Table of Contents
1. Introduction
The Harman Kardon SoundSticks series has been a standout in the audio industry since its debut, not just for its futuristic design but also for its exceptional sound quality. The fourth iteration, the SoundSticks 4, continues this legacy with upgraded components and enhanced audio performance. A critical aspect of any audio system’s performance is its frequency response, which significantly impacts how music, movies, and other audio content sound. In this detailed review, we will explore the frequency response of the Harman Kardon SoundSticks 4, diving deep into how it influences the overall audio experience, its performance across various genres, and how it stacks up against other systems in the market.
2. Understanding Frequency Response
Before delving into the specifics of the Harman Kardon SoundSticks 4, it’s essential to understand what frequency response is and why it matters. Frequency response refers to the range of frequencies a speaker can reproduce, from the lowest bass notes to the highest treble sounds. This range is typically measured in Hertz (Hz), with a standard range for consumer audio equipment being from around 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz, which covers the full spectrum of human hearing.
A speaker’s frequency response can significantly impact the clarity, richness, and overall quality of the audio. A flat frequency response, where all frequencies are reproduced at the same level, is often ideal because it means the audio is delivered as intended without any artificial boosting or cutting of certain frequencies. However, some speakers intentionally emphasize certain frequencies to create a particular sound signature, such as enhanced bass for a more powerful, punchy experience.
3. Harman Kardon SoundSticks 4 Frequency Response Overview
The Harman Kardon SoundSticks 4 boasts an impressive frequency response range, typically covering from 40 Hz to 20,000 Hz. This range suggests that the system is capable of delivering deep bass, clear mids, and crisp highs, making it suitable for a wide variety of audio content.
3.1 Bass Response (40 Hz – 200 Hz)
One of the standout features of the SoundSticks 4 is its subwoofer, which is responsible for producing the lower end of the frequency spectrum. The subwoofer is designed to handle frequencies as low as 40 Hz, which is deep enough to capture the thumping bass lines in electronic music, the rumble of explosions in action movies, and the foundational notes of orchestral compositions.
Performance:
- Music: The bass response of the SoundSticks 4 is powerful yet controlled, providing a rich, full-bodied sound without overpowering the rest of the audio spectrum. Whether you’re listening to bass-heavy genres like hip-hop and EDM or more balanced genres like rock and classical, the subwoofer delivers a satisfying depth that enhances the overall listening experience.
- Movies and Gaming: In movies and video games, the subwoofer excels at creating an immersive experience. Explosions, engine roars, and other low-frequency effects are delivered with impact, adding to the intensity of the scene without distorting or muddying the audio.
3.2 Midrange Response (200 Hz – 5,000 Hz)
The midrange frequencies are where much of the detail and nuance in audio content reside, including vocals, dialogue, and the majority of musical instruments. The SoundSticks 4 is equipped with four 1.4-inch full-range transducers (two in each satellite speaker) designed to handle this critical range with precision.
Performance:
- Vocals: The clarity of the midrange response is one of the SoundSticks 4’s strengths. Vocals are reproduced with warmth and presence, ensuring that lyrics in music and dialogue in movies are easy to understand and free from muddiness.
- Instruments: Instruments such as guitars, pianos, and strings are rendered with a natural timbre, allowing for a realistic and engaging listening experience. The midrange is neither recessed nor overly forward, striking a balance that makes it versatile for all kinds of audio content.
3.3 Treble Response (5,000 Hz – 20,000 Hz)
The upper end of the frequency spectrum is where the high-frequency sounds live, including cymbals, high-pitched vocal harmonics, and the finer details that add sparkle and air to the audio. The SoundSticks 4 aims to deliver crisp, clear highs without becoming harsh or sibilant.
Performance:
- Crispness and Detail: The treble response of the SoundSticks 4 is well-articulated, with enough extension to reveal the subtle details in high-resolution audio files. Cymbals crash with clarity, and the upper harmonics of instruments are well-represented, giving music a lively and dynamic feel.
- Balance: The treble is smooth and refined, avoiding the pitfalls of being too bright or fatiguing. This makes the SoundSticks 4 suitable for long listening sessions, whether you’re enjoying a movie marathon or an extended music playlist.
4. Real-World Performance Across Different Genres
While frequency response measurements provide a technical understanding of a speaker’s capabilities, real-world performance can vary depending on the type of content being played. In this section, we’ll explore how the Harman Kardon SoundSticks 4 handles different genres of music, movies, and other audio content.
4.1 Music
Classical Music:
- Bass: The subwoofer provides a solid foundation for the lower registers of orchestral instruments like double basses and timpani. The bass is deep enough to give weight to the music but remains controlled and precise, avoiding any boominess that could obscure the finer details.
- Midrange and Treble: The midrange is where the SoundSticks 4 shines with classical music. Strings, woodwinds, and brass are all rendered with a natural, lifelike quality. The treble adds a touch of sparkle to high-pitched instruments like violins and flutes, enhancing the overall clarity and depth of the performance.
Jazz:
- Bass: Jazz music often features prominent bass lines, whether from a double bass or electric bass guitar. The SoundSticks 4 handles these with finesse, offering a punchy and articulate bass that complements the rhythm without overpowering the other instruments.
- Midrange and Treble: The midrange captures the richness of saxophones, trumpets, and pianos, while the treble ensures that cymbals and high-hats have the right amount of shimmer. The overall sound is balanced and detailed, making the SoundSticks 4 an excellent choice for jazz aficionados.
Rock and Pop:
- Bass: Rock and pop music benefit from the SoundSticks 4’s strong bass response, with kick drums and bass guitars delivering the driving force behind the music. The bass is tight and energetic, adding to the overall impact of the genre.
- Midrange and Treble: Vocals are clear and prominent, cutting through the mix with ease. The guitars have a crisp edge, and the treble adds the necessary brightness to ensure that the music feels lively and dynamic. The SoundSticks 4’s ability to handle the complexities of rock and pop mixes makes it a versatile performer.
Electronic and Hip-Hop:
- Bass: The bass-heavy nature of electronic music and hip-hop is where the SoundSticks 4 truly excels. The subwoofer delivers deep, powerful bass that makes the music feel immersive and energetic. Whether it’s the pulsating beats of EDM or the sub-bass drops in hip-hop, the SoundSticks 4 handles them with authority.
- Midrange and Treble: Despite the emphasis on bass, the midrange and treble remain clear and defined, ensuring that synths, vocals, and percussive elements are all well-represented. The result is a balanced and engaging listening experience, even at high volumes.
4.2 Movies and TV Shows
Dialogue and Sound Effects:
- Midrange Clarity: The SoundSticks 4’s midrange response ensures that dialogue is clear and intelligible, even during action-packed scenes with lots of background noise. The speakers manage to keep voices at the forefront, making it easy to follow conversations without needing to constantly adjust the volume.
- Bass Impact: The subwoofer’s deep bass response adds impact to sound effects like explosions, car chases, and dramatic music scores. The bass is powerful enough to create a cinematic experience, bringing the intensity of the big screen into your living room.
- Treble Detail: High-frequency sounds, such as glass breaking or the rustling of leaves, are rendered with precision, adding to the realism of the audio. The treble remains smooth and refined, avoiding harshness even during intense scenes.
Immersive Experience: The SoundSticks 4’s wide frequency response range contributes to an immersive audio experience, especially in movies and TV shows. The combination of deep bass, clear mids, and crisp highs ensures that every element of the soundtrack is faithfully reproduced, whether it’s a quiet, dialogue-driven drama or a loud, effects-heavy blockbuster.
4.3 Gaming
Sound Positioning and Clarity:
- Midrange and Treble: The clarity of the midrange and treble is crucial for gaming, particularly in genres where sound positioning plays a significant role, such as first-person shooters and stealth games. The SoundSticks 4 excels in this area, providing clear and accurate sound cues that can give players a competitive edge.
- Bass Response: The powerful bass response adds to the immersion, making explosions and other in-game effects feel more impactful. The subwoofer’s ability to deliver deep, controlled bass enhances the gaming experience, whether you’re exploring vast open worlds or engaging in intense firefights.
Overall Gaming Experience: The Harman Kardon SoundSticks 4 is a solid choice for gamers who value both performance and aesthetics. The system’s frequency response ensures that all aspects of game audio are well-represented, from the subtle ambient sounds to the thunderous explosions. The clarity and detail provided by the midrange and treble help in accurately locating in-game sounds, which is essential in competitive gaming, while the powerful bass response adds a visceral feel to action sequences, making the overall gaming experience more immersive and enjoyable.
5. Frequency Response Analysis in Various Listening Environments
The environment in which a speaker system is used can significantly influence its perceived frequency response. Different room sizes, shapes, and materials can enhance or diminish certain frequencies. The Harman Kardon SoundSticks 4, with its balanced frequency response, performs admirably across a range of environments, but there are considerations to keep in mind.
5.1 Small Rooms
Bass Presence: In smaller rooms, the bass frequencies can sometimes become overwhelming, especially if the room has a lot of reflective surfaces like bare walls or floors. The SoundSticks 4’s subwoofer is powerful, and in such environments, it might produce bass that is too heavy or boomy. However, placing the subwoofer in a corner or near a wall can help manage this by allowing the low frequencies to spread more evenly across the room.
Midrange and Treble Clarity: The satellites, which handle the midrange and treble, perform well in small spaces. The clarity of vocals and instruments remains intact, and the treble frequencies are crisp without becoming overly sharp or piercing. The compact size of the satellite speakers also allows for flexible placement, which can help optimize sound dispersion.
5.2 Medium to Large Rooms
Balanced Soundstage: In medium to large rooms, the SoundSticks 4 truly shines. The bass has enough room to breathe, allowing the subwoofer to deliver deep, controlled bass without overwhelming the other frequencies. The midrange and treble remain clear and detailed, creating a well-balanced soundstage that fills the room.
Wide Dispersion: The design of the satellite speakers aids in wide sound dispersion, ensuring that the audio remains consistent across different listening positions. Whether you’re sitting directly in front of the speakers or off to the side, the SoundSticks 4 maintains its clarity and balance, making it suitable for larger living rooms or open-plan spaces.
5.3 Outdoor or Open Spaces
Bass Management: Using the SoundSticks 4 in outdoor or open spaces presents a different challenge. The bass frequencies, while still present, may not have the same impact due to the lack of walls or surfaces to reflect the sound. However, the subwoofer’s powerful output compensates for this to some extent, ensuring that the low end is still perceptible.
Highs and Mids: The midrange and treble frequencies remain clear and articulate, even in open spaces. The SoundSticks 4 can deliver enough volume to cut through ambient noise, making it a viable option for outdoor gatherings or parties. However, for the best experience, the system should be placed in a semi-enclosed area where the sound can be contained and directed more effectively.
6. Comparison with Other Speaker Systems
When evaluating the frequency response of the Harman Kardon SoundSticks 4, it’s helpful to compare it with other speaker systems in its class. This comparison can provide context for its performance and highlight its strengths and weaknesses relative to competitors.
6.1 Comparison with Bose Companion 20
Bass Response:
- Harman Kardon SoundSticks 4: The SoundSticks 4 offers a deeper and more powerful bass response, thanks to its dedicated subwoofer. This makes it a better choice for users who prioritize bass-heavy music genres or enjoy a more impactful movie and gaming experience.
- Bose Companion 20: The Companion 20, which lacks a separate subwoofer, has a more restrained bass response. While the bass is present and well-defined, it doesn’t reach the same depths as the SoundSticks 4. This makes the Companion 20 more suitable for listeners who prefer a more balanced, less bass-heavy sound.
Midrange and Treble:
- Harman Kardon SoundSticks 4: The SoundSticks 4 excels in delivering clear mids and detailed highs, making it versatile across various types of audio content. The satellite speakers do an excellent job of maintaining vocal clarity and instrument separation.
- Bose Companion 20: The Companion 20 offers a slightly warmer midrange, which some listeners may find more pleasant for extended listening sessions. However, it may lack the same level of detail and crispness in the treble compared to the SoundSticks 4.
6.2 Comparison with Logitech Z623
Bass Response:
- Harman Kardon SoundSticks 4: While the SoundSticks 4 provides deep and controlled bass, the Logitech Z623, with its larger subwoofer, can deliver even more powerful low-end frequencies. The Z623 is geared towards users who want a thunderous bass experience, particularly for movies and gaming.
- Logitech Z623: The Z623’s bass can be overwhelming in smaller rooms or for genres that don’t require heavy bass. It’s less refined compared to the SoundSticks 4, which offers a more balanced approach to bass reproduction.
Midrange and Treble:
- Harman Kardon SoundSticks 4: The midrange and treble on the SoundSticks 4 are more refined, offering better clarity and detail across a wider range of frequencies. This makes it a better choice for listening to music and watching content where dialogue clarity and instrument separation are crucial.
- Logitech Z623: The Z623, while competent, doesn’t match the SoundSticks 4 in terms of midrange and treble clarity. Its sound signature leans more towards bass-heavy content, which can sometimes overshadow the mids and highs.
7. Design and Impact on Frequency Response
The design of the Harman Kardon SoundSticks 4 is not just about aesthetics—it also plays a significant role in how the system handles different frequencies. The unique shape and materials used in the satellites and subwoofer contribute to the overall sound quality.
7.1 Satellite Speakers
Acoustic Transparency: The satellite speakers are encased in transparent plastic, which is not only visually striking but also acoustically transparent. This design choice minimizes the interference of the housing with the sound waves, allowing the drivers to perform optimally across the frequency spectrum.
Driver Configuration: Each satellite contains four 1.4-inch full-range drivers, arranged vertically. This configuration helps in producing a wide sound dispersion, ensuring that the midrange and treble frequencies are evenly spread throughout the listening area. The result is a consistent and immersive audio experience, regardless of where you are in the room.
7.2 Subwoofer
Ported Design: The subwoofer features a down-firing ported design, which enhances the system’s ability to produce deep bass. The port helps in extending the low-frequency response, making the bass feel more substantial and impactful. This design choice is particularly effective in delivering the thumping bass that the SoundSticks series is known for.
Transparent Enclosure: Similar to the satellites, the subwoofer is housed in a transparent enclosure. This not only adds to the aesthetic appeal but also allows the internal components to be visible, giving users a glimpse of the technology behind the sound. The transparency of the enclosure does not affect the subwoofer’s ability to produce bass; in fact, it contributes to the overall resonance of the system.
8. Conclusion
The Harman Kardon SoundSticks 4 stands out not only for its iconic design but also for its impressive frequency response. Covering a wide range from 40 Hz to 20,000 Hz, it delivers a well-balanced sound that is suitable for a variety of audio content, from music to movies to gaming. The powerful bass, clear midrange, and crisp treble work together to create an immersive audio experience that few other systems in its class can match.
Whether you’re an audiophile looking for a stylish and capable speaker system, a gamer seeking immersive sound, or someone who simply appreciates high-quality audio, the SoundSticks 4 offers a compelling option. Its ability to perform well across different genres and environments makes it a versatile choice for a wide range of users.
In terms of frequency response, the SoundSticks 4 excels in delivering a balanced, detailed, and engaging sound that enhances the listening experience. Its design not only makes a visual statement but also contributes to its acoustic performance, ensuring that it remains a standout in the world of desktop speakers.
In conclusion, if you’re in the market for a speaker system that offers both style and substance, the Harman Kardon SoundSticks 4 should be at the top of your list. Its frequency response is well-suited to a wide variety of audio content, making it a versatile and reliable choice for any listening environment. Whether you’re enjoying your favorite music, watching the latest blockbuster, or immersing yourself in a game, the SoundSticks 4 delivers a sound experience that is both satisfying and memorable.