How To Connect Multiple JBL Speakers Together?

Understanding JBL’s Multi-Speaker Technologies

JBL has introduced several technologies over the years to enable multi-speaker connectivity. The main ones are:

JBL Connect+

JBL Connect+ is an older technology that allows you to connect up to 100 compatible JBL speakers. Speakers with Connect+ can only pair with other Connect+ speakers.

JBL PartyBoost

PartyBoost is the newer technology, replacing Connect+. It offers improved Bluetooth connection between speakers and allows for a more powerful Bluetooth transmitter, meaning speakers can be placed farther apart. PartyBoost speakers can only connect to other PartyBoost speakers.

JBL TWS (True Wireless Stereo)

TWS is used in some JBL models to create a stereo pair between two identical speakers.

JBL Auracast

Auracast is the latest technology introduced by JBL, allowing for even more advanced multi-speaker setups.

Compatible JBL Speaker Models

Before attempting to connect multiple speakers, it’s crucial to know which models are compatible with each other. Here’s a breakdown of some popular JBL speakers and their compatibility:

JBL Connect+ Compatible Speakers:

• JBL Flip 4
• JBL Charge 3
• JBL Charge 4
• JBL Xtreme 2
• JBL Pulse 3
• JBL Boombox (first generation)

JBL PartyBoost Compatible Speakers:

• JBL Flip 5
• JBL Flip 6
• JBL Charge 5
• JBL Pulse 4
• JBL Pulse 5
• JBL Xtreme 3
• JBL Boombox 2
• JBL Boombox 3

JBL Auracast Compatible Speakers:

• JBL Xtreme 4
• JBL PartyBox 120
• JBL PartyBox 320
• JBL PartyBox Ultimate
• JBL Go 4
• JBL Clip 5

It’s important to note that speakers from different technology groups (e.g., Connect+ and PartyBoost) cannot be connected together.

How to Connect Multiple JBL Speakers

The process of connecting multiple JBL speakers may vary slightly depending on the technology used, but the general steps are similar. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Power On Your Speakers

Turn on all the JBL speakers you want to connect. Ensure they are fully charged or connected to a power source to avoid interruptions during the pairing process.

Step 2: Connect to Your Primary Speaker

Using your smartphone, tablet, or other source device, connect to the primary JBL speaker via Bluetooth. This speaker will serve as the main device for controlling audio playback and managing connections to other speakers.

Step 3: Activate Connect+ or PartyBoost

Once connected to your primary speaker, activate the Connect+ or PartyBoost feature by pressing the corresponding button on the speaker. The button is usually represented by an icon with multiple speaker symbols. The primary speaker will enter pairing mode, and its LED indicator will start blinking.

Step 4: Connect Additional Speakers

Power on the additional JBL speakers you wish to pair and press the Connect+ or PartyBoost button on each of them. The LED indicators on these speakers will also start blinking, and they will automatically connect to the primary speaker. Once connected, the LED indicators will become solid, and the audio playback will synchronize across all speakers.

Step 5: Enjoy Your Enhanced Audio Experience

Once all speakers are connected, you can control the audio playback from your source device. The music will play simultaneously through all connected speakers, creating a more immersive sound experience.

Using the JBL Portable App

While not necessary for connecting speakers, the JBL Portable app (formerly known as the JBL Connect app) can provide additional features and an alternative method for connecting speakers:

1. Download and open the JBL Portable app from the App Store or Google Play Store.
2. The app will detect the speaker you’re connected to.
3. Press the connect button for all the speakers you want to connect.
4. Within 30 seconds, all speakers will be connected and visible in your JBL Portable app.
5. If you have connected two speakers and want stereo sound, select this in the app. Then one speaker plays the left side and the other the right side. For all speakers to play exactly the same, select Party mode.

Connecting JBL PartyBoost Speakers in Stereo Mode

For an even more immersive experience, you can set up two identical PartyBoost speakers in stereo mode:

1. Turn on both speakers.
2. Connect your device to one of the two speakers via Bluetooth.
3. Start streaming music to that speaker (for best results, play music on this speaker for more than 20 seconds before proceeding).
4. Open the JBL Portable app.
5. Allow the app to detect the single speaker playing music.
6. Once detected, press the Connect/PartyBoost button on both speakers.
7. Allow the app to identify both speakers.
8. Click the PartyBoost button, you will see the option for Party or Stereo, select Stereo.

Note that Stereo Mode can only be enabled when 2 of the same speaker model are used. For example, you will not be able to achieve Stereo Mode with a Flip 5 and Flip 6, only Party Mode.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with a straightforward process, you might encounter some issues when trying to connect multiple JBL speakers. Here are some common problems and their solutions:

Speakers Won’t Connect

If your speakers aren’t connecting, try these steps:

1. Ensure all speakers are compatible (either all Connect+ or all PartyBoost).
2. Make sure all speakers are sufficiently charged.
3. Try moving the speakers closer together.
4. Restart all speakers and your source device.
5. Forget the Bluetooth connection on your source device and re-pair.

Audio Cuts Out or Distorts

If you’re experiencing audio issues:

1. Move the audio source closer to the speakers.
2. Move the speakers closer to each other.
3. Ensure the streaming speaker (host) only connects to one audio source.
4. Make sure the audio source only connects with one streaming speaker (host).
5. Keep speakers away from other sources of wireless signals to avoid interference.

JBL Speaker Won’t Turn On

If your JBL speaker won’t turn on:

1. Ensure the speaker is charged.
2. Check the charger and cable.
3. Perform a soft reset by holding the Power button for about 10 seconds.
4. If all else fails, try a factory reset (the method varies by model).

Advanced Tips for Optimal Performance

To get the most out of your multi-speaker JBL setup, consider these advanced tips:

1. Speaker Placement: Experiment with different speaker placements to find the optimal sound distribution for your space.
2. Volume Control: Remember that you can adjust individual speaker volumes for a customized sound experience.
3. Battery Management: For outdoor events, consider keeping some speakers plugged in while others run on battery to extend playtime.
4. Firmware Updates: Regularly check for and install firmware updates for your JBL speakers to ensure optimal performance and compatibility.
5. Mix and Match: While you can’t mix Connect+ and PartyBoost speakers, you can create interesting setups with different models within the same technology group.

Limitations and Considerations

While connecting multiple JBL speakers can greatly enhance your audio experience, there are some limitations to keep in mind:

1. Compatibility: As mentioned earlier, speakers from different technology groups cannot be connected together. Always check compatibility before purchasing additional speakers.
2. Latency: In some cases, you might experience slight audio delays, especially when connecting a large number of speakers.
3. Range: While PartyBoost offers improved range over Connect+, there’s still a limit to how far apart speakers can be placed.
4. Battery Life: Running multiple speakers simultaneously will drain their batteries faster. Consider this when planning for longer events.
5. Device Compatibility: Some users have reported issues with connecting PartyBoost speakers to devices other than smartphones, such as TVs or laptops.

Future of JBL Multi-Speaker Technology

JBL continues to innovate in the field of wireless audio. The introduction of Auracast technology in newer models like the JBL Xtreme 4 and PartyBox series suggests a trend towards even more advanced multi-speaker setups. As technology evolves, we can expect to see improvements in connection stability, audio synchronization, and perhaps even cross-compatibility between different speaker lines.

Conclusion

Connecting multiple JBL speakers is a fantastic way to amplify your audio experience, whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying music in your backyard, or creating a surround sound setup in your home. By understanding the different technologies, knowing which models are compatible, and following the steps outlined in this guide, you can create an impressive multi-speaker system with ease.

Remember to keep your speakers updated, experiment with different setups, and don’t hesitate to use the JBL Portable app for additional features and control. With a little patience and the right know-how, you’ll be enjoying your expanded JBL sound system in no time.

Whether you’re a casual listener or an audiophile, the ability to connect multiple JBL speakers opens up a world of possibilities for your audio setup. So go ahead, connect those speakers, and immerse yourself in the rich, full sound that only a multi-speaker system can provide.