This Bluetooth-only Marshall home speaker sounds so good, I can forgive the missing Wi-Fi

The Marshall Stanmore IV, a Bluetooth-only home speaker, has proven its worth despite lacking Wi-Fi and voice assistant capabilities, according to the author. This is the fourth generation of the Stanmore line, a series the author has used for six years. The latest model promises an immersive audio experience with deeper bass, a wider soundstage, and a repairable design. However, it maintains the classic Marshall Bluetooth-only speaker design.

The Stanmore IV is a mains-powered speaker, meaning it should be kept in one place and plugged into an outlet. It occupies 13.78 x 7.99 x 7.28 inches of space and weighs 8.81lbs. Despite its size, it integrates well into any room's decor with its classic design featuring a faux-leather-clad exterior, brass speaker grille, golden accents, and a large Marshall logo. The speaker features three physical knobs for volume, treble, and bass adjustments, adding a satisfying analog touch to the digital control system.

The Stanmore IV has undergone design improvements, including the relocation of ports to the speaker's underside and the removal of ports on the back. This change not only enhances the appearance from the back but also makes it more repairable. Specific components like the front grille, knobs, feet, and the iconic logo can be replaced if damaged.

In terms of sound quality, the Stanmore IV delivers an all-around pleasing experience across various genres. It offers deep, impactful bass without fatiguing the ears, clear lower frequencies, and controlled, vibrant treble at all volumes. Rock songs, in particular, showcase excellent instrument separation and minimal distortion, even at higher volumes. The speaker maintains vocal clarity throughout, making it suitable for a wide range of music genres.

The author tested the Stanmore IV with a Vivo X300 Ultra (for higher-res LDAC) and an iPhone 17 Pro Max, finding little difference between the two sources. Despite its $430 price tag, the Stanmore IV offers a hassle-free analog experience with superior sound quality, making it a compelling choice for those who value design, longevity, and a more immersive audio experience over smart features.