When you think of audio gear that doubles as art, the Harman Kardon SoundSticks series is always top of mind. Since its debut in 2000, this transparent marvel has earned a permanent spot in the Museum of Modern Art, and for good reason. Now, with the SoundSticks 5, Harman Kardon has taken everything that made the original legendary and infused it with cutting-edge tech, smarter connectivity, and a design refresh that feels right at home in 2025.
Aesthetic That Turns Heads
The SoundSticks 5 does not just play music; it makes a statement. Its signature transparent housing remains, but the finish is more refined, with subtle metallic accents and a sleeker silhouette that feels premium without being flashy. Available in Black and White, this system blends effortlessly into any space, whether you are curating a minimalist home office or a cosy entertainment nook.
Then there is the Aura lighting. This is not flashy RGB. It is a tasteful, ambient glow that pulses with your music, creating a vibe that feels futuristic and elegant. Hosting friends? Dim the lights and let the SoundSticks set the mood. Working late? The soft illumination adds just the right amount of atmosphere.
Performance That Packs a Punch
Looks aside, the SoundSticks 5 is all about power and precision. With 190 watts RMS driving a 2.1 channel setup, this system delivers sound that feels full and alive. The down-firing 5.25-inch subwoofer anchors the low end with deep, resonant bass, while the dual satellite speakers, each housing silk dome tweeters and midrange drivers, handle crisp highs and warm mids with finesse.
The frequency response spans 40 Hz to 20 kHz, ensuring you catch every nuance, whether it is the delicate pluck of an acoustic guitar or the chest-thumping drop in your favourite EDM track. For movies, explosions carry cinematic weight, dialogue stays clear, and soundtracks soar.
Connectivity for the Modern Home
Gone are the days of tangled cables. The SoundSticks 5 embraces Bluetooth streaming, complete with Auracast support, so you can link multiple Harman Kardon speakers for a synchronised, whole-home audio experience. You can also pair two devices at once, which is perfect for collaborative playlists during parties.
For home theatre fans, the inclusion of HDMI ARC makes things even easier. Connect directly to your TV for high-quality audio without juggling extra remotes or cluttered wiring. If you prefer a wired setup, the 3.5 mm input is still there.
Smart Features That Elevate the Experience
Control is intuitive thanks to touch-sensitive buttons on the right satellite speaker. For deeper customisation, the Harman Kardon One app gives you access to EQ adjustments, lighting controls, and firmware updates. It is simple, clean, and built for people who want their tech to just work.
Black or White? Your Call
Both colour options share the same specs, so it comes down to personal style. Black delivers a bold, modern look, while White feels light and minimalist. Either way, you are getting a piece of audio history reimagined for today.
Explore the Harman Kardon SoundSticks 5 at PB Tech and bring home a design icon that sounds as good as it looks.
