Marshall updates Stockwell III speaker with replaceable battery and extended life
The new $249.99 device doubles battery life to over 40 hours and allows users to swap out the battery, grills, and protective sleeve.
Marshall has announced the Stockwell III, marking the first significant update to its popular Bluetooth speaker line since early 2019. The new device prioritises repairability and longevity, featuring a replaceable battery that doubles the previous model’s runtime to over 40 hours. Priced at $249.99, the speaker will be available from August 4 via Marshall’s online store and Costco.
The Stockwell III retains the iconic design language of its predecessor, including the large carrying handle and omnidirectional sound output that distinguishes it from traditional front-facing amplifiers. However, the company has introduced several hardware upgrades, including an improved water and dust resistance rating of IP55, an increase from the previous IPX4 standard. This enhancement makes the device better suited for environments where splashes and dust are present.
A key feature of the update is the replaceable battery, a capability Marshall recently introduced with its Mid A.N.C. wireless headphones. The upgraded power cell can also function as a power bank, allowing users to charge other devices via USB-C. While the specific chemical composition or capacity of the battery is not detailed, the ability to replace it aims to extend the product's overall lifecycle.
Repairability extends beyond the power source to include several cosmetic and protective components. Users can replace the velvet-lined carrying strap, the front and back grills bearing the Marshall logo, and the faux-leather textured silicone sleeve. The company suggests that maintaining the device's appearance through these replacements can help preserve its resale value.
The control panel on top of the speaker has been updated with new hardware buttons. These include an 'M-button' for switching between preset sound profiles and a dedicated media control button for play, pause, and skip functions. The shift towards modular repair may be influenced by emerging EU regulations regarding product longevity, although a direct causal link has not been confirmed.
