Introduction
Harman Kardon has long been synonymous with premium audio products that combine cutting-edge technology with striking design. Since their introduction in 2000, the SoundSticks series has stood out not only for its sound quality but also for its futuristic aesthetic. The original SoundSticks, which are even featured in the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), became iconic for their transparent design and exceptional sound performance. With the release of the Harman Kardon SoundSticks 4, the company continues to build on this legacy, offering an upgrade that promises improved audio performance, enhanced bass response, and the same visually appealing design.
This review delves deeply into the Harman Kardon SoundSticks 4, with a particular focus on the bass adjustment capabilities. We will explore the design, sound quality, features, and usability of the SoundSticks 4, offering insights into how the bass adjustment impacts the overall listening experience.
Design and Aesthetics
One of the most striking features of the Harman Kardon SoundSticks 4 is its design. The transparent casing of both the subwoofer and satellite speakers continues the legacy of the original SoundSticks, allowing users to admire the inner workings of the system. This design choice not only makes the SoundSticks 4 a conversation piece but also blends seamlessly with any modern interior.
The subwoofer, which is the heart of the bass output, is visually impressive. It features a dome-like shape with a downward-firing design, which helps in dispersing sound evenly throughout the room. The four satellite speakers, arranged in two pairs, have also undergone a slight design upgrade, with more streamlined curves and a sleeker finish compared to previous versions. These satellite speakers house four drivers each, ensuring a rich and detailed midrange and treble response.
The entire setup exudes a sense of luxury and sophistication, with the transparent casing complemented by subtle white LED lighting that adds a touch of elegance. This design ensures that the SoundSticks 4 can be a centerpiece in any room, whether it’s in a living room, office, or studio.
Sound Quality
When it comes to sound quality, Harman Kardon has always set a high bar, and the SoundSticks 4 is no exception. The system delivers a balanced and immersive audio experience, with clear highs, detailed mids, and powerful lows. The satellite speakers provide crisp and precise sound reproduction, making them ideal for a wide range of music genres, movies, and even gaming.
Highs and Mids
The high-frequency response of the SoundSticks 4 is excellent, with the satellite speakers delivering sharp and detailed treble. Whether it’s the delicate strings of a violin or the crisp cymbals in a jazz track, the highs are rendered with clarity and precision. The mids are equally impressive, providing a warm and rich sound that brings vocals and instruments to life. The midrange performance is particularly noticeable in genres like classical and acoustic music, where the SoundSticks 4 excels at reproducing the nuances of each instrument.
Bass Performance
The bass performance is where the SoundSticks 4 truly shines, especially when considering the bass adjustment feature. The subwoofer is capable of producing deep and powerful bass that can fill a room with ease. Whether you’re listening to bass-heavy genres like EDM, hip-hop, or rock, the subwoofer delivers a punchy and impactful low-end that adds depth and richness to the overall sound.
Bass Adjustment
One of the standout features of the Harman Kardon SoundSticks 4 is its bass adjustment capability. This feature allows users to customize the bass output according to their preferences and the acoustics of their room. Adjusting the bass can be done through the control knob located on the subwoofer, which is conveniently placed for easy access.
Range of Bass Adjustment
The range of bass adjustment is quite impressive, allowing users to dial in the perfect amount of bass for their listening environment. At the lower end of the adjustment, the bass is subtle and well-controlled, making it ideal for genres that don’t rely heavily on low frequencies, such as classical or acoustic music. As you increase the bass, the subwoofer begins to unleash its full potential, delivering a powerful and resonant low-end that can shake the walls if desired.
This range of adjustment makes the SoundSticks 4 versatile and adaptable to different listening scenarios. For instance, if you’re watching a movie with intense action scenes, you can crank up the bass to enhance the impact of explosions and other sound effects. On the other hand, if you’re listening to a podcast or an audiobook, you can dial the bass back to ensure that the voices remain clear and intelligible.
Impact on Overall Sound Quality
The ability to adjust the bass has a significant impact on the overall sound quality of the SoundSticks 4. At lower bass settings, the system maintains a balanced and natural sound, with the mids and highs taking center stage. This setting is ideal for listeners who prefer a more neutral sound signature or for situations where excessive bass might be distracting.
At higher bass settings, the sound takes on a more dramatic and immersive quality. The deep and resonant bass adds a sense of power and energy to the music, making it particularly enjoyable for bass-heavy tracks. However, even at higher bass levels, the SoundSticks 4 manages to maintain clarity and detail in the mids and highs, ensuring that the bass doesn’t overpower the rest of the frequency spectrum.
Room Acoustics and Bass Adjustment
Room acoustics play a crucial role in how the bass is perceived, and the bass adjustment feature of the SoundSticks 4 allows users to compensate for these factors. In smaller rooms or rooms with reflective surfaces, bass can sometimes become boomy or overwhelming. By reducing the bass level, users can achieve a more balanced sound that doesn’t overwhelm the space.
Conversely, in larger rooms or rooms with absorbent surfaces, bass can sometimes feel weak or lacking in impact. In these situations, increasing the bass level can help fill the room with a fuller and more powerful sound. This flexibility makes the SoundSticks 4 suitable for a wide range of environments, from small bedrooms to large living rooms.
Features and Connectivity
The Harman Kardon SoundSticks 4 is more than just a pretty face; it’s packed with features that enhance its usability and convenience. The system is designed to be plug-and-play, with a simple setup process that gets you up and running in no time.
Bluetooth Connectivity
One of the key features of the SoundSticks 4 is its Bluetooth connectivity. This allows users to wirelessly stream music from their smartphones, tablets, or computers without the need for any additional cables. The Bluetooth connection is stable and reliable, with a range that allows you to move around the room without losing the connection.
The inclusion of Bluetooth also makes the SoundSticks 4 versatile in terms of placement. You can position the speakers and subwoofer wherever they sound best in your room, without being limited by the length of an audio cable. This wireless freedom, combined with the ability to adjust the bass, allows you to create the ideal listening environment in your space.
Wired Connectivity
In addition to Bluetooth, the SoundSticks 4 also offers a wired connection option via a 3.5mm auxiliary input. This is useful for users who prefer a direct connection to their audio source or for devices that don’t support Bluetooth. The wired connection delivers the same high-quality audio performance as Bluetooth, ensuring that you get the best possible sound regardless of your connection method.
User-Friendly Controls
The SoundSticks 4 is designed with user convenience in mind. The touch-sensitive controls on the satellite speakers allow you to easily adjust the volume and power the system on or off. The bass adjustment knob on the subwoofer is also intuitive and easy to use, allowing you to fine-tune the bass level with precision.
Automatic Power Saving
Another useful feature is the automatic power-saving mode, which activates when the system is not in use for a certain period. This helps conserve energy and prolongs the lifespan of the system, making it an eco-friendly choice.
Usability and Setup
Setting up the Harman Kardon SoundSticks 4 is a straightforward process that can be completed in just a few minutes. The system comes with all the necessary cables and instructions, making it easy for even the most tech-challenged users to get started.
Placement and Positioning
The placement of the subwoofer and satellite speakers plays a crucial role in the sound quality. For optimal performance, the subwoofer should be placed on the floor, ideally in a corner or against a wall, to maximize the bass output. The satellite speakers should be positioned at ear level and equidistant from the listening position for the best stereo imaging.
Adjusting for Room Acoustics
As mentioned earlier, the bass adjustment feature allows you to tailor the sound to your room’s acoustics. If you find that the bass is too boomy or overwhelming, try moving the subwoofer to a different location or reducing the bass level. Conversely, if the bass feels weak, you can increase the bass level or move the subwoofer closer to a wall or corner.
Compatibility with Devices
The SoundSticks 4 is compatible with a wide range of devices, including smartphones, tablets, computers, and even TVs. The Bluetooth connectivity makes it easy to pair with any Bluetooth-enabled device, while the auxiliary input provides a wired connection option for older devices or those without Bluetooth.
Daily Use and Maintenance
In daily use, the SoundSticks 4 proves to be a reliable and user-friendly audio system. The touch controls are responsive and easy to use, while the Bluetooth connection remains stable during extended listening sessions. The automatic power-saving mode is a thoughtful addition, ensuring that the system doesn’t waste energy when not in use.
Performance in Different Scenarios
One of the key strengths of the Harman Kardon SoundSticks 4 is its versatility in different listening scenarios. Whether you’re using the system for casual music listening, watching movies, playing games, or even for professional audio work, the SoundSticks 4 performs admirably across the board.
Music Listening
For music lovers, the SoundSticks 4 offers a rich and immersive listening experience. The system handles a wide range of genres with ease, from the intricate details of classical music to the heavy bass lines of hip-hop and electronic dance music. The ability to adjust the bass is particularly useful for tailoring the sound to different genres. For instance, you might want more bass for EDM tracks, while a more balanced setting might be preferable for jazz or acoustic music.
The stereo imaging provided by the satellite speakers is excellent, creating a wide and detailed soundstage that makes you feel like you’re in the middle of the performance. Instruments and vocals are well-separated, allowing you to pick out individual elements in the mix. The clarity and precision of the mids and highs ensure that vocals, strings, and other midrange elements are rendered with lifelike accuracy.
Movie Watching
When it comes to movie watching, the SoundSticks 4 truly comes into its own. The powerful subwoofer adds a new dimension to action scenes, delivering deep, rumbling bass that enhances the impact of explosions, gunfire, and other low-frequency effects. Dialogue remains clear and intelligible, even when the bass is cranked up, thanks to the excellent midrange performance.
The immersive soundstage created by the satellite speakers enhances the cinematic experience, making you feel like you’re in the middle of the action. The ability to adjust the bass allows you to fine-tune the sound to match the content you’re watching. For instance, you might want to increase the bass for action movies to maximize the impact of sound effects, while a more balanced setting might be preferable for dialogue-heavy dramas.
Gaming
Gamers will also appreciate the sound quality and bass adjustment capabilities of the SoundSticks 4. The system’s powerful bass response adds intensity to in-game explosions, gunfire, and other sound effects, while the clear mids and highs ensure that dialogue and ambient sounds are rendered with clarity. The wide soundstage helps to create a sense of space, making it easier to pinpoint the direction of sounds in games with 3D audio.
Whether you’re playing first-person shooters, racing games, or role-playing games, the SoundSticks 4 enhances the gaming experience by delivering immersive and detailed sound. The Bluetooth connectivity allows you to pair the system with gaming consoles, PCs, or mobile devices, making it a versatile choice for gamers who use multiple platforms.
Professional Audio Work
While the SoundSticks 4 is primarily designed for consumer use, it also performs well in professional audio work, such as music production, podcasting, and video editing. The system’s clear and accurate sound reproduction allows you to make precise adjustments to your audio projects. The adjustable bass is particularly useful for checking how your mix will sound on different playback systems, as you can simulate both bass-heavy and more balanced listening environments.
The stereo imaging and clarity of the SoundSticks 4 make it a reliable tool for critical listening, allowing you to hear subtle details in your audio tracks. However, it’s worth noting that while the SoundSticks 4 offers excellent sound quality for its price, it may not be as neutral or detailed as professional studio monitors designed specifically for audio production. Nonetheless, it serves as a capable and stylish alternative for home studios or creative professionals who value both sound quality and aesthetics.
Durability and Longevity
Harman Kardon has built a reputation for creating high-quality audio products that stand the test of time, and the SoundSticks 4 is no exception. The system is constructed from durable materials that are designed to withstand daily use. The transparent casing, while visually striking, is also sturdy and resistant to damage. The satellite speakers and subwoofer feel solid and well-built, giving you confidence in the system’s longevity.
The internal components, including the drivers and amplifiers, are of high quality, ensuring that the SoundSticks 4 delivers consistent performance over time. Harman Kardon has also paid attention to the cooling and ventilation of the system, helping to prevent overheating during extended use. This attention to detail ensures that the SoundSticks 4 will continue to perform at a high level for years to come.
Value for Money
When evaluating the value for money of the Harman Kardon SoundSticks 4, it’s important to consider both the sound quality and the design. The SoundSticks 4 offers a unique combination of style and performance that sets it apart from other audio systems in its price range. The iconic transparent design, combined with the powerful bass response and adjustable sound, makes it a compelling choice for anyone looking for a high-quality audio system that also serves as a design statement.
While the SoundSticks 4 may be priced higher than some other desktop speakers or sound systems, the premium is justified by the exceptional build quality, versatile features, and immersive sound experience. For those who appreciate both form and function, the SoundSticks 4 represents excellent value for money.
Comparisons with Other Products
To provide a well-rounded review, it’s useful to compare the Harman Kardon SoundSticks 4 with other similar products in the market. Some potential competitors include the Bose Companion 20, the Logitech Z623, and the Creative T100.
Bose Companion 20
The Bose Companion 20 is a high-quality desktop speaker system that offers excellent sound quality in a compact and stylish package. While it doesn’t feature a subwoofer like the SoundSticks 4, the Bose Companion 20 delivers impressive bass for its size, thanks to Bose’s proprietary technology. However, it lacks the bass adjustment feature of the SoundSticks 4, which may be a downside for users who want more control over the low-end frequencies.
In terms of design, the Bose Companion 20 is sleek and minimalist, but it doesn’t have the same visual impact as the transparent casing of the SoundSticks 4. If design is a priority, the SoundSticks 4 may be the more appealing choice.
Logitech Z623
The Logitech Z623 is a 2.1 speaker system that delivers powerful sound with a focus on bass performance. The system includes a subwoofer similar to the SoundSticks 4, and it’s THX-certified, which is a testament to its sound quality. The Z623 offers robust bass, but it doesn’t have the same level of bass adjustment as the SoundSticks 4, which may limit its versatility in different listening environments.
In terms of design, the Logitech Z623 is more utilitarian, with a focus on function over form. It doesn’t offer the same aesthetic appeal as the SoundSticks 4, making it a better choice for users who prioritize sound over style.
Creative T100
The Creative T100 is a compact 2.0 speaker system that offers a good balance of sound quality and affordability. While it doesn’t include a subwoofer like the SoundSticks 4, it delivers clear and detailed sound with decent bass response for its size. The T100 is also more budget-friendly, making it a good option for users who want good sound quality without breaking the bank.
However, the Creative T100 lacks the bass depth and adjustment capabilities of the SoundSticks 4, making it less suitable for users who want powerful bass and the ability to customize their sound.
Conclusion
The Harman Kardon SoundSticks 4 is a remarkable audio system that successfully marries form and function. Its iconic design, characterized by the transparent casing and elegant curves, makes it a standout piece in any room. But the SoundSticks 4 is not just about looks; it delivers an immersive and detailed sound experience that is enhanced by the powerful and adjustable bass.
Whether you’re a music lover, a movie enthusiast, a gamer, or a creative professional, the SoundSticks 4 offers a versatile and high-quality audio experience that can be tailored to your preferences. The ability to adjust the bass allows you to customize the sound to suit different genres, content, and room acoustics, making it a truly adaptable system.
While the SoundSticks 4 may be priced higher than some competitors, the premium is justified by its exceptional build quality, innovative design, and superior sound performance. For those who value both aesthetics and audio excellence, the Harman Kardon SoundSticks 4 is an investment that will provide years of enjoyment.
In summary, the Harman Kardon SoundSticks 4 is not just an audio system; it’s a work of art that delivers a powerful and immersive sound experience. Its combination of style, sound quality, and customization options make it one of the best 2.1 speaker systems available today. Whether you’re looking to enhance your music listening, movie watching, or gaming experience, the SoundSticks 4 offers a versatile and high-quality solution that is sure to impress.