First: speaker design is a compromise, the best there is not, and the Harman Kardon Designer is a great thing succeeded, against all rule violations but bring out nämölich a useful device.
The sticks have two primary objectives Concept: Design + level stability (loud). Those looking for that, you should consider purchasing.
Otherwise you many lack a classic 3-way speaker (or 2-way monitor), which is not for nothing that the standard approach:
- Acrylic is not stiff enough and vibrate noticeably
- The inside is not attenuated
- It lacks a good midrange
- In order to achieve volume, there are 4 small speakers
- The subwoofer speaker is small, so you can put it on the table
As a result of my ear:
- Seemingly much audible details, but really just sharp highs
- Lack of midrange, thus sounding voices edged and sharp
- Crisp but thumping bass
- The stereo effect is the Nahhören from 1 meter very well, but "the stage" / space resolution is not clean
I prefer train nor my old Logitech Z-560, because they have a nice big midrange which relaxes listening.
Where the Soundsticks can score:
- Special Effects
- Games, First Person Shooter
- Hip Hop if you want to let it rip times
- Wife Acceptance Factor
Where they are not fit:
- Voices and language
- Classical / Instruments
- Jazz
When one emphasis only on music and appearance does not matter:
- M-Audio or Yamaha Studio Monitors
What to do if you want to design and good music? A silver bullet there is unfortunately not.
Four options:
- Audioengine A2 white or Audio Pro Addon One: by a 8cm Midrange much more comfortable for music, but no subwoofer, so nothing for games.
- B & W MM-1. That at the moment Ultimate for HiFi on laptop, unfortunately without sub, but with built-in DAC and therefore Signalprozessierung that better controls the speakers in the bass range.
- Passive Speakers, eg Wharfedale 9.1 or slightly less, with amplifier under my desk. Disadvantage: still a box of standing around.
- Teufel Motiv 2. Not quite as fancy, but a good compromise.
(The Focal XS speakers also do not sound convinced me.)