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Harman has just unsheathed its reference soundbar: the Citation Multibeam 1100. 3D audio virtualization, support for Atmos/DTS:X streams, automatic acoustic calibration and access to voice assistants are combined in this all-in-one bar.
The all-new Citation Multibeam 1100 follows on from the Citation Multibeam 700 and is now positioned as Harman/Kardon’s highest-end offering in the soundbar universe. It generally shares the same refined design with Kvadrat fabric and certain characteristics with its predecessor, but still shows many developments, particularly in terms of sound reproduction.
Despite its pretensions and its “all-in-one” design, the soundbar retains relatively contained proportions (115 x 6.5 x 3 cm). © Harman/Kardon
The Citation Multibeam 1100 indeed beefs up its game with the presence of 11 speakers (compared to seven on the 700), two of which are specifically dedicated to the reproduction of height channels, to best reproduce Dolby Atmos / DTS:X content. The Multibeam virtual spatialization as well as an automatic acoustic calibration function are once again present. The integrated PureVoice function guarantees maximum dialogue intelligibility, whatever the listening volume or the scene. The manufacturer does not explain whether it is a mode that can be activated at will or not disengaged.
In addition to the two 70mm drivers on the top side, the Citation Multibeam 1100 houses six 55 x 90mm “Racetrack” drivers as well as three 2.5mm tweeters. A Harman Sub or Sub S subwoofer can be added to the configuration, but for a far from negligible additional cost. © Harman/Kardon
In terms of connectivity and features, the Citation Multibeam 1100 is not the most stingy. The Harman/Kardon soundbar provides an HDMI input (Dolby Vision, HDR10 pass-through), an HDMI eARC port and an optical input, supplemented wirelessly by Bluetooth and wifi. The latter allows it to offer a fairly wide range of connected features: support for Chromecast, AirPlay, Alexa “Multi-Room Music”, access to audio streaming services and multiroom, interaction with Google Assistant voice assistants and Amazon Alexa…
Interaction with the soundbar can be done via its built-in touch panel or the included remote control. © Harman/Kardon
The Harman/Kardon Citation Multibeam 1100 is now available in two colors (grey or black) and is marketed right under the 1000 € mark, in direct competition with many other soundbars such as the Sonos Arc or the very latest Panorama 3 from Bowers & Wilkins.