Premium smart speakers from brands like Bang & Olufsen, Belkin, Bose, and Harman Kardon integrate with voice assistants while delivering high-quality audio. This guide covers common connectivity and control issues.
Common Symptoms
- Voice assistant not responding
- WiFi connection dropping frequently
- Bluetooth pairing issues
- Audio quality problems
- Speaker not appearing in app
- Delayed response to commands
Voice Assistant Not Responding
1. Verify Voice Assistant Setup
- Check that voice assistant is enabled in speaker app
- For Alexa: Link in Amazon Alexa app
- For Google: Link in Google Home app
- Ensure account is properly linked
2. Check Microphone
- Verify mic mute button/switch isn't active
- Look for LED indicator showing mic status
- Ensure speaker isn't in a corner that blocks voice pickup
- Speak clearly and at moderate volume
3. Internet Connectivity
- Voice assistants require internet connection
- Test by playing music from streaming service
- Restart router if connection is unstable
WiFi Connection Issues
Speaker Not Connecting
- Ensure speaker and phone are on same network
- Verify WiFi password is correct
- Most speakers support 2.4GHz; some support 5GHz
- Move speaker closer to router during setup
Frequent Disconnections
- Check for WiFi interference (other devices, appliances)
- Assign static IP to speaker in router settings
- Update router firmware
- Consider dedicated IoT network
Bluetooth Pairing
Pairing New Device
- Put speaker in Bluetooth pairing mode (varies by model)
- On phone, open Bluetooth settings and scan
- Select speaker name from available devices
- Accept pairing request
Connection Issues
- Forget device on both phone and speaker, then re-pair
- Ensure speaker isn't connected to another device
- Keep within Bluetooth range (typically 30 feet)
- Disable WiFi streaming if only using Bluetooth
Audio Quality Problems
Distorted Sound
- Lower volume—distortion often occurs at max volume
- Check audio source quality (low bitrate files sound worse)
- Stream from high-quality source (Spotify High Quality, TIDAL)
- Reset EQ settings to default
No Bass or Thin Sound
- Check EQ settings in speaker app
- Move speaker away from corners (can cause boomy or thin sound)
- Ensure speaker isn't in "night mode" which reduces bass
- Run room calibration if available
Speaker-Specific Notes
Bang & Olufsen Beosound
- Use Bang & Olufsen app for full control
- Supports AirPlay 2, Google Cast, and Bluetooth
- Check Beolink multiroom settings if applicable
Belkin Soundform Elite
- Combines Alexa with wireless charging
- Use Alexa app for voice assistant settings
- Check Devialet app for audio tuning
Bose Smart Speaker 500
- Use Bose Music app for setup and control
- Supports Alexa and Google Assistant (choose in app)
- SimpleSync available for TV sound
Harman Kardon Citation
- Use Google Home app for control
- Supports Chromecast built-in
- EQ adjustments in Google Home app
Software Updates
- Check for updates in manufacturer app
- Updates often fix connectivity bugs
- Keep speaker powered on during updates
- Some speakers update automatically when idle
Factory Reset
Varies by brand—consult manual for specific steps:
- Usually involves holding combination of buttons
- LED will indicate reset progress
- Re-setup required after reset
When to Contact Support
Contact manufacturer support if:
- Speaker won't power on
- Consistent audio distortion at all volumes
- Physical damage to speakers or enclosure
- Overheating during normal operation