The JBL Flip series has made a name for itself in the world of portable Bluetooth speakers, thanks to their powerful sound and rugged design. If you own both the JBL Flip 4 and Flip 5, you might be wondering how to connect these two speakers to create an immersive audio experience. Although these speakers share a lot of similarities, connecting them can be tricky if you’re not familiar with the process. In this article, we’ll explore how to connect JBL Flip 5 and Flip 4, highlighting essential features, tips, and troubleshooting methods to enhance your Bluetooth experience.
Understanding the JBL Flip Series
Before diving into the connection process, it’s crucial to understand what makes the JBL Flip 4 and Flip 5 so popular among audio enthusiasts.
Key Features of JBL Flip 4
The JBL Flip 4 was released back in early 2017 and remains a beloved choice for many. Here are some of its standout features:
- Battery Life: 12 hours of playtime.
- Waterproof Rating: IPX7, making it suitable for poolside lounging.
- Dual Passive Radiators: Enhanced bass performance.
- Voice Assistant Integration: Compatible with Siri and Google Assistant.
Key Features of JBL Flip 5
The JBL Flip 5, released in 2019, brought even more exciting features to the table:
- Improved Battery Life: 12 hours of playtime with a larger 4800mAh battery.
- Waterproof Rating: IPX7 keeps it safe from splashes and spills.
- PartyBoost Feature: Allows you to connect two JBL PartyBoost-compatible speakers for a larger sound stage.
Understanding these features will help you leverage the full potential of both devices when connecting them.
Pre-Connection Considerations
Before attempting to connect the JBL Flip 4 and Flip 5, a few preliminary checks will enhance your chances of a smooth connection.
Ensuring Software Updates
Both speakers may require the latest firmware to ensure compatibility and improve overall performance. Here’s how to verify:
- Download the JBL Connect app on your smartphone.
- Pair your speaker with the app to check for firmware updates.
Understanding Connection Limits
The JBL Flip 4 and Flip 5 can be connected to multiple devices, but you can only connect them together if they are using compatible Bluetooth technologies. The Flip 4 uses JBL Connect, while the Flip 5 features JBL PartyBoost. Unfortunately, these two technologies do not support multi-speaker pairing.
Steps to Connect JBL Flip 5 and Flip 4
As previously mentioned, the JBL Flip 4 and Flip 5 do not have direct compatibility for pairing with each other. However, you can connect them to the same audio source, such as your smartphone, enabling you to play music on both; here’s how:
Step 1: Prepare Your Speakers
To prepare both the Flip 4 and Flip 5 for connection, follow these steps:
Step 2: Connect to Your Smartphone
To stream audio from your smartphone to both speakers:
- Open the Bluetooth settings on your smartphone.
- Look for “JBL Flip 4″ and tap to connect.
- Repeat the process for “JBL Flip 5″.
Make sure that both devices are discoverable when attempting to connect.
Step 3: Adjusting Sound Settings
Once connected, you may want to utilize your phone’s audio settings to adjust volume levels so that both speakers emit sound evenly. This often involves:
Using the Speakers in Tandem
Although the JBL Flip 4 and Flip 5 cannot connect directly, using them simultaneously is still quite effective. Here are some tips to optimize your experience:
Positioning Your Speakers
To ensure that the sound travels evenly across the environment, consider the following:
- Place the speakers at equal distances from your listening point.
- Avoid placing them in corners or against walls, which can produce uneven sound.
Volume Synchronization
When playing music from your phone to both speakers, it’s essential to maintain volume consistency. Inconsistent volume levels can drastically affect your listening experience.
Troubleshooting Common Connection Issues
Even with a solid understanding of how to connect your JBL Flip 4 and Flip 5, issues can arise. Here are some common problems and their solutions:
Connection Failure
If you experience difficulties in connecting, try these steps:
Restart Devices: Turn off both speakers and your smartphone. Wait a moment before restarting them to refresh the Bluetooth connection.
Audio Desynchronization
If audio from the speakers seems out of sync, here’s what to do:
Reset Your Speakers: A factory reset can help resolve syncing issues.
Poor Sound Quality
If you notice a decrease in sound quality:
Check your source: Ensure that the audio file is of high quality and isn’t compressed too much. Adjust volume settings, as exceeding the maximum limits can distort sound quality.
Alternative Options for Multi-Speaker Setup
If you’re looking for a dedicated multi-speaker setup, consider investing in options that can easily interconnect. The JBL Xtreme series or the newer Flip 6 offers seamless connectivity with JBL’s PartyBoost feature.
Advantages of Upgrading to Compatible Models
If music is a significant part of your life and you regularly use multiple speakers, upgrading to models that support PartyBoost might be worthwhile for the following reasons:
- Improved Audio Experience: Pairing multiple PartyBoost-compatible speakers can deliver an immersive sound experience.
- Flexible Setup: Easily connect and switch between which speakers you want to use together.
In Conclusion
While connecting the JBL Flip 5 and Flip 4 isn’t as straightforward as simply syncing them together, you can still enjoy simultaneous audio playback with a little creativity. Follow the steps outlined in this guide to enhance your listening experience. By understanding the strengths of each model and optimizing your setup, you can enjoy music in a dynamic way, even if they can’t directly link up.
By closely following these guidelines, you will create an engaging and enriched listening experience that leverages the best of both the JBL Flip models. Music is at its best when shared, and with JBL speakers, you can elevate that experience to new heights.
What are the main differences between JBL Flip 5 and Flip 4?
The JBL Flip 5 and Flip 4 are both portable Bluetooth speakers, but they differ in several key areas. The Flip 5 features an improved design with a fabric-covered exterior and a more robust passive bass radiator. It is equipped with a 4800mAh battery, providing up to 12 hours of playtime, compared to the Flip 4’s 3000mAh battery, which allows for about 12 hours as well, but typically results in less overall output power.
Additionally, the Flip 5 has updated sound quality due to its racetrack-shaped driver. This new driver setup enhances the overall listening experience, delivering better bass and higher volume levels without distortion. The Flip 4, while still a solid performer, has a more traditional shape and sound profile, leaving aficionados of audio quality to appreciate the advancements made in the Flip 5.
Can I connect JBL Flip 5 and Flip 4 together?
Unfortunately, you cannot directly connect the JBL Flip 5 and Flip 4 together using the JBL Connect feature. JBL Connect, which allows multiple JBL speakers to link up for synchronized audio playback, is not compatible between these two models. While both speakers support Bluetooth connectivity, their technology is not designed to work in conjunction with one another.
However, if you are looking to enjoy music from both speakers at the same time, you could theoretically connect each of them to the same Bluetooth device. Keep in mind that this method could lead to a slight delay in sound from one of the speakers. Therefore, syncing them will not be as seamless as connecting compatible models.
How do I pair my JBL Flip 5 and Flip 4 with my device?
To pair your JBL Flip 5 or Flip 4 with your device, first ensure that the speakers are charged. Once they are powered on, enable Bluetooth on your phone or tablet. Press and hold the Bluetooth button on either speaker until you see the indicator light start to flash, signaling that it’s in pairing mode.
Next, on your device, search for available Bluetooth devices. You should see “JBL Flip 5” or “JBL Flip 4” appear in the list. Tap on the speaker name to connect. Once they are successfully paired, the Bluetooth indicator light on the speaker will become solid. You can now enjoy your favorite music.
What is the battery life of JBL Flip 5 and Flip 4?
Both the JBL Flip 5 and Flip 4 boast impressive battery life, allowing users to enjoy hours of uninterrupted music. The Flip 5 has a built-in 4800mAh battery, providing up to 12 hours of playback time on average. This means you can enjoy a full day of music for gatherings, trips, or simply lounging at home without worrying about frequent recharging.
The JBL Flip 4 is equipped with a smaller 3000mAh battery, also offering up to 12 hours of playtime under optimal conditions. However, actual battery life may depend on usage, volume levels, and the type of music being played. Both speakers feature an efficient battery management system to optimize performance, but the Flip 5 generally offers better longevity due to its newer design and battery technology.
Can I use the JBL Flip 5 while it is charging?
Yes, you can use the JBL Flip 5 while it is charging. The design allows for continuous music playback even when plugged in, which is particularly useful during long listening sessions or parties. Simply connect the speaker to a power source using the included USB-C cable and enjoy your music without interruption.
However, it’s worth noting that using the speaker while charging may prolong the time it takes to reach a full charge. If you’re looking to maximize battery life, it is advisable to use the speaker until it is fully charged before unplugging it for portable use. Nonetheless, the convenience of simultaneous charging and usage can be beneficial in many situations.
Is the JBL Flip 5 water-resistant like the Flip 4?
Yes, the JBL Flip 5 is water-resistant, just like its predecessor, the Flip 4. Both models come with an IPX7 rating, meaning they can withstand immersion in water up to a depth of 1 meter for up to 30 minutes. This feature makes them suitable for outdoor use, allowing you to take your music to the beach, by the pool, or during a rainy day without fear of damaging the speaker.
Though both models are water-resistant, it’s essential to note that they should not be completely submerged for extended periods, and they should not be exposed to saltwater or chlorinated water. Proper care ensures that your speaker will last longer and maintain optimal audio quality while resisting potential water damage.
How do I reset my JBL Flip 5 or Flip 4?
If you encounter connectivity issues or other performance problems with your JBL Flip 5 or Flip 4, resetting the speaker can often resolve these issues. To reset your speaker, first, ensure it is powered on. For both models, press and hold the Volume Up and Play buttons simultaneously for about 10 seconds until you see the power button light flash, indicating that the reset process has started.
Once the reset is completed, the speaker will turn off automatically. You can then power it back on and reconnect it to your device. This process will restore factory settings, clearing any previously paired devices and allowing you to start fresh with a new Bluetooth connection. It’s a simple and effective solution for resolving many common problems.