps things straightforward. Pairing it with any device is pretty much a breeze. Thanks to its simple Bluetooth connectivity, you won’t be pulling your hair out, trying to figure out how to get your tunes pumping. Plus, the controls are intuitively placed, so you can easily adjust the volume or skip tracks without having to dig out your phone.

The downside? It lacks a dedicated app for fine-tuning the sound settings. While the knobs on the speaker let you adjust bass and treble, some folks might miss the ability to customize sound profiles further through a mobile app. It’s like having a fancy car without a GPS—still great, but missing that extra layer of control.

In terms of durability, this speaker’s rugged build doesn’t just look good—it’s built to endure. Rain or shine, the exterior withstands the elements reasonably well, although it's not fully waterproof. So, keep it away from the deep end of the pool.

Overall, the Marshall Tufton BT offers a solid user experience with its reliable performance and easy portability, though the weight and absence of a dedicated app are points to consider.

Competitor Comparison

When you're shopping for a mobile speaker, it's like picking the perfect outfit for a party. You want something that looks good, sounds even better, and doesn't run out of juice halfway through the night. Let's see how the Marshall Tufton BT stacks up against its competition.

JBL Boombox 2

The JBL Boombox 2 is a well-known name in the market. It boasts a bass-heavy sound that's great for those who enjoy a heart-thumping experience. Unlike the Tufton, the Boombox 2 is waterproof, making it a solid choice for pool parties. However, it's a bit on the bulky side, so if portability is your thing, you might want to think twice.

Bose SoundLink Revolve+

Then there's the Bose SoundLink Revolve+, which offers a unique 360-degree sound experience. This is fantastic for filling a room with music. While the Bose might not match the vintage style of the Marshall, it excels in clarity and crispness of sound. However, its battery life trails behind the Tufton, which might be a downer for prolonged playtime.

Ultimate Ears MEGABOOM 3

Now, the Ultimate Ears MEGABOOM 3 is another player in this field. It's rugged and has a neat trick with its Magic Button that allows instant music playback. Plus, its sleek design and vibrant colors are eye-catching. On the downside, it lacks some of the custom sound controls that the Tufton offers, which might leave audiophiles wanting more.

Sonos Roam

Finally, the Sonos Roam brings smart speaker features into the mix with voice assistant capabilities. It's compact and great for those who move around a lot. However, its sound might not be as rich or powerful as the Tufton, especially when it comes to outdoor usage. In a nutshell, the Tufton has its strengths in sound customization and battery life, perfect for those who love a good jam session without interruptions. Each speaker has its own set of features that cater to different needs, but if you’re looking for a mix of rock-solid performance and a touch of style, the Marshall Tufton BT might just hit the right notes for you.

Video by: TheUnlockr

Conclusion

The Marshall Tufton BT is a solid choice for anyone in the market for a mobile speaker that offers both style and substance. With its classic design and robust build, it certainly stands out visually. The sound performance is impressive, delivering rich, clear audio that can fill a room or outdoor space with ease. However, it's not all sunshine and rainbows. The size and weight of the speaker make it less portable than some of its lighter competitors. So, if you're planning on lugging this baby around town, be ready for a bit of a workout. On the flip side, the battery life is commendable, keeping the music going for hours without needing a recharge.

Charging is straightforward, but it could be quicker. In terms of connectivity, the speaker checks all the right boxes. It offers reliable Bluetooth connectivity, ensuring your tunes keep playing without annoying interruptions. Plus, the additional features like multi-directional sound and an easy-to-use control panel enhance the overall experience. If you're someone who values a mix of rugged durability and premium sound, the Tufton BT might just hit the sweet spot for you. It competes well with other premium speakers in terms of sound quality but could improve on portability aspects. Overall, it's like having a little concert in your backpack, ready to rock wherever you are.

FAQ

• Does this speaker have an AUX input?
  Yes, it does. You can plug in your device using a standard 3.5mm AUX cable, which is great if you want to save some battery or just go old-school.
• Can I pair multiple devices simultaneously?
  While the speaker supports Bluetooth pairing, it doesn't allow you to connect multiple devices at the same time. You'll have to disconnect one device before connecting another.
• Is it water-resistant?
  Nope, this one isn’t built for poolside parties or rainy adventures. Keep it dry to ensure it lasts longer.
• How heavy is it, and is it easy to carry around?
  Weighing in at about 10 pounds, it's not exactly feather-light, but the built-in carry strap makes it easier to lug around, like a stylish boom box from the past.
• Does it come with a charger?
  Yes, you’ll find a charger in the box, so you’re all set to juice it up right out of the gate.
• How long does it take to fully charge?
  It takes about 2.5 hours to reach full charge, so you can plug it in, grab some dinner, and it's ready for the afterparty.
• Can I use it while charging?
  Absolutely! You can rock out while it’s plugged in, no problemo.
• What's the Bluetooth range?
  You’re looking at about 30 feet of range, which is pretty decent for most indoor settings. Just don’t wander off too far!
• Is there a mobile app available for extra features?
  No app here, folks. You'll be doing all your controls directly on the speaker.
• Does it support voice assistants?
  Unfortunately, no voice assistants are built-in. You’ll need to use your device for Siri, Google Assistant, or Alexa commands.

---

Pros & cons

---

Technical specifications