Speakers & soundbars

Soundbar has no sound

This is usually a wrong input/source selection, a loose or wrong cable, or the TV's audio output set to the wrong device. Reselecting the source and checking connections fixes most cases.

Difficulty
Easy
Time
10–20 minutes
DIY cost
$0–$15
Pro cost
$60–$100

Symptoms

  • Soundbar powers on but stays silent
  • TV picture works but no sound from soundbar
  • Soundbar's own display shows a source name but nothing plays
  • Sound briefly works then cuts out

Likely causes

  • CommonWrong input selected on the soundbarSoundbars have multiple inputs (HDMI, optical, Bluetooth) and often default to the last one used.
  • CommonTV audio output routed to TV speakers instead of soundbarMany TVs default back to internal speakers after an update or restart.
  • CommonLoose or damaged HDMI/optical cableA cable that's not fully seated can pass video but drop audio.
  • PossibleHDMI-ARC/eARC not enabled on the TVARC has to be turned on in TV settings for sound to pass through the same HDMI cable.
  • Less commonSoundbar firmware or software glitchA frozen internal process can block audio despite the unit appearing on.

What to do

  1. Press the source/input button on the soundbar remote and cycle through until you find the one matching your connection (HDMI, optical, Bluetooth, AUX).
  2. On the TV, go to audio output settings and make sure it's set to the soundbar (ARC/eARC or optical) rather than TV speakers.
  3. Check that the HDMI or optical cable is fully plugged in at both ends and try reseating it.
  4. If using HDMI, confirm the TV's HDMI-ARC port is used and ARC/CEC is enabled in the TV's settings menu.
  5. Turn up the soundbar volume independently to rule out it just being muted or turned down.
  6. Unplug both the TV and soundbar from power for 30 seconds, then plug back in and power on the soundbar first.
  7. Try a different cable or a different HDMI port on the TV to rule out a bad cable or port.
  8. If nothing produces sound, test the soundbar with another source like a phone via Bluetooth to see if the unit itself works.

Tools and parts

  • Spare HDMI or optical cable (helpful for testing)
HDMI cableSearch: “hdmi arc cable replacement”
Optical audio cableSearch: “toslink optical audio cable”

When to call a pro

If the soundbar won't produce sound from any source including Bluetooth, it likely has an internal fault and should be checked by a repair tech or replaced under warranty.

Safety

Generally low risk

Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.

Related guides

Operator provides AI-generated troubleshooting information. It can be wrong. For safety-critical, electrical, gas, structural, medical, automotive safety, or other high-risk problems, consult a qualified professional.