Unveiled at CES Las Vegas 2026, Harman Kardon’s next-generation connected speakers are now available. The Harman Kardon SoundSticks 5 Wi-Fi and Harman Kardon Aura Studio 5 Wi-Fi models mark a turning point in the brand’s strategy, offering local network access for the first time. Already available in Bluetooth since their presentation at IFA 2025, these new versions now include Wi-Fi connectivity.
Ambitious acoustic design
The audio design of the Harman Kardon Aura Studio 5 Wi-Fi and Harman Kardon SoundSticks 5 Wi-Fi connected speakers remains identical to the Bluetooth versions. The former adopts a 3-way configuration including a 5.5″ woofer, six 1.5″ midrange drivers and a 1″ tweeter. This architecture provides wide projection and a uniform sound field to cover the room evenly.
For its part, the SoundSticks 5 Wi-Fi is also based on a 3-way architecture. It combines two satellite speakers with three 1.5″ midrange drivers, a 1″ tweeter, and a separate subwoofer with a 5″ driver. Its 2.1 configuration makes it ideal for desktop systems, with a hi-fi orientation affirmed by the brand.
Wi-Fi compatibility for high-resolution streaming
The main contribution of these new versions is the integration of Wi-Fi. This network connection enables access to high-resolution music streaming services with continuous playback, without smartphone notifications or interruptions. Compared with Bluetooth, transmission via the home network offers uncompressed streams.
The Harman Kardon SoundSticks 5 Wi-Fi and Aura Studio 5 Wi-Fi connected speakers support Apple AirPlay 2, Google Cast, Spotify Connect, TIDAL Connect and Qobuz Connect. They also benefit from the Roon Ready certification, guaranteeing integration within an advanced multi-room audio ecosystem.
Bluetooth 6.0 and Auracast
In addition to Wi-Fi integration, the Harman Kardon SoundSticks 5 Wi-Fi and Harman Kardon Aura Studio 5 Wi-Fi connected speakers feature a Bluetooth 6.0 module. This enables wireless streaming in congested RF environments or when the speaker is far from the Internet router. This dual connectivity provides even greater flexibility of use.
What’s more, support for the Auracast protocol makes it possible to chain several speakers together, to create a stereo pair or a coherent multi-room system. Harman Kardon therefore offers broad domestic diffusion while retaining the distinctive visual identity of the range.
Transparent design at the heart of the experience
Aesthetically, the two Harman Kardon SoundSticks 5 Wi-Fi and Harman Kardon Aura Studio 5 Wi-Fi models retain the transparent design for which they are renowned. The former adopts a translucent white dome combined with a polished metal center plate. The overall silhouette is both futuristic and timeless, in keeping with the spirit of previous versions.
The Aura Studio 5 Wi-Fi is distinguished by a deeper black fabric finish and silver details. Its light dome evolves to the rhythm of the music, thanks to several predefined themes. Users can adjust colors and brightness via the Harman Kardon One app. The latter also centralizes equalization and auto-calibration according to the room’s acoustics, making it easy to adapt sound to the environment.
Summary
With the SoundSticks 5 Wi-Fi and Aura Studio 5 Wi-Fi connected speakers, Harman Kardon adapts two iconic models to today’s home streaming uses. The integration of Wi-Fi opens up access to high-resolution platforms and the AirPlay 2 and Google Cast multi-room protocols while maintaining Bluetooth connectivity. Each of the two new Harman Kardon models is priced at €379, €50 more than previously launched Bluetooth versions.
