Harman Kardon SoundSticks II vs III: Ultimate 2024 Comparison
Harman Kardon SoundSticks II and III are two generations of the same iconic transparent speaker set, but only one is current: the III replaced the II in 2012 yet both still circulate online, causing the mix-up.
People confuse them because listings, reviews, and even packaging reuse the same glamour shots. Sellers rarely label “discontinued,” so buyers chasing nostalgia or deals end up comparing two eras without realizing one is unsupported.
Key Differences
SoundSticks II: white mini-jack, 3.5 mm aux, no Bluetooth, no touch volume, older 20 W sub. SoundSticks III: black cable, same aux but updated 40 W sub, touch-sensitive volume ring, and subtle LED glow. Internally, III uses a quieter amp and revised drivers for cleaner mids.
Which One Should You Choose?
Need Bluetooth? Skip both and grab the SoundSticks 4. Want plug-and-play desk flair for under $100? Hunt a gently-used II. Crave the best wired version without vintage price gouging? New-old-stock III remains the sweet spot until stock vanishes.
Do the satellites swap between II and III?
No, connectors and wiring differ; satellites are not cross-compatible.
Can I add Bluetooth to the II or III?
Yes, plug any $15 Bluetooth receiver into the aux input; power remains wired.
Is firmware upgradable on either model?
No firmware exists; both are pure analog amplifiers.