Onyx Studio 7 vs 8 – Check Which One Is Best & Why?

Onyx Studio 8 & Onyx Studio 7 share many similarities, but there are also important differences, such as quality, performance, features, design, and connectivity. If you want the best one between them, I Would recommend the Onyx Studio 8 rather than the Onyx Studio 7. 

Table Of Contents hide
1 Why Do I Recommend The Onyx Studio 8?
2 Side By Side Comparison
3 What Common Both Can Do?
4 Common Features

Why Do I Recommend The Onyx Studio 8?  

  • The Harman Kardon Onyx Studio 8 has a 2.1-channel configuration with a dedicated woofer for deeper, more impactful bass response, whereas the Harman Kardon Onyx Studio 7 uses a 2.0-channel setup.
  • Harman Kardon Onyx Studio 8 features a slightly larger cabinet for enhanced acoustic resonance and fuller sound, while the Harman Kardon Onyx Studio 7 has a smaller housing that limits internal air volume and bass projection.
  • It supports multipoint pairing for seamless switching between two connected devices, whereas the Harman Kardon Onyx Studio 7 connects to only one device at a time.
  • The Harman Kardon Onyx Studio 8 includes automated room calibration to optimize sound for different environments, while the Harman Kardon Onyx Studio 7 lacks any adaptive audio adjustment.
  • Harman Kardon Onyx Studio 8 supports true wireless stereo pairing with another Studio 8 unit for a wider soundstage, while the Harman Kardon Onyx Studio 7 cannot pair wirelessly with another speaker.
  • It comes with dual microphones for clearer hands-free calls and better voice pickup, whereas the Harman Kardon Onyx Studio 7 uses a single microphone with less call clarity.
  • The Harman Kardon Onyx Studio 8 supports modern USB-C charging for faster and more convenient recharging, while the Harman Kardon Onyx Studio 7 has an older micro-USB charging design.
  • Harman Kardon Onyx Studio 8 features Bluetooth 5.2 for a more stable wireless connection and improved energy efficiency, while the Harman Kardon Onyx Studio 7 uses Bluetooth 4.2.

Maybe the Onyx Studio 7 price can make you comfortable because it’s a little bit cheaper than the Onyx Studio 8. But you have to compromise all the above-mentioned features. Now the Decision is Yours. I hope it was helpful to choose the right one.

Check Onyx Studio 8 Best Price

Check Onyx Studio 7 Best Price

Side By Side Comparison

FeatureOnyx Studio 8Onyx Studio 7
Bluetooth version5.24.2
Number of channels2.1 channels2.0 stereo
Speaker synchronization support (TWS)YesNo
Multipoint Bluetooth (connect two devices simultaneously)YesNo
Weight3,520 g3,300 g
Dimensions (HxWxD)275.8 × 312 × 163.8 mm268 × 302.5 × 159.5 mm
Color variantsBlack, Blue, ChampagneBlack, Gray, Blue
Handle / frame designUpdated ring handle / strap stylingAnodized aluminum handle older style
Built-in microphones for speakerphone / callsDual micsLess advanced / fewer mics
Automated room calibration / sound adaptationYesNo
Latency (Bluetooth / video sync)Higher latencySlightly lower / less data reported
Material / build finishPlastic + updated aesthetic touchesPlastic + older finish touches
Added feature set (key features)More modern connectivity & featuresSimpler/basic version of features
PriceCheck Onyx Studio 8 PriceCheck Onyx Studio 7 Price

What Common Both Can Do?

  • Wireless Type: Both models use Bluetooth connectivity, allowing easy pairing with smartphones, tablets, and laptops without cables. This makes them versatile for indoor or outdoor use.
  • Output Power: Each speaker delivers 50 watts of total power, providing ample volume for medium to large rooms or outdoor gatherings without distortion.
  • Frequency Response: Both cover a range of 50 Hz to 20 kHz, ensuring deep bass and crisp treble for balanced, full-spectrum sound.
  • Woofer Size: Each features a 120 mm woofer, producing rich low-end frequencies that enhance music genres like hip-hop, EDM, and rock.
  • Tweeter Quantity: Both include two tweeters, which handle high frequencies to maintain clarity and detail in vocals and instruments.
  • Portable Design: Each speaker has a built-in handle and compact form, making them convenient to carry for parties, picnics, or room-to-room moves.
  • Rechargeable Battery: Both operate on an internal battery, so you can play music wirelessly without needing a constant power source.
  • Battery Capacity: Each contains a 3,250 mAh battery, giving a reliable power reserve for extended listening sessions away from an outlet.
  • Playback Time: Both offer up to 8 hours of playback, which is suitable for a full day of casual listening or an evening event.
  • Charging Time: Each requires roughly 5 hours to fully recharge, allowing for predictable charging schedules and quick turnaround between uses.
  • Built-in Amplifier: Both have an internal amplifier that drives the speakers efficiently, eliminating the need for external equipment.
  • Passive Bass Radiator: Each uses passive radiators to enhance low-frequency performance, creating deeper bass without additional power draw.
  • Integrated Handle: Both include a sturdy handle integrated into the frame, ensuring easy one-hand transport and secure placement.
  • 3.5 mm Aux Input: Each provides an auxiliary input for wired playback from devices that don’t support Bluetooth or when a stable wired connection is preferred.
  • USB-C Charging Port: Both use a USB-C port for charging, offering faster and more universal charging compared to older micro-USB connectors.
  • Speakerphone Capability: Both include a microphone for hands-free calls, letting you take calls directly through the speaker during music playback.
  • DSP (Digital Signal Processing): Each model uses digital signal processing to maintain balanced audio output and reduce distortion across different volume levels.

Check Onyx Studio 8 Best Price

Check Onyx Studio 7 Best Price

Common Features

FeatureOnyx Studio 8Onyx Studio 7
Wireless TypeBluetoothBluetooth
Output Power50 W50 W
Frequency Response50 Hz – 20 kHz50 Hz – 20 kHz
Woofer Size120 mm120 mm
Tweeter Quantity2 tweeters2 tweeters
Portable DesignYesYes
Rechargeable BatteryYesYes
Battery Capacity3,250 mAh3,250 mAh
Playback TimeUp to 8 hoursUp to 8 hours
Charging TimeAbout 5 hoursAbout 5 hours
Built-in AmplifierYesYes
Passive Bass RadiatorYesYes
Integrated HandleYesYes
3.5 mm Aux InputYesYes
USB-C Charging PortYesYes
Speakerphone CapabilityYesYes
DSP (Digital Signal Processing)YesYes
Price Check Onyx Studio 8 Price Check Onyx Studio 7 Price

FAQ

Is the Harman Kardon Onyx Studio 8 louder than the Onyx Studio 7?
Both speakers deliver the same rated output of 50 watts, so overall loudness is essentially equal. However, the Onyx Studio 8’s updated tuning and 2.1-channel configuration can create a slightly fuller sound at the same volume.

Do both speakers have the same battery life?
Yes, each model is rated for up to 8 hours of continuous playback on a full charge, making them equally suited for a full day or evening of music without plugging in.

Can I pair two speakers together for stereo sound?
The Onyx Studio 8 supports true wireless stereo pairing with another Studio 8 unit, while the Onyx Studio 7 does not natively support this feature.

Are the dimensions and weight different between the two models?
The Studio 8 is slightly larger and heavier at about 3.52 kg compared to the Studio 7’s 3.3 kg, but both remain portable and easy to carry using their integrated handles.

Do they both have Bluetooth connectivity?
Yes, both rely on Bluetooth for wireless streaming, though the Studio 8 uses Bluetooth 5.2 for more stable connections and lower power consumption, whereas the Studio 7 uses Bluetooth 4.2.

Is the sound quality noticeably different?
While both provide rich Harman Kardon audio, the Studio 8’s 2.1-channel design and room calibration feature give it a slightly more spacious and balanced sound compared to the Studio 7.

Do they include an auxiliary input?
Yes, each model offers a 3.5 mm aux port for wired playback from devices that don’t have Bluetooth or when a wired connection is preferred.

How long does it take to charge each speaker?
Both the Onyx Studio 8 and Onyx Studio 7 require roughly 5 hours to reach a full charge using their USB-C charging ports.

Are these speakers waterproof or dustproof?
Neither model carries an official IP rating, so they are not designed to be water-resistant or dustproof. Care should be taken to keep them dry and clean.

Can I use them as a speakerphone?
Yes, both models include built-in microphones for hands-free calling, letting you take or make calls directly through the speaker when paired with a phone.

Do they support multipoint Bluetooth connections?
Only the Onyx Studio 8 supports multipoint, which allows two devices to stay connected at once. The Studio 7 can only maintain one active Bluetooth connection at a time.

Is there a difference in charging ports?
Both use modern USB-C charging ports, ensuring convenient and faster charging compared to older micro-USB standards.

Can the speakers be used while charging?
Yes, both can play music while plugged in and charging, so you can continue listening even when the battery is low.

Are the materials and finish similar?
Both have a fabric-covered front grille with a sturdy metal handle, giving them a premium look and durability suitable for home or portable use.

Do they come in multiple colors?
Each model is available in several color options. The Studio 8 is commonly sold in black, blue, and champagne, while the Studio 7 is typically found in black, blue, and gray, depending on the region.

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