When it comes to high-end portable Bluetooth speakers, the $229.99 Ultimate Ears EPICBOOM and $149.99 Marshall Stockwell II represent two different approaches to premium audio. Let's dive into what makes each unique and who they're best for.
The portable speaker market has evolved significantly in recent years. The Stockwell II, released in 2019, brought Marshall's iconic amp styling to a portable format. The EPICBOOM, launched in August 2023, represents the latest in UE's speaker technology, with features like adaptive EQ and enhanced water resistance.
The EPICBOOM delivers impressive volume, reaching 94dB (about as loud as a motorcycle at 25 feet). Its 360-degree sound projection means you get consistent audio quality regardless of where you're standing. This is achieved through two 45mm drivers for mids and highs, plus a substantial 120mm woofer for bass.
The Stockwell II takes a more traditional approach with front-facing stereo speakers. While its 80dB maximum volume is lower, the sound is more focused and precise. Its three Class D amplifiers (one 10W for bass, two 5W for treble) provide excellent clarity and control.
In testing, the EPICBOOM shows its modern engineering:
The Stockwell II excels in different ways:
The EPICBOOM's IP67 rating means it's fully dustproof and can handle submersion in 1 meter of water for 30 minutes. This makes it ideal for pool parties or beach use. The Stockwell II's IPX4 rating only protects against splashes, limiting its outdoor versatility.
Both speakers feature premium construction, but with different priorities:
The Stockwell II edges out with 20 hours of playback versus the EPICBOOM's 17 hours. More importantly, the Stockwell II's quick-charge feature provides 6 hours of playback from just 20 minutes of charging - perfect for last-minute plans.
Both speakers use Bluetooth 5.0, but with different ranges:
The Stockwell II offers multi-host functionality, letting you connect two devices simultaneously. The EPICBOOM focuses on speaker linking through its PartyUp feature, connecting with other UE speakers for expanded sound.
The EPICBOOM embraces modern connectivity:
The Stockwell II keeps it simple:
At $229.99, the EPICBOOM offers:
The Stockwell II, at $149.99, provides:
Choose the EPICBOOM if:
Choose the Stockwell II if:
Both speakers excel in their respective approaches. The EPICBOOM represents the latest in portable speaker technology, with features perfect for outdoor use and modern connectivity. The Stockwell II offers a more traditional approach with excellent sound quality and classic controls at a lower price point.
Your choice ultimately depends on how you'll use the speaker and which features matter most to you. The EPICBOOM's water resistance and modern features make it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, while the Stockwell II's sound quality and physical controls appeal to audio purists who prefer traditional interfaces.
| Ultimate Ears EPICBOOM ($229.99) | Marshall Stockwell II ($149.99) |
|---|---|
| Sound Output - Determines how well speaker fills larger spaces | |
| 94 dBC maximum, 360° omnidirectional sound | 80 dB maximum, directional stereo sound |
| Speaker Configuration - Affects sound quality and clarity | |
| Two 45mm drivers + 120mm woofer | Two tweeters + one woofer with dedicated Class D amps |
| Battery Life - Important for extended portable use | |
| 17 hours, standard charging | 20 hours, quick charge (6 hours from 20 min charge) |
| Water Resistance - Critical for outdoor use | |
| IP67 (fully waterproof, dustproof) | IPX4 (splash resistant only) |
| Range & Connectivity - Affects placement flexibility | |
| 55m Bluetooth range, single device connection | 9m Bluetooth range, multi-device connection |
| Size & Weight - Impacts portability | |
| 241mm height, 1.97kg (larger) | 180mm height, 1.38kg (more compact) |
| Sound Customization - Controls sound profile | |
| App-based EQ with presets, adaptive EQ | Physical bass/treble knobs, no app required |
| Additional Features - Adds functionality | |
| PartyUp speaker linking, outdoor boost mode | Multi-host connection, 3.5mm aux input |
| Construction - Affects durability | |
| Modern rugged design with rubber base | Classic Marshall design with metal grille |
| Price/Value Proposition | |
| Higher price, latest tech features | Lower price, traditional quality focus |
The $229.99 EPICBOOM is better for outdoor use and higher volume, while the $149.99 Stockwell II offers better value and sound accuracy. The EPICBOOM has newer technology and full waterproofing, while the Stockwell II provides physical controls and quick charging.
The EPICBOOM is significantly louder at 94dB compared to the Stockwell II's 80dB maximum volume. This difference is noticeable, especially in outdoor settings.
The Stockwell II offers slightly longer battery life at 20 hours versus the EPICBOOM's 17 hours. The Stockwell II also features quick charging, providing 6 hours of playback from a 20-minute charge.
The EPICBOOM has IP67 waterproofing and can be submerged in water, while the Stockwell II is only IPX4 splash-resistant and should be kept away from water.
The Stockwell II is more portable at 1.38kg and 180mm height, compared to the EPICBOOM at 1.97kg and 241mm height.
The Stockwell II offers more accurate sound reproduction and better vocal clarity, while the EPICBOOM provides stronger bass and 360-degree sound projection.
The Stockwell II supports multi-host functionality for connecting two devices simultaneously, while the EPICBOOM only connects to one device at a time.
The EPICBOOM has superior range at 55 meters, compared to the Stockwell II's 9-meter range.
The EPICBOOM uses an app for EQ adjustment, while the Stockwell II has physical knobs for bass and treble control.
The EPICBOOM is better suited for outdoor use with its waterproofing, outdoor boost mode, and louder volume compared to the Stockwell II.
Yes, the EPICBOOM costs $229.99, while the Stockwell II is priced at $149.99, representing an $80 difference.
The Stockwell II offers both Bluetooth and aux input, plus multi-device connection, while the EPICBOOM has Bluetooth-only connectivity but with longer range and speaker linking capabilities.
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: techradar.com - ultimateears.com - youtube.com - tomsguide.com - ultimateears.com - cdw.com - connection.com - bestbuy.com - ultimateears.com - 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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