Rock legend Marshall has expanded its portfolio by entering the home audio market with its first-ever soundbar, the Heston 120. Released in June, this premium all-in-one speaker boasts a unique blend of vintage amp DNA and modern features.
Key to the Heston 120’s design is its visual connection to the listening experience. The soundbar’s wrapped leather trim, brushed metal panel, and knurled metal control knobs instantly evoke the brand’s iconic guitar amps. This attention to detail extends to the internal architecture as well, featuring an 11-driver configuration with dual rear-facing subwoofers and four passive radiators.
This setup delivers a solid low-end response without requiring an external subwoofer. The up-facing tweeters and angled side drivers work in tandem to create spatial audio that enhances Dolby Atmos experiences. A room calibration feature through the Marshall app allows users to tailor the sound according to their listening space, while dedicated sound modes for Movies, Music, Night, and Voice provide granular control.
Marshall has also prioritized repairability, enabling users to replace individual drivers, circuit boards, and fabric frets. This approach sets the Heston 120 apart from competitors like Sonos, which often require shipping entire units back for service or repair.
Priced at $1,000, the Heston 120 competes with premium all-in-one soundbars like the Sonos Arc Ultra and Bose Smart Ultra. However, its unique features, including physical knobs and an analog RCA input, make it a standout in this category.
A range of tiers is expected to follow, including the Heston 60 and Heston Sub 200 subwoofer. With its debut, Marshall has entered the home audio market with a bold statement – one that promises to elevate the listening experience for music enthusiasts and audiophiles alike.
Source: https://hiconsumption.com/tech/marshall-heston-120-soundbar