Symptoms
- No sound from TV or speakers
- Sound through headset but not TV, or vice versa
- Audio cuts in and out intermittently
- Sound works in menus but not in games
Likely causes
- CommonWrong audio output device selected in settingsConsole may be routing sound to a headset or unused output.
- CommonLoose or faulty HDMI or audio cableSound can fail even when video still works.
- PossibleTV or soundbar set to wrong input or mutedEasy to overlook after switching sources.
- PossibleHeadset battery low or not paired correctlyWireless headsets need a stable pairing to carry audio reliably.
- Less commonGame-specific audio bugOccasionally a single game has broken audio settings, not the system.
What to do
- Check the console's audio output settings and make sure the right device is selected.
- Confirm the TV or soundbar isn't muted and is on the correct input.
- Try a different HDMI cable or audio cable to rule out a faulty one.
- If using a headset, check its battery and re-pair it if audio cuts out.
- Test sound in a different game or from the home menu to isolate whether it's system-wide or game-specific.
- Restart the console fully to clear any stuck audio routing.
- If sound still fails on a wired TV connection with correct settings, the console's audio output may be faulty.
When to call a pro
If no combination of settings or cables restores sound on a known-good TV, a repair shop can check the console's audio hardware.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.