Harman Kardon HKOS9BLKAM
Harman Kardon Onyx Studio 9 User Manual
Your guide to setting up, operating, and maintaining your Harman Kardon Onyx Studio 9 portable stereo Bluetooth home speaker.
Product Overview
The Harman Kardon Onyx Studio 9 is a portable stereo Bluetooth home speaker designed to deliver superior audio performance with crystal-clear vocals, bright highs, and deep bass. It features a built-in battery for portability, automatic self-tuning, and multi-speaker connection capabilities.

Figure 1: Front view of the Harman Kardon Onyx Studio 9 speaker.
Key Features
- Bluetooth Music Streaming: Seamlessly pairs with up to two mobile devices simultaneously.
- Built-in Battery: Offers up to 8 hours of playtime for portability.
- Self-Tuning: Automatically calibrates to its environment for optimal sound performance.
- Multi-Speaker Connection (Auracast): Wirelessly connect two Onyx Studio 9 speakers for a wider, more detailed soundstage.
- USB Charging Port: Recharges your mobile device while you enjoy music.
- Harman Kardon One App: Facilitates setup, audio personalization, EQ customization, and control of compatible speakers.
What's in the Box
Upon unboxing your Harman Kardon Onyx Studio 9, you should find the following items:
- 1 x Harman Kardon Onyx Studio 9 Speaker
- 1 x Power Cable
- 1 x Quick Start Guide
- 1 x Safety Sheet
- 1 x Warranty Card

Figure 2: The Harman Kardon Onyx Studio 9 and its included components.
Setup
Initial Charging
Before first use, fully charge your Onyx Studio 9 speaker using the provided power cable. The charging port is located on the back of the device.

Figure 3: Rear view of the speaker, highlighting the power and USB charging ports.
Power On/Off
To power on or off the speaker, press and hold the power button located on the top edge of the speaker.
Bluetooth Pairing
The Onyx Studio 9 automatically enters Bluetooth pairing mode when turned on for the first time. The front LED will blink blue to indicate pairing mode. To manually enter pairing mode, press the Bluetooth button on the top edge of the speaker.
- Turn on your Harman Kardon Onyx Studio 9.
- On your mobile device, enable Bluetooth and search for available devices.
- Select "ONYX STUDIO 9" from the list of devices to pair.
- Once connected, the LED indicator will turn solid blue.

Figure 4: Close-up of the top panel with power and Bluetooth buttons.
Video 1: Official product video demonstrating features, setup, and multi-speaker connection for the Harman Kardon Onyx Studio 9.
Operating Your Speaker
Basic Controls
The Onyx Studio 9 features intuitive touch controls on its top surface for managing playback and volume:
- Power Button: Press and hold to turn on/off.
- Bluetooth Button: Press to enter Bluetooth pairing mode.
- Volume Up (+): Tap to increase volume.
- Volume Down (-): Tap to decrease volume.
- Play/Pause: Tap the play/pause button (if present, typically between volume controls) to control music playback.
Automatic Self-Tuning
The Onyx Studio 9 is equipped with an automatic self-tuning feature. This allows the speaker to analyze its surroundings, including walls and windows, and optimize its sound output for the best possible audio experience in any room. This feature activates automatically when the speaker is powered on, requiring no manual calibration.
Multi-Speaker Connection (Auracast)
For an enhanced audio experience, you can wirelessly connect two Harman Kardon Onyx Studio 9 speakers to create a wider, more immersive stereo soundstage. This is achieved using Auracast technology.
- Ensure both Onyx Studio 9 speakers are powered on.
- Connect one speaker to your mobile device via Bluetooth (this will be your primary speaker).
- On the primary speaker, press the Auracast button (typically a unique icon, refer to your Quick Start Guide for exact location).
- On the second speaker, press its Auracast button.
- The speakers will automatically connect, and audio will play through both, creating a stereo pair.
You can also manage multi-speaker connections using the Harman Kardon One App for more advanced control and settings.
Maintenance
Proper maintenance ensures the longevity and optimal performance of your Harman Kardon Onyx Studio 9 speaker.
- Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the speaker's exterior. Avoid using abrasive cleaners, solvents, or sprays directly on the speaker.
- Storage: When not in use for extended periods, store the speaker in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
- Battery Care: To prolong battery life, avoid fully discharging the battery frequently. Charge the speaker regularly, even if not in constant use.
- Avoid Water Exposure: The speaker is not waterproof. Keep it away from liquids and moisture to prevent damage.
Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your Harman Kardon Onyx Studio 9, refer to the following common troubleshooting steps:
| Problem | Possible Solution |
|---|---|
| Speaker does not power on. | Ensure the battery is charged. Connect the power cable and try again. |
| Cannot pair via Bluetooth. | Make sure the speaker is in pairing mode (blue LED blinking). Ensure Bluetooth is enabled on your device and it's within range. Try forgetting the device on your phone and re-pairing. |
| Poor sound quality or distortion. | Check the volume levels on both the speaker and your connected device. Ensure there are no obstructions between the speaker and your device. Try moving the speaker to a different location to allow self-tuning to re-optimize. |
| Cannot connect multiple speakers. | Ensure both speakers are Onyx Studio 9 models and are powered on. Follow the Auracast pairing instructions carefully. If using the app, ensure the primary speaker is connected and added to the app. |
Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model Name | HK Onyx Studio 9 |
| Speaker Type | Portable Speaker |
| Product Dimensions | 5.12"D x 11.39"W x 11.32"H |
| Item Weight | 9.39 pounds |
| Connectivity Technology | Bluetooth, USB |
| Wireless Communication Technology | Bluetooth |
| Battery Life | 8 Hours |
| Power Source | Battery Powered |
| Speaker Maximum Output Power | 50 Watts |
| Audio Output Mode | Stereo |
| Manufacturer | Harman Kardon |
| Country of Origin | China |
| Date First Available | February 10, 2025 |
Warranty Information
The Harman Kardon Onyx Studio 9 comes with a Limited Warranty. Please refer to the included Warranty Card in your product packaging for detailed terms and conditions, including coverage period and claims process.
Customer Support
For further assistance, technical support, or service inquiries regarding your Harman Kardon Onyx Studio 9, please visit the official Harman Kardon website or contact their customer support line. Contact information can typically be found on the Harman Kardon website or in your Quick Start Guide.
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