Why is There No Sound Coming From My Soundbar?

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Updated September 29, 2022

If you have a premium speaker, learning how to troubleshoot a soundbar can prevent audio performance issues from ruining your movie night. After all, a top-tier soundbar should deliver excellent sound quality from your Blu-Ray player, cable box, or any connected device. If you’re experiencing choppy audio signals or output, read on to learn, “Why is there no sound coming from my soundbar?”

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

  • Ensure that your soundbar’s power cables are securely plugged in and that the soundbar is activated.
  • If your TV audio isn’t loud enough, your soundbar will not detect it, and the unit may power off automatically.
  • Replace poor-quality cables with new ones, and ensure they are fully connected to the output device and the soundbar.

Your sound bar should deliver a more robust stereo sound than your TV’s integrated speakers, but sometimes your volume control may not seem high enough. If you’re comfortable in your TV’s audio settings menu, you can learn how to make your soundbar louder. Additionally, your source device may have compatibility issues, especially if you’re unsure whether you need an LG vs. Samsung soundbar.

Insider Tip

Some gaming consoles do not offer analog audio connections or optical cables for more extensive surround soundbars.

If you want Dolby Digital Plus or Dolby Atmos, you should investigate the Sonos Arc vs. Bose 700 to determine the sound format your sound bar accepts.

Why Doesn’t My Soundbar Work?

Whether your soundbar uses optical cables or a wireless connection, getting no audio during playback is a common issue. With a few troubleshooting steps, you can resolve this audio playback issue and restore your sound. Before performing a factory reset, read this guide on how to fix a soundbar that’s not working.

No Power Source

While it may sound silly, you should ensure your soundbar is turned on and has a consistent power source. Whether you use a power cord or USB power, see if the cable has a secure connection. If your soundbar does not power on, check for signs of damage on the power cord.

Low Audio Output

If the volume on your output device is too low, your soundbar may not detect an audio signal. Additionally, soundbars with power-saving features may automatically power down if your audio source is too quiet. Experts recommend turning your source device to full volume and using the soundbar’s remote control to regulate the noise level.

Warning

Disable Night Mode on your soundbar’s speaker settings to fix unintended issues with audio volume.

Incompatible Audio Formats

Some soundbars are incompatible with specific sound formats like DTS, Dolby Digital Plus, and Dolby Atmos. Go to the audio output settings menu on your TV, and set it to a bitstream audio signal if the soundbar supports surround sound. Set the device to output PCM or Auto if the soundbar only offers 2-channel stereo sound.

Bad Cable Connections

If your wired audio inputs and outputs have damaged or loose cables, your soundbar will not produce sound. Additionally, a loose audio connector may cause your audio signal to work intermittently. Check the optical audio cables or analog connections and ensure they are securely connected to the soundbar.

STAT: A 2019 Pew Research Center poll showed that 15% of Americans making less than $30K per year use a smart speaker at home. (source)

Why is There No Sound Coming From My Soundbar FAQs

What are HDMI ARC and EARC connections?

The “ARC” in HDMI ARC stands for Audio Return Channel, allowing users to control their entire sound system and TV with single remote control. EARC stands for Enhanced Audio Return Channel, offering increased bandwidth and speed over the original HDMI ARC technology.

How do I clean my sound bar?

You can clean your soundbar with a dry microfiber cloth or a barely-damp cloth for tough grime. If your soundbar features a fabric covering, you can dust it with a handheld vacuum or lint roller.

What are audio channels?

Audio channels represent a specific audio source or destination, and a single speaker can only produce a single audio channel. For example, a 2.1-channel (left and right speaker) offers subwoofer-supported stereo sound, while a 5.1-channel system requires five speakers with a subwoofer.
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