Marshall, a company known for iconic guitar amps, is taking a bold step into the soundbar market with the introduction of its first soundbar, the Heston 120. Priced at $1000, this Atmos-capable soundbar is a significant move for Marshall, as it marks their entry into a new product category. In an interview with WIRED, Gustaf Rosell, Marshall’s chief product and innovation officer, expressed both excitement and nerves about the launch of their most expensive product yet. Despite the risks involved in venturing into a new segment, Marshall wanted to make a statement by starting at the high end of the market.
The development of the Heston 120 has been a long process, with discussions about adding a soundbar to Marshall’s lineup going back five years. The soundbar features a 5.1.2-channel setup with 11 separate drivers strategically positioned to deliver a wide and high soundfield from a single box. To achieve the desired audio performance, Marshall collaborated with experts from various industries, including the automotive sector, to fine-tune the soundbar for optimal sound quality. Additionally, the company worked closely with Dolby to ensure accurate placement of sound objects in a room, enhancing the overall listening experience.
One of the key focuses for Marshall was striking a balance between TV sound and music playback, a challenge that many multi-channel audio products face. The Heston 120 offers a range of music options, including AirPlay 2, Googlecast, Bluetooth LE, Tidal, and Spotify Connect, allowing users to enjoy their favorite music with exceptional clarity and depth. Despite the competitive nature of the soundbar market, Rosell believes that the Heston 120 can hold its own against established brands like Sonos, Sennheiser, and Sony, thanks to its premium price point and superior performance. With a strong emphasis on simplicity and performance, Marshall aims to cater to customers who seek high-quality audio without the complexity of traditional soundbar setups.
As Marshall prepares to launch the Heston 120 on June 3, the company has plans to expand its soundbar lineup with the introduction of the Heston 60 and a wireless subwoofer, the Heston Sub 200, later this year. Additionally, Marshall will offer the flexibility to add satellite speakers from other compatible brands, allowing users to customize their audio setup according to their preferences. By embracing open standards like Bluetooth LE and Auracast, Marshall aims to provide a seamless and versatile audio experience for its customers. The Heston family of products promises to deliver exceptional sound quality, stylish design, and user-friendly features, setting a new standard in the competitive soundbar market. So, get ready to experience the power and precision of Marshall’s latest innovation in home audio.
