When it comes to wireless speakers, JBL is a household name. Their speakers are known for their portability, water resistance, and impressive sound quality. However, one question that often pops up in the minds of JBL speaker owners is: can I control my JBL speaker remotely? Is there a remote for JBL? In this article, we’ll delve into the world of JBL remotes and explore the possibilities of controlling your speaker from a distance.
What Are the Benefits of Having a Remote for JBL?
Before we dive into the main question, let’s take a step back and consider the benefits of having a remote for JBL. Having a remote control for your JBL speaker can make a world of difference in your overall listening experience. Here are a few reasons why:
Convenience
With a remote control, you can adjust the volume, play, pause, and skip tracks from the comfort of your couch or from across the room. You don’t need to get up and physically interact with the speaker, making it a convenient addition to your wireless speaker setup.
Easy Music Control
A remote control allows you to easily control your music playback, including adjusting the volume, switching between tracks, and even accessing voice assistants like Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa.
Reducing Clutter
With a remote control, you don’t need to keep your phone or any other device nearby to control your speaker. This reduces clutter and keeps your space organized.
Types of Remotes for JBL Speakers
Now that we’ve established the benefits of having a remote for JBL, let’s explore the different types of remotes available for JBL speakers.
JBL Official Remotes
JBL offers official remotes for some of their speaker models. These remotes are designed specifically for JBL speakers and provide seamless integration with the speaker’s functions. Official JBL remotes usually come with a range of features, including volume control, play/pause, and track navigation.
Universal Remotes
If your JBL speaker doesn’t come with an official remote, or if you’ve lost the original remote, you can consider using a universal remote. Universal remotes are compatible with multiple devices, including JBL speakers. They may not offer the same level of integration as an official remote, but they can still provide basic control functions like volume adjustment and play/pause.
Alternative Remote Options
In addition to official and universal remotes, there are other alternative remote options available. For example, some JBL speakers are compatible with voice assistants like Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa, which can be controlled using voice commands. You can also use smartphone apps like the JBL Connect app to control your speaker remotely.
Do All JBL Speakers Come with a Remote?
Unfortunately, not all JBL speakers come with a remote control. The availability of a remote control depends on the specific speaker model and its features. Here are some popular JBL speaker models that do come with a remote:
- JBL Boombox 2: This portable speaker comes with a dedicated remote control that allows you to adjust the volume, play/pause, and skip tracks.
- JBL PartyBox 300: This party speaker includes a remote control that lets you control the music, adjust the volume, and access the built-in light show.
On the other hand, some JBL speaker models do not come with a remote control. These include:
- JBL Flip 5: This compact portable speaker does not come with a remote control, but you can control it using the JBL Connect app or voice assistants like Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa.
- JBL Clip 3: This rugged and waterproof speaker also does not come with a remote control, but you can control it using the JBL Connect app or voice commands.
Can You Use a Third-Party Remote with Your JBL Speaker?
If your JBL speaker doesn’t come with a remote control, or if you’ve lost the original remote, you may be wondering if you can use a third-party remote instead. The answer is yes, but with some caveats.
Compatibility Issues
Before using a third-party remote with your JBL speaker, ensure that it’s compatible with your speaker model. Not all remotes are designed to work with JBL speakers, so you may need to check the remote’s compatibility before making a purchase.
Programming the Remote
Depending on the third-party remote, you may need to program it to work with your JBL speaker. This may involve setting the remote to the correct frequency or entering a specific code to pair the remote with the speaker.
Conclusion
In conclusion, having a remote for JBL can greatly enhance your listening experience. While not all JBL speakers come with a remote control, there are alternative options available, including official remotes, universal remotes, and smartphone apps. If you’re looking to control your JBL speaker from a distance, be sure to explore these options and find the one that works best for you.
Can I control my JBL speaker using my smartphone?
You can control your JBL speaker using your smartphone through the JBL Portable app. This app allows you to adjust the volume, play, pause, and skip tracks, and even customize the sound settings to your liking. The app is available for both iOS and Android devices, making it accessible to a wide range of users.
To get started, simply download and install the JBL Portable app on your smartphone, then pair it with your JBL speaker using Bluetooth. Once connected, you’ll be able to control your speaker remotely and access a range of features and settings.
Is there a physical remote control available for JBL speakers?
While there isn’t a physical remote control specifically designed for JBL speakers, some models do come with a carrying pouch that includes a detachable remote control. However, this remote control is typically limited in its functionality and may only allow you to adjust the volume or play/pause music.
If you’re looking for a more comprehensive remote control experience, the JBL Portable app is still your best bet. It offers a wider range of features and settings, and can be used to control your speaker from a distance.
Can I use voice commands to control my JBL speaker?
Yes, many JBL speakers are compatible with popular voice assistants like Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant. This means you can use voice commands to control your speaker, such as asking Alexa to play a specific song or adjusting the volume.
To get started, you’ll need to pair your JBL speaker with a compatible voice assistant device, such as an Amazon Echo or Google Home smart speaker. Once paired, you’ll be able to use voice commands to control your JBL speaker and access a range of features and settings.
Can I control multiple JBL speakers at once?
Yes, using the JBL Portable app, you can control multiple JBL speakers at once. This feature is known as “Stereo Mode” and allows you to pair two or more JBL speakers together to create a stereo sound experience.
To set up Stereo Mode, simply open the JBL Portable app and follow the in-app instructions to pair your speakers together. Once paired, you’ll be able to control both speakers simultaneously using the app, adjusting the volume, playing music, and more.
Do all JBL speakers have remote control capabilities?
Not all JBL speakers have remote control capabilities. While many modern JBL speakers offer Bluetooth connectivity and compatibility with the JBL Portable app, some older or more basic models may not have these features.
If you’re looking for a JBL speaker with remote control capabilities, be sure to check the product specifications before making a purchase. Look for features like Bluetooth connectivity, compatibility with the JBL Portable app, or voice assistant integration to ensure that your speaker can be controlled remotely.
Can I control my JBL speaker from a computer?
While there isn’t a dedicated remote control app for computers, you can control your JBL speaker using a computer if you have a Bluetooth adapter connected to your PC or laptop. This will allow you to stream music to your JBL speaker and adjust the volume using your computer’s Bluetooth settings.
However, if you’re looking for a more comprehensive remote control experience, the JBL Portable app on your smartphone is still your best bet. It offers a wider range of features and settings, and can be used to control your speaker from a distance.
Is the JBL Portable app available for tablets?
Yes, the JBL Portable app is available for tablets as well as smartphones. You can download the app from the App Store or Google Play Store, depending on your tablet’s operating system.
Once installed, you’ll be able to control your JBL speaker using your tablet, adjusting the volume, playing music, and accessing a range of features and settings. The app’s user interface is optimized for tablets, making it easy to use and navigate.