If you’re a long-time audiophile or just appreciate iconic product design, the Harman Kardon SoundSticks likely needs no introduction. The original silhouette is so legendary it’s part of the permanent collection at New York’s Museum of Modern Art.
Harman Kardon is launching the latest evolution of this system, the Harman Kardon SoundSticks 5. The new model aims to carry that legacy forward, elevating both the sculptural form and, more importantly, the audio function.
A 3-Way System with New Internals
The biggest technical leap for the SoundSticks 5 is the move to a 3-way acoustic design. Here’s what that means in practical terms:
- New Tweeters: Each of the two satellite speakers now features newly integrated dual silk dome tweeters.
- Mid-Range Drivers: These tweeters are paired with mid-range drivers to handle vocals and instruments.
- Subwoofer: The signature down-firing subwoofer is still present, tasked with delivering deep and accurate bass.
The goal of this new component setup is to provide flawless vocal and instrument reproduction, offering a clear separation between the highs, mids, and lows.
Upgraded Design, Lighting, and Controls
Visually, the SoundSticks 5 is still a what Harman Kardon calls a “sculpted statement”. It’s crafted from premium materials and will be available in two finishes: transparent white or a smoked glass-effect black.
A major new visual feature is the elegant ambient lighting system. This isn’t just a simple glow; the lighting is active on both the satellite speakers and the subwoofer. It includes five nature-themed dynamic presets, like “Ocean” or “Sunrise”, and also gives you the ability to set any static colour to match your room’s mood.
The user interface has also been refined. The new model features discreet, touch-sensitive controls located at the base of the right satellite speaker. For more granular control over lighting, EQ settings, and other features, users will need to use the Harman Kardon One App.
Modern Connectivity: From Bluetooth 5.4 to HDMI ARC
On the connectivity side, the SoundSticks 5 are firmly brought into the modern era. It features Bluetooth 5.4 for wireless streaming and also supports Auracast, which allows for easy multi-speaker pairing.
Perhaps the most practical upgrade for many homes is the inclusion of an HDMI ARC port. This allows the system to be connected to a modern TV with just a single cable, serving as an elegant sound solution for your living room. When connected this way, the speakers support high-quality Dolby Audio, making them a versatile option for movies and gaming nights, not just music.
Pricing and Availability
The Harman Kardon SoundSticks 5 is available now in Malaysia and is priced at RM1,899.
It can be purchased from Harman Kardon’s official online stores on Lazada, Shopee , and Swap Asia.
