Harman kardon go play 2 review năm 2024

(Editors' note: Harman/Kardon plans to release an updated model of the Go + Play in the spring of 2009 that may address many of the concerns expressed in this review, such as compatibility with recent models of iPods and the iPhone. If you're considering purchasing a Go + Play and you're concerned about device compatibility, we recommend waiting until a new model is released.)

The Good

The Harman/Kardon Go + Play iPod boombox offers full, deep sound, along with an eye-catching design, RF remote control, video output, USB output, and aux input.

The Bad

The Go + Play isn't yet compatible with the iPhone or many recent models of iPods, the power adapter is bulky, the dock is awkward, there's no EQ, no radio, and the design isn't for everyone.

The Bottom Line

The Harman/Kardon Go + Play is one of the best-sounding portable iPod speaker systems you can buy, but its high price and lack of compatibility with recent iPod models make it a limited recommendation.

The Harman/Kardon Go + Play ($350) is a stunning portable speaker system for the iPod that made its debut in early 2007. After hearing the incredible sound of the Go + Play system, we're kicking ourselves for not getting our hands on it sooner.

Design The Go + Play's design--like its sound--is hard to ignore. The most notable design elements are the two pairs of bug-eyed, metal speaker grilles placed symmetrically on the front and back of the speaker chassis and a rounded bar of brushed steel that carries the whole thing like some kind of futuristic bowling bag. The Go + Play measures 20 inches wide, 9 inches deep, and 9.5 inches tall, and is raised up slightly by four steel legs with rubber pads that prevent scratching and rattling.

The only buttons on the entire system are for power and volume, located on the top of the matte black speaker enclosure. An elegant, arc-shaped remote control is included, offering extended control for skipping tracks, pausing playback, and jumping through menus. The remote has an outstanding operating range of 30 feet, and uses RF technology that works through walls. When not in use, a pop-out compartment on the back of the Go + Play stores the remote out of sight.

For better or worse, the Go + Play's iPod dock is also located up top, tucked awkwardly beneath the handle. Unlike most iPod speaker systems we see, Harman/Kardon's designers decided to lay the Go + Play's iPod dock horizontally, making it difficult to see your iPod's screen. We're also disappointed that the Go + Play's iPod dock isn't tall enough to fit the iPod Touch or iPhone. The dock's reliance on Firewire voltage also means that many recent generations of iPods won't recharge in the current dock. Harman/Kardon plans to release an updated version of the Go + Play in the spring of 2009 that will address these issues, but until then, the iPhone, iPod Touch, and fourth-generation iPod Nano are poor partners for the system (both iPod Classic models seemed to fit and charge fine, though).

The six-button RF remote included with the Go + Play handles track control and volume, as well as iPod menu navigation.

Across the back of the Go + Play are four connections for USB output, AC power input, aux input, and S-Video output. The connections are each covered by flexible rubber flaps that protect against dirt and moisture. On the bottom of the Go + Play you'll find a battery compartment that accommodates 8 D-cell batteries, which can power the system for around 18 to 24 hours. We noticed that the Go + Play's audio playback volume isn't quite as loud using battery power as opposed to the AC adapter, so if your goal is to wake the neighbors, then you're better off plugging into the wall.

Features The Go + Play isn't much for bells and whistles, and the few features it does include are a little out of date. There's no FM radio, no clock, no LCD to display song titles, and the S-Video output feature isn't compatible with recent iPod models. The USB output is a convenient feature for syncing your docked iPod to a nearby computer, however, as the product's name suggests, the Go + Play is built to be nomadic, not tied down to a computer desk. If there's one feature to brag about on the Go + Play, it's the exceptional remote control. The included remote has a design that's as equally eye-catching as the speaker it controls, and the RF technology hidden inside allows you to mute, skip, and crank your music with much more freedom than the wimpy IR remotes included with most systems.

Performance Without a doubt, the Go + Play is the best-sounding portable iPod speaker system we've tested. Held up against systems such as the Altec Lansing iMT702, "="" rel="follow" target="_self">Logitech Pure-Fi Anywhere, the Go + Play blows them all away with greater power, incredibly deep lows, crisp highs and an overall sound quality better than most bookshelf speaker systems in the same price range. With 60 watts of power and an expertly tuned speaker enclosure, the Go + Play is loud enough to fill even the largest room in your house.

The Go + Play even held up well against small, nonportable, high-performance iPod speaker systems, such as the "="" data-link-text="Griffin Amplifi" data-asset-type="review" data-uuid="b24a8bb3-9d89-11e2-853d-0291187978f3" data-slug="griffin-amplifi-speaker-system-w-ipod-dock" rel="follow" target="_self">, and Kicker iK500, pumping out richer, louder sound and looking good while doing it, too. Specifically, the Go + Play offers better low end than the Bose SoundDock, more treble clarity than the Griffin Amplifi, and tighter (but no less dramatic) low frequency performance than the Kicker.

Are Harman Kardon speakers good?

If you're in the market for high-quality audio equipment, you may be wondering: is Harman Kardon good? The short answer is yes, Harman Kardon is a reputable brand that produces high-quality audio equipment. One of the reasons why Harman Kardon is so highly regarded is its commitment to quality.

What is the difference between Harman Kardon and JBL?

Side-by-Side ComparisonThe JBL has a better-balanced sound profile and better directivity. It can also get louder than the Harman/Kardon, it has more compression artifacts at max volume, and it has an outstanding battery life.

Is Harman Kardon under JBL?

HARMAN is the parent company behind an array of legendary brands that includes Harman Kardon®, JBL®, Mark Levinson®, AKG and Infinity Systems®. We are a leading global provider of premium audio and infotainment solutions, engaging customers around the home, in the car and on the go.

How long does Harman Kardon go play battery last?

Thanks to the rechargeable battery, you can enjoy up to 8 hours of playtime and charge your smartphones and tablets via USB. Wirelessly connect two Harman Kardon Wireless Dual Sound enabled speakers together to elevate your music listening experience.