Symptoms
- Popping or crackling noise during dialogue or music
- Distortion gets worse at higher volumes
- Sound is fine on one app but distorted on another
- Problem started after connecting a new soundbar or receiver
Likely causes
- CommonLoose or damaged audio cable connectionA partially connected HDMI or optical cable can cause intermittent audio artifacts.
- CommonAudio format mismatch (e.g. Dolby Atmos on unsupported equipment)Sending a surround format to a soundbar that only supports stereo can cause distortion.
- PossibleSpeaker or soundbar driver damagePhysical speaker damage causes crackling especially at higher volumes.
- PossibleVolume level pushing internal speakers past their limitTV's own small speakers can distort at high volumes with bass-heavy content.
- Less commonInterference from a Bluetooth connection instead of wired audioA weak Bluetooth signal to a speaker can cause dropouts and crackling.
What to do
- Reseat the HDMI or optical audio cable at both ends.
- In the streaming device's audio settings, switch from Dolby/surround passthrough to Stereo or Auto and test.
- Lower the volume to a moderate level and see if the crackling disappears.
- Test a different app or a different HDMI input to isolate whether it's app-specific.
- If using Bluetooth audio, switch to a wired connection temporarily to rule out wireless interference.
- Try a different audio cable if you have a spare.
- If crackling happens on the TV's built-in speakers regardless of source, the speakers themselves may be damaged.
Tools and parts
HDMI or optical audio cableSearch: “HDMI cable or optical audio cable”
When to call a pro
If the TV's own speakers crackle at all volumes regardless of source, have a technician inspect the internal speakers.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.