The Harman/Kardon Aura Studio 3 stands as one of the most innovative and stylish audio devices on the market. With its unique design, 360-degree audio capabilities, and ambient lighting, this Bluetooth speaker aims to elevate both your listening experience and the aesthetics of your home. But does it live up to the hype? Let’s take a closer look at the Harman/Kardon Aura Studio 3, analyzing its design, sound performance, features, and overall value for money. In this review, we’ll take a deep dive into everything you need to know about this unique speaker, from its features to its performance and even a comparison with its predecessor.
Quick Highlights:
- 360-degree Sound: Delivers immersive audio from every angle, ensuring clear and balanced sound throughout the room.
- Elegant Design: A unique dome shape with ambient lighting creates a modern, stylish addition to any room.
- Powerful Bass: Equipped with a large subwoofer for deep, rich sound, though low-bass performance is limited.
- Bluetooth Connectivity: Easily stream music wirelessly from smartphones, tablets, or laptops with Bluetooth 4.2.
- User-Friendly Controls: Touch-sensitive controls for volume, lighting, and Bluetooth pairing.
- No Voice Assistants: Lacks integration with voice assistants like Alexa or Google Assistant.
Release Date:
The Harman/Kardon Aura Studio 3 was released on March 26, 2020. It builds on the success of its previous models with improvements in sound and durability.
Harman/Kardon Aura Studio 3 Unboxing
Unboxing the Harman/Kardon Aura Studio 3 reveals a carefully packaged product that ensures your speaker arrives in perfect condition. Here’s what you can expect when you open the box:
- 1x Harman/Kardon Aura Studio 3 Speaker
- 1x Power Cable
- 1x Quick Start Guide
- 1x Safety Sheet
- 1x Warranty Card
Packaging: Harman/Kardon Aura Studio 3
The packaging is minimal but secure, with the speaker cushioned and protected from any potential damage during shipping. The Harman/Kardon Aura Studio 3 speaker is placed snugly inside a cardboard box, ensuring no parts are loose or at risk of being damaged.
Once unboxed, the Aura Studio 3 speaker stands out as an impressive and visually appealing device, ready to elevate both your sound and decor. The included quick start guide makes it easy to connect your device via Bluetooth or wired connection for immediate use.
Quick Specs: Harman/Kardon Aura Studio 3
- Speaker Type: Wireless Bluetooth Speaker
- Design: 360-degree sound, dome-shaped with ambient lighting
- Dimensions:35″D x 10.63″W x 14.88″H inches (310 x 310 x 328 mm)
- Weight:1 lbs. (3.7 kg)
- Bluetooth Version: Bluetooth 4.2
- Bluetooth Range:7 ft.(63.0 m)
- Frequency Response: 50Hz – 20kHz
- Power Output: 25W RMS
- Special Features: Ambient lighting, 360-degree sound, easy Bluetooth pairing
- Colors Available: Black
Overview of the Harman/Kardon Aura Studio 3
Priced at $199.95, the Harman/Kardon Aura Studio 3 speaker combines a premium aesthetic with advanced sound performance and design. Furthermore, it features a 25-watt maximum output, producing impressive sound for diverse settings, from parties to quiet moments. Additionally, the speaker supports both wired and wireless connectivity, allowing easy pairing with smartphones, tablets, laptops, and other Bluetooth devices.
A key feature of the Aura Studio 3 is its 360-degree sound technology, which ensures uniform audio distribution in all directions. Consequently, this makes it a perfect choice for larger rooms or open spaces where sound needs to reach all corners. However, despite its generally solid performance, the speaker’s deep bass reproduction could be enhanced further.
In addition to outstanding audio, the Harman/Kardon Aura Studio 3 adds a touch of style to your home with ambient lighting. As a result, its dynamic lighting effects create a visually engaging atmosphere that complements the music, enhancing your listening experience.
Harman/Kardon Aura Studio 3 Price and Availability:
The Harman/Kardon Aura Studio 3 is priced at $199.95, positioning it as a premium Bluetooth speaker. It is available for purchase on the Harman Kardon website and other major retailers like Amazon. Given its unique design and impressive sound quality, it offers good value for those who are looking for both aesthetics and performance.
Sound Quality: What to Expect
While the Harman/Kardon Aura Studio 3 shines in many areas, its sound quality is somewhat mixed. Here’s a closer look at how it performs in different aspects of audio:
· Balanced Sound Profile
Out of the box, the Aura Studio 3 has a balanced sound profile, meaning that it works well across various music genres. The mid-range frequencies are clear and well-defined, which is ideal for vocals and instruments. However, some users may find that the highs sound a bit dull compared to other high-fidelity speakers, and the treble may not stand out as much as expected.
· Struggles with Low Bass
The biggest drawback of the Harman/Kardon Aura Studio 3 is its inability to deliver deep bass. While the speaker does have a subwoofer to enhance lower frequencies, it still falls short when it comes to reproducing the full depth of bass-heavy music, such as EDM, hip-hop, or rock. The low-frequency extension is measured at 52.6 Hz, which is fairly limited for those who crave more thump and rumble in their music.
· Volume and Clarity
Despite its bass limitations, the speaker can get loud, providing clear and distortion-free sound at higher volumes. However, compression can become noticeable at maximum volume, which might affect the clarity of certain audio elements, especially if you’re listening to music with complex arrangements or higher frequencies.
· No Sound Customization Features
Unlike many other Bluetooth speakers, the Harman/Kardon Aura Studio 3 does not offer any sound customization features, such as an equalizer or app support to tweak the audio profile. This means that users cannot fine-tune the sound to their specific preferences. While the out-of-the-box sound is decent, some may miss this level of control.
Comparison: Harman/Kardon Aura Studio 3 vs Harman/Kardon Aura Studio 2
When comparing the Harman/Kardon Aura Studio 3 to its predecessor, the Aura Studio 2, several differences become apparent, both in terms of design and performance. Although they share the same core design philosophy, there are notable upgrades in sound quality, aesthetics, and user experience that make the Aura Studio 3 an enticing option for audio enthusiasts. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the two models to help you understand the key differences.
Key Feature Comparison: Harman/Kardon Aura Studio 3 vs. Harman/Kardon Aura Studio 2
| Feature | Harman/Kardon Aura Studio 3 | Harman/Kardon Aura Studio 2 |
| Design | Sealed dome, fabric-covered base, sleek aesthetic | Central bass reflex port, wider base |
| Sound Quality | Improved 360-degree sound, clearer mid and highs | Stronger bass, less precise 360-degree sound |
| Lighting Effects | Dynamic, responsive lighting to volume changes | Static lighting, no volume response |
| Bluetooth Connectivity | 4.2, 63m range | 3.0, shorter range |
| Bass Performance | Moderate bass response | Deeper, more impactful bass |
| Power Source | Corded electric | Corded electric |
| Price | $199.95 | $179.95-$189.95 |
Side By Side Analysis
When comparing the Harman/Kardon Aura Studio 3 to its predecessor, the Aura Studio 2, several differences become apparent, both in terms of design and performance. Although they share the same core design philosophy, there are notable upgrades in sound quality, aesthetics, and user experience that make the Aura Studio 3 an enticing option for audio enthusiasts. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the two models to help you understand the key differences.
Design Comparison
Aura Studio 3:
- Shape and Build: The Aura Studio 3 retains the iconic dome-shaped design but with subtle refinements. It features a fully sealed dome and no central bass reflex port, which results in a sleeker and cleaner aesthetic. The speaker sits on a fabric-covered base, contributing to a minimalist look that works well with various modern decor styles.
- Lighting: The lighting system in the Aura Studio 3 is more dynamic than its predecessor. The built-in ambient lighting pulses and adjusts with volume changes, creating a unique visual experience. This lighting can be turned off completely if desired.
- Materials: The Aura Studio 3 uses high-quality plastic for the dome, giving it a polished, glossy finish. It retains the transparent design, allowing the lighting effects to shine through, adding to the visual appeal.
Aura Studio 2:
- Shape and Build: The Aura Studio 2 has a similar dome shape but features a central bass reflex port, which protrudes slightly. This design creates a more functional but less refined aesthetic compared to Studio 3. The speaker sits on a wider base compared to the Studio 3, which makes it appear slightly bulkier.
- Lighting: While the Aura Studio 2 also comes with ambient lighting, it’s less dynamic. The lighting effect is a bit more static, and it doesn’t respond in real-time to volume adjustments like the Studio 3’s.
- Materials: The build of the Aura Studio 2 is slightly more rugged, with the base being more durable but not as sleek as the Studio 3’s fabric-covered base. The plastic dome also has a more matte finish compared to the shiny gloss of the Aura Studio 3.
Sound Quality Comparison
Aura Studio 3:
- 360-Degree Sound: One of the major upgrades in the Aura Studio 3 is the 360-degree sound output. This design feature allows the speaker to fill a room with balanced sound no matter where it’s placed. The audio is clear and immersive, offering excellent clarity for vocals and instruments.
- Bass Performance: Although the bass is more pronounced in the Aura Studio 3 compared to the previous model, it still falls short in terms of low-end thump. The lack of a bass reflex port means that deep bass frequencies may not be as impactful, especially with bass-heavy genres like EDM or hip-hop.
- Sound Range: The Studio 3 improves on the audio range, providing better mid-range frequencies and cleaner highs, making it more versatile for different kinds of music and content.
Aura Studio 2:
- 360-Degree Sound: While the Aura Studio 2 also delivers 360-degree sound, it lacks some of the precision and smoothness of the Studio 3. The soundstage is good but not as expansive, especially when compared to the wider, clearer sound from the newer model.
- Bass Performance: The Aura Studio 2 is known for its more substantial bass performance, thanks to the central bass reflex port. It has better low-end reproduction, producing a deeper, more impactful bass response compared to the Studio 3.
- Sound Range: The overall sound range on Studio 2 is somewhat narrower than Studio 3, and the higher frequencies can sound a bit more compressed at higher volumes.
Connectivity Comparison
Aura Studio 3:
- Bluetooth Connectivity: The Aura Studio 3 features Bluetooth 4.2, offering wireless streaming from smartphones, laptops, and tablets. The range is up to 63 meters (approximately 206 feet), which is impressive for a Bluetooth speaker.
- Wired Connection: The Studio 3 has a 3.5mm auxiliary input for wired connections, making it compatible with older devices that don’t support Bluetooth.
- Power Supply: It is a corded speaker, meaning it requires a constant connection to a power outlet to operate. There is no battery-powered option for portability.
Aura Studio 2:
- Bluetooth Connectivity: The Aura Studio 2 also features Bluetooth connectivity, though it uses Bluetooth 3.0, which results in a slightly shorter range compared to the Studio 3. It can still connect seamlessly with most modern devices, but the range is slightly more limited.
- Wired Connection: Like the Studio 3, the Aura Studio 2 also offers a 3.5mm auxiliary input for wired playback.
- Power Supply: The Studio 2 is also corded and does not have a built-in battery, which means it lacks portability.
Lighting Effects Comparison
Aura Studio 3:
- Dynamic Lighting: The Studio 3’s lighting is more interactive, responding to audio playback and volume changes. The lights create a calming, ambient glow that can be customized to match the mood of your space. This feature adds a new layer to the overall experience of listening to music.
- Control Over Lighting: The lighting on the Aura Studio 3 can be toggled on and off via a button, providing you with control over how much visual impact you want while listening to music.
Aura Studio 2:
- Static Lighting: The Studio 2’s lighting is more basic and does not respond to changes in volume or audio playback. While it still adds an aesthetic touch to the design, it doesn’t offer the same level of interactivity as Studio 3.
- Control Over Lighting: The lighting in Studio 2 can also be turned on or off, but it’s a more simple, static light source compared to the dynamic system in Studio 3.
Price and Value Comparison
Aura Studio 3:
- Price: Priced at around $199.95, the Aura Studio 3 is positioned as a high-end Bluetooth speaker. The price reflects its premium build quality, improved audio performance, and dynamic lighting system.
- Value: The Studio 3 offers good value for those who prioritize design and audio quality. The immersive 360-degree sound, coupled with the attractive lighting, makes it ideal for those looking for a stylish home speaker.
Aura Studio 2:
- Price: The Aura Studio 2 is typically priced slightly lower than the Studio 3, usually around $179.95 to $189.95, making it a more affordable option for those who may not need all the upgrades found in the newer model.
- Value: Although it is a more affordable option, the Aura Studio 2 still delivers great sound and quality construction. It’s a good choice for those who value deep bass and don’t necessarily need the latest features, such as dynamic lighting.
Conclusion: Which One Should You Choose?
- Choose the Harman/Kardon Aura Studio 3 if you want a modern, dynamic audio experience with immersive 360-degree sound, improved bass, and stunning visual effects. Its dynamic lighting, sleek design, and better overall sound quality make it the superior option for those looking for both style and substance.
- Choose the Harman/Kardon Aura Studio 2 if you are primarily looking for strong bass performance at a lower price point and don’t mind missing out on the latest lighting technology or slight improvements in sound. It remains a solid choice for anyone who prefers a more traditional aesthetic but still wants high-quality audio.
Which One Is Better: Harman/Kardon Aura Studio 3 or Aura Studio 2?
The Harman/Kardon Aura Studio 3 is the better option for most users, offering a more refined design, improved sound quality, and dynamic lighting effects that enhance the overall experience. Its 360-degree sound is more balanced, with clearer midrange and treble, making it suitable for a wider variety of music and content. The dynamic, volume-responsive lighting adds a touch of personalization and ambiance, creating a unique atmosphere in any space. While the Aura Studio 2 offers impressive bass and a more affordable price, it falls short in terms of sound clarity and visual appeal. The Studio 3’s superior connectivity, sleek design, and enhanced audio performance make it the more versatile and premium choice, especially for those who prioritize both style and high-quality sound.
Who Should Buy the Harman/Kardon Aura Studio 3?
The Harman/Kardon Aura Studio 3 is ideal for anyone who values both style and sound. If you’re looking for a speaker that makes a statement while delivering decent audio, this is a solid choice. Its sleek design and ambient lighting make it an excellent addition to your living room, bedroom, or office space. However, if deep bass or sound customization is essential to you, you may want to consider other speakers that excel in those areas.
Best for:
First, people who desire a stylish speaker with an impressive design will find it appealing. Additionally, those who enjoy 360-degree sound for immersive listening experiences will appreciate its capabilities. Moreover, individuals who prefer wireless streaming with Bluetooth connectivity will find it convenient and easy to use.
Not Ideal for:
However, those who need deep bass for bass-heavy music genres may be disappointed with its performance. Furthermore, buyers seeking sound customization features to adjust the audio output may find the speaker lacking in this regard.
Conclusion
The Harman/Kardon Aura Studio 3 stands out in terms of design and user experience, offering a unique visual appeal and solid sound performance for most types of music. Its 360-degree sound ensures that everyone in the room can enjoy a rich, immersive listening experience, while the ambient lighting adds an element of fun and tranquility. However, its limitations in bass reproduction and lack of sound customization options might be dealbreakers for some listeners.
At $199.95, the Harman/Kardon Aura Studio 3 offers great value for those who prioritize style and quality audio for everyday use. If you’re in the market for a speaker that enhances the aesthetic and ambiance of your home while providing decent sound, this is certainly a product worth considering.
Does the Aura Studio 3 have a battery?
No, the Harman/Kardon Aura Studio 3 does not have a battery. It is a corded speaker, which means it needs to be plugged into a power source to operate. This design ensures consistent power for optimal performance, but it lacks portability.
Can Harman Kardon Aura Studio 3 connect to a TV?
Yes, the Harman/Kardon Aura Studio 3 can connect to a TV. It offers both wireless Bluetooth connectivity and a wired 3.5mm AUX input, making it compatible with most modern TVs. For wireless connections, you can stream audio from your TV if it supports Bluetooth, or you can use the wired connection for a more stable link.
