How to Set Up Your Ultimate Ears BLAST

Beginner 10-15 minutes

What You'll Need

  • Ultimate Ears BLAST
  • UE BLAST app (iOS or Android)
  • Amazon Alexa app
  • Wi-Fi network (for Alexa features)
  • Micro-USB cable for charging

Step-by-Step Setup

  1. Charge the speaker via the micro-USB port on the bottom. A full charge takes about 3 hours and gives you roughly 12 hours of playback.
  2. Power on the speaker by pressing the power button on top.
  3. Download the UE BLAST app and the Amazon Alexa app if you do not have them.
  4. Pair via Bluetooth:
    • On first power-on, the speaker enters Bluetooth pairing mode automatically
    • Open your phone's Bluetooth settings and select "BLAST"
  5. Set up Alexa and Wi-Fi:
    • In the UE app, tap your speaker and go to Wi-Fi setup
    • Connect the speaker to your home network
    • Link your Amazon account through the Alexa app

Placement and Sound Tips

The BLAST is the compact sibling of the MEGABLAST, delivering 360-degree sound from a smaller body. It works best sitting upright on a flat surface. A kitchen counter, desk, or outdoor table are all good spots. Like any cylindrical speaker, placing it in the center of a space gives the most even sound distribution.

With its IP67 rating, the BLAST is fully waterproof and dustproof. Take it to the beach, pool, or shower without worry. Just make sure the rubber flap covering the micro-USB port is sealed when the speaker is near water.

On hard surfaces, the bass response is noticeably better than on carpet or soft surfaces. If you want a bit more low end indoors, try placing it on a wooden shelf or countertop where the surface helps reinforce the bass.

PartyUp and Multi-Speaker

The PartyUp feature connects up to 150+ compatible UE speakers at once for synchronized playback. Press the PartyUp button on each speaker to link them. This is a Bluetooth-based feature, so no Wi-Fi is needed. Just make sure all speakers are running the same firmware. Check for updates in the UE app before events.

You can mix different UE models in a PartyUp session. A BLAST and a MEGABLAST can play together, for example. Volume is controlled individually on each speaker.

Alexa Voice Control

With Wi-Fi connected and Alexa linked, the BLAST responds to "Alexa" wake word commands. Ask for music, weather, timers, and smart home control. The far-field microphones are decent for casual use, but they are not as powerful as those on an Echo device. Keep your voice clear and within about 8 to 10 feet for best results. Remember that Alexa requires a Wi-Fi connection and will not work in Bluetooth-only mode.

Troubleshooting

  • Alexa offline: Check the Wi-Fi connection in the UE app. If the speaker disconnected from your network, re-run the Wi-Fi setup. Also verify your Amazon account is still linked in the Alexa app.
  • Bluetooth pairing mode: If the speaker does not auto-pair on boot, press and hold the Bluetooth button until the tone plays and the LED flashes. Then look for it in your phone's Bluetooth settings.
  • Firmware updates: Check the UE app regularly for firmware updates. Updates improve stability, fix bugs, and are required for PartyUp compatibility. Updates are downloaded over Wi-Fi.
  • Micro-USB port not charging: Check the port for lint, sand, or debris. Clean gently with a toothpick. Try a different cable if the original is damaged. The optional Power Up charging dock avoids the port entirely if you prefer wireless charging.
  • Factory reset: Press and hold the Power button and Volume Down button together for about 10 seconds. The speaker will shut down and reset. On the next boot, it will be back to factory defaults.

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