Backwards compatibility was a clear plus because multiple reviewers valued pairing the 3rd Gen with the older A1 2nd Gen.
Pros: Multi-speaker pairing reliability, Handle or strap quality
Cons: Wi-Fi streaming reliability, AirPlay compatibility
Best 2025 Speakers for Backwards compatibility
Release year
Backward compatibility was supported by praise for legacy optical and RCA input support alongside modern HDMI eARC.
Pros: Distortion at high volume, Voice clarity
Cons: Spotify Connect reliability, Chromecast compatibility
Compatibility beyond Samsung is positive in limited evidence, with one reviewer saying it works fine with non-Samsung TV products.
Pros: Multi-speaker pairing reliability, Gaming HDMI passthrough
Cons: Google, Cabinet construction / bracing
Party Connect gives the Field 5 useful Sony ecosystem support, but one reviewer calls out the inability to connect it to the ULT Field 1.
Pros: Latency with TV (lip sync), Multi-speaker pairing reliability
Cons: Energy efficiency, Amplifier power requirements
Backwards compatibility is a clear weakness, with reviewers repeatedly criticizing the inability to pair with older JBL PartyBoost speakers.
Pros: Latency with TV (lip sync), Setup simplicity
Cons: Smart assistant integration (Alexa, Speakerphone quality
Backwards compatibility is weak because Auracast-era pairing does not work with older PartyBoost JBL models.
Pros: Setup simplicity, Bluetooth connection stability
Cons: Wired input, Power bank function
Backwards compatibility is a clear weakness because reviewers repeatedly call out that Flip 7 cannot pair with older JBL PartyBoost speakers.
Pros: Google, Dust resistance rating
Cons: Backwards compatibility, Stereo imaging accuracy