Marshall has unveiled the latest generation of its home audio lineup, introducing the Acton IV and Stanmore IV speakers with a series of thoughtful hardware refinements. While the updates improve placement flexibility, sound quality, and connectivity, one notable absence has left fans wondering: there’s still no Woburn IV.
Marshall updates two of its most popular speakers
Four years after launching the third-generation models, Marshall has refreshed two of its best-known home speakers.
The new lineup includes:
- Marshall Acton IV – $299.99 / £259.99
- Marshall Stanmore IV – $399.99 / £349.99
Both speakers retain Marshall’s signature amplifier-inspired aesthetic while introducing several practical improvements designed to enhance everyday use.
What’s new?
Although the overall design remains familiar, Marshall has made a number of meaningful hardware changes.
Redesigned bass port
Both speakers feature a redesigned bass port intended to improve airflow, helping deliver cleaner and more controlled low-frequency performance.
Better tweeters
Marshall has upgraded the tweeter system to provide greater clarity and more detailed high-frequency reproduction.
Auracast support
The speakers now support Auracast, allowing compatibility with the latest Bluetooth audio broadcasting standard for easier multi-device audio sharing.
Improved cable placement
One of the most practical changes is the relocation of the power cable connection.
Instead of plugging into the side, cables now connect underneath the speaker, allowing users to place the speakers much closer to a wall or inside shelves and cabinets without cable interference.
Classic Marshall design remains
Despite the hardware refinements, the speakers maintain the vintage Marshall styling that has become synonymous with the brand.
Features that carry over include:
- Iconic amplifier-inspired design
- Physical control knobs
- M-button shortcuts
- Bluetooth connectivity
- RCA input
- 3.5mm AUX input
- Marshall companion app support
The overall experience remains instantly familiar for existing Marshall users.
The missing feature many wanted
While the fourth-generation speakers receive several welcome upgrades, one major omission remains.
Neither the Acton IV nor the Stanmore IV adds:
- Wi-Fi streaming
- Built-in voice assistants
- Smart home integration
These are features increasingly common among premium home speakers from competing brands, and many users had hoped Marshall would embrace them in this generation.
Instead, the company continues to focus on Bluetooth-based audio and traditional wired connections.
Where is the Woburn IV?
Perhaps the biggest surprise is what’s missing.
Marshall announced only the Acton IV and Stanmore IV, with no sign of an updated Woburn IV, the company’s largest and most powerful home speaker.
Marshall has not explained the absence, leaving open the possibility that a fourth-generation Woburn could arrive later with additional features.
Final thoughts
Marshall’s latest home speakers aren’t radical redesigns, but they don’t need to be. The Acton IV and Stanmore IV build on an already successful formula with improved tweeters, a redesigned bass port, Auracast support, and smarter cable management that makes placement easier around the home.
However, the continued absence of Wi-Fi streaming and voice assistant support means Marshall still prioritizes traditional listening over smart speaker functionality. For users who value premium Bluetooth audio and timeless design, the new models remain compelling options—but those hoping for a fully connected smart speaker may have to keep waiting, perhaps until the long-rumored Woburn IV eventually arrives.
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