14 DAY TRIAL // While audio quality is certainly a very important issue when deciding to purchase a new sound system, for some people, looks are also extremely important, and that's exactly the segment Harman Kardon targets with its brand-new SoundSticks III 2.1-channel PC speaker system, that sport some pretty decent audio features, but also an extremely attractive and futuristic look.
The 40W (20W RMS) SoundSticks III audio system offers a modern industrial design with aesthetic, elegant black accents and a luminescent white LED glow, as well as plenty of translucent areas.
In addition to 40 watts of amplification, the SoundSticks III system also features a six-inch down-firing subwoofer with volume control.
By aiming sound down instead of at surrounding walls, the subwoofer makes the system less susceptible to adverse room variables, while its flared port reduces port noise during high-volume passages.
Moreover, the system also packs eight full-range transducers (four in each speaker), providing for less distortion and better sound quality.
Plus, the SoundSticks III system offers enhanced compatibility with other audio components thanks to its 3.5mm stereo audio connection, the speakers working very well with MP3 players, portable CD players, computers and almost anything with stereo line-level outputs.
The SoundSticks III system makes it easy for users to interact with subwoofers and “sticks,” offering sensitive touch controls for raising, lowering or muting the system volume.
Placing this system around the house shouldn't prove to be much of a challenge, either, since the satellites measure 2 x 10 inches (51mm x 254mm) and weight roughly 0.7 kilos, while the subwoofer measures 9-3/16" x 10-3/16" (232mm x 258mm) and weighs around 2.2 kilos.
Now, given their looks and features, it should come as no surprise that the SoundSticks III speakers are in fact a bit more expensive than other products delivering the same set of specs, a set selling for around 210 US dollars.