The House of Marley Get Together Duo system delivers a compelling audio experience, merging eco-conscious design with robust sound.
These speakers offer impressive portability and the unique ability to function as a stereo pair or independent units, making them a versatile choice for home use, travel, or outdoor gatherings.
While they may not satisfy the most ardent audiophiles seeking ultra-flat frequency response, their warm sound profile, strong bass, and sustainable build materials — like bamboo and recycled plastics — present a significant value proposition for those prioritizing both sound quality and environmental responsibility.
They stand out in a crowded market by offering a distinctive aesthetic and a tangible commitment to sustainability without compromising on performance.
Here’s a quick rundown of how the Get Together Duo stacks up against some other notable portable audio options, focusing on features, general price point, and key strengths and weaknesses:
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House of Marley Get Together Duo
- Key Features: True wireless stereo pairing, bamboo front baffle, REWIND fabric, dual 3.5-inch woofers, 1-inch tweeters, 20-hour battery life main speaker, 10-hour battery life secondary speaker, USB-C charging, aux input.
- Average Price: Around $180-$200
- Pros: Excellent stereo separation, sustainable materials, warm and rich sound signature, versatile can be used individually or paired, good battery life.
- Cons: Not waterproof, minor latency issues reported by some users, bass can occasionally overpower mids on certain tracks.
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- Key Features: IP67 waterproof and dustproof, 12 hours playtime, PartyBoost for multi-speaker pairing, USB-C charging.
- Average Price: Around $100-$130
- Pros: Highly durable, excellent portability, clear sound for its size, good bass response.
- Cons: Mono sound unless paired with another Flip 6, shorter battery life than Duo, less emphasis on sustainable materials.
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- Key Features: 360-degree sound, IP67 waterproof and dustproof, 15 hours battery life, Magic Button for playback control, PartyUp for connecting over 150 speakers.
- Average Price: Around $130-$150
- Pros: Immersive sound field, highly durable, impressive multi-speaker pairing, good battery life.
- Cons: Bass can sometimes lack depth, proprietary charging dock sold separately, less focus on eco-friendly design.
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- Key Features: Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, IP67 waterproof and dustproof, 10 hours battery life, automatic Trueplay tuning, voice control, integrates with Sonos ecosystem.
- Pros: Seamless integration with Sonos, smart features, excellent sound for its size, versatile connectivity.
- Cons: Shorter battery life, more expensive for its size, requires Sonos app for full functionality.
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- Key Features: IP67 waterproof and dustproof, 12 hours battery life, PositionIQ technology for optimized sound, built-in microphone.
- Average Price: Around $150-$170
- Pros: Robust build, excellent sound clarity with strong bass, smart audio optimization, very portable.
- Cons: No true stereo pairing with a single unit, shorter battery life than Duo, not as eco-focused.
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- Key Features: 360-degree sound, IPX7 waterproof, 12 hours battery life, customizable LED lights, PartyCast for multi-speaker pairing.
- Average Price: Around $70-$80
- Pros: Great value, fun lighting effects, decent sound for the price, good multi-speaker functionality.
- Cons: Sound quality not as refined as premium options, bass can be overwhelming at times, less durable build.
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- Key Features: Classic Marshall design, IP67 dust and water-resistant, 30+ hours battery life, Stack Mode for multi-speaker pairing, True Stereophonic sound.
- Average Price: Around $170-$190
- Pros: Iconic aesthetic, exceptional battery life, surprisingly good sound from a compact unit, very durable.
- Cons: No aux input, higher price point, sound profile might not appeal to all, no true stereo from a single unit.
The House of Marley Philosophy: Sustainability Meets Sound
House of Marley isn’t just another audio brand. it’s a movement. Founded by Bob Marley’s family, the company is built on principles of superior quality, earth-friendly materials, and charitable giving. This isn’t marketing fluff. it’s deeply ingrained in their product development, and the Get Together Duo is a prime example. When you’re considering these speakers, you’re not just buying sound. you’re investing in a product that actively tries to lessen its environmental footprint.
A Deeper Dive into Eco-Conscious Design
- Bamboo: The front baffle of the Get Together Duo speakers features sustainably sourced bamboo. This isn’t just for aesthetics. bamboo is one of the fastest-growing plants on Earth, making it a highly renewable resource. It also offers excellent acoustic properties, contributing to the speaker’s warm and natural sound.
- REWIND Fabric: This isn’t your average speaker grille cloth. REWIND fabric is crafted from a blend of 30% reclaimed hemp, 30% organic cotton, and 40% recycled PET plastic bottles. This innovative material significantly reduces textile waste and the reliance on virgin plastics.
- Recycled Silicone and Aluminum: Even the smaller components matter. The silicone used for the base and certain accents, and the aluminum housing, often incorporate recycled content. This holistic approach to material sourcing sets House of Marley apart.
- Regrind Silicone: The black silicone parts on the Get Together Duo are made from Regrind™ silicone, which means they use salvaged and repurposed materials from post-process and post-consumer waste. This further minimizes waste and the demand for new resources.
The Impact of Sustainable Manufacturing
Choosing products like the Get Together Duo contributes to a larger positive impact.
- Reduced Landfill Waste: By utilizing recycled plastics, fabrics, and salvaged materials, House of Marley diverts significant waste from landfills.
- Lower Carbon Footprint: The production of new, virgin materials is energy-intensive. By opting for recycled and renewable resources, the brand helps reduce overall carbon emissions associated with manufacturing.
- Support for Ethical Sourcing: Their commitment extends to ensuring materials are sourced responsibly, often working with certified suppliers to maintain environmental and labor standards. This is a big win for conscious consumers.
Sound Profile and Performance: A Harmonious Experience
The House of Marley Get Together Duo isn’t about clinical, flat-response audio. Instead, it aims for a warm, rich, and engaging sound profile that’s particularly well-suited for a variety of genres. Think of it as a speaker that enhances your podcast, providing a pleasant and inviting listening experience rather than just reproducing sound.
Bass, Mids, and Treble Breakdown
- Bass: This is where the Get Together Duo truly shines. The dual 3.5-inch woofers deliver a surprisingly potent and resonant bass response for their size. It’s not just boomy. there’s a good sense of depth and punch, making genres like reggae, hip-hop, and electronic podcast particularly enjoyable. It’s well-controlled for the most part, avoiding muddiness unless pushed to extreme volumes on bass-heavy tracks.
- Mid-Range: The mid-range is generally clear and present, allowing vocals and instruments like guitars and pianos to cut through. There’s a slight warmth that contributes to the overall pleasant sound signature. However, in some very bass-heavy mixes, the mids can occasionally feel a touch recessed, but this is a minor quibble for a speaker in this category.
- Treble: The 1-inch tweeters ensure the highs are crisp and detailed without being harsh or fatiguing. Cymbals have a nice shimmer, and high-frequency details are well-represented. There’s enough sparkle to add vibrancy to tracks without becoming sibilant, which is crucial for extended listening sessions.
Stereo Pairing: The Duo Advantage
The “Duo” in its name isn’t just for show. The ability to pair these two speakers wirelessly for true stereo separation is a significant advantage over many portable speakers.
- Immersive Soundstage: When properly separated, the Get Together Duo creates a wide and immersive soundstage. You can distinctly hear instruments and vocals placed in different areas of the mix, which adds a new dimension to your podcast that a single mono speaker simply cannot replicate.
- Enhanced Dynamics: Stereo separation also enhances the dynamics of your podcast, making tracks feel more alive and expansive. This is particularly noticeable with live recordings or tracks designed with intricate stereo imaging.
- Flexible Placement: You have the flexibility to place the speakers on either side of a room, creating a larger sound field, or closer together for a more intimate listening experience.
Connectivity and Features: Versatility in Action
The House of Marley Get Together Duo offers a pragmatic set of connectivity options and features, prioritizing ease of use and versatility without overcomplicating things.
It’s designed to be straightforward to connect and enjoy.
Bluetooth 5.0 and Beyond
- Reliable Wireless Connection: The speakers utilize Bluetooth 5.0, ensuring a stable and efficient wireless connection with your devices. This version of Bluetooth typically offers better range and lower power consumption compared to older standards.
- Quick Pairing: Pairing the speakers with your phone or tablet is a breeze. They usually connect almost instantly once in pairing mode.
- Automatic Stereo Pairing: Once you’ve paired the two Get Together Duo speakers together for stereo mode, they will generally remember this setup and automatically connect as a stereo pair when powered on within range of each other, simplifying subsequent uses.
Auxiliary Input for Wired Connections
While Bluetooth is king for portable audio, the inclusion of a 3.5mm auxiliary input is a thoughtful addition.
- Legacy Device Support: This allows you to connect non-Bluetooth devices like older MP3 players, CD players, or even turntables with a pre-amp directly to the speaker.
- Reduced Latency: For critical listening or situations where even minimal audio lag is undesirable though rare with Bluetooth 5.0, a wired connection guarantees zero latency.
- Battery Preservation: Using the aux input can also slightly extend the battery life of your source device, as it doesn’t need to transmit wirelessly.
Integrated Controls and Indicators
The controls on the main speaker are intuitive and easy to use.
- Dedicated Buttons: You’ll find physical buttons for power, Bluetooth pairing, volume up/down, and play/pause. These tactile controls are generally preferred over touch-sensitive ones, especially when not looking at the speaker.
- LED Indicators: Small LED lights provide visual cues for battery status, pairing mode, and connection status, keeping you informed at a glance.
- Built-in Microphone: The main speaker also includes a built-in microphone, allowing you to take calls hands-free when connected to your smartphone. The call quality is generally clear enough for typical conversations.
Portability and Battery Life: Podcast On The Move
One of the core strengths of the Get Together Duo system lies in its portability and impressive battery performance.
These speakers are built for life on the go, whether it’s from room to room or on an outdoor adventure. Istorage Diskashur M2 Review
Designed for Portability
- Compact Dimensions: Each speaker is relatively compact, making them easy to pick up and move. While not tiny like some micro-speakers, their size is practical for producing substantial sound.
- Lightweight: Weighing in at a reasonable amount, they won’t burden your backpack or tote bag. This makes them ideal for packing for a picnic, a trip to the park, or even just moving them from your living room to your patio.
- Integrated Carry Handle Main Speaker: The main speaker often features a simple, integrated carry handle or design that makes it easy to grab and transport.
Battery Life That Lasts
This is a significant factor, especially when you’re away from power outlets.
The Get Together Duo system offers excellent longevity.
- Main Speaker: Up to 20 Hours: The primary speaker, which houses the main controls and battery for powering the secondary unit when paired, boasts an impressive up to 20 hours of playtime on a single charge. This is more than enough for a full day of podcast or several shorter listening sessions.
- Secondary Speaker: Up to 10 Hours when used independently: The secondary speaker has its own battery, providing up to 10 hours of playtime if used on its own connected via Bluetooth to a different device, though this is less common. When paired with the main speaker, its power is managed by the primary unit.
- USB-C Charging: Both speakers utilize the modern and convenient USB-C charging standard. This means faster charging times and the ability to use a single cable for many of your devices, reducing cable clutter.
Real-World Battery Performance
It’s important to note that advertised battery life is usually measured under specific conditions e.g., moderate volume.
- Volume Impact: Cranking the volume to maximum will naturally reduce the battery life, but even then, you can expect many hours of playback.
- Stereo Mode Efficiency: When used as a stereo pair, the system is designed to manage power efficiently between the two units, ensuring balanced discharge and consistent performance.
- Standby Time: The speakers also have decent standby time, meaning they won’t drain significantly when left on but not actively playing podcast for short periods.
Build Quality and Aesthetics: Sustainable Style
The House of Marley Get Together Duo speakers are immediately recognizable due to their distinctive design, which marries the brand’s commitment to sustainability with a robust and appealing aesthetic. This isn’t just a speaker. it’s a statement piece.
Premium, Eco-Friendly Materials
As discussed, the material choices are central to the Get Together Duo’s identity.
- Solid Bamboo: The front baffle of each speaker is crafted from solid bamboo. This isn’t a veneer. it’s a substantial piece that adds a natural, warm look and feel. Bamboo is known for its durability and resistance to warping, making it an excellent choice for a speaker enclosure.
- REWIND Fabric Grille: The woven REWIND fabric that covers the drivers isn’t just visually appealing. it’s a tactile reminder of the product’s eco-conscious origins. The texture and muted colors often give it a more natural, less industrial look than typical metal grilles.
- Recycled Aluminum and Silicone: The subtle integration of recycled aluminum in the enclosure and recycled silicone for the base and control elements contributes to both the speaker’s durability and its overall sustainable profile. These materials feel sturdy and well-finished.
Durability and Longevity
While not rated as fully ruggedized like IPX7 waterproof speakers, the Get Together Duo is built to withstand regular use and transportation.
- Robust Construction: The combination of bamboo, aluminum, and dense recycled fabrics creates a speaker that feels solid and well-put-together. There’s minimal flex or creaking.
- Resistance to Wear: The materials are generally resistant to fingerprints and minor scuffs, maintaining their appearance over time with proper care.
- No IP Rating: It’s crucial to remember that these speakers do not have an IP Ingress Protection rating, meaning they are not officially water or dust resistant. While they can handle a splash or two, they are not designed for submersion or use in heavy rain. This is a point to consider if you plan extensive outdoor use in unpredictable weather.
A Distinctive Aesthetic
The overall look of the Get Together Duo is far from generic.
- Warm and Natural: The blend of wood, fabric, and subtle metallic accents creates a warm, natural, and inviting aesthetic that can blend seamlessly into various home decors, from bohemian to minimalist.
- Retro-Modern Vibe: There’s a subtle retro-modern appeal, perhaps due to the fabric and wood elements, that makes them feel timeless rather than overtly trendy.
- Not Just Black Plastic: In a market dominated by black plastic boxes, the Get Together Duo stands out with its unique material palette and commitment to style with a purpose. It’s a speaker that you won’t want to hide away.
Value Proposition: Is the Duo Worth It?
When evaluating the House of Marley Get Together Duo, it’s essential to consider its overall value proposition beyond just the raw sound.
It blends audio performance, unique features, and a strong ethical stance into a compelling package.
What You’re Paying For
- True Stereo Sound: The ability to achieve genuine stereo separation from two portable speakers is a significant differentiator. Many portable speakers offer “party mode” linking, but true stereo imaging elevates the listening experience considerably.
- Sustainable Materials: A substantial portion of the cost goes towards the responsible sourcing and integration of premium, eco-friendly materials like bamboo, REWIND fabric, and recycled plastics. This isn’t just about looks. it’s about supporting a more sustainable manufacturing model.
- House of Marley’s Mission: A portion of the proceeds from House of Marley products often goes towards supporting global reforestation and other charitable initiatives through the Project Marley program. Your purchase contributes to this broader mission.
- Robust Build Quality: The speakers feel solid and well-constructed, suggesting they are built to last, offering long-term value.
- Distinctive Aesthetic: The unique design means you’re getting a speaker that looks as good as it sounds, and stands out from the generic portable speaker crowd.
Comparing Against Competitors
As seen in the introduction, similarly priced competitors like the Sonos Roam or Bose SoundLink Flex offer different strengths, often focusing on ruggedness, smart features, or ultra-compact size. Adaware Antivirus Pro Review
- House of Marley: Excels in true stereo, sustainable design, and a warm, inviting sound profile.
- JBL/UE: Often prioritize extreme ruggedness waterproof, dustproof and extensive multi-speaker linking, but typically offer mono sound from a single unit.
- Sonos: Offers smart home integration and Wi-Fi connectivity, but at a higher price point and often shorter battery life for portability.
The Target Audience
The Get Together Duo is particularly well-suited for:
- Eco-conscious consumers: Those who prioritize sustainability and want their purchases to align with their values.
- Audiophiles who appreciate warmth: Listeners who prefer a rich, engaging sound over a strictly neutral or analytical one.
- Home and outdoor entertainers: People who frequently host gatherings and want to create a wide, immersive sound field.
- Design-focused individuals: Anyone who appreciates unique aesthetics and quality materials in their tech products.
- Travelers who want better sound: For those who desire more than a single mono speaker can offer on trips or vacations.
Ultimately, the Get Together Duo offers a compelling blend of features, performance, and ethical manufacturing.
While you might find speakers with more ruggedness or smart assistant integration at similar price points, few can match the Duo’s combination of true stereo sound, impressive battery life, and unwavering commitment to sustainability and distinctive design.
For many, this unique value proposition makes the House of Marley Get Together Duo an excellent investment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the House of Marley Get Together Duo?
The House of Marley Get Together Duo is a portable Bluetooth speaker system comprising two independent speakers that can be paired wirelessly for true stereo sound or used individually.
How do I connect the House of Marley Get Together Duo speakers?
You connect the main speaker to your device via Bluetooth 5.0. To enable stereo sound, simply pair the two Get Together Duo speakers together, usually by pressing a dedicated button on each speaker, and they will link wirelessly.
Can I use the Get Together Duo speakers individually?
Yes, each Get Together Duo speaker can be used independently as a standalone Bluetooth speaker.
What is the battery life of the Get Together Duo?
The main speaker offers up to 20 hours of playtime, while the secondary speaker provides up to 10 hours when used independently.
How long does it take to charge the Get Together Duo speakers?
Charging times vary but typically a full charge via USB-C takes a few hours.
Does the Get Together Duo have an aux input?
Yes, the main speaker features a 3.5mm auxiliary input for wired connections. Meyer Optik Gorlitz Primoplan 75 F19 Ii Review
Is the House of Marley Get Together Duo waterproof?
No, the House of Marley Get Together Duo speakers do not have an IP Ingress Protection rating for water or dust resistance.
They are not designed for use in wet conditions or submersion.
What kind of materials are the Get Together Duo speakers made from?
They are made from sustainable materials including bamboo, REWIND fabric from recycled plastic bottles, organic cotton, and hemp, and recycled silicone and aluminum.
What is REWIND fabric?
REWIND fabric is a sustainable material used by House of Marley, made from a blend of 30% reclaimed hemp, 30% organic cotton, and 40% recycled PET plastic bottles.
Does the Get Together Duo have a built-in microphone for calls?
Yes, the main speaker has a built-in microphone for hands-free calling.
What is the sound quality like on the Get Together Duo?
The Get Together Duo offers a warm, rich, and engaging sound profile with surprisingly potent bass, clear mids, and crisp highs.
Is the bass strong on the Get Together Duo?
Yes, the Get Together Duo is known for its strong and resonant bass response, especially given its size.
Can I pair more than two Get Together Duo speakers together?
No, the Get Together Duo system is designed for a stereo pair two speakers and does not support multi-speaker linking beyond that.
What Bluetooth version does the Get Together Duo use?
The speakers use Bluetooth 5.0 for a stable and efficient wireless connection.
Are House of Marley products eco-friendly?
Yes, House of Marley is known for its strong commitment to sustainability, using eco-conscious materials and supporting environmental causes. Meyer Optik Gorlitz Trioplan 100 F28 Ii Review
What is Project Marley?
Project Marley is House of Marley’s initiative to support global reforestation and charitable organizations, funded partly by product sales.
Is the Get Together Duo good for outdoor use?
While portable and good for outdoor gatherings, remember they are not waterproof, so care must be taken in unpredictable weather.
Can I control podcast playback from the speakers?
Yes, the main speaker has integrated buttons for play/pause, volume control, and track skipping.
Does the Get Together Duo come with a charging cable?
Yes, it typically comes with a USB-C charging cable.
What is the advantage of true stereo sound?
True stereo sound creates an immersive soundstage where instruments and vocals are distinctly placed, offering a more dynamic and lifelike listening experience than mono sound.
How does the Get Together Duo compare to JBL Flip or UE Boom speakers?
The Get Together Duo excels in true stereo sound and sustainable design, while JBL Flip and UE Boom often prioritize extreme ruggedness waterproof, dustproof and multi-speaker party modes though often mono from a single unit.
Is the Get Together Duo a smart speaker?
No, it is a Bluetooth speaker and does not have built-in smart assistant capabilities like Alexa or Google Assistant.
Does the Get Together Duo support fast charging?
It supports USB-C charging, which allows for faster charging compared to older USB standards, but specific “fast charging” technology is not typically highlighted.
Can I use the Get Together Duo while it’s charging?
Yes, you can use the speakers while they are connected to a power source and charging.
What is the range of the Bluetooth connection?
Bluetooth 5.0 generally offers a range of up to 30-50 feet 10-15 meters in an open environment, though this can vary with obstacles. Roku Express 4K Plus Review
Is there an app for the Get Together Duo?
As of current models, there isn’t a dedicated House of Marley app for the Get Together Duo for advanced controls or EQ settings.
What colors does the Get Together Duo come in?
The Get Together Duo typically comes in natural earth tones, often featuring bamboo and a dark REWIND fabric.
Does the Get Together Duo have a power-saving mode?
Yes, like most Bluetooth speakers, it will likely enter a low-power standby mode or power off automatically after a period of inactivity to conserve battery.
Is the House of Marley Get Together Duo suitable for audiophiles?
While it offers a warm and engaging sound, hardcore audiophiles seeking ultra-flat frequency response might look for more specialized equipment. However, for its category, its sound is very good.
Where can I buy the House of Marley Get Together Duo?
The House of Marley Get Together Duo is available from major electronics retailers, online marketplaces, and the official House of Marley website.
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