Audio Excellence Battle: Google Nest Audio vs Harman Kardon Citation One – Which Delivers the Best Sound?

The battle for audio supremacy has reached new heights with the Google Nest Audio and Harman Kardon Citation One taking center stage. Both devices boast impressive features and promise an immersive listening experience. But which one reigns supreme? Let’s dive into a detailed comparison to uncover their strengths and weaknesses.

Sound Quality:

Google Nest Audio:

• Boasts a powerful 75mm woofer and 19mm tweeter
• Delivers a balanced and clear sound with rich bass and crisp highs
• Ideal for filling small- to medium-sized rooms with music, podcasts, and more

Harman Kardon Citation One:

• Features a 40mm woofer and two 20mm tweeters
• Produces a wider soundstage with enhanced clarity and detail
• Offers a more immersive experience, especially for music with complex arrangements

Design and Aesthetics:

Google Nest Audio:

• Sleek and minimalist design with a fabric cover
• Available in four colors: Charcoal, Chalk, Sand, and Sky
• Compact size makes it easy to place on shelves or countertops

Harman Kardon Citation One:

• Premium design with a wool blend fabric cover
• Features a distinctive hourglass shape
• Available in three colors: Black, Gray, and Blue
• Larger size and more substantial weight

Connectivity:

Google Nest Audio:

• Supports Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Chromecast
• Seamless integration with Google Assistant for voice control
• Works as a multi-room speaker with other Google Home devices

Harman Kardon Citation One:

• Supports Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and AirPlay 2
• Compatible with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa
• Offers a multi-room system with other Harman Kardon Citation speakers

Smart Features:

Google Nest Audio:

• Built-in Google Assistant for voice commands
• Can control smart home devices, play music, set alarms, and more
• Supports voice recognition and personalized recommendations

Harman Kardon Citation One:

• Integrated Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa
• Offers voice control for music playback, smart home management, and more
• Allows for multiple voice profiles and shared access

Price and Value:

Google Nest Audio:

• Priced around $99.99
• Offers excellent value for its sound quality, features, and integration with Google Assistant

Harman Kardon Citation One:

• Priced around $199.99
• Provides premium sound quality, design, and a wider range of connectivity options
• May be a better choice for audiophiles and those seeking a more immersive experience

Which One is Right for You?

The Google Nest Audio is an excellent choice for those seeking a compact, affordable smart speaker with balanced sound and seamless integration with Google Assistant. The Harman Kardon Citation One, on the other hand, is ideal for audio enthusiasts who prioritize premium sound quality, a wider soundstage, and a more versatile connectivity suite.

The Verdict:

Both the Google Nest Audio and Harman Kardon Citation One offer unique strengths. The Nest Audio provides an excellent value with its balanced sound and smart features, while the Citation One delivers an immersive audio experience with its premium design and wider connectivity options. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual preferences and budget.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Which speaker has better bass response?
A: The Harman Kardon Citation One has a more powerful woofer and delivers a deeper bass response.

Q: Can I use both speakers together for stereo sound?
A: No, the Google Nest Audio and Harman Kardon Citation One cannot be paired for stereo sound.

Q: Which speaker is more portable?
A: The Google Nest Audio is more portable due to its smaller size and lighter weight.

Q: Does the Citation One support high-resolution audio?
A: Yes, the Harman Kardon Citation One supports high-resolution audio up to 24-bit/96kHz.

Q: Can I connect my turntable to either speaker?
A: No, neither the Google Nest Audio nor Harman Kardon Citation One has an auxiliary input for connecting a turntable.