Ever tried to crank up the sound for a backyard hangout or movie night and thought, “One speaker just isn’t cutting it”? Figuring out how to connect two JBL speakers can make a world of difference and luckily, it’s not as complicated as it might seem.
Whether you’re using JBL Connect+ or PartyBoost, pairing JBL Bluetooth speakers is pretty straightforward once you know what buttons to press and in what order. I’ve walked through this setup more times than I can count helping friends link their Flip 5s or setting up dual Clip 4s for a road trip playlist and it’s one of those things that’s easy once someone breaks it down for you.
In this guide, I’ll show you exactly how to pair JBL speakers step by step, avoid the common mistakes, and make sure you get the most out of your setup no tech background needed. So if you’re ready to level up your sound without the hassle, you’re in the right place.
If you’re working with a different brand, here’s a step-by-step guide on how to pair a Bose speaker.
JBL Connect+ vs PartyBoost: What’s the Difference?
Before you connect two JBL speakers, it’s important to know which pairing technology they use: JBL Connect+ or JBL PartyBoost. They sound similar, but they don’t work together.
Here’s the quick breakdown:
- JBL Connect+ is found in older models like the Flip 4, Charge 3, and Pulse 3. It lets you pair up to 100 speakers with the same feature.
- JBL PartyBoost is used in newer models like the Flip 5, Clip 4, Charge 5, and Pulse 4. It offers stronger connectivity and better syncing.
Important: You can’t pair Connect+ and PartyBoost speakers together. Both speakers must use the same technology to work.
How to check which one you have:
- Look for a Connect+ or PartyBoost button on the speaker (usually near the Bluetooth or volume controls).
- Not sure? Check the user manual or look up your model on JBL’s website.
Knowing this saves time and helps you avoid the common mistake of trying to pair incompatible speakers. Up next, I’ll show you exactly what to do before you start pairing, so you can avoid the most common issues right from the beginning.
Before You Start: Quick Setup Checklist
Before you connect two JBL speakers, make sure everything’s ready to go. Skipping these steps is a common reason pairing fails.
Here’s a quick checklist:
- Charge both speakers fully. Low battery can cause connection issues.
- Turn on Bluetooth on your phone or tablet.
- Place the speakers close together. Stay within 30 feet for a stable Bluetooth link.
- Check compatibility. Both speakers must use JBL Connect+ or PartyBoost—they won’t work together if mixed.
- Update firmware using the JBL Portable app for best performance.
Starting with these basics gives you the smoothest path to connect JBL Bluetooth speakers without problems.
How to Connect Two JBL Speakers Using JBL Connect+
To connect two JBL speakers using JBL Connect+, follow these five simple steps:
- Turn on both JBL speakers. Make sure both devices are fully charged and powered on.
- Connect your device to the first speaker. Use Bluetooth settings on your phone or tablet to pair with the first JBL speaker.
- Press the JBL Connect+ button on the first speaker. This activates pairing mode. The button usually looks like an hourglass or infinity symbol.
- Press the JBL Connect+ button on the second speaker. Within a few seconds, press the same button on the second speaker to start syncing.
- Wait for the connection tone. You’ll hear a sound that confirms both JBL speakers are now linked and playing audio together.
You can now enjoy synchronized sound from both speakers using JBL Connect+, perfect for parties, home setups, or boosting your everyday audio experience.
Planning a full home theater system? You might also want to check out how to connect Sonos speakers with your TV.
How to Connect Two JBL Speakers Using PartyBoost
To connect two JBL speakers using PartyBoost, follow these five quick steps:
- Turn on both JBL speakers. Make sure they’re fully charged and powered on.
- Connect your device to the first speaker. Go to Bluetooth settings and pair with it.
- Press the PartyBoost button on the first speaker. This activates pairing mode.
- Press the PartyBoost button on the second speaker. The speakers will begin linking.
- Wait for the connection tone. A sound confirms they’re synced and playing together.
PartyBoost works with newer JBL models like the Flip 5, Clip 4, and Charge 5. Just be sure both speakers support PartyBoost this feature doesn’t work with JBL Connect+.
How to Connect JBL Clip 4, Flip 5, and EON 700 Speakers
To connect JBL Clip 4, Flip 5, or EON 700 speakers, follow the model-specific steps below. Each speaker uses a different pairing method based on its design and features.
JBL Clip 4 – Connect Using PartyBoost
- Power on both JBL Clip 4 speakers.
- Pair your phone with the first speaker via Bluetooth.
- Press the PartyBoost button on the first Clip 4.
- Within seconds, press the PartyBoost button on the second speaker.
- Wait for the sound cue to confirm both are linked.
Connect Using PartyBoost – JBL Flip 5
- Turn on both Flip 5 speakers.
- Connect your phone to one speaker using Bluetooth.
- Press the PartyBoost button on the first Flip 5.
- Then, press the PartyBoost button on the second speaker.
- You’ll hear a tone confirming both are connected and playing together.
JBL EON 700 – Connect Using Wired or App-Based Method
For wired pairing:
- Use an XLR or TRS cable to connect your mixer to the first speaker.
- Link the first speaker’s output to the second speaker’s input using another XLR cable.
- Adjust volume levels evenly on both speakers.
For wireless (if supported):
- Turn on Bluetooth on your EON 700 (select models only).
- Pair your phone to the primary speaker.
- Use the JBL Pro Connect app to sync and manage speaker settings.
Quick Comparison Table: Clip 4 vs Flip 5 vs EON 700
| Feature | JBL Clip 4 | JBL Flip 5 | JBL EON 700 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Connection Type | Wireless only | Wireless only | Wired & Bluetooth (select models) |
| Pairing Tech | PartyBoost | PartyBoost | Manual / App |
| Stereo Support | No | Yes (same model) | Yes (via mixer or app) |
| Best Use | Travel, casual use | Home, small parties | Live events, pro audio |
| Companion App | JBL Portable | JBL Portable | JBL Pro Connect |
Need more power for your next event? Here’s our list of the best portable party speakers.
This guide gives you the exact steps to connect JBL Clip 4, Flip 5, and EON 700 speakers based on their technology. Whether you’re syncing compact models for casual listening or wiring up professional speakers for an event, these instructions ensure you’re set up correctly from the start.
If you’re using Edifier instead, follow this simple guide to connect Edifier speakers.
How to Connect Two JBL Speakers to an iPhone
To connect two JBL speakers to an iPhone, pair one speaker via Bluetooth, then link the second using JBL PartyBoost or Connect+.
Step-by-Step: Connect Two JBL Speakers to an iPhone
- Turn on both JBL speakers.
- Open Settings > Bluetooth on your iPhone.
- Select the first JBL speaker from the list to pair.
- Press the PartyBoost or Connect+ button on that speaker.
- Press the same button on the second JBL speaker.
- Wait for a tone confirming both speakers are now connected.
Now your iPhone will stream audio to both JBL speakers at the same time.
iPhone vs Android Pairing: What’s the Difference?
- iPhone has a cleaner, more streamlined Bluetooth interface.
- Android sometimes offers dual audio support at the OS level, while iPhone relies on the JBL tech (PartyBoost or Connect+).
- The pairing steps are nearly identical, but connection stability may vary slightly depending on device model and software.
The key point: whether you use iPhone or Android, JBL’s multi-speaker pairing works the same once the first connection is established.
How to Use the JBL Portable App for Easy Setup
To use the JBL Portable app for speaker setup, simply connect your JBL speaker via Bluetooth, open the app, and follow the pairing instructions. The app lets you link multiple speakers, enable stereo mode, update firmware, and adjust settings all from your phone.
Step-by-Step: Using the JBL Portable App
- Download the JBL Portable app from the App Store (iOS) or Google Play (Android).
- Turn on your JBL speaker and connect it via Bluetooth to your phone.
- Open the app. Your speaker should appear automatically.
- Tap the speaker name to access:
- PartyBoost or Connect+ pairing
- Stereo mode toggle (if supported)
- Firmware update prompts
- Sound settings and customization
The app simplifies setup and control, especially when pairing two JBL speakers for stereo sound.
Compatibility: PartyBoost vs Connect+
- PartyBoost speakers (Flip 5, Clip 4, Charge 5) offer full app support, including stereo mode and seamless linking.
- Connect+ speakers (Flip 4, Charge 3, Pulse 3) can use the app for pairing, but stereo mode may not be available.
- The app automatically detects which technology your speaker uses and adjusts features accordingly.
How to Enable Stereo Mode with JBL Speakers
To enable stereo mode with JBL speakers, you need two identical JBL models that support PartyBoost. Stereo mode creates a left and right audio channel, delivering a true stereo sound experience.
Steps to Enable Stereo Mode on JBL Speakers
- Turn on both JBL speakers and place them nearby.
- Ensure both are the same model (e.g., two Flip 5s) and support PartyBoost.
- Connect one speaker to your phone via Bluetooth.
- Open the JBL Portable app on your device.
- Both speakers will appear tap the connected device.
- Select Stereo Mode in the app’s audio settings.
- The app will assign one speaker to the left and the other to the right channel.
Stereo mode enhances your listening by creating a wider, more immersive soundstage—perfect for music, movies, and podcasts.
Important Notes:
- Stereo mode only works with matching JBL PartyBoost speakers.
- It is not available with Connect+ models or when using two different speaker types.
- You can switch between Stereo Mode and Party Mode anytime in the app.
Troubleshooting JBL Speaker Connection Issues
If your JBL speakers won’t sync, lag during playback, or disconnect from Bluetooth, you can usually fix these problems in a few quick steps.
How to Fix JBL Speaker Connection Problems
1. JBL speakers not syncing?
- Ensure both speakers use the same pairing technology (PartyBoost or Connect+).
- Fully charge both speakers before attempting to pair.
- Restart both devices and repeat the pairing process.
Using Alexa alongside your speaker setup? You might need this quick guide on connecting Alexa to Wi-Fi.
2. Experiencing audio lag?
- Keep your phone close to the primary speaker.
- Move speakers within 10–15 feet of each other.
- Limit Bluetooth interference by turning off other wireless devices nearby.
3. Bluetooth connection keeps dropping?
- Remove and re-pair the speaker in your Bluetooth settings.
- Update firmware using the JBL Portable app.
- Avoid obstacles between the speaker and your phone.
4. How to reset a JBL speaker:
- Turn the speaker on.
- Press and hold Volume + and Play/Pause together for about 10 seconds.
- The speaker will shut off, indicating a successful reset.
These simple fixes solve most connection issues and help your JBL speakers stay paired and playing smoothly.
Benefits of Connecting Multiple JBL Speakers
The main benefits of connecting multiple JBL speakers include wider sound coverage, louder volume, and enhanced bass. Whether indoors or outdoors, pairing speakers creates a more immersive, balanced audio experience.
Top Benefits of Linking Multiple JBL Bluetooth Speakers
- Expanded Room Coverage
Multiple speakers spread sound evenly across larger spaces, minimizing dead zones. - Simulated Surround Sound
When placed apart, speakers can mimic left/right channel audio for a surround sound effect. - Boosted Volume and Bass
Doubling speakers means more power expect louder, deeper sound with richer bass response. - Seamless Multi-Zone Audio
Place speakers in different rooms or areas to fill your entire space with music, perfectly in sync. - App-Based Control
The JBL Portable app lets you link, unpair, and manage speakers from your phone with ease.
Connecting JBL speakers offers an easy way to level up your listening ideal for parties, movie nights, or just better everyday sound.
Looking for compact, room-friendly sound systems? Explore the best bookshelf speakers for your setup.
FAQs:
Can I connect JBL Connect+ and PartyBoost speakers together?
No, JBL Connect+ and PartyBoost speakers cannot be connected together.
They use different wireless technologies and are not cross-compatible. To pair JBL speakers, both must support the same feature either Connect+ or PartyBoost.
Why is only one of my JBL speakers playing?
If only one JBL speaker is playing:
- The second speaker may not be paired correctly
- Both speakers must use the same connection type
- Try pressing the PartyBoost or Connect+ button on both devices
- If that fails, restart both speakers and reconnect
Do I need the JBL Portable app to connect JBL speakers?
You don’t need the JBL Portable app to connect speakers, but it helps.
You can pair speakers using built-in buttons. The app just makes it easier to:
- Enable stereo mode
- Manage firmware updates
- Control multiple speakers
Can I use JBL speakers with my TV or computer?
Yes, you can use JBL Bluetooth speakers with a TV or PC if they have Bluetooth.
If not, use a Bluetooth transmitter to make the connection.
Once paired, you can link a second JBL speaker using PartyBoost or Connect+.
How far apart can JBL speakers be when paired?
JBL recommends keeping paired speakers within 30 feet (10 meters) of each other.
Walls, furniture, or other electronics can weaken the signal. For best performance, place both speakers in the same room.
Can I connect more than two JBL speakers at once?
Yes, you can connect more than two JBL speakers if they use the same technology:
- PartyBoost supports unlimited speakers
- Connect+ supports up to 100
Mixing the two technologies will not work.
How do I reset a JBL speaker?
To reset most JBL speakers:
- Power on the speaker
- Press and hold Volume + and Play/Pause for about 10 seconds
- The speaker will power off and reset
This clears all previous Bluetooth connections.
Can JBL speakers play stereo audio?
Yes, JBL speakers can play stereo audio if they:
- Are the same model
- Support PartyBoost
Use the JBL Portable app to enable stereo mode, which assigns one speaker as left and the other as right.
Why won’t my JBL speaker show up in Bluetooth settings?
If your JBL speaker isn’t showing up:
- Make sure it’s in pairing mode
- Restart Bluetooth on your device
- Forget the speaker and try reconnecting
- If it still doesn’t work, reset the speaker
What is the difference between PartyBoost and Connect+?
- PartyBoost is newer and offers better range and stability
- Connect+ is older and found in models like Flip 4 and Charge 3
- They do not work together, so choose one standard when buying multiple speakers
Conclusion:
Connecting two JBL speakers is quick and easy once you know the steps. Whether you’re using PartyBoost or Connect+, syncing your speakers gives you better sound, more volume, and a richer listening experience.
Just follow the right method for your model, and you’ll be set up in minutes no stress, no tech skills needed.
