Harman Kardon SoundSticks III 2.1 Speaker System review outstanding sound quality and modern design

Description

Design and Build Quality

The Harman Kardon SoundSticks III 2.1 Speaker System doesn’t just deliver sound; it makes a statement. Its transparent casing is something I couldn’t stop admiring. It’s like a piece of modern art sitting on my desk. The satellites are sleek, tall, and adjustable, which is a subtle but impactful feature. I found their 10-inch height perfect for directing sound right where I wanted it. The subwoofer, shaped like a dome, adds a futuristic vibe to the setup. While it looks stunning, the transparent design also shows off the internal components, which I personally found quite fascinating.

The materials feel premium, and the touch-sensitive volume and mute controls are a nice touch—literally. They’re responsive but might take a little getting used to if you’re more accustomed to physical knobs. The build quality is robust, and even after moving it around a few times, nothing felt loose or out of place.

Sound Performance

What truly sets this speaker system apart is its outstanding bass performance. Once I turned on the subwoofer, I immediately noticed how it brought depth to music, games, and even podcasts. The subwoofer volume control is a lifesaver for customizing the bass levels to match the content. Whether I was listening to EDM or an acoustic set, the bass resonated without overpowering the mids and highs.

The satellite speakers deliver crisp and clear audio. I tested them with a variety of genres, from classical to heavy metal, and the clarity was impressive. The 10-watt RMS per channel amplifier output ensures that the audio remains rich even at higher volumes. It’s not just loud; it’s well-balanced. If you’re someone who appreciates clean treble and defined mids, these speakers won’t disappoint.

Ease of Use

Setting up this system was a breeze. It’s compatible with any device that has a stereo minijack output, which basically means I could connect it to my laptop, smartphone, and even my old MP3 player—yes, I still have one of those! The angle-adjustable satellites are a small but thoughtful feature. I could tilt them to ensure the sound was directed perfectly toward my ears. This made a noticeable difference when I was sitting closer to the desk.

The touch volume and mute controls are intuitive once you get used to them. However, I did find myself accidentally brushing against them a few times, which would either mute the sound or change the volume unexpectedly. This wasn’t a dealbreaker for me, but it’s something to keep in mind.

Key Benefits

• Stunning transparent design that adds a modern aesthetic to any space.
• Exceptional bass performance that enhances the listening experience.
• Touch-sensitive controls for an innovative and sleek user interface.
• Wide compatibility with devices that have a stereo minijack output.
• Adjustable satellites for customizable sound direction and improved acoustics.

Areas of Concern

• The touch controls can be overly sensitive, leading to accidental volume changes.
• Its transparent design, while beautiful, may not appeal to everyone and shows dust more easily.
• Compared to some competitors, the system lacks advanced connectivity options like Bluetooth or Wi-Fi.

Competing Products

When compared to products like the Bose Companion 2 Series III and Logitech Z623, the SoundSticks III holds its own in terms of design and audio clarity. The Bose Companion 2 offers excellent audio balance but lacks the visual appeal of the SoundSticks. On the other hand, the Logitech Z623 delivers powerful bass but feels bulkier and less elegant. Both of these alternatives might appeal to those prioritizing functionality over aesthetics.

That said, if you’re looking for a speaker system that combines style and substance, the SoundSticks III is hard to beat. Its touch controls and transparent design give it an edge in uniqueness, even if it’s missing features like Bluetooth that are standard in other models.

Affordable Quality

Considering its performance and design, this product offers remarkable value for money. While it might not have features like wireless connectivity, the audio quality and aesthetic more than make up for it. If you’re someone who appreciates a well-rounded sound system that also doubles as a conversation starter, this is a solid investment. It’s not the cheapest option out there, but the premium build and sound performance justify the price tag.

Through my experience, I felt the SoundSticks III found a good balance between form and function. It might not cater to those seeking every bell and whistle in a speaker system, but its elegant design and impressive sound make it a standout choice for most users.