Compare Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 Speaker 3rd Gen vs Marshall Middleton II

Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 Speaker 3rd Gen

One reviewer tested pairing across generations and found the stereo-pairing experience impressive and reliable.

1 supporting review · Limited evidence

Marshall Middleton II

The absence of conventional multi-speaker pairing disappointed at least one reviewer. Auracast offers another route to grouped playback, but it does not fully replace the expected pairing option for everyone.

1 supporting review · Limited evidence

Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 Speaker 3rd Gen

Codec support was considered solid, with aptX Adaptive repeatedly framed as a welcome or high-quality advantage.

5 supporting reviews

Marshall Middleton II

Codec support is mixed: AAC, SBC, and LC3 are useful additions, but several reviewers criticize the lack of aptX or LDAC. One customer was also frustrated that promised LE Audio functionality had not arrived.

6 supporting reviews · Mixed evidence

Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 Speaker 3rd Gen

General Bluetooth connectivity was mostly positive for quick pairing, but one reviewer criticized the lack of Auracast as a missed futureproofing opportunity.

2 supporting reviews

Marshall Middleton II

Bluetooth pairing is quick and straightforward, with one reviewer demonstrating near-instant Fast Pair connection. Basic wireless setup is easy.

1 supporting review · Limited evidence

Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 Speaker 3rd Gen

Bluetooth range was workable but not exceptional, with one review keeping it near the same room and another noting dropouts only near the end of a garden test.

2 supporting reviews

Marshall Middleton II

Bluetooth range is a notable upgrade, with reviewers reporting much longer reach and reliable use around a house, garden, or park. The extended range reduces the likelihood of dropouts in everyday use.

2 supporting reviews

Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 Speaker 3rd Gen

Smart features were mixed: the app content and radio features impressed one reviewer, while another found the overall package simple rather than feature-packed.

2 supporting reviews

Marshall Middleton II

The feature set covers the essentials, including EQ, battery controls, microphone use, and Auracast. Some reviewers still miss extras found on other Marshall models, so the smart feature package feels useful rather than exhaustive.

1 supporting review · Limited evidence

Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 Speaker 3rd Gen

Physical controls were praised for positive, responsive, clicky action.

3 supporting reviews

Marshall Middleton II

The raised, tactile controls are generally easier to feel and use than before. One reviewer noted that some strip controls can be pressed accidentally, so the layout is not flawless.

4 supporting reviews

Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 Speaker 3rd Gen

On-device controls were praised as nice and clicky in direct use.

1 supporting review · Limited evidence

Marshall Middleton II

Physical controls are a standout usability feature, letting users handle playback, volume, bass, and treble without opening the app. Reviewers repeatedly described the layout as intuitive and convenient.

9 supporting reviews

Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 Speaker 3rd Gen

Vocal reproduction was a consistent strength, with reviewers praising intelligibility, definition, and natural-sounding voices in music.

6 supporting reviews

Marshall Middleton II

Close-range call testing produced clear, rich voice pickup, even with quiet speech. Voice quality appears strongest when the user stays near the speaker.

1 supporting review · Limited evidence

Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 Speaker 3rd Gen

EQ customization was a standout, with reviewers praising the visual sound control as helpful, easy, and unusually gratifying.

5 supporting reviews

Marshall Middleton II

EQ flexibility is a strong point. Reviewers liked the physical bass and treble controls plus the app’s five-band EQ, though one noted that more advanced adjustment options would still be welcome.

8 supporting reviews

Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 Speaker 3rd Gen

Connection stability was consistently positive, with reviewers reporting no pairing or dropout issues in normal testing.

3 supporting reviews

Marshall Middleton II

Wireless stability is strong in testing, with reviewers reporting reliable connections around homes and gardens plus fast reconnection to paired devices. The newer Bluetooth implementation appears dependable in normal use.

4 supporting reviews

Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 Speaker 3rd Gen

The B&O app was repeatedly praised as responsive, simple, flexible, and among the best companion apps in the category.

5 supporting reviews

Marshall Middleton II

The Marshall app is consistently described as simple, well organized, and easy to use. Reviewers liked quick setup, clear battery information, and straightforward access to EQ and device settings.

3 supporting reviews

Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 Speaker 3rd Gen

Wi-Fi streaming was a drawback for Apple-focused users because the speaker lacks Wi-Fi and AirPlay support.

1 supporting review · Limited evidence

Marshall Middleton II

One reviewer was disappointed that the speaker remains Bluetooth-only with no Wi-Fi streaming. That limits its flexibility as a more integrated at-home speaker.

1 supporting review · Limited evidence

Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 Speaker 3rd Gen

Backwards compatibility was a clear plus because multiple reviewers valued pairing the 3rd Gen with the older A1 2nd Gen.

5 supporting reviews

Marshall Middleton II

Backward compatibility is limited because the Middleton II does not wirelessly stack with the original first-generation Middleton. That is a meaningful drawback for owners hoping to reuse an older unit in a paired setup.

1 supporting review · Limited evidence

Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 Speaker 3rd Gen

Portability was strong overall: reviewers liked the bag-friendly size and balanced heft, though it is not the lightest compact speaker.

6 supporting reviews

Marshall Middleton II

Weight is one of the most repeated drawbacks. At about 1.8 kg, it feels substantial and premium, but several reviewers and customers found it heavy for bags, walks, or truly portable use.

10 supporting reviews

Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 Speaker 3rd Gen

Cohesion was praised, with reviewers describing the presentation as unified, whole, and remarkably cohesive.

2 supporting reviews

Marshall Middleton II

Complex arrangements can become somewhat cluttered, even though the stereo layout helps create space. The speaker is cohesive with most music but not flawless when many instruments compete at once.

1 supporting review · Limited evidence

Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 Speaker 3rd Gen

Construction quality was repeatedly praised for premium materials, flawless finishing, and a substantial feel.

7 supporting reviews

Marshall Middleton II

Construction feels premium overall, but there is a specific concern about the removable outer wrap lifting at the corners. Other users praised the materials, so build impressions are positive with a notable casing caveat.

3 supporting reviews · Mixed evidence

Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 Speaker 3rd Gen

Status indicators worked but drew mild criticism for size and viewing angle.

2 supporting reviews

Marshall Middleton II

The LED bars provide useful feedback for battery, volume, bass, and treble levels. A customer specifically appreciated being able to see power and volume status at a glance.

1 supporting review · Limited evidence

Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 Speaker 3rd Gen

The leather strap drew praise as expertly crafted and part of the speaker’s premium look.

1 supporting review · Limited evidence

Marshall Middleton II

The detachable strap is generally useful and later versions feel more durable, but opinions are mixed because the speaker lacks a full carry handle. That matters more given its relatively heavy weight.

8 supporting reviews

Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 Speaker 3rd Gen

Privacy/data sentiment was lightly positive because the removal of Alexa also means Amazon’s assistant is not always listening.

1 supporting review · Limited evidence

Marshall Middleton II

The companion app can be installed and used without creating an account, which one reviewer explicitly appreciated. That makes the software experience relatively privacy-friendly.

1 supporting review · Limited evidence

Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 Speaker 3rd Gen

Dynamic headroom was good but not class-leading: some reviews praised dynamism, while others wanted stronger quiet-to-loud swings.

4 supporting reviews

Marshall Middleton II

The stronger amplifier setup gives the speaker useful headroom and low-frequency extension. Reviewers described the added reserve as helping bass feel more substantial without immediately losing control.

1 supporting review · Limited evidence

Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 Speaker 3rd Gen

High-volume behavior was praised for staying controlled, with reviewers reporting little distortion even when the speaker was pushed.

4 supporting reviews

Marshall Middleton II

It generally stays composed at high volume, with multiple reviewers reporting little obvious distortion. The main caveat is bass compression or rougher treble when pushed close to maximum output.

7 supporting reviews

Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 Speaker 3rd Gen

Detail retrieval was a major strength across reviews, with repeated praise for high detail, clarity, and track-level separation.

9 supporting reviews

Marshall Middleton II

Detail retrieval is generally good, with reviewers hearing subtle percussion, vocals, and spatial information that smaller speakers can lose. The main weakness is reduced high-frequency detail in some dense or bass-heavy tracks.

5 supporting reviews

Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 Speaker 3rd Gen

Reviewers generally found the small speaker louder than expected for its size, but several cautioned that it is not built to fill bigger rooms or outmuscle larger rivals.

7 supporting reviews

Marshall Middleton II

The Middleton II gets impressively loud for its size and easily handles rooms, backyards, and smaller gatherings. Reviewers still caution that it is not a true high-output party speaker.

7 supporting reviews

Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 Speaker 3rd Gen

Everyday usability was praised for simple operation and controls that were easy to use without friction.

2 supporting reviews

Marshall Middleton II

Everyday operation is straightforward thanks to direct controls, simple pairing, and a practical feature set. Reviewers generally found it easy to live with across desk, room, and portable use.

4 supporting reviews

Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 Speaker 3rd Gen

The microphone system was tied to clearer, more transparent voice calls in review evidence.

1 supporting review · Limited evidence

Marshall Middleton II

The built-in microphone is a welcome addition and generally works well for hands-free calls. Pickup is strongest at close to moderate distance rather than across a large room.

4 supporting reviews

Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 Speaker 3rd Gen

Speakerphone performance was praised, with reviewers describing calls as clear, successful, and even a ten-out-of-ten hands-free experience.

4 supporting reviews

Marshall Middleton II

Speakerphone performance is good at close range, with clear calls reported by several reviewers. Quality drops with distance, where voices can become less clear or more echoey.

6 supporting reviews

Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 Speaker 3rd Gen

Sustainability stood out through repairability, replaceable battery comments, and praise for longevity-focused design.

5 supporting reviews

Marshall Middleton II

Repairability and replaceable parts make the Middleton II less disposable than many sealed portable speakers. Reviewers viewed that approach as a meaningful sustainability advantage.

1 supporting review · Limited evidence

Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 Speaker 3rd Gen

Inter-speaker connectivity was praised where tested, especially for quick stereo setup and pairing with another A1.

2 supporting reviews

Marshall Middleton II

Auracast gives the Middleton II a flexible path to grouped playback with compatible speakers and broadcasts. Reviewers viewed it as a useful, more future-facing inter-speaker option.

1 supporting review · Limited evidence

Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 Speaker 3rd Gen

USB-C wired audio was praised as a meaningful bonus, especially because reviewers heard clearer, punchier performance through a cable.

4 supporting reviews

Marshall Middleton II

The 3.5mm auxiliary input is repeatedly welcomed as a useful fallback when Bluetooth is not ideal. Reviewers also liked that the port is easy to access.

3 supporting reviews

Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 Speaker 3rd Gen

The tonal balance was widely praised for rich, controlled bass, clear mids, and refined highs, with a few caveats around ultimate bass depth and one first-impression review finding it flat.

13 supporting reviews

Marshall Middleton II

Most reviewers describe the tuning as balanced, with clean mids and controlled bass. A few found the upper mids and treble less detailed or somewhat overshadowed by the low end.

8 supporting reviews

Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 Speaker 3rd Gen

AirPlay compatibility was a clear omission in the Macworld review, which said the lack of Wi-Fi or AirPlay kept it from being perfect for Apple users.

1 supporting review · Limited evidence

Marshall Middleton II

AirPlay is not supported, which one iPhone-focused reviewer specifically called a letdown. Apple users wanting Wi-Fi-based AirPlay streaming will need another option.

1 supporting review · Limited evidence

Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 Speaker 3rd Gen

Multipoint was positively received, especially in hands-on switching tests where it worked easily and flawlessly.

2 supporting reviews

Marshall Middleton II

Multipoint is treated as a useful everyday upgrade, allowing two source devices to remain connected. Reviewers liked the flexibility for switching between devices without repeated pairing.

2 supporting reviews

Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 Speaker 3rd Gen

Durability was mixed: reviewers liked the tough build and survival in bags, but several warned the metal finish can scuff and the speaker should not be thrown around like rugged JBL models.

5 supporting reviews

Marshall Middleton II

One hands-on reviewer had enough confidence in the rugged build to say an accidental drop would not cause immediate concern. That supports strong perceived impact durability.

1 supporting review · Limited evidence

Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 Speaker 3rd Gen

Design and aesthetics were one of the strongest consensus points, with nearly every reviewer praising the premium, elegant, luxurious look and feel.

12 supporting reviews

Marshall Middleton II

Design is one of the most consistently praised traits. Reviewers and customers repeatedly call the retro Marshall styling premium, distinctive, attractive, and closer to décor than a generic portable speaker.

16 supporting reviews

Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 Speaker 3rd Gen

Water resistance was strongly supported by outdoor-use praise and hands-on dunk or sink tests that reported no damage.

9 supporting reviews

Marshall Middleton II

Reviewers are highly positive about the IP67 protection and repeatedly frame it as suitable for pools, rain, beaches, and outdoor use. One reviewer still considered it less rugged than purpose-built outdoor rivals.

10 supporting reviews

Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 Speaker 3rd Gen

Charging time was a weak spot because reviewers described the roughly three-hour charge as leisurely or on the long side.

2 supporting reviews

Marshall Middleton II

Quick charging is repeatedly praised as practical, with short top-ups restoring several hours of playback. Reviewers found this especially useful before gatherings or when the battery is nearly empty.

3 supporting reviews

Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 Speaker 3rd Gen

USB-C charging was praised when paired with simultaneous laptop playback, making the port more useful than simple charging.

1 supporting review · Limited evidence

Marshall Middleton II

USB-C charging is convenient and uses a cable included in the box. Reviewers appreciated the modern charging connection and easy cable compatibility.

1 supporting review · Limited evidence

Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 Speaker 3rd Gen

Battery life was a consistent strength, with reviewers calling the 24-hour figure credible, impressive, and in some tests conservative.

9 supporting reviews

Marshall Middleton II

Battery life is a major strength, with many reviewers praising roughly 30-hour endurance and multi-day use. A few users did not reach the full claim, and one customer found the newer model shorter-lived than the original.

19 supporting reviews

Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 Speaker 3rd Gen

Price opinion was split: many reviewers saw the speaker as expensive, but several argued its build, sound, and longevity justified the premium.

13 supporting reviews · Mixed evidence

Marshall Middleton II

Price is a recurring concern. Several reviewers think the Middleton II is expensive for its size, especially when the Kilburn III or cheaper rivals are close enough in price to complicate the value proposition.

14 supporting reviews

Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 Speaker 3rd Gen

Setup was described as quick and issue-free in one review’s pairing experience.

1 supporting review · Limited evidence

Marshall Middleton II

Bluetooth setup was described as extremely easy by a customer, with quick connection and little friction. Pairing simplicity is a clear usability strength.

1 supporting review · Limited evidence

Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 Speaker 3rd Gen

Value-for-money sentiment was more divided than price alone, ranging from strong praise in one A1 review to doubts from What Hi-Fi and Expert Reviews at the current price.

4 supporting reviews · Mixed evidence

Marshall Middleton II

Value opinions are split. Some reviewers and customers consider it worth the premium or a strong buy at the right price, while others think cheaper rivals or nearby Marshall models offer better value.

10 supporting reviews · Mixed evidence

Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 Speaker 3rd Gen

Omnidirectional sound was generally positive, though one reviewer disputed true 360-degree behavior while still finding placement easy.

4 supporting reviews

Marshall Middleton II

The 360-degree presentation is repeatedly praised for producing a wide, immersive sound from many listening positions. Reviewers generally found the effect convincing rather than just a marketing claim.

7 supporting reviews

Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 Speaker 3rd Gen

Imaging and spatial organization were praised for openness and instrument separation, though one review noted limited scale compared with larger rivals.

5 supporting reviews

Marshall Middleton II

Stereo imaging is one of the clearest strengths. Reviewers repeatedly praise unusually convincing left-right separation and a soundstage that extends beyond the compact cabinet.

7 supporting reviews

Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 Speaker 3rd Gen

No review summary available for this feature. Missing evidence does not mean the feature is absent.

Marshall Middleton II

Higher-resolution wireless audio options are limited. Reviewers specifically note that the speaker does not provide the broader high-res codec support available from some competitors.

1 supporting review · Limited evidence

Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 Speaker 3rd Gen

No review summary available for this feature. Missing evidence does not mean the feature is absent.

Marshall Middleton II

Bass is one of the most praised sound traits: deep, punchy, controlled, and unusually substantial for the size. It can compress at maximum volume and cannot reproduce the deepest sub-bass, but most reviewers still rate it highly.

18 supporting reviews

Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 Speaker 3rd Gen

No review summary available for this feature. Missing evidence does not mean the feature is absent.

Marshall Middleton II

Low-volume listening is a strength, especially for desks and quiet rooms. Reviewers and a customer said the speaker retains a full, satisfying sound without needing to be played loudly.

3 supporting reviews

Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 Speaker 3rd Gen

No review summary available for this feature. Missing evidence does not mean the feature is absent.

Marshall Middleton II

Overall sound quality is a major strength, with broad praise for clarity, stereo width, bass, and musicality. Even critical reviewers generally describe the sound as good, while the main reservations involve price, high-frequency detail, or reliability rather than core audio quality.

22 supporting reviews

Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 Speaker 3rd Gen

No review summary available for this feature. Missing evidence does not mean the feature is absent.

Marshall Middleton II

A USB-C charging cable is included, and reviewers explicitly noted it in the box. The included cable makes setup and charging more convenient.

2 supporting reviews

Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 Speaker 3rd Gen

No review summary available for this feature. Missing evidence does not mean the feature is absent.

Marshall Middleton II

The replaceable battery is repeatedly praised as a meaningful long-term advantage. Reviewers value the ability to extend the speaker’s useful life instead of treating the battery as permanently sealed.

4 supporting reviews

Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 Speaker 3rd Gen

No review summary available for this feature. Missing evidence does not mean the feature is absent.

Marshall Middleton II

Support experiences are inconsistent. One customer praised Marshall’s warranty replacement, while others felt help was limited or unhelpful when charging failures and delayed LE Audio support arose.

3 supporting reviews · Mixed evidence

Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 Speaker 3rd Gen

No review summary available for this feature. Missing evidence does not mean the feature is absent.

Marshall Middleton II

Power reliability is the clearest customer concern. Multiple buyers report units that would not charge, arrived dead, stopped holding power, or failed across more than one replacement, although another customer described Marshall speakers as reliable.

8 supporting reviews · Mixed evidence

Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 Speaker 3rd Gen

No review summary available for this feature. Missing evidence does not mean the feature is absent.

Marshall Middleton II

The IP67 dust protection earned strong confidence for outdoor use. Reviewers specifically saw the sealed design as well suited to dirt, sand, and general outdoor exposure.

2 supporting reviews

Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 Speaker 3rd Gen

No review summary available for this feature. Missing evidence does not mean the feature is absent.

Marshall Middleton II

LC3 support was praised for reducing energy use while maintaining good audio performance. That gives the newer Bluetooth implementation a modest efficiency advantage.

1 supporting review · Limited evidence

Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 Speaker 3rd Gen

No review summary available for this feature. Missing evidence does not mean the feature is absent.

Marshall Middleton II

The ability to float adds extra reassurance around pools despite the speaker’s weight. One reviewer specifically saw it as useful peace of mind for poolside use.

1 supporting review · Limited evidence

Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 Speaker 3rd Gen

No review summary available for this feature. Missing evidence does not mean the feature is absent.

Marshall Middleton II

One reviewer found noticeable audio delay with video playback and said lip sync was not correct. Buyers planning to use the speaker for TV or video should expect Bluetooth latency.

1 supporting review · Limited evidence

Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 Speaker 3rd Gen

No review summary available for this feature. Missing evidence does not mean the feature is absent.

Marshall Middleton II

Most reviewers see the Middleton II as a premium, well-made product with strong sound and practical features. A few customer failures and one casing-quality concern prevent the overall quality picture from being uniformly positive.

17 supporting reviews · Mixed evidence

Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 Speaker 3rd Gen

No review summary available for this feature. Missing evidence does not mean the feature is absent.

Marshall Middleton II

Overall satisfaction is mostly high, with many customers calling the speaker excellent or saying they would buy it again. Repeated charging failures and delayed LE Audio support create a meaningful minority of strongly negative experiences.

15 supporting reviews · Mixed evidence

Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 Speaker 3rd Gen

No review summary available for this feature. Missing evidence does not mean the feature is absent.

Marshall Middleton II

One customer reported a good unboxing experience and that the speaker arrived in good condition. There is limited commentary on packaging beyond that positive experience.

1 supporting review · Limited evidence

Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 Speaker 3rd Gen

No review summary available for this feature. Missing evidence does not mean the feature is absent.

Marshall Middleton II

The reverse-charging power-bank function is widely seen as genuinely useful for travel and outdoor use. One customer did report that this function failed before the speaker later stopped charging entirely.

10 supporting reviews · Mixed evidence

Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 Speaker 3rd Gen

No review summary available for this feature. Missing evidence does not mean the feature is absent.

Marshall Middleton II

A customer specifically missed having a remote control. The speaker depends on its physical controls, app, or connected device instead.

1 supporting review · Limited evidence

Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 Speaker 3rd Gen

No review summary available for this feature. Missing evidence does not mean the feature is absent.

Marshall Middleton II

The speaker is particularly well suited to desks, kitchens, and small-to-medium rooms. It can fill these spaces comfortably without requiring maximum volume.

2 supporting reviews

Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 Speaker 3rd Gen

No review summary available for this feature. Missing evidence does not mean the feature is absent.

Marshall Middleton II

Music playback is consistently enjoyable, with reviewers especially liking rock and bass-driven material. The warm, energetic presentation also works across a broader range of genres.

2 supporting reviews

Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 Speaker 3rd Gen

Alexa and voice-assistant support were mixed-to-negative: some reviewers did not miss it, while others treated its removal as a lost useful feature.

4 supporting reviews

Marshall Middleton II

No review summary available for this feature. Missing evidence does not mean the feature is absent.