Harmon Kardon Aura Studio 3 Wins 2020 iF Design Award

It’s hard to believe it was twenty years ago when Apple and Harman Kardon unveiled the Apple iSub 2000 Subwoofer and SoundSticks, a 2 speaker + 1 sub desktop audio accessory designed by Jonathan Ive. The weirdly bio-organic transparent audio system was imagined as a sidekick to Ive’s other transparent computing system, ideally flanking the clear polycarbonate detailing of the G4 Cube and the Apple Cinema Display. One of the memorable examples Apple’s more daring comeback years, the design eventually earned entry into MoMA’s collection.

Fast forward two decades to today and we see the progeny of Ive’s original transparent domed jellyfish-like design, the Harman Kardon Aura Studio 3, looks less the part of creature and more like an object designed to contain one within.

The refined domed design earned itself a 2020 iF Design Award in the product design category.

The water wave ripple grill is mirrored by LED light, adding a mesmerizing glowing ambient display to accompany music.

The nearly 8 lb Aura Studio 3 forgoes the need for additional satellite speakers for an all-in-one, 360-degrees Bluetooth speaker design not dissimilar to its closest counterpart, the Apple Homepod. A booming 100-watt amp drives the speakers lower end muscle, while the midrange is represented by two 15W amplifiers.

The Harman Kardon Aura Studio 3 is currently available for pre-order for $300. For more speaker options, visit the Design Milk Shop here!