Design & Construction

Marshall has left a long legacy on rock-and-roll live stages. This time, in typical Marshall fashion, they release the update to their 2 ear old Kilburn portable wireless speaker. Taking similar design cues from its predecessor, the speaker now has a more refined design. The speaker measures 243 x 162 x 140 mm and weighs a hefty 2.5 kg. Textured vinyl covering surrounds the whole speaker with rubber pads at the bottom of the speaker, while metallic grille covers the front of the speaker. It is vital to note that the speaker grilles does flex a little when pressed, hence I advise not to press on intentionally. Under the speaker grilles, there is 1 20 Watt Class D amplifier for the woofer and 2 8 Watt Class D amplifiers for the tweeters, All the controls are at the top of the speaker. There is (From Left-Right); the Bluetooth pairing button, the volume knob, the bass knob, the treble knob and the LED battery life indicator, The speaker will go into pairing mode when you press and hold the Bluetooth pairing button. However, one major missing button, is the addition of the multi-function button to allow users to play/pause, skip forward/backward or accept/reect calls. It also comes with in-built guitar-inspired velvet handles on the top which makes it easy to carry around. At the back, you will find the (From Left-Right): 3.5mm Aux Input and Charging Port. 

Sound Quality

The sound reproduction of the Marshall Kilburn II is simply shocking! From a speaker this size, it produces a loud volume without distortion. At 50% volume, it can fill a large-sized room. The bass response is mind-blowing. It never manage to distort even if you turn it all the way up. You wil feel the furniture around it vibrating just a little. It hits deep and so much more than its competitors. Highs sound bright and are not too sharp to listen to unless it is turned up to maximum treble. Mids are very clear but small details and instruments do get drown out due to the punchiness of the bass. Some music is pumped out from the rear of the speaker but not anything worth listening to, rather it's for filling up both directions with sound should the Kilburn II be placed in the middle of a room. 

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Connectivity & Portability

Bluetooth 5.0 is offered with AptX support. As you may have expected, a 3.5mm audio-in port is offered for wired usage. Its battery life peaks at 20 hrs with the bass and treble knob set to a reasonable level. The speaker does charge with a specific cord so might want to remember to bring it if you are going to your friend's house for an overnight party. 

 

PROS

• Durable Construction

• Loud, Powerful Sound

• Classic Design

• Analog Controls

• Bluetooth 5.0

• Multi-Host Bluetooth Pairing

• IPX2 Water-Resistant

• Long Battery Life

• Carrying Handle

 

 

CONS

• Lack of Multi-function Button

• Lack of Mic For Call Taking

• No Stereo Pairing or Party Chain

• Only One Colour Available

• Heavy

 

The Bottom Line

The Marshall Kilburn II is a portable classic if you are looking to get a louder speaker for your next party. With a clear sound signature, adjustable knobs and tough construction. it will live up to your expectations and certainly worth its high price point. However, it weighs in at 2.5kg and is only available in black.