The Harman Kardon SoundSticks series has always mesmerized audio consumers, and now it enjoys a prestigious place among other audio sets that could compete with it. It’s the SoundSticks 4 that continues this glorious run. Indeed, the SoundSticks have retained their popularity over the years with their avant-garde design and impressive sound even among serious and design-conscious listeners. The SoundSticks have been updated and improved in the SoundSticks 4, but most of what made the originals so endearing have been retained.
One of the things commonly noticed in the Harman Kardon SoundSticks 4 is the potential for connection using an AUX cable. This full-fledged review will cover everything about the SoundSticks 4, with an emphasis on how using the AUX cable influences such a user experience.
1. Introducing the Harman Kardon SoundSticks 4
Current Harman-Kardon SoundSticks 4 is the latest from a series which has seen earned a reputation on par with any in the industry for consistently pushing design and sound quality boundaries. Comprising two satellite speakers, plus one powerful subwoofer, all encased in signature transparent acrylic that has become synonymous with the SoundSticks line, the system ‘s sleek futuristic form will always be as much a work of art as it will be a piece of audio equipment.
Design and Aesthetics
Design is perhaps the biggest selling point for the SoundSticks 4, and it’s easy to see why. The clear, jellyfish-like subwoofer and sleek, tubular satellite speakers are gorgeous to look at and also functional. Seeing inside for oneself, the arrangement is quite pretty, is not an especially good one of the ones you hadn’t guessed you’d seen. The design has continued to evolve with time, SoundSticks 4 being more refined and polished compared to some of its forerunners.
It carries downward firing which distributes bass evenly across the room. Satellite speakers have four drivers, which can be connected onto adjustable stands to support their positioning in the optimum listening angle. Form meets Function in every single aspect that comes with the Design of the SoundSticks 4.
2. Connectivity Options
Adaptivity in connectivity options is one of the many trademarks of the Harman Kardon SoundSticks 4. A system that can convert itself at powering up various devices, another inclusion is the really special AUX connection which puts in a reliable and very simple connection.
2.1 The Role of the AUX Cable
AUX cables shorten as auxiliary cable. It is an audio wire 3.5 mm in size and enables connection of all devices to the SoundSticks 4 such as smartphones, tablets, desktops, and of course – older devices. Although the AUX input seems to be old-fashioned and boring for some audiophiles, it nevertheless has its merit among many including casual users.
Advantages of AUX Connectivity:
Universal Compatibility: All devices having headphone or line-out ports can connect to the AUX port. This makes it the most versatile for users who have diverse audio sources.
Zero Latency: Unlike Bluetooth, which can sometimes have latency in the audio signal and thus does not work well in delivering sounds for gaming or watching videos, an AUX connection provides an audio signal directly, lag-free.
Superior-Sounding Quality: Bluetooth has improved a great deal over the years; however, a wired connection (AUX cable) will generally provide better sound because compression, which is inherently part of wireless transmission, is eliminated.
No Battery Issues: With an AUX Cable, audio is streamed through the device, eliminating the hassle of worrying about battery life, unlike Bluetooth devices that are powered by their batteries.
Limitations of AUX Connections:
Wired Connection: The major disadvantage of having an AUX wire is that it requires a physical connection, which is not as convenient as a wireless one. It also has to deal with the very possible unwanted cable management.
Limited Motion: It does not give much freedom of movement while using an AUX cable, as you can move only as far as the cable length allows, in contrast to Bluetooth, which gives you that necessary mobility within certain distance limitations.
2.2 Comparing AUX to Bluetooth
AUX may not have completely vanished in the contemporary world in which Bluetooth has become the default way for connecting audio devices because of its efficiency and lack of external interference. There are quite a few factors in the whole consideration of AUX versus Bluetooth.
Sound Quality: The primary difference was that sound through the AUX cable is commonly dubbed free from compression. While, despite the input getting improved by aptX codec and AAC, audio through Bluetooth still suffers some level of compression, which may beat detail slightly.
Reliability: As it goes, any other media, the connection over AUX is more stable because the interference of airwaves does not affect it as every other medium does to Bluetooth signals. This is the reason it can be well considered for critical listening and professional audio work.
Ease of Use: For those not very much into technology, this might be easier than connecting via Bluetooth. There’s no fuss about pairing or compatibility with older devices.
The Harman Kardon SoundSticks 4 is a device that was set up with an AUX port so that it can have greater flexibility in connecting with several devices regardless of having Bluetooth or not.
3. Sound Quality
When it comes to the acoustic reproduction, the Harman Kardon SoundSticks 4 makes the most brilliant sound whether you are operating it via Bluetooth or AUX. But there are specific differences regarding the quality of sound that are worth comparación in between these two modes of buzzing.
3.1 Sound quality over AUX Cord
AUX cable connects the SoundSticks 4 together with the sound being produced as crisp, clear, and detail across the spectrum. Gopy deep in punch through subwoofer, mids followed up by highs fall pretty fair over the entire sound frequency and across an array of diverse audio: music, movies, and games, but also applicable in cases where you’d want to mix top quality audio as a professional.
Bass response: The way the subwoofer is designed downward firing directs bass frequencies equally throughout the room. The AUX connection doesn’t have bass distortion during high sound levels; it stays tight and controlled. As such, it is especially relevant for heavy bass music such as hip-hop, EDM, and rock.
Midrange and Treble: The satellite speakers have shown their capability in midrange highs and treble ranges. Thus vocals, guitars, or any other midrange elements are delivered clearly and precisely. Treble becomes bright and airy with no signs of harshness and fatigue. Altogether, the sound thus produced is well-balanced, with no one frequency range being more pronounced than another.
Simply, one feature of the SoundSticks 4 that stands out among others is wide and enveloping soundstage. Premium stereo imaging with accurate channel separation makes SoundSticks 4 most applicable to live recordings or even movies whereby the importance of room and direction adds more to the experience.
3.2 Sound Quality over Bluetooth
Now, the sound over Bluetooth gets really good too, though there may be slight differences from AUX. Because of compression depending on the codec used, Bluetooth might cause an insignificant loss in audio quality. Nevertheless, for the majority of everyday users, the sacrifices in quality are not too crucial, and the freedom of going wireless typically outweighs any minor losses in quality.
Bluetooth Codecs: The Harman Kardon SoundSticks 4 accepts the standard SBC codec: the most common Bluetooth audio codec. It offers a reasonably acceptable quality which, in comparison with higher-end ones, such as aptX or LDAC, falls short of presenting sound with full details. In casual uses, however, the quality of sound is more than enough.
Interference in Wireless Signals: The one problem that may come from the Bluetooth has to do with the interference created by some other wireless devices. As a result of this, you may have sporadic dropouts or signal degradation, especially in highly electrified devices, environments. However, it would be no problem as SoundSticks 4 adopts advanced Bluetooth technology to counteract those conditions and facilitate an outstanding wireless connection.
4. Quality and Durability of Construction
Harman Kardon has always been a manufacturer of handcrafted products. And this SoundSticks 4 is no exception. The system is built tough, with materials that are strong and design features that are detailed.
4.1 Materials and Construction
The SoundSticks 4 incorporates high-quality plastics and metals all encased into the trademark transparent acrylic. The beauty of such materials may still be retained in the long run because of the durable qualities.
Subwoofer: A thick, transparent acrylic constitutes the subwoofer construction that gives strength along with stability, while a downward-firing driver takes its protective position under a durable metal grill against any unwanted impact and allows sound quality dispersion.
Satellite Speakers: Satellite speakers are also made of transparent acrylic with metal used for the driver and stands. The stands can be adjusted to put the speakers at the best angle for listening. The overall build quality is very nice because there are no seams and imperfections visible.
4.2 Durability and Sustainability
Daily use is what the SoundSticks 4 is built to sustain. Just like the scratches or smudges on the surfaces, these materials are impervious to them. Moreover, with a soft, dry cloth, the cleaning of the system is done. The built-in components are thoroughly safeguarded so that they will perform for several years to come.
Maintenance: The maintenance of SoundSticks 4 is simple. This can be wiped down by a microfiber towel to remove dust and fingerprints on the shiny transparent acrylic while the metal parts can be polished with a suitable cleaner. Damage to internal components was avoided with proper ventilation for the system that was heated.
5. Usability
The Harman Kardon SoundSticks 4 not only excels in terms of design and sound quality – it is as good as it is a device that really knows how to use itself. This part deals with how the system is set up, how intuitive it is to use, and how well it can be integrated into different environments, especially with a focus on the convenience of using the AUX cable for easy setup.
5.1 Setting Up
The Harman Kardon SoundSticks 4 is easy to set up. AUX or Bluetooth, whichever method is chosen to connect them, the steps are straightforward enough that it would perfectly suit beginners, intermediate, or advanced users alike.
AUX Setup:
Plug and Play: Just plug one end of the AUX cable to the output jack of your audio source (like your smartphone, tablet, or computer), and the other end into the input port on the subwoofer of Soundsticks 4.
Power On: Once it is hooked up, turn Soundstricks on by plugging into the wall. Automatically detects any input signal and immediately sound starts to flow.
Fine-tuning: When you want to fine-tune the sound level, you can adjust the volume directly on your audio source or on the system itself if it carries touch-sensitive controls. There’s no complicated setup or software installation, so it is truly hassle-free.
Pairing-It is just as easy to pair the SoundSticks 4 via Bluetooth with your device. Press the Bluetooth button on the subwoofer to enter pairing mode, and then select the SoundSticks 4 from your device’s Bluetooth settings.
Freedom to enjoy wireless audio is doubled-up when you pair the devices. In addition, the system remembers your device and automatically reconnects in the future.
5.2 User Interface and Controls
Harman Kardon soundsticks 4 comes with a very minimalist user interface, which is also userfriendly. Most controls are touch sensitive in areas on the subwoofer and satellite speakers.
Touch Controls:
Volume Adjustment: To adjust the volume, slide a finger along the touch-sensitive panel on one of the satellite speakers. This intuitive control method is futuristic and highly convenient.
Bass Adjustment: Some versions of the SoundSticks 4 have provided bass level adjustment on the subwoofer itself. This is good, especially when listening to different types of music or audio, for increasing or decreasing the bass.
Input: Input selection will automatically switch between Bluetooth and AUX input since it always prefers the last active input. Thus, customers don’t have to switch inputs manually unless they want to override automatic selection.
Indicator Lights: The system utilizes very subtle indicator lights to communicate whether it operates or not. For example, small LEDs spread throughout the subwoofer may indicate if a system is currently in Bluetooth mode or actively receiving a signal through the AUX cable. These indicators are subtle enough not to interfere with the overall minimalist design of the system.
5.3 Integration with Different Environments
Harman Kardon SoundSticks 4 is a versatile plaything that will serve different types of environments-from home offices and living rooms to creative studios.
Home Usage
Living Room: It can easily become the primary audio system of the entire living room for movies, music, or video games. In addition, it can be easily connected with home theater systems, televisions, or even older audio devices that do not have Bluetooth capabilities through an AUX cable.
Home Office: For someone who works from home, here is a very good audio solution from the SoundSticks 4. Whether connected using AUX to a desktop computer or wirelessly used alongside a laptop, this system delivers crystal-clear audios for conference calls, video editing, or even just while listening to music as a background while you work.
Creative Studios
Music Production: In a studio environment, the AUX cable’s trustworthy low-latency connection comes into play very well. The SoundSticks 4 can be connected to the audio interface or mixing console of your choice, whether you are a producer or musician, and deliver accurate sound reproduction for critical listening.
Video Editing: Video editors may also share from the same line of thinking with regards to how the AUX connection accurately makes sure that audio is synchronized with the video in the projects they are handling.
Portable: The SoundSticks 4 are not perhaps as portable as some of the smaller Bluetooth speakers, but their movement from room to room or just different places inside a house or studio easily can be done. The AUX cable could become particularly handy in cases where Bluetooth is not available or desired, like at a friend’s house or during a presentation.
6. Performance in Various Conditions
At all times the Harman Kardon SoundSticks 4 perform well for any use case that highlights the power of this system, either when using the AUX cable or Bluetooth.
6.1 Music Playbacks
Classical and Jazz: The SoundSticks 4 gives such an encompassing, detailed soundstage that its most fitting modes are classical and jazz music. That the connection through the AUX cable is able to catch every note and nuance.
Pop and Rock: The deep subwoofer performs very well with pop and rock which are bass-heavy. Adding different bass levels enables one to set the system well for different energies of these genres.
Electronic and Hip-Hop: That’s where the deep thumping bass would do wonderful things with deep pounding bass that is usually a feature of electronic music and hip-hop. With the HYX connection, even at the highest volumes, it would be kept tight and controlled.
Playlists: Streaming: Using the SoundSticks 4 with an AUX cable means you can plug directly into any device with 3.5mm jack for the ultimate in listening to well-curated playlists from a smartphone or tablet. This hook-up truly comes into its own, especially when streaming high-quality audio from premium services such as TIDAL or Qobuz and when the best sound quality possible is desired.
6.2 Movies and Shows
Immersion: Watching movies or TV programs with the SoundSticks-4 greatly exploits any experience. It creates a sort of life-like quality at home through crisp dialogues, specific sound effects, and experiencing immersive bass. Use of the AUX connection eliminates all of the potential delays between the image seen on the screen and the sounds in the room.
This post is about how Soundsticks 4 lacks surround sound effects, yet has the potential to simulate surround effects because of its wide soundstage and excellent stereo imaging-notably for medium to small rooms,. This is especially felt when watching action flicks or playing video games, as directional sound serves mostly for immersion.
6.3 Gaming
Competitive Edge: Sound quality can make a difference for gamers, and the SoundSticks 4 is connected by AUX. High definition audio that gives you a competitive edge in gaming sessions as sounds are perfectly delineated which makes it easy to pinpoint the direction of footsteps, gunshots, or other in-game sounds.
Immersion: The SoundSticks 4 isn’t just there for competitive play. It provides you with soundscapes that are much richer and immersive than your average gaming experience. Whether you’re wandering an open-world RPG or immersing yourself in a horror game’s atmosphere, the sound detail and deep bass response take you out of the real world and into the game.
Pricing and Value
The Harman Kardon SoundSticks 4 is definitely marked a premium product. In fact, it is high-price, reflecting the costs of high-end design and performance, but then it is value commensurate for what it costs, especially with respect to those customers who value at least aesthetics along with audio quality.
7.1 Price Point
Soundsticks 4 has a very competitive pricing in the premium segment of the audio market. It can be more than some other desktop speaker systems, but in the end, it is a price well worth paying, for this offers so much more – in duality of shape, sound, and brand heritage.
7.2 Long-term Value
The SoundSticks 4 will be a long-term investment for your sound experience due to its durability, timeless design, and amazing marketing decision. It will outlast many technologies where items would last only for a few years before going obsolete due to a newer trend in aesthetics or technology.
7.3 Comparison with Other Models
Harman-Kardon SoundSticks 4 is a standout when compared to some other well-known desktop systems which are priced high. When other systems may well bring somewhat equal sound quality, none equals the SoundSticks 4 in overall appeal. Its inclusion of AUX cable input adds to the factor of versatility and reliability, especially if one owns many different audio devices.
8. Conclusion
More than a system of speakers, the Harman Kardon Soundsticks 4 becomes the statement of a strong audio piece combined with a design that is already iconized in the world of audio equipment. The addition of an AUX cable becomes a new definition of versatility, making it a worth-adding piece to a home, an office, or a studio.
Be it to a few, or many loves, whether music or movies, or games, the SoundStick 4 would create quite an immersive and rich-audio experience to all these activities. Its design will make it a central piece, while its performance would make it worth a first-class user, even before the most discerning of listeners.
In a market full of generic, uninventive designs, the Harman Kardon SoundSticks 4 is one that reflects excellent efforts in both form and function. An effective reminder that great audio does not have to come at the expense of style, and that, with proper equipment, one can indeed have both worlds. And as with the AUX or Bluetooth connection, here’s what you get with the SoundSticks 4: the hallmark of Harman Kardon’s original and innovative spirit in design.