Harman Kardon is updating a beloved design with the upcoming release of the SoundSticks 5 in 2025. The new 2.1 audio system aims to blend the iconic aesthetic of the original SoundSticks – a product recognized for its design and widespread adoption – with modern connectivity and improved audio performance. Positioned as a visually striking option to traditional soundbars and Bluetooth speakers, the SoundSticks 5 seeks to serve as a versatile audio hub for televisions, music streaming, and ambient lighting.
Harman Kardon is reimagining a design icon with the SoundSticks 5, a 2.1 audio system blending sculptural aesthetics with modern connectivity. The new system, slated for release in 2025, builds on the legacy of the original SoundSticks – a product so recognizable it’s been exhibited in museums and found a place on millions of desks and entertainment centers – while significantly upgrading its audio architecture and features.
The SoundSticks 5 aims to occupy a unique space in the audio market, offering a more visually striking alternative to compact soundbars like the Sonos Ray or Bose TV Speaker, yet delivering a more immersive and high-fidelity experience than typical standalone Bluetooth speakers such as the Marshall Stanmore III or models from JBL and Sony. Unlike premium PC audio kits like those from Klipsch, Audioengine, Logitech, and Edifier, the SoundSticks 5 is designed to function as a central audio hub for televisions, music streaming, and ambient lighting, all wrapped in a distinctive design that few competitors can replicate.
Harman Kardon Soundsticks 5Fiche technique
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Harman Kardon Soundsticks 5Design and Finish
The SoundSticks have long been iconic objects, earning a permanent place in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art in New York, and this fifth generation continues that tradition.
The system retains the signature transparent dome-shaped subwoofer and translucent satellite speakers, but with a refined base, better-integrated cabling, and finishes available in transparent white or “smoked glass” black. The latter finish immediately evokes the look of the Aura Studio 5 from the brand.
The central dome now features a more sophisticated internal lighting system, with LEDs arranged to create a soft, even halo that synchronizes with the satellites.
Harman Kardon SoundSticks 5 // Source : Sylvain Pichot – Frandroid
Harman Kardon SoundSticks 5 // Source : Sylvain Pichot – Frandroid
Harman Kardon SoundSticks 5 // Source : Sylvain Pichot – Frandroid
The overall aesthetic is decidedly futuristic, yet remains discreet enough for a living room setting, with the transparent plastic and premium metallic elements avoiding a gimmicky feel.
Harman Kardon Soundsticks 5Ergonomics and Connectivity
Harman Kardon has modernized the connectivity options: the SoundSticks 5 features an HDMI ARC input for direct connection to a television with a single cable, in addition to Bluetooth and a 3.5mm auxiliary input. This HDMI ARC connection, absent on the SoundSticks 4, automatically receives audio from movies, series, consoles, or set-top boxes, with volume control via the TV’s compatible CEC remote.
The main touch controls are located on the base of the right satellite, managing volume, input selection, and lighting. Access is convenient when placed on a desk or TV stand, although some may regret the absence of a dedicated remote control for more traditional distance operation.
Note that the two satellite speakers are connected to the base via cables approximately 1.5 meters long. A color-coding system identifies the left and right speakers.
Harman Kardon Soundsticks 5Connected Features and App
The SoundSticks 5 supports Bluetooth 5.4 with multipoint connectivity, allowing simultaneous connection of two devices and seamless switching between them. Compatibility with Auracast facilitates the creation of multi-speaker scenarios or broadcasting the same stream to multiple Harman-compatible products in the home.
Harman Kardon SoundSticks 5 // Source : Sylvain Pichot – Frandroid
Harman Kardon SoundSticks 5 // Source : Sylvain Pichot – Frandroid
Like the Aura Studio 5, the Harman Kardon One app centralizes all advanced settings: equalization, lighting control, input selection, firmware updates, and Auracast configuration. However, similar to the Aura Studio 5, there is no Wi-Fi and therefore no native support for streaming services or a directly integrated voice assistant.
Harman Kardon SoundSticks 5 // Source : Sylvain Pichot – Frandroid
