Stamford, Conn. – Harman Kardon
launched its first sound bar system, the $599-suggested SB 16 with virtual
surround processing, wireless subwoofer and audio-input switching.
Each left and right speaker channel features two 3-inch midrange drivers
and a 0.75-inch tweeter. The speaker complement is driven by a 2×25-watt
amplifier rated at 20Hz to 20kHz onto 8 ohms with less than 0.07 percent THD
with both channels driven simultaneously.
The sound bar’s jack pack consists
of a stereo analog input for source one. The source two input features both a
coaxial digital input and an optical digital input, allowing for digital
connection of two additional devices, such as a Blu-ray player, set-top box or
game console, the product’s manual shows. The sound bar doesn’t incorporate
Dolby Digital or DTS 5.1-channel decoders, product literature shows.
The sound bar also features a
switchable stereo mode for music playback.
The 4.3-inch by 36.25-inch by 3.5-inch sound bar
can be programmed to respond to a TV remote’s volume, power and source
commands, and an EQ switch adjusts response for wall mounting or table
mounting. An auto turn-on circuit
automatically turns on the subwoofer when an audio signal is present.
The subwoofer’s down-firing
bass-reflex enclosure allows for placement flexibility by loading the sub
against the floor instead of against surrounding walls, the company said. The sub also comes with level, crossover and
phase controls.
A trim switch lets consumers adjust the sound
bar’s input sensitivity so it will work with a variety of TVs with different
audio-signal output levels.
