Symptoms
- Picture plays fine but there's no audio
- Sound works on cable/other inputs but not the streaming app
- Sound cuts in and out during playback
- Audio works with headphones but not speakers
Likely causes
- CommonWrong audio output format selectedSome soundbars and receivers don't support the default Dolby/DTS setting the app is sending.
- CommonTV or soundbar volume muted or set to wrong inputMultiple remotes controlling volume can leave one device muted.
- PossibleHDMI-ARC/eARC cable issueA loose or non-ARC HDMI cable breaks audio return to a soundbar.
- PossibleApp-specific audio bugSome apps occasionally lose audio sync or output after an update.
- Less commonStreaming device audio settings misconfiguredManually set audio passthrough settings can conflict with certain TVs.
What to do
- Check that the TV, soundbar, and streaming device are all unmuted and turned up.
- In the streaming device's audio settings, switch from 'Dolby Digital passthrough' to 'Stereo' or 'Auto' and test again.
- Confirm the soundbar or receiver is set to the correct HDMI/ARC input.
- Unplug and reseat the HDMI cable connecting the TV and soundbar, ideally using the ARC/eARC labeled port.
- Restart the streaming device and the sound system together.
- Test sound with a different app to see if the issue is app-specific.
- Update the streaming device and TV software to the latest version.
Tools and parts
HDMI ARC cableSearch: “HDMI ARC eARC cable”
When to call a pro
If sound never works over HDMI-ARC on any input, the TV or soundbar's ARC port may be faulty and need professional inspection.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.