1. Introduction
The Bluesound Pulse Flex 2i is a powerful, portable wireless speaker designed to deliver rich, detailed high-resolution audio. It supports Wi-Fi, Bluetooth aptX HD, AirPlay 2, and voice control, offering versatile connectivity for your music. This manual provides essential information for setting up, operating, and maintaining your Pulse Flex 2i speaker, including the BP100 battery pack and protective skin.
2. Key Features
- Portable Hi-Res Audio: Experience crystal-clear sound with audiophile-grade amplification, 24-bit/192kHz playback, and support for MQA, FLAC, and other high-resolution formats.
- Wireless Multi-Room Streaming: Seamlessly connect via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth aptX HD, AirPlay 2, or Spotify Connect for whole-home audio with BluOS multi-room compatibility.
- Integrated Battery Pack: The included Bluesound BP100 rechargeable battery pack provides up to 6 hours of high-fidelity playback, enabling true portability without a power outlet.
- Protective Skin: A custom-fit charcoal gray silicone skin is included to protect your speaker from everyday wear, bumps, and scratches.
- Smart Voice Control: Control your music hands-free using Alexa, Google Assistant, or Siri. Compatible with Roon Ready setups.
3. Product Components
Figure 3.1: Front view of the Bluesound Pulse Flex 2i speaker, showcasing its minimalist design and speaker grille.
Figure 3.2: The Bluesound Pulse Flex 2i speaker bundled with its BP100 battery pack and the charcoal gray protective skin in its packaging.
Figure 3.3: Rear panel of the Pulse Flex 2i, detailing the LAN, USB, Headphone Out, Optical In, Analog In, and power input ports.
Figure 3.4: Top control panel of the speaker, featuring touch-sensitive buttons for playback, volume, and preset selection.
Figure 3.5: Visual guide demonstrating the attachment of the BP100 battery pack to the dedicated slot on the speaker's rear.
Figure 3.6: The Pulse Flex 2i speaker fully enclosed in its charcoal gray protective silicone skin, offering enhanced durability.
4. Setup
4.1 Initial Charging
Before first use, ensure the BP100 battery pack is fully charged. Connect the speaker to a power outlet using the provided power cable. The LED indicator will show charging status.
4.2 Attaching the BP100 Battery Pack
- Locate the battery compartment on the rear of the Pulse Flex 2i speaker.
- Align the BP100 battery pack with the compartment and gently slide it into place until it clicks securely.
- Ensure the battery pack is firmly connected to maintain power and charging functionality.
4.3 Applying the Protective Skin
- Carefully slide the charcoal gray protective silicone skin over the Pulse Flex 2i speaker.
- Ensure all ports, buttons, and the speaker grille are properly aligned with the skin's openings.
- Smooth out any wrinkles or misalignments for a snug fit.
4.4 Powering On
Press the power button located on the top panel of the speaker. The LED indicator will illuminate, indicating the speaker is powering on.
4.5 Network Connection
The Pulse Flex 2i supports both Wi-Fi and Ethernet connections for optimal streaming performance.
- Wi-Fi: For wireless connection, proceed to install the BluOS Controller App (Section 4.6).
- Ethernet: Connect an Ethernet cable from your router to the LAN port on the rear of the speaker.
4.6 BluOS Controller App Installation
- Download the BluOS Controller App from your device's app store (iOS, Android, Windows, macOS).
- Open the app and follow the on-screen instructions to discover and connect your Pulse Flex 2i to your home network.
- The app will guide you through the setup process, including naming your player and configuring Wi-Fi settings if applicable.
5. Operating Instructions
5.1 Basic Controls (Top Panel)
- Play/Pause: Press the central play/pause button to start or stop playback.
- Volume: Use the '+' and '-' buttons to adjust the volume.
- Track Navigation: Use the left and right arrow buttons to skip tracks.
- Presets (1-5): Assign your favorite radio stations, playlists, or music services to these buttons for quick access. Configure via the BluOS app.
5.2 Streaming Music
- BluOS App: Use the BluOS Controller App to access a wide range of music streaming services, internet radio, and your local music library.
- Bluetooth: Activate Bluetooth on your device and pair with "Pulse Flex 2i" for direct audio streaming. Supports aptX HD for high-quality sound.
- AirPlay 2: For Apple device users, select the Pulse Flex 2i from the AirPlay menu on your device to stream audio.
- Analog/Optical Input: Connect external audio sources using the 3.5mm analog input or optical input on the rear panel.
5.3 Multi-Room Setup
The Pulse Flex 2i can be grouped with other BluOS-enabled devices to create a seamless multi-room audio system. Use the BluOS Controller App to group players, synchronize music, or play different music in different rooms.
5.4 Voice Control
Integrate your Pulse Flex 2i with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, or Apple Siri for hands-free control. Follow the instructions in the respective voice assistant app to link your BluOS account.
6. Maintenance
- Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the speaker's exterior. Avoid abrasive cleaners or solvents.
- Battery Care: For optimal battery life, avoid fully discharging the BP100 battery pack frequently. Store the speaker in a cool, dry place when not in use for extended periods.
- Software Updates: Regularly check for and install firmware updates via the BluOS Controller App to ensure optimal performance and access to new features.
7. Troubleshooting
| Issue | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No power/Speaker not turning on | Power cable not connected, battery discharged, power outlet issue. | Ensure power cable is securely connected. Charge the BP100 battery pack. Try a different power outlet. |
| No sound | Volume too low, incorrect input selected, source device issue. | Increase volume. Check input selection in BluOS app. Verify audio is playing on the source device. |
| Network connection issues | Weak Wi-Fi signal, incorrect Wi-Fi password, router issue. | Move speaker closer to router. Re-enter Wi-Fi password in BluOS app. Restart your router. Try Ethernet connection. |
| Bluetooth pairing failure | Speaker not in pairing mode, device too far, interference. | Ensure speaker is discoverable. Move device closer. Turn off other Bluetooth devices. |
8. Specifications
- Model: Bluesound Pulse Flex 2i
- Audio Resolution: Up to 24-bit/192kHz
- Supported Audio Formats: MQA, FLAC, WAV, AIFF, MP3, AAC, WMA, OGG, ALAC
- Connectivity: Dual-band Wi-Fi (802.11ac), Gigabit Ethernet, Bluetooth aptX HD, Apple AirPlay 2, USB (Type-A), Optical In, Analog In (3.5mm), Headphone Out (3.5mm)
- Voice Control: Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple Siri compatible
- Multi-Room: BluOS multi-room compatible
- Battery Pack: BP100 (included), up to 6 hours playback
- Protective Skin: Charcoal Gray Silicone (included)
9. Warranty and Support
For warranty information, technical support, and further assistance, please visit the official Bluesound website or contact their customer service. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.
