Review on Marshall Tufton: Black Portable Bluetooth Speaker - Unmatched Sound Quality & Portability by Justin Hill

Short answer if you're reading because you're trying to decide between Kilburn II and Tufton: Buy a Tufton if you can afford it. Especially if, like me, you can get it on sale for $319. . . Just $60 more than the Kilburn II's MSRP, and the Tufton sounds a lot better (although the Kilburn II is good in its class). Full Review: Before I talk about sound, which I know is important, a few comments on other features. I like it. Why do I write my comments about the sound last? Because let's face it, if you wanted audiophile sound, you wouldn't buy a mono speaker. They're considering this for convenience and portability reasons, so let me discuss those first. . .Bluetooth: This device is very easy to connect the first time, and for subsequent pairings, it is amazing how quickly your smartphone connects to this device. Almost immediately and without problems. Multiple pairing with more than one phone also works (contrary to some reviews I've read), but the only complaint I have is that the audio pauses when another paired Bluetooth device comes within range . A minor inconvenience but thought I'd mention it. Otherwise, the device will emit a recognizable but different sound during pairing and unpairing to let you know what's going on. The range is excellent, I've calculated 75 feet outdoors and 50 feet indoors with no issues or blackouts. Battery Life: Reading about this device I dismissed the 20 hour claim, assuming that meant standby and a lot less when actually playing music. The boy was pleasantly surprised! I've been playing this thing for hours and I think I only charged it once. The battery life is phenomenal. Size: Don't let the pictures fool you. It looks like a Marshall stack amp so I thought it was huge until I checked the specs. Sure, it's larger than the Kilburn II, but it's not bulky and certainly very portable, especially with the handy leather strap. Check out my photo next to a hardcover book on a medium sized coffee table. Sound: Ok, finally my comments on the sound. All who heard it were amazed. I was a lesser "audiophile" for many years until age caught up with me and my hearing began to deteriorate somewhat. Sounds great compared to other Bluetooth speakers. The best thing about the Marshall's name is that it delivers plenty of bass "bang" even in open areas, especially when played loud. When I say "hit," I don't mean "rumble." My only minor complaint is that the sound isn't as full when played at low volume. This thing just wants to be turned on, but either way it won't disappoint. Look no further if you need something to rock your outdoor setting. At low to medium volume, however, the vocals sound a bit lifted and the mids are a bit missing. It's good that I like my loud music. . . .Wish List: I hope someone from Marshall reads this. . . . Anyway, I'd love to be able to connect to another Tufton and get true stereo. If that sounds too complicated, I have a pair of Altec Lansing Baby Boom Bluetooth speakers that are only $30 each that connect to a stereo, that's where the idea came from! They sound amazing despite their small size. Yes, a pair of these won't come cheap, but I won't hesitate to buy a second set if I can put them together. . . . Final remarks on the previously mentioned Tufton vs Kilburn II comparison. I first wanted a Kilburn after hearing it at a party so I ordered it. Kilburn itself impressed me. However, due to some unforeseen circumstances, I had the opportunity to personally compare it to Tufton. It only took me a favorite song or two to make a decision. The big difference lies in the already mentioned bass reproduction. Spend extra money when you can. . . .