Introduction
If you’re in the market for a premium Bluetooth speaker that doesn’t just sound good but looks incredible doing it, the Marshall Heston 120 is likely on your radar. Known for blending iconic rock ‘n’ roll aesthetics with modern audio technology, Marshall has built a reputation for delivering some of the most stylish and sonically rich speakers in the industry.
The Marshall Heston 120, released in 2025, represents the brand’s latest attempt to strike the perfect balance between nostalgic design and cutting-edge features. In this in-depth, humanized review, we explore everything you need to know—from sound performance and build quality to features and overall value—helping you decide whether the Heston 120 deserves a spot in your home or on your next road trip.
Iconic Design That Commands Attention
At first glance, the Heston 120 screams vintage rock amplifier. With its textured vinyl covering, gold metal accents, and the classic Marshall logo sprawled across the front grille, the speaker pays homage to the brand’s amplifier roots. But it’s not just for show—this unit feels incredibly well-built.
Unlike many modern Bluetooth speakers that lean toward minimalism or futuristic designs, the Heston 120 oozes personality. The tactile knobs on the top panel (for volume, bass, treble, and input selection) aren’t just functional—they’re fun to use. It’s the kind of speaker you want to display front and center, not tuck away.
Dimensions and Build:
- Size: Approx. 12 x 8 x 6 inches
- Weight: Around 4.5 kg
- Colors: Classic Black, Cream White, and a new Heritage Brown edition
Sound Quality: Power Meets Precision
Let’s cut to the chase: the Marshall Heston 120 sounds phenomenal. Under the hood, it boasts a 120-watt output, split between dual tweeters and a dedicated woofer. That kind of power is rarely found in speakers this size.
What stands out?
- Bold Bass: The low-end is deep and punchy, making it ideal for bass-heavy genres like hip-hop, EDM, or classic rock.
- Clear Mids and Highs: Vocals come through with clarity, and acoustic instruments feel warm and detailed.
- Volume Capacity: This speaker can fill a room or even a backyard party without distorting at higher volumes.
Marshall’s custom-tuned drivers deliver 360-degree sound that maintains depth and separation regardless of where you’re standing. If you’re looking for a speaker to bring life to your living room or add serious punch to your outdoor BBQ, the Heston 120 delivers in spades.
Connectivity and Smart Features
Despite its old-school appearance, the Heston 120 is thoroughly modern inside. Here’s a breakdown of its connectivity and features:
Wireless Connectivity:
- Bluetooth 5.4 with multipoint support
- Wi-Fi connectivity with AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, and Tidal Connect
- Google Home and Alexa compatibility (via Wi-Fi mode)
- Customizable EQ via the Marshall Bluetooth app
Wired Options:
- 3.5mm AUX input
- RCA Line-in
- USB-C port (also used for firmware updates and limited playback)
Whether you’re streaming from a smartphone, tablet, or even a turntable setup, the Heston 120 makes pairing and switching sources effortless.
Battery Life and Portability
While it may not be the most lightweight speaker in Marshall’s lineup, the Heston 120 is designed for semi-portable use. Think of it as a speaker you can easily move from room to room or take out to the patio—not something you’d toss into a backpack for hiking.
- Battery Life: Up to 20 hours on a single charge
- Charging Time: ~3 hours to full using USB-C
- Power-saving Mode: Auto-sleep and low-energy standby options
The speaker includes a leather-carrying strap with brass details that make it feel like a piece of luxury luggage rather than a tech gadget.
Marshall Bluetooth App: Personalized Experience
The Marshall Bluetooth app (available on Android and iOS) takes the Heston 120 a step further by letting users:
- Adjust EQ settings (bass, mids, treble)
- Customize power-saving features
- Rename and manage multiple Marshall devices
- Receive firmware updates
The app interface is clean, intuitive, and true to the Marshall branding, complete with analog-style dials and black-and-gold accents.
Click here for the official website
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Rich, detailed 120W audio | On the heavier side for portable use |
| Stunning vintage design | No built-in voice assistant microphone |
| Excellent connectivity (BT, Wi-Fi) | Premium price tag |
| Long 20-hour battery life | No IP water resistance rating |
| Multi-device pairing + app control | Slightly bulky for small shelves/desks |
Who Should Buy the Marshall Heston 120?
The Heston 120 isn’t for everyone, and that’s part of its charm. It’s not trying to compete with budget Bluetooth speakers or ultra-portable models. Instead, it’s designed for:
- Audio lovers who want bold, full-bodied sound
- Home decor enthusiasts who value aesthetic as much as audio
- Marshall fans who appreciate the brand’s heritage
- Professionals or creatives who want a studio-like audio experience at home
If you’re looking for a speaker that combines old-school charisma with new-school performance, this could be the perfect match.
Final Verdict
The Marshall Heston 120 is a rockstar in its own right. It brings together iconic looks, powerful 120-watt sound, and modern connectivity in a package that feels luxurious and expressive. While it isn’t the cheapest or the most portable Bluetooth speaker on the market, it offers something uniquely Marshall—a blend of soul, swagger, and sound quality that’s hard to replicate.
Is it worth the price?
If your budget allows and you’re craving a speaker with personality, punch, and premium finish, the answer is a resounding yes.
If you enjoyed this article, don’t miss our previous posts packed with tech insights and reviews—check them out on our website!
