If your Littmann CORE or CORE Attachment isn't sounding the way it should, these steps resolve most issues in a few minutes. Work through them in order and stop when the problem clears.
Before you start
- Make sure your device is charged. A blinking orange light means the battery is low.
- Update the Eko App to the latest version, and install any firmware updates the app offers when your device connects.
- If you have both the Eko App and the Eko Vet+ app installed, keep only one open at a time.
Tip: For every sound issue, firm, steady pressure directly on skin makes the biggest difference. The chestpiece is sensitive to hand movement and fabric.
The Volume Is Too Low
- Make sure the power switch is ON and the light is white. When the device is off it works like a regular stethoscope with no amplification.
- Press the "+" button to raise the volume.
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Littmann CORE: rotate the chestpiece fully to the side you're using until you feel it click into place.
- CORE Attachment: the on/off switch should face toward the chestpiece, and the tubing should be pushed all the way onto both ends of the attachment.
- If you're listening through headphones, raise the phone volume and make sure your device is paired with the Eko App.
- Turn the device off, wait 10 seconds, and turn it back on.
I Hear Static, Crackling, or the Sound Cuts Out
First, notice where you hear it. If the static is only in the Eko App, headphones, or recordings, and the earpieces sound fine, it may be a Bluetooth issue. If you hear it in the earpieces themselves, continue below.
- Charge fully. A blinking orange light means the battery is low and needs charging.
- Littmann CORE: rotate the chestpiece fully until it clicks.
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Check for cracked tubing connectors, a loose chestpiece, or loose earpieces. CORE Attachment: Make sure the tubing is firmly on both ends.
- In the Eko App, turn active noise cancellation off and on and compare.
- Turn the device off, wait 10 seconds, and turn it back on.
- Close the Eko App completely and listen through the earpieces only. If the static is gone, the issue may be the Bluetooth connection.
I Don't Hear Anything
- Turn the device OFF and listen. You should still hear sound, just without amplification. If you hear nothing even when off, contact us.
- Check the eartips for wax or debris, and make sure the earpieces angle forward toward your nose.
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Littmann CORE: rotate the chestpiece fully until it clicks, and confirm the diaphragm cover is in place.
- CORE Attachment: the on/off switch should face the chestpiece, with tubing fully on both ends.
- Turn the device ON (white light), press "+", and listen again.
- In the Eko App, make sure your device is paired, then place the chestpiece on your skin. If you still see a flat line after repositioning, contact us.
I Hear Too Much Background Noise
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Press firmly and hold still. Littmann CORE: rotate the chestpiece fully until it clicks.
- With the device connected, open the Eko App and tap on your profile from the top left → Tap on your device under My Device. Make sure active noise cancellation is turned on.
Note: Active Noise Cancellation stays on unless it is manually turned off in the app.
Still having trouble?
If you've completed these steps and the issue continues, we're happy to help. Please submit a request and include your device type, what you've already tried, and the phone model and Eko App version you're using.