Firmware Update Troubleshooting

Updating on Windows 11 version 25H2?

Microsoft's recent Windows MIDI system changes can prevent the firmware updater from detecting your Spark NEO. If you're on Windows 11 25H2 and the updater fails or hangs, see Windows 11 25H2 Firmware Update Issues (Spark NEO) before troubleshooting further.


This guide helps you resolve common issues during Spark NEO firmware updates.

  • Update Failure: The update didn't finish successfully.
  • Device Problem: The Spark NEO is unresponsive or 'bricked.'

If you haven't started updating yet:


Before the Update

Computer Doesn't Detect Spark NEO

Problem: My computer does not detect Spark NEO.

Solution: Please attempt to connect to a different USB port directly on the rear of your computer and refrain from using a USB hub.


During the Update

Error Code 16

Problem: I see Error Code 16 during the firmware update.

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Solution: This error means the wrong button combination was used. Follow these steps:

  1. Disconnect the Spark NEO Headphones: Before starting the update, make sure your headphones are disconnected from your computer or any other device.
  2. Launch the Firmware Updater: On your computer, open the firmware updater application.
  3. Reconnect the Headphones: Use a USB cable to connect the Spark NEO Headphones to your computer.
  4. Enter Firmware Update Mode: Press and hold the POWER and VOL+ buttons at the same time until the power LED turns solid white.

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  5. Wait for Detection: The firmware updater will automatically detect and recognize your device. This may take a few seconds.
  6. Follow On-Screen Instructions: Once the updater detects the headphones, follow the on-screen prompts to complete the firmware update.
If the power LED blinks white rapidly, the button combination is incorrect.
Tap the POWER or PRESET button once, then try again.
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After the Update

Spark NEO Bricked (Flashing White Light)

Problem: My Spark NEO is stuck flashing white repeatedly after updating.

Solution: Follow these steps to recover your device:

  1. Disconnect the Spark NEO Headphones: Before starting the update, make sure your headphones are disconnected from your computer or any other device.
  2. Force Shut Down the Headphones: Press and hold the POWER button for 10 seconds until the device turns off completely.
  3. Launch the Firmware Updater: On your computer, open the firmware updater application.
  4. Reconnect the Headphones: Use a USB cable to connect the Spark NEO Headphones to your computer.
  5. Follow On-Screen Instructions: Once the updater detects the headphones, follow the on-screen prompts to complete the firmware update.


Bluetooth Connection Issue

Problem: My Spark NEO is no longer connecting via Bluetooth after updating the firmware.

Solution: Please refer to the Bluetooth Connection Troubleshooting for Spark NEO.

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