Reviews for Harman Kardon SoundSticks III 2.1 Channel Sound System

I ordered these from the Apple store when I ordered my custom built iMac and didn't expect very much. However, these have proven to be amazing in sound quality. The design is very modern and takes a bit of getting used to, especially the 'goldfish bowl' sub-woofer with its white light. You will need a bit of space to situate this, as it's meant to be way under the two upright speakers. But in terms of sound quality, these produce a very rich, deep-bassed sound. I don't notice any distortion as the volume is increased. Down-sides: You can accidentally alter the volume when you handle the upright speaker which houses the volume control, as it is a push-button design. I've also found that static builds up in the system which causes the sound to disappear. This seems to occur if the speakers have been left on for a period of time or after dusting and is easily fixed by detaching the cables from the electrical source and re-attaching. A bit of a bind! Also, if there is limited space, you find you keep moving them out of obstacles' way eg. a big 27" computer screen. If you're looking for easily affordable speakers with superb sound and have the space, I wholly recommend these.
Pros: Rich, deep sound without distortion when volume is increased. Easily affordable.
Cons: Static build-up turns off the sound. Design may not be to everyone's liking. Volume control eas

30 of 38 people found this useful

Reasonably happy with these: source iTunes on iMac and fed by Airport Express from Airport Extreme and controlled by 'Remote' app from iPhone or iPad or iPod. Sound good. Downsides are the leads are quite short if you want them other than near to a computer. I have mine in the kitchen on a welsh dresser and the distance between the towers and the central location of the woofer together with a pair of required power sockets (1 airport express and 1 for the speaker power) is limiting and frustrating. Also the woofer collects bugs and flies (blue light attraction (?) as its always on) and its nigh on impossible to get them out apart from disassembling the unit.

53 of 64 people found this useful

I've had my original model Soundsticks for at least six years, probably more.

The sound is good and continues to mellow gently over time.

The 2.1 design makes for a truly spacious sound, unlike single-unit systems, including the B&W Zeppelin, which is much better sonically, but lacks that wide quality I like.

Classical singers can get strained on high notes, but for daily listening the Soundsticks are just right, and their looks still raise 'ooohs' from guests.

As for faults, the sub control needs a poke with a biro-top from time to time.

All in all, recommended.

55 of 66 people found this useful

Soundwise, these speakers are great. I've had them for about a week now and listen to a variety of genres.
The soundsticks are balanced and punchy, but vocals stay clear. My only gripe with them is that the speakers themselves are EXTREMELY directional, the sound of these completely changes as you move around the room.
Overall, a great set of speakers.

95 of 107 people found this useful