Soundbar Not Working?
There’s nothing more frustrating than turning on your favorite show, only to be met with silence from your soundbar or external speakers. Don’t worry - this is a common issue, and often it's not your soundbar's fault at all. Whether you're using HDMI ARC, Optical, Bluetooth, or RCA, we’ve got your back with this step-by-step audio troubleshooting guide. 🛠️
Would you rather watch a video covering similar information? Check out our helpful Youtube video below:
🔌 1. Double-Check Your Connection Type
The first step is to know how your audio device is connected.
🧲 HDMI ARC/eARC
Make sure both your TV and soundbar are connected using the HDMI ARC or eARC port (not just any HDMI port!).
✅ Look for "HDMI ARC" labeling on both ends
✅ Use a high-speed HDMI cable
✅ Enable CEC, Anynet+, Simplink, or Bravia Sync in TV settings
TVpartsToday Tip: If your HDMI ARC port doesn’t work at all, the issue may lie in the main board. Be sure to match the part number, not the board number, if you decide to replace it.
🔵 Optical (Toslink)
If you’re using an optical cable:
✅ Make sure it's fully inserted - these can be tricky!
✅ Set the TV audio output to Digital Audio Out (Optical)
✅ Choose PCM format, not Dolby Digital or DTS (which some soundbars can’t decode)
📶 Bluetooth Audio
✅ Confirm pairing is complete on both devices
❗ Stay within 10–15 feet to avoid audio dropouts
❗ Bluetooth can introduce audio lag with some setups
🔴 AUX or RCA
These are analog and simple but may not auto-detect.
✅ Manually switch your TV’s sound output to AUX/RCA
✅ Make sure your TV isn’t still set to internal speakers
⚙️ 2. Adjust Your TV’s Audio Settings
Even if everything’s plugged in, incorrect TV settings can block external sound.
✅ Set Sound Output to your chosen device (HDMI ARC, Optical, Bluetooth, or AUX)
✅ Try changing Audio Format to PCM - it's the most universally supported
✅ Enable any brand-specific control systems:
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Samsung: Anynet+
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LG: Simplink
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Sony: Bravia Sync
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Vizio: ARC toggle in settings
🔊 3. Test Your Soundbar or Speaker
Don’t forget the soundbar itself might be the issue. Check that it:
✅ Is turned on and set to the correct input (HDMI, Optical, Bluetooth, etc.)
✅ Isn’t muted
✅ Plays audio when connected to another device (like a phone or laptop)
🔁 4. Power Cycle (the underrated hero)
Sometimes a quick reset is all it takes.
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Turn off and unplug both the TV and soundbar
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Wait 30–60 seconds
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Plug in the TV first, then the soundbar
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Turn both on and recheck your settings
🔄 5. Update Your Firmware
Outdated software can cause major compatibility issues.
✅ Update your TV’s firmware (via settings or USB)
✅ Update your soundbar’s firmware (usually with an app or USB)
📺 Brand-Specific Tips
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Samsung: Enable Anynet+ and ARC audio in sound settings
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LG: Turn on Simplink and change output to HDMI ARC
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Sony: Use Bravia Sync and switch digital output to PCM
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Vizio: Find the ARC settings toggle - it's not always enabled by default
🧰 TVpartsToday Tip:
If you’ve gone through every step and still have a dead external device, try connecting it to a different TV! If it works on another TV, the culprit is mostly likely your main board. Don’t worry - replacing a main board is a straightforward fix. Just remember:
✅ Match the part number printed on the barcode sticker of your original board
🚫 Never rely on just the board number or TV model - there are too many production variations!
We stock high-quality replacement main boards for Hisense, LG, Westinghouse, Sony, Samsung (and more!), shipped fast and packaged well!
Final Thoughts
External audio issues can feel like a hassle, but in most cases, they’re totally fixable without calling a repair tech or buying a new soundbar. Follow these steps and you’ll be back to booming bass and crisp dialogue in no time.
💬 Need Help?
If you’re still unsure about the issue or need to replace a part, reach out to TVpartsToday. We can help you identify the exact cause of the problem and provide the right replacement part!
Would you rather watch a video? Check out our helpful Troubleshooting 101 playlist over on YouTube!
Would you rather chat with a seasoned repair expert? Head on over to our TVRepairHelp subReddit!
📦 Need help finding the right board or part?
📞 Call us at 930-212-1975 or browse our inventory online.
🛠️ DIY-friendly parts, fast shipping, and expert support – only at TVpartsToday.