I tried Marshall's latest soundbars and I'm seriously worried for Bose and Sonos - here's why

"Disclosure: The cost of Jada Jones' travel to New York City was covered by Marshall, a common industry practice for long-distance trips. The judgments and opinions of ZDNET's writers and editors are always independent of the companies we cover. Also: Marshall's latest sound systems are making me reconsider splurging on Bose After announcing its foray into the home audio market with the well-received Heston 120, Marshall makes its message clear: it has its sights on offering modular systems to consumers."

"Shortly after the Heston 120, Marshall announced the Heston 60 and Sub 200, a smaller, more compact version of the Heston 120 and an external subwoofer, respectively. I spent an afternoon with Marshall, demoing the Heston 60 and Sub 200, and it's unmistakable that is considered a close competitor. Well known for its array of smart speakers, subwoofers, and soundbars, Sonos's user interface, software ecosystem, and physical design language greatly differ from Marshall's."

"Marshall's home audio products borrow the same design language as its portable and home speakers, paying homage to the company's longstanding connection to amp-making. The Heston 120, Heston 60, and Sub 200 feature tactile controls, polyurethane leather finishes, and brushed metal panels. Also: I compared my Sonos Arc Ultra with an unlikely soundbar rival, and it went down to the wire Staying true to its design principles opens the door to consumers looking for something different."

Marshall expanded the Heston lineup with the compact Heston 60 and the Sub 200 external subwoofer, priced at $700 and $600. The products continue Marshall's amp-inspired aesthetic with tactile controls, polyurethane leather, and brushed metal panels. Marshall is positioning the lineup as modular home-audio components to compete with Sonos while offering a distinct physical design and tactile controls. The two brands present similar specs and customer appeal but differ in user interface and software ecosystem. The retro, tactile design aims to attract consumers seeking an alternative, though Sonos loyalists may resist switching.

Read at ZDNET