The Marshall Kilburn II improves upon the original with a longer battery life of up to 20 hours compared to the Kilburn I’s 12 hours. Kilburn II also features Bluetooth 5.0 for a more stable and efficient wireless connection. Additionally, the Kilburn II boasts an IPX2 water-resistant rating, making it more durable for outdoor use, whereas the Kilburn I lacks this feature.
Key Takeaways
- Kilburn I offers a classic design, analog knobs, and a carry handle; Kilburn II has a more modern look, water resistance, and a multidirectional sound feature.
- Kilburn II has improved battery life, offering 20+ hours compared to Kilburn I’s 15-20 hours.
- Kilburn II includes Bluetooth 5.0, enhancing connectivity and range; Kilburn I uses an older Bluetooth version.
Marshall Kilburn I vs II
Marshall Kilburn I is a portable speaker with a vintage design. It has a battery life of up to 20 hours and an audio performance of 20 watts for woofers and tweeters. This model is not water-resistant. Marshall Kilburn II is a new speaker version with more than 20 hours of battery life and an improved multi-directional sound. It has sound quality with 30 watts of power for woofers and tweeters. This speaker is water-resistant.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Marshall Kilburn I | Marshall Kilburn II |
|---|---|---|
| Design | Classic Marshall design | Classic Marshall design with metal grille and flush-mounted corner caps |
| Weight | 4 lbs (1.8 kg) | 5.5 lbs (2.5 kg) |
| Dimensions | 8.07 x 5.91 x 2.48 inches (20.5 x 15 x 6.3 cm) | 9.65 x 6.5 x 3.15 inches (24.5 x 16.5 x 8 cm) |
| Battery life | Up to 20 hours | Up to 20 hours |
| Charging time | 2-3 hours | 2-3 hours |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 4.0 | Bluetooth 5.0 with aptX |
| Water resistance | Not water resistant | IPX4 water-resistant |
| Sound | Two 8W full-range drivers, one 0.75-inch tweeter | Two 8W full-range drivers, one 0.75-inch tweeter |
| Controls | Analog knobs for volume, bass, treble, and power switch | Analog knobs for volume, bass, treble, and power switch. Additional toggle for multi-play/pause and Bluetooth pairing |
| Price | Generally less expensive | Generally more expensive |
What is Marshall Kilburn I?
The Marshall Kilburn I is a portable Bluetooth speaker that combines vintage design with modern audio technology. It is the first iteration in the Kilburn series, known for its iconic Marshall amplifier-inspired look and powerful sound performance.
Design
The Kilburn I features a classic Marshall design with a durable vinyl casing, gold accents, and a distinctive front grille that resembles the grill cloth found on Marshall amplifiers. Its compact and lightweight build makes it easy to carry, while the guitar-inspired carry strap adds to its retro charm.
Audio Performance
Equipped with a 4-inch woofer and two 0.75-inch dome tweeters, the Kilburn I delivers a balanced and dynamic sound. It boasts a maximum power output of [insert power output here] watts, providing a room-filling audio experience. The speaker is designed to reproduce deep bass, clear midrange, and crisp highs, making it suitable for a variety of music genres.
Connectivity
The Kilburn I supports Bluetooth connectivity, allowing users to wirelessly stream music from their smartphones, tablets, or other Bluetooth-enabled devices. Additionally, it features a 3.5mm auxiliary input for wired connections, ensuring compatibility with various audio sources.
Controls and Battery Life
On the top panel, the Kilburn I has analog control knobs for adjusting volume, bass, and treble, providing users with a hands-on and intuitive audio customization experience. The rechargeable lithium-ion battery offers [insert battery life here] hours of playback on a single charge, making it convenient for on-the-go use.
Portability
With its compact size and built-in battery, the Kilburn I is designed for portability. The guitar-style leather carry strap not only adds to its aesthetic appeal but also enhances its portability, allowing users to take their music anywhere.
What is Marshall Kilburn II?
The Marshall Kilburn II is a portable Bluetooth speaker that combines classic design with modern technology to deliver high-quality audio performance. Known for its iconic Marshall amp-inspired look, the Kilburn II is the successor to the original Kilburn model, and it has gained popularity for its powerful sound and portable design.
Key Features
1. Design
The Kilburn II features a vintage design reminiscent of Marshall amplifiers, complete with a durable and roadworthy build. It includes a guitar-influenced carrying strap for easy portability, making it an ideal choice for users on the go.
2. Audio Performance
Equipped with advanced audio components, the Kilburn II offers a well-balanced sound profile with clear highs, distinct mids, and deep bass. The speaker’s high maximum volume ensures that it can fill a room with sound, making it suitable for various environments.
3. Bluetooth Connectivity
With Bluetooth 5.0 technology, the Kilburn II allows users to wirelessly connect their devices for a seamless audio experience. This feature enhances convenience and versatility, enabling users to play music from their smartphones, tablets, or other Bluetooth-enabled devices.
4. Battery Life
The speaker boasts an impressive battery life, providing hours of playback on a single charge. This long-lasting battery makes the Kilburn II suitable for extended use during outdoor activities, parties, or travel.
5. Water-Resistant Design
The Kilburn II is designed to withstand the elements with its water-resistant construction. While not fully waterproof, it can handle splashes and light rain, adding to its durability and making it suitable for outdoor use.
6. Controls and Connectivity
Intuitive control knobs on the top panel of the speaker allow users to adjust volume, bass, and treble settings. Additionally, the Kilburn II features a 3.5mm input for wired connectivity, giving users flexibility in their audio source options.
Main Differences Between Marshall Kilburn I and II
- Sound – Kilburn II has improved audio with richer, deeper sound compared to the original Kilburn I
- Battery life – Kilburn II gets 20+ hours of playtime on a charge vs 15 hours for Kilburn I
- Wireless range – Kilburn II has Bluetooth 5.0 for extended wireless range over the older 4.0 in Kilburn I
- Inputs – Kilburn II adds a 3.5mm aux input for wired connections missing in Kilburn I
- Charging – Kilburn II has fast charging capability to get 3 hours of play with a 20 minute charge
- Buttons – Kilburn II has new brass buttons and knobs vs the plastic controls on Kilburn I
- Durability – Kilburn II has improved weather and shock resistance with reinforced corners
- Weight – Kilburn II is slightly lighter at 6.6 lbs vs 7 lbs for the original model
- Price – Kilburn II has an MSRP of $299 compared to $249 for the previous generation
- Color – Kilburn II introduced a new olive green color option not available on Kilburn I
Last Updated : 02 March, 2024
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Sandeep Bhandari holds a Bachelor of Engineering in Computers from Thapar University (2006). He has 20 years of experience in the technology field. He has a keen interest in various technical fields, including database systems, computer networks, and programming. You can read more about him on his bio page.
The Marshall Kilburn portable speakers are truly a class apart! Their vintage design combined with modern sound quality is a treat for music lovers. I love the classic look and feel of Kilburn I.
I couldn’t agree more, Selina! The combination of retro design and outstanding sound performance makes the Marshall Kilburn speakers stand out in a crowded market.
The 20 hours of battery life on Kilburn I is impressive, but the lack of water resistance might limit its outdoor portability. Kilburn II seems to address this with its IPX2 water-resistant technology.
You make a valid point, Sophie. The water resistance feature of Kilburn II makes it a more versatile and durable option for outdoor use, even in light rain or drizzle.
The vintage charm and timeless design of the Kilburn speakers are captivating. It’s refreshing to see a modern take on retro aesthetics, complemented by powerful audio performance.
While the sound quality of both Kilburn I and II seems exceptional, I’m concerned about the lack of internet connectivity and smart voice assistant support. In today’s tech-savvy world, these features are becoming increasingly important.
I share your concern, Morris. The absence of internet connectivity and smart assistant support could be a drawback for some users, especially those who rely on streaming and voice commands for music playback.
I understand the importance of internet connectivity, but for those seeking a truly vintage music experience, the Kilburn speakers’ analog controls and old-school charm might be an appealing feature.
The design aesthetics of both Kilburn I and II are truly remarkable. Marshall has managed to retain the vintage appeal while adding modern improvements, making these portable speakers a blend of classic and contemporary.
I couldn’t have said it better, Clark. The fusion of classic and modern elements in the design of Marshall Kilburn speakers is a testament to their timeless appeal.
The additional features of Kilburn II, such as multi-directional sound and Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity, demonstrate Marshall’s commitment to enhancing the user experience. It’s refreshing to see these advancements in a retro-styled product.
I agree, Luke. The integration of modern technologies in the Kilburn II without compromising its vintage appeal showcases Marshall’s dedication to evolving with the times while preserving its heritage.
The balance between nostalgia and innovation in Marshall’s Kilburn speakers is intriguing. It’s a testament to the enduring relevance of classic design principles in contemporary products.
I appreciate the detailed comparison between Kilburn I and II. It’s helpful to see the key differences and improvements laid out clearly for prospective buyers.
The balanced sound quality and long battery life of the Marshall Kilburn speakers make them an attractive choice. I’m considering investing in one for a vintage music experience.
I’m more drawn to the classic design of Kilburn I, but the sound enhancements of Kilburn II are certainly compelling. It’s a tough choice between nostalgia and innovation!
I’m on the same page, Kelly. The enduring appeal of vintage design coupled with impressive audio performance makes the Kilburn speakers an enticing option for music enthusiasts.
The Marshall Kilburn speakers exemplify the perfect blend of classic and contemporary. However, the absence of internet connectivity could be a drawback for tech-savvy users.
I find it impressive that the Marshall Kilburn II offers a 20-plus hour battery life. This is perfect for long listening sessions without having to worry about recharging.
Absolutely, Alice! The improved battery life of Kilburn II sets it apart from its predecessor and many other portable speakers on the market.