Resolving Audio Balance Problems on Jabra Elite 90t

Introduction

Jabra Elite 90t earbuds deliver high‑quality sound, low latency, and a comfortable fit for everyday use.
Occasionally, users experience an imbalance in the audio: one ear hears louder or clearer than the other, or the balance slider in the app is stuck. An audio‑balance problem can reduce the immersive experience and create discomfort during long listening sessions.

This guide explains why the imbalance happens, how to identify it, and step‑by‑step troubleshooting techniques that help you restore a symmetrical soundstage. It also covers settings in the Jabra Sound+ app, firmware updates, and when to seek professional support.

Common Causes of Audio Balance Issues

Recognizing the symptom is the first step in narrowing the root cause.

Step‑by‑Step Diagnostic Checklist

1. Check Ear Tip Fit

   • Remove the ear tips and re‑insert them carefully.
   • Verify that each tip sits flush against the ear canal and that the seal is snug.
   • Try different tip sizes to see if the balance changes.

2. Test Both Earbuds Separately

   • Connect one earbud at a time using the Jabra Sound+ app.
   • Play a track or call; note whether the issue remains in the same ear.
   • This tells you whether the problem is with the left or right earbud.

3. Swap Earbuds

   • Put the left earbud in the right socket and vice versa.
   • If the imbalance follows the earbud, the hardware unit is defective.
   • If it stays on the same side, the problem lies in the audio source or the phone.

4. Inspect the Charging Case

   • Open the case and ensure the earbuds sit correctly on their contacts.
   • Look for dirt or debris on the charging pins.
   • A poor charge can create uneven power distribution.

5. Reset Bluetooth Pairing

   • Forget the Jabra Elite 90t from your phone’s Bluetooth list.
   • Power off the earbuds and the phone, then pair again from scratch.
   • Re‑establishing the connection can resolve minor sync issues.

6. Verify App Settings

   • Open Jabra Sound+ and look at the balance control.
   • Ensure it is centered.
   • Check the “Audio Enhancement” or “Spatial Sound” settings to confirm they are not causing a skew.

7. Update Firmware

   • In Jabra Sound+, tap “Device info” → “Firmware version.”
   • If a newer firmware is available, install it.
   • Firmware updates often fix known audio bugs.

8. Run a Sound Test

   • Use the app’s built‑in test tones.
   • Listen for any differences between left and right channels.
   • If you still notice a difference, proceed to deeper troubleshooting.

Visual Aid – Earbud Position

This illustration shows proper earbud placement inside the charging case. Ensuring that each earbud contacts the pins correctly guarantees balanced charging and power delivery.

Troubleshooting Scenarios

Scenario 1 – One Earbud Always Louder

1. Swap the Earbuds

   • If the loudness moves with the earbud, the unit is at fault.
   • If it stays on the same side, the phone or source is likely the culprit.

2. Check Audio Source Balance

   • Play a stereo track on a different device.
   • If the imbalance disappears, the issue is in your original device.

3. Apply a New Ear Tip

   • A worn or damaged tip can alter the acoustics.
   • Replace it with a fresh tip.

Scenario 2 – Balance Slider Stuck

1. Open Jabra Sound+

   • Locate the “Balance” slider at the bottom.
   • Drag it fully left, then right.

2. Reset App Settings

   • In Settings → “Restore to default.”
   • This clears any corrupted configuration.

3. Re‑install the App

   • Delete Jabra Sound+ from your phone.
   • Download a fresh copy from the App Store or Google Play.

4. Perform a Factory Reset on the Earbuds

   • Hold the button on both earbuds for 7 seconds until the LED flashes amber twice.
   • Pair again and test the balance slider.

Scenario 3 – Intermittent Balance Changes During Calls

1. Disable “True Wireless” Auto‑Reconnect

   • In the app, turn off “Auto‑reconnect” to prevent the earbuds from switching sides.

2. Switch to 2.4 GHz Bluetooth Mode

   • In Settings → “Bluetooth frequency” set to 2.4 GHz.
   • 5 GHz can suffer from interference that may affect balance.

3. Move Away from Interference Sources

   • Keep the earbuds and phone away from routers, microwaves, and other Bluetooth devices.

4. Check Call Audio Settings

   • Some phones have a “Mono audio” toggle for accessibility.
   • Ensure this is off.

Advanced Fixes – When Basic Steps Fail

Inspect the Audio Codec

The Jabra Elite 90t uses the SBC codec by default, but some phones switch to AAC or aptX. An incompatible codec can cause imbalance.

• Go to your phone’s Bluetooth settings → Jabra Elite 90t → Advanced.
• Force the codec to SBC and test again.

Adjust EQ Settings

An extreme EQ setting can exaggerate imbalance.

• Open Jabra Sound+ → Equalizer.
• Reset to “Flat” or choose a balanced preset.
• Re‑listen to a stereo track to confirm improvement.

Use the “One‑Click Calibration” Feature

Some Jabra models include a calibration routine that automatically balances the output.

• In Jabra Sound+, navigate to “Settings” → “Audio calibration.”
• Follow the on‑screen prompts.

Firmware Re‑flash (Advanced)

If the firmware is corrupted, a manual re‑flash may be necessary.

• Download the latest firmware from Jabra’s support site.
• Use the Jabra Companion app or an authorized service center.
• Caution: Incorrect flashing can render the earbuds unusable.

When to Contact Support

Contact details are usually available on the Jabra website, and most warranty claims can be handled online. Provide the serial number (found on the charging case) and a concise description of the steps already taken.

Visual Aid – Balance Slider in the App

This screenshot shows the balance slider centered. Sliding it to either side changes the audio distribution between the left and right earbuds.

Tips for Maintaining Balanced Audio

• Use Proper Ear Tips: Regularly inspect and replace worn tips to maintain consistent acoustics.
• Keep the Charging Case Clean: Clean the contacts with a dry cloth to prevent charging issues that could affect performance.
• Avoid Extreme Temperatures: High heat or cold can degrade battery performance unevenly.
• Update Firmware Promptly: New releases often fix audio bugs and improve stability.
• Back Up Your Settings: In Jabra Sound+, enable cloud sync so you can restore your preferences after a reset.

Summary

Audio balance problems in Jabra Elite 90t earbuds usually stem from simple causes—incorrect ear tip fit, a misconfigured balance slider, or interference. By methodically checking each component, resetting connections, and updating firmware, most users can restore a perfectly balanced listening experience.
If troubleshooting steps do not resolve the issue, professional support is available through Jabra’s warranty service. With proper care and periodic updates, your Elite 90t earbuds should provide crisp, even sound for years to come.