Sound quality: Marshall's Acton III had Good overall sound quality - this model reproduces music and dialog reasonably well despite the obvious shortcomings in its sound. With the bass and treble controls set for the most even tonal balance, bass has good impact and goes fairly deep, but is a bit prominent and somewhat boomy. Midrange is fairly even, but is hazy and somewhat grainy. Treble is fairly extended, but is a bit smeared and a touch subdued. Does a so-so job of recovering room ambience and sounds somewhat congested. It provides a decent volume level in medium sized room. There is no significant difference between Bluetooth and Aux input sound quality. Compared to the Marshall Acton II that it supersedes the Acton III has a more even tonal balance and is not harsh, but is less open sounding.
Ease of use: We found the Marshall Acton III ease of use to be Excellent overall. Bluetooth setup: Bluetooth pairing requires a press and hold of the multifunction Bluetooth pairing/source selection button, then selection of unit from the Bluetooth selection list on source device; unit provides an obvious indication that the unit is in pairing mode as well as when pairing has actually occurred. Volume control is a well labeled, prominent, easy to actuate knob with persistent easily repeatable level indicators. Source selector is a marked multifunction button (also used for Bluetooth pairing) that is prominent and clearly labeled and clearly indicates with words and symbols which source has been selected.
