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When it comes to audio equipment, Marshall has built a legacy synonymous with rock ‘n’ roll heritage, bold design, and powerful sound. Their latest offering, the Marshall Heston 120, promises to continue this tradition with modern sophistication—but does it deliver? We tested it thoroughly to find out.
Design & Build: Aesthetic Excellence
The Marshall Heston 120 immediately stands out with its retro-modern charm. Key highlights:
– Signature textured vinyl finish and brass knobs for a premium look.
– Sturdy wooden frame for durability and enhanced acoustics.
– Classic black and cream color options to match any décor.
– Leather handle for portability, though at 5.5 kg, it’s heavier than some competitors.
– IPX4 splash resistance—ideal for outdoor use (but not full waterproofing).
This speaker is a statement piece, blending seamlessly into both vintage and contemporary spaces.
Sound Performance: Balanced but Reserved
Marshall is known for punchy, dynamic sound, but the Heston 120 takes a more refined approach. Here’s how it performs:
– Bass & Mids: Tight, controlled low-end with no excessive boominess; midrange clarity for vocals and instruments.
– Treble: Crisp highs without harshness, smooth even at high volumes.
– Soundstage: Well-balanced, though it lacks the 3D depth of premium competitors like the Bose SoundLink Revolve+ II.
Best for: Acoustic tracks, podcasts, and casual listening.
Not ideal for: Bass-heavy genres like EDM or hip-hop, where rivals like the JBL Boombox 3 dominate.
Features & Connectivity: Simple but Effective
The Heston 120 keeps things straightforward:
– Bluetooth 5.2 (stable up to 30 feet).
– 3.5mm AUX input for wired listening.
– USB-C charging (a welcome upgrade).
– Multi-device pairing for easy switching.
Missing:
– No Wi-Fi or smart assistant support (found in Sonos or Apple speakers).
If you prefer minimalist, plug-and-play functionality, this works well.
Battery Life: Decent but Not Class-Leading
- Claimed: 20 hours.
- Real-world: 15-16 hours at moderate volume.
- Comparison: Falls short of JBL Charge 5 (20+ hrs) and UE Megaboom 3 (24 hrs).
Verdict: Style Over Raw Power?
Rating: 7.5/10
The Marshall Heston 120 excels in design and build quality, offering clear, balanced sound—but lacks the thumping bass and smart features of rivals.
✔️ Pros:
– Gorgeous retro-modern aesthetic.
– Well-tuned audio for vocals/acoustics.
– Premium materials & durability.
❌ Cons:
– Bass could be punchier.
– No Wi-Fi or voice assistants.
– Slightly heavy for portable use.
Buy it if:
– You love Marshall’s iconic style.
– You prefer neutral, refined sound.
– Build quality matters more than max volume.
Skip it if:
– You want deep bass for parties.
– You need smart features (Alexa/Google Assistant).
– Ultra-portability is a priority.
At ₹24,999, it’s a luxury lifestyle speaker—ideal for aesthetic-focused buyers, but not for audiophiles chasing the loudest sound.
