Harman Kardon Citation MultiBeam 700 review: Smart sound

Loaded with side-firing speakers, the Harman Kardon Citation MultiBeam 700 will easily fill your room with surround sound. The soundbar alone is sufficient, but you can add a wireless subwoofer for even more bass, or other Citation speakers to take it to the next level. With built-in Google Assistant and Apple AirPlay, what's not to like?

Quick specs

2 x 25mm tweeter, 5 x 50mm woofer
2.4GHz and 5GHz Wi-Fi connectivity, Bluetooth
HDMI ARC, optical, and AUX in ports

The Citation 700 is sound is definitely easy on the ear. While I expected bass to be light without a subwoofer, it wasn't the case here. Gunshots and explosions still feel satisfying, but they are not as impactful without a sub. I really like the clarity and volume, though. It's definitely full-bodied. The surround effect works, you'll find that sound gets all around you. Just not above though, as it doesn't support Dolby Atmos unlike the Sonos Beam 2 or say, the LG Eclair. You can also level up the soundbar by adding the Citation Tower or Citation Surround speakers for an even wider sound stage.

Despite being launched two years ago, the features of the Citation 700 are still pretty much up to date, with Google Assistant and AirPlay support. I do want to point out that the mic isn't quite as sensitive as my Google Home Mini, though. The touchscreen located at the top of the speaker lets you easily switch between sources. You can also calibrate the audio for the room easily.

If walking to the speaker is too much work, the remote that comes bundled works great, too. It has all the buttons you need to control without leaving your couch. The only thing that may be a drawback here if you have pets is that the fabric material of the Citation 700 quite easily traps fur. Otherwise, the soundbar is a great way to easily upgrade your TV's sound.

Retailing at S$899, the Harman Kardon Citation MultiBeam 700 isn't the cheapest around. In fact, the S$799 Sonos Beam 2 may be a better overall buy. But if you're able to get it at a discount during a sale, the HK soundbar is a worthy buy as well. Buy it from Shopee or Lazada.

Note: Review unit provided by JBL.

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