Harman Kardon SoundSticks 5 Wi-Fi

The new system operates in a 2.1 configuration and is based on a three-way acoustic design. The lowest frequencies are handled by a down-firing subwoofer with a 133-mm driver, while the satellite speakers use a total of six 40-mm midrange drivers and two 25-mm silk dome tweeters. Total system output is rated at 190 W RMS, which, for a compact designer system intended for a desk or living space, is a far more meaningful figure than typical formal power-supply data. The claimed frequency response is 40 Hz - 20 kHz at -6 dB, which means Harman Kardon is promising not only clear treble and legible midrange, but also genuine low-frequency extension of the kind that is usually difficult to obtain from systems of this type without a dedicated subwoofer. According to the manufacturer, the SoundSticks 5 Wi-Fi has been tuned to deliver a wide stereo soundstage, clean reproduction of vocals and instruments, and deep, precise bass.

The most important functional change in the SoundSticks 5 Wi-Fi is its fuller move into the world of streaming. The system supports Apple AirPlay, Google Cast, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect and Roon Ready, allowing users to play music directly from major apps and ecosystems without treating the speakers merely as a Bluetooth receiver. For listeners who use Tidal, Spotify, Apple devices, Google-based systems or Roon, this is an important distinction, as it means greater convenience, more stable playback and easier integration into a home audio setup. Bluetooth is also available, in version 6.0, and the system can connect to two mobile devices at the same time. In practice, this may be useful when two people use the speakers or when the owner wants to switch quickly between a phone and a tablet. In the European version, the USB-C port is used only for service purposes, as USB audio playback applies only to the US version. For European buyers, the key features are therefore network streaming, Bluetooth and support for compatible wireless platforms.

The SoundSticks 5 Wi-Fi retains the visual language that made the series famous. The subwoofer has a transparent dome, while the satellite speakers are made from crystal-clear material and finished with metallic details. This is still a system designed not to disappear on a shelf, but to be placed where it can be seen - on a desk, sideboard, table or next to a monitor. In this context, the dimensions are among the more practical details. The subwoofer measures 237.5 x 283.4 x 237.5 mm and weighs 3.7 kg, while each satellite measures 95.5 x 281.1 x 95.5 mm and weighs 0.8 kg. That makes the system clearly larger and more substantial than typical small computer speakers, but still compact enough for a home workspace or a smaller room.

Harman Kardon has also added light effects that respond to the music being played. This is not essential from a sound-quality perspective, but it makes sense in the case of the SoundSticks, because the series has always been closely connected with design, atmosphere and the physical presence of the product in a room. Sound and lighting settings can be personalized through the Harman Kardon One app. The same app also allows users to manage compatible devices and install software updates. The SoundSticks 5 Wi-Fi also supports Auracast, which enables several compatible Harman Kardon speakers to be connected into one synchronized audio system. This may be especially relevant for users building a wireless home setup around several devices from the same brand. Harman Kardon also says the product uses post-consumer recycled aluminum and plastic, while the packaging is made from FSC-certified paper and printed with soy ink. The Harman Kardon SoundSticks 5 Wi-Fi is priced at €379/£329/$399. Info and photos by Harman Kardon.