In the realm of home audio, two standout performers emerge: the Harman Kardon Citation MultiBeam 700 soundbar and the Sonos Beam. Both devices promise immersive sound experiences, but which one reigns supreme? This comprehensive comparison delves into the key differences between these two exceptional soundbars, helping you make an informed decision.

Sound Quality

The Harman Kardon Citation MultiBeam 700 boasts a 7.1.4-channel setup with 11 drivers, including upward-firing ones for Dolby Atmos support. This configuration delivers a wide soundstage with precise object-based audio and deep, impactful bass.

In contrast, the Sonos Beam features a more modest 5.1-channel setup with five drivers. It lacks upward-firing speakers, resulting in a less immersive Dolby Atmos experience. However, its sound reproduction is still impressive, with clear highs, well-defined mids, and ample bass.

Connectivity and Features

The Harman Kardon Citation MultiBeam 700 offers extensive connectivity options, including HDMI eARC, HDMI CEC, optical, and Bluetooth 5.0. It also supports Apple AirPlay 2, Google Chromecast, and Spotify Connect.

The Sonos Beam provides similar connectivity options, including HDMI ARC, optical, and Bluetooth 5.0. However, it excels in multi-room audio capabilities, seamlessly integrating with other Sonos speakers to create a whole-home audio system.

Design and Aesthetics

The Harman Kardon Citation MultiBeam 700 exudes elegance with its fabric-covered exterior and sleek design. It measures 42.5 inches in length and can be wall-mounted or placed on a shelf.

The Sonos Beam is slightly more compact at 25.6 inches in length. Its rounded, minimalist design blends seamlessly with any décor. It can be placed on a TV stand or wall-mounted using an optional bracket.

User Experience

Both the Harman Kardon Citation MultiBeam 700 and Sonos Beam offer user-friendly experiences. The Harman Kardon soundbar has a clear OLED display and intuitive touch controls on the top panel.

The Sonos Beam relies on a touch-sensitive panel on the top of the device for control. It also supports voice control via Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, providing hands-free convenience.

Price and Value

The Harman Kardon Citation MultiBeam 700 retails for around $899, while the Sonos Beam is priced at $499. The Citation MultiBeam 700 offers a more immersive sound experience and a wider range of connectivity options, but it comes at a higher cost.

The Sonos Beam provides excellent sound quality and multi-room audio capabilities at a more affordable price point.

Which Soundbar is Right for You?

The choice between the Harman Kardon Citation MultiBeam 700 and Sonos Beam ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences.

If you prioritize immersive sound quality, Dolby Atmos support, and extensive connectivity, the Harman Kardon Citation MultiBeam 700 is the superior choice.

If you’re looking for a more affordable option with excellent sound performance, multi-room audio capabilities, and voice control, the Sonos Beam is a fantastic choice.

Additional Considerations

Room Size

The Harman Kardon Citation MultiBeam 700 is better suited for larger rooms, while the Sonos Beam is ideal for smaller to medium-sized spaces.

Content Type

The Citation MultiBeam 700 excels with movies and TV shows that support Dolby Atmos, while the Sonos Beam is more versatile for music and general listening.

Future-Proofing

The Harman Kardon Citation MultiBeam 700 supports HDMI eARC, which is the latest HDMI standard. This ensures compatibility with future TV technologies.

The Verdict

Both the Harman Kardon Citation MultiBeam 700 and Sonos Beam are exceptional soundbars that offer immersive audio experiences. The Citation MultiBeam 700 provides a more comprehensive feature set and a wider soundstage, while the Sonos Beam excels in multi-room audio capabilities and voice control. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your specific requirements and budget.

Questions We Hear a Lot

1. Do both soundbars support Dolby Atmos?

Yes, the Harman Kardon Citation MultiBeam 700 supports Dolby Atmos via its upward-firing drivers, while the Sonos Beam supports Dolby Atmos via virtualized height effects.

2. Can I use either soundbar with my non-HDMI TV?

Yes, both soundbars can be connected to non-HDMI TVs via optical audio.

3. Which soundbar has better bass response?

The Harman Kardon Citation MultiBeam 700 has a more impactful bass response due to its larger size and dedicated subwoofer channel.

4. Can I control both soundbars with my TV remote?

Yes, both soundbars support HDMI CEC, which allows them to be controlled with the TV remote.

5. Which soundbar is more compatible with streaming services?

The Sonos Beam integrates seamlessly with streaming services such as Spotify, Apple Music, and Pandora. However, both soundbars support a wide range of streaming services via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi.