Bests & Worsts Reviews from Amazon

Starting with the positives, Soundsticks III are aesthetically pleasing, take minimal desktop space, and deliver adequate sound quality for the price. Highs and midrange are clear and vibrant and the small subwoofer provides a modest bass line. The design is unlike any other multimedia/computer speaker with two, clear conical satellite speakers and a rounded, lit subwoofer enclosure with a control for adjustable bass output. Cables are robust, easy to connect, and are long enough for my standing desk. At least for eighteen months... This fall the front of the satellite speaker enclosure, the half that holds the 4 drivers, fell off while sitting on my desk. This issue is easily found in an Internet search and is not an isolated incident in my case. The other satellite followed suit a couple of weeks later. The rubber bands used to hold them together add to the look of the speaker. No earthquakes in my region nor have the speakers experienced drops, bumps, or physical harm. Due to information provided to Amazon and located on the product page (http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/61d076FzJNS.pdf) by Harman Kardon, I started a warranty exchange with HK based upon enclosures having a two year warranty (1 year on electronics, 5 years on drivers). No response or communication for one month from HK plus I tried to contact via phone numerous times to no avail (unacceptable hold times or disconnection). After five weeks, I received an email that assumed my issues were resolved due the amount of time since I contacted Harman Kardon. After a few email exchanges, the representative stated that my warranty is only one year as Soundsticks are a multimedia product and do not fall under the warranty for other HK products. Case closed. 2 stars for issue, unacceptable customer support from Harman Kardon, and time to failure with the only option offered is purchasing a new version. *UPDATE 2015/01/06 After a phone call to Amazon, they are issuing a RMA and refund for the Harman Kardon Soundsticks. Representative was extremely helpful and went above and beyond what is required, far exceeding my experience with HK support department.