When it comes to portable audio, Marshall has earned its reputation for quality sound and iconic design. Today we're comparing the compact Marshall Willen ($59.99) and the more substantial Marshall Stockwell II ($149.00), two speakers that showcase different approaches to portable sound.
Since the Stockwell II's 2019 release and the Willen's 2022 debut, portable speaker technology has seen significant advances in battery efficiency and driver design. The newer Willen represents Marshall's response to the ultra-portable market, while the Stockwell II continues the classic Marshall portable speaker legacy.
The Stockwell II employs a traditional multi-driver setup with two 5W tweeters (speakers designed for high frequencies) and a 10W woofer (for lower frequencies). This configuration creates true stereo separation, meaning you can hear instruments and vocals positioned distinctly in the sound field. Its "True Stereophonic" feature adds multi-directional sound projection, making it excellent for filling rooms with balanced audio.
The Willen takes a different approach with a single 10W full-range driver complemented by two passive radiators (unpowered speakers that enhance bass response). While this doesn't provide true stereo separation, it delivers surprisingly clear audio for its size, though bass response is naturally limited by physics - smaller speakers simply can't move enough air for deep bass notes.
In testing various music styles, the Stockwell II's additional power becomes evident. Rock tracks like AC/DC's "Back in Black" demonstrate the speaker's ability to maintain clarity at higher volumes, while bass-heavy electronic music reveals the limitations of the Willen's smaller driver. However, the Willen's output is impressive for its size, easily handling personal listening and small gatherings.
The Stockwell II provides manual bass and treble controls through analog knobs, allowing real-time sound adjustment. This traditional approach offers more precise control than many modern speakers' digital EQ systems. The Willen relies on app-based EQ presets, which work well but don't offer the same granular control.
The Willen's compact size (about 4 inches square) and robust IP67 rating make it genuinely pocket-portable and fully waterproof - it can survive submersion in 1 meter of water for 30 minutes. This level of protection is impressive for any speaker, let alone one at this price point.
The Stockwell II's IPX4 rating protects against splashes but not submersion. Its larger size (roughly 7 x 6 inches) requires more deliberate transport, but the extra space enables better sound reproduction, especially in the lower frequencies.
Both speakers feature quick-charge capabilities, but with different results:
Total battery life slightly favors the Stockwell II (20+ hours vs Willen's 15+ hours), though both easily handle a full day's use.
The Willen sports Bluetooth 5.1 with low-latency capabilities, making it suitable for video content without audio sync issues. Its Stack Mode allows connecting multiple Willen speakers for expanded sound coverage.
The Stockwell II uses Bluetooth 5.0 and can connect to two devices simultaneously, though only one can play at a time. While slightly older, its implementation remains robust and reliable.
The Marshall Willen delivers exceptional value at $59.99, especially considering its durability and sound quality. For outdoor enthusiasts or travelers prioritizing portability, it's a compelling choice that doesn't sacrifice too much audio quality.
At $149.00, the Marshall Stockwell II justifies its premium with superior sound quality, more powerful output, and manual sound control. For users primarily using the speaker at home or in semi-permanent locations, the audio improvements are worth the investment.
Both speakers represent different approaches to portable audio, with the Willen focusing on modern portability and the Stockwell II maintaining Marshall's traditional audio-first philosophy. Your choice ultimately depends on whether superior sound quality or maximum portability better suits your needs.
| Marshall Willen | Marshall Stockwell II |
|---|---|
| Price - Initial Investment | |
| $59.99 (entry-level premium) | $149.00 (mid-range premium) |
| Driver Configuration - Impacts sound quality and stereo separation | |
| Single 10W full-range driver + 2 passive radiators | 2x5W tweeters + 1x10W woofer |
| Size & Weight - Affects portability and convenience | |
| 101.6 x 100.5 x 40.4 mm, 310g | 180 x 161 x 70 mm, 1.38kg |
| Water Resistance - Determines outdoor usability | |
| IP67 (fully waterproof, submersible) | IPX4 (splash resistant only) |
| Battery Life - Important for extended use | |
| 15+ hours, 3-hour full charge | 20+ hours, 5-hour full charge |
| Quick Charge Capability - Convenient for last-minute use | |
| 20 min = 3 hours playback | 20 min = 6 hours playback |
| Bluetooth Version - Affects connection stability and range | |
| 5.1 with low latency support | 5.0 with multi-host functionality |
| Sound Controls - Determines audio customization | |
| App-based EQ presets | Physical bass/treble knobs |
| Special Features - Adds versatility | |
| Stack Mode for multiple speaker pairing, built-in mic | True Stereophonic multi-directional sound |
| Design Features - Impacts usability | |
| Rubber strap for mounting, multi-directional control button | Classic Marshall design, analog control knobs |
The Marshall Stockwell II offers better overall sound quality with its multi-driver setup and more powerful output, while the Marshall Willen excels in portability and durability. The "better" choice depends on your primary needs - sound quality vs portability.
The Marshall Willen costs $59.99, while the Marshall Stockwell II is priced at $149.00, making a $89.01 difference between them.
The Stockwell II offers slightly longer battery life at 20+ hours compared to the Willen's 15+ hours. Both feature quick-charging capabilities.
Yes, but the Marshall Willen is better suited for outdoor use with its IP67 waterproof rating, while the Stockwell II is only IPX4 splash-resistant.
The Marshall Willen is significantly more portable at 310g and pocket-sized dimensions, while the Stockwell II weighs 1.38kg and requires more space.
The Stockwell II provides true stereo sound with its multiple drivers, while the Willen uses a mono configuration with a single driver.
The Marshall Stockwell II delivers better bass response due to its larger size and dedicated woofer, compared to the Willen's more limited bass capabilities.
Both speakers support multiple device connections. The Willen features Stack Mode for connecting multiple speakers, while the Stockwell II can connect to two devices simultaneously.
The Marshall Stockwell II is better suited for parties with its louder volume and room-filling sound, while the Willen is better for smaller gatherings.
The Stockwell II uses physical knobs for bass and treble control, while the Willen relies on app-based EQ presets.
The Marshall Willen, released in 2022, features newer Bluetooth 5.1 technology, while the Stockwell II from 2019 uses Bluetooth 5.0.
The Marshall Willen offers better value for portable use at $59.99, while the Stockwell II at $149.00 justifies its price through superior sound quality and features.
We've done our best to create useful and informative comparisons to help you decide what product to buy. Our research uses advanced automated methods to create this comparison and perfection is not possible - please contact us for corrections or questions. These are the sites we've researched in the creation of this article: rtings.com - ldlc.com - crutchfield.com - bestbuy.com - techgadgetscanada.com - manuals.plus - youtube.com - myxprs.com - bhphotovideo.com - target.com - aplaze.com - avstore.in - bestbuy.com - stuff.tv - idownloadblog.com - stereoguide.com - kendallgiles.com - termagoods.com - aplaze.com - manua.ls - youtube.com - sg.tcacoustic.asia - marshall.com - youtube.com
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