Marshall launched the Willen II portable Bluetooth speaker in India back in August last year. Here we have the review.
Design & Build Quality
The Marshall Willen II stays true to the brand’s rock-inspired aesthetic, featuring a rugged rubber enclosure with a leather-like texture, a stiff metal grille, and the iconic brass Marshall logo. The speaker’s design is reminiscent of a miniature Marshall amp, evoking the same vintage charm you’d expect to see on stage with legendary musicians.
Available in two colors—Black and Brass, or Cream—the Willen II offers options that pay homage to different eras of Marshall’s legacy. The black version screams heavy metal, while the cream finish brings a nostalgic nod to the ’60s and ’70s.
Despite its small size, the Willen II feels incredibly robust. It has a surprising heft that suggests durability and high-quality internal components. The metal grille is solid and can likely withstand some rough handling. However, the rubber strap on the back, meant for attaching the speaker to bikes or trees, feels a bit flimsy compared to the rest of the build. While it has likely been tested for endurance, it doesn’t inspire the same confidence as the rest of the speaker.
With an IP67 rating, the Willen II is dustproof and waterproof, making it a great companion for outdoor adventures, whether at the beach, on a hike, or during a backyard hangout.
Controls & Features
Controlling the Willen II is simple and intuitive. It features just two buttons: a Bluetooth pairing button on the top and a multi-directional joystick control on the front grille. This joystick is a signature feature in Marshall’s lineup, allowing easy control over playback, volume, and track navigation. Unlike the confusing double-press gestures found on many Bluetooth speakers, the joystick makes adjustments feel effortless.
For calls, a single push answers or ends a call, while a double push rejects it. A built-in microphone also allows for hands-free calling, a feature missing from many compact speakers.
Connectivity & Software
The Willen II supports Bluetooth 5.3, ensuring stable connections with minimal latency while consuming less battery life. However, there’s no support for high-resolution audio formats, which isn’t a dealbreaker for a speaker of this size. Unfortunately, the only physical connection is the USB-C charging port—there’s no AUX input, so wired listening isn’t an option.
Marshall offers a companion app for iOS and Android, though it’s fairly basic. You can switch between three EQ presets:
- Marshall Signature (balanced sound)
- Push (enhanced bass and treble)
- Voice (boosted mids for podcasts and audiobooks)
The app also provides firmware updates and battery status, but a fully adjustable EQ would have been a welcome addition for more customization.
Sound Performance
For such a small speaker, the Willen II delivers a surprisingly rich and dynamic sound. It features a 2-inch 10W full-range driver powered by a 38W Class D amplifier, along with two passive radiators. This combination covers a frequency range of 75Hz to 20KHz, producing clear highs, well-defined mids, and a decent low end for its size.
While it won’t shake the room, the Willen II is loud enough for personal listening or small gatherings. Some competitors in this price range may offer deeper bass, but they often sacrifice clarity, leading to muddier sound. Marshall has tuned the Willen II to maintain a balanced and enjoyable listening experience.
Battery Life & Charging
Marshall claims the Willen II lasts over 17 hours on a single charge. In real-world testing, we found it consistently delivered around 14-15 hours, depending on volume levels and playback type, which is still impressive for a compact speaker.
Charging is handled via USB-C, with a full charge taking about two hours. However, a quick 20-minute charge provides around 5 hours of playtime, making it great for on-the-go use.
Final Verdict: Should You Buy It?
The Marshall Willen II is an excellent choice for those who want a stylish, compact, and durable Bluetooth speaker with great sound quality. Its classic design, rugged build, and intuitive controls make it a standout in the small speaker category. While it lacks wired connectivity and extensive EQ customization, its solid battery life and signature Marshall sound more than make up for it.
The Marshall Willen II is available for Rs. 12,999
Pros:
- Iconic Marshall design
- Durable, water-resistant build
- Intuitive joystick control
- Strong audio performance for its size
- Good battery life with fast charging
Cons:
- No AUX input for wired listening
- Limited EQ customization in the app
- Rubber strap feels less sturdy
If you’re looking for a small speaker that doesn’t compromise on style or sound, the Willen II is a rock-solid option.