Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches2Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors3Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteSet the television’s sound output to the connected audio system, connect the soundbar to the TV’s labeled HDMI ARC or eARC port, and select the soundbar’s TV/ARC input. Then use Digital Audio Out, PCM, pass-through, eARC, and A/V Sync only as your equipment and symptoms require. Menu names and supported formats vary by model, so confirm the final choices in both manuals.
The right settings depend first on your connection: HDMI eARC offers the broadest supported format range when both devices include eARC; HDMI ARC is more widely compatible but more limited; optical is a fallback that often requires PCM; and Bluetooth is convenient but model-dependent.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Start with the connection, not a sound mode
Before changing formats, identify how the soundbar is connected. A setting cannot create a feature that the television, soundbar, cable, or source does not support.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
| Connection | Best fit | Required settings and limits |
|---|---|---|
| HDMI eARC | Both devices support eARC and you want supported high-bitrate or lossless formats. | Use the TV’s HDMI eARC port and the soundbar’s HDMI OUT (eARC/ARC) port. Enable eARC where the TV provides a switch. Sony recommends a High-Speed HDMI cable with Ethernet for eARC data transfer. Both ends must support eARC; an eARC television does not upgrade an ARC-only soundbar. |
| HDMI ARC | Both devices support ARC, or eARC is unavailable. | Use the ports labeled ARC or eARC, select the external audio system on the TV, and set the soundbar to TV/ARC. A normal HDMI input generally cannot return television audio to the soundbar. |
| Optical | The devices have optical ports but ARC/eARC is unavailable or unsuitable. | Connect the TV’s optical output to the soundbar’s optical input, select optical on the bar, and use PCM when following Sony’s optical-only setup guidance. Check both manuals for supported encoded formats. |
| Bluetooth or another supported wireless link | The TV and soundbar both support the same wireless method and you prefer a cable-free setup. | Pair the devices, then choose the wireless sound output on the TV. The available sources do not establish a model-independent latency or format advantage for wireless audio. |
There is no universal, controlled sound-quality ranking among these connections. Compatibility, source format, and the capabilities of the two devices determine the result.
#1 Best Overall
- Ultra High Speed HDMI Cable: Support 10K 60Hz, 8K 60Hz, 5K 165Hz 144Hz 120Hz, 4K 240Hz 200Hz 180Hz 165Hz 144Hz 120Hz, 2K, 1440P, 1080P, 720P, 480P
- HDMI to HDMI Cable Nylon Braided: 10240×4320, 7680×4320, 3840×2160, 2560×1600, 2560×1440, 2048×1536, 1920×1200, 1920×1080, 1600×900, 1366×768, 1280×800, 1280×720
- HDMI 2.1 Cable: Supports Port 2.1, 2.0b, 2.0a, 2.0, 1.4b, 1.4a, 1.4, 1.3c, 1.3b1, 1.3b, 1.3a, 1.3, 1.2a, 1.2, 1.1, and 1.0. Support 3D Rendering, and Large File Transfers
- Certified HDMI Cable with Ethernet: 48Gbps, Ethernet, CEC, 0.01ms, low EMI, SBTM, HDCP2.3 2.2, Dynamic HDR, HDR10+, Dol-by Vision-2, Dol-by Atmos, ARC, eARC, DTS:X, DTS Master, 3D, 5D, VRR, ALLM , QFT, QMS, 12bit 10bit Color Depth
- Upgraded HDMI Cord: DGX Spark, AI PC, Display, Desktop, Laptop, OLED TV, Mac-mini M1-M5, Macbook, RTX5090 4090, HUB, Docking, Blu-ray Player, DVD, PS5 Pro PS5 PS4 PS3 Consoles, All X-box Series, Soundbar, Fi-re TV, Ro-ku TV, SHIELD TV Etc
Change the TV’s sound-output setting
This is the setting that actually routes television audio away from the built-in speakers.
LG televisions
On many LG models, open Settings → All Settings → Sound → Sound Out, then choose the connected external audio device or HDMI ARC/eARC option. LG model and webOS versions can use different wording.
Sony televisions
Sony examples place the choice under Settings → Display & Sound (or Sound) → Speakers; select Audio system. Some versions expose the same choice through a Quick Settings sound menu.
Rank #2
- ➤ HIGH SPEED 8K HDMI 6 FT CABLE: BlueRigger HDMI cables support HDMI 2.1, 8K 60Hz & 4K 120Hz (up to 15FT), 48Gbps bandwidth, HDR10+ color depth, HDCP2.3, eARC, 3D, Ethernet, Dolby TrueHD 7.1 and hot plugging
- ➤ HEIGHTENED VIEWING EXPERIENCE: It’s the perfect HDMI ARC cable for soundbar to TV. Enjoy unparalleled video quality, crisp and accurate sound with no lag
- ➤ UNMATCHED QUALITY: BlueRigger 8K / 4K HDMI cable has a lifespan of over 25,000 bends. HDMI 6ft cable is built with solid copper wires & 24K gold-plated connectors that resist corrosion while maximizing stable signal strength
- ➤ UNIVERSAL COMPATIBILITY: HDMI to HDMI cable is compatible with Apple TV, Roku, Xbox One, Series X, PS5, Nintendo Switch, PC, Blu-ray, laptop, monitor, projector etc. BlueRigger eARC HDMI cable is backward compatible with HDMI standards
- ➤ LIFETIME WARRANTY: BlueRigger Lifetime Warranty and US-based Customer Support
Other brands
Look for labels such as Sound Output, Speakers, Audio system, External speaker, or HDMI ARC/eARC. If the TV offers simultaneous internal and external speakers, use one output while setting up. Running both at once is a common cause of an echo.
Set up HDMI ARC or eARC step by step
- Find the HDMI socket on the TV marked ARC or eARC. Do not use an ordinary HDMI input for the return-audio connection.
- Connect that socket to the soundbar’s HDMI port marked HDMI OUT (ARC/eARC) or an equivalent return-channel label.
- Power on both devices, then set the soundbar’s source to TV, ARC, or eARC, according to its input list.
- On the TV, select the external audio system in the Sound Out/Speakers menu.
- If the TV has an eARC switch, turn it on only when the soundbar also supports eARC and you intend to use an eARC-capable format. Sony states that connected devices must support eARC to use its features.
- Enable the TV’s HDMI device-control feature if the manufacturer requires it for volume commands or automatic input switching. This feature may be called HDMI-CEC, Bravia Sync, Simplink, Anynet+, or another brand-specific name.
- Play a familiar source and raise the soundbar volume. If the TV still reports its internal speakers, repeat the Sound Out selection after the HDMI connection is detected.
For eARC data transfer, Sony recommends a High-Speed HDMI cable with Ethernet. A cable cannot add eARC to an ARC-only television or soundbar, and replacing a cable will not fix an unsupported format.
Understand the Digital Audio Out choices
Digital Audio Out, Digital Sound Output, or a similar menu controls the format sent over HDMI ARC/eARC or optical. The labels and available values differ by model.
Rank #3
- Superior Display, Swift Connectivity: Elevate your viewing experience to unparalleled clarity with 8K@60Hz, and enjoy smoother visuals and reduced lag with support for 4K@120Hz and 4K@60Hz.
- Quick and Seamless Video Transfer: With the latest HDMI technology, stream or transfer videos without interruptions, and witness the power of up to 48 Gbps in bandwidth, ensuring consistently clear content.
- Lasts Longer, Performs Stronger: This cable is designed to withstand up to 1,000 bends throughout its lifespan, meaning fewer replacements and continuous peace of mind.
- One Cable, Many Solutions: Whether you're connecting tablets, laptops, HDMI devices, projectors, or desktop screens, this cable effortlessly connects them all.
- What You Get: HDMI Cable (6 ft, 8K), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Auto or the television’s automatic choice
Automatic mode lets the TV choose a format it believes the connected equipment can accept. It is a reasonable starting point when the connection is working and you have not selected a specific pass-through policy.
PC Slower Than It Used to Be?
A free scan shows the junk files, broken settings and background clutter dragging Windows down - then fixes them in one click.Free scan · Windows 10 & 11Outdated Drivers Are Slowing You Down
One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchPass-through
Pass-through asks the TV to forward a source’s encoded audio rather than decode it first. Use it when the TV and soundbar documentation confirms support for the source format. Some televisions restrict pass-through by app, input, or eARC status, so a setting that works for a game console may not behave the same way for a built-in streaming app.
PCM
PCM sends decoded linear audio in a compatibility-oriented form. Sony recommends trying PCM in some no-sound, optical, and delay cases, and LG identifies PCM as a possible fix for echo or timing problems. PCM can, however, deliver a format different from the original source; it is a diagnostic or compatibility choice, not automatically the best setting for surround sound.
Rank #4
- Universally compatible – Easily connect Blu-ray and DVD players, streaming devices such as Roku, Apple TV and Amazon devices, gaming consoles like PlayStation and Xbox, computers and more to your TV or electronic display. Built-in Ethernet supports internet-ready equipment without needing additional cables or a Wi-Fi connection.
- Premium certified – This 10 ft. Premium Certified HDMI cable supports at least 18 Gbps, 4K at 60 Hz, HDR, lossless surround sound and more to ensure you receive the most out of your high-definition equipment. The Premium Certified label is reserved for those cables that meet specific rigorous requirements set by the HDMI Cable Certification Program. Every HDMI Premium Certified Cable can be verified through the unique anti-counterfeiting authentication label on the packaging.
- Vibrant, clear picture – Experience vibrant colors and deeper images with high dynamic range (HDR) for an optimal visual experience. Additionally, the braided cable cover provides maximum shielding, blocking electromagnetic interference (EMI) to ensure clear transmission and superior picture quality.
- Gold-plated connectors - The best home entertainment experience starts with a high-quality connection. This HDMI cable’s gold-plated connectors are stylish with a metallic housing to allow exceptionally clear transfer of video and audio.
- Customer satisfaction – This Premium Certified HDMI Cable is designed to last and comes with a limited-lifetime replacement pledge. Call our free U.S.-based Consumer Care at 1-844-816-0320 between 7AM-8PM Central Time with any questions about your purchase.
When eARC is worth enabling
eARC expands the return channel’s capabilities when both devices implement it. Sony lists uncompressed 5.1 and 7.1 audio and formats including Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, DTS-HD Master Audio, and Dolby TrueHD among formats eARC can transfer. Your television app, HDMI source, soundbar, and regional software may still limit which of those formats are actually available.
If the soundbar is ARC-only, leave the TV’s eARC feature off or use the ordinary ARC path described in its manual. An eARC television remains subject to ARC specifications when paired with an ARC-only bar.
Fix echo, lip-sync, and no-sound problems in order
No sound at all
- Confirm the cable is in the TV’s labeled ARC/eARC socket and the soundbar’s ARC/eARC output socket.
- Set the soundbar source to TV/ARC/eARC and select the external audio system in the TV’s Sound Out or Speakers menu.
- Check that the soundbar accepts the incoming format. Temporarily choose PCM under Digital Audio Out to test compatibility; remember that this may change the delivered format.
- Disconnect other audio outputs during the test, including Bluetooth headphones or a second HDMI audio device.
- Power-cycle the TV and soundbar after changing HDMI-CEC or ARC settings, then select the TV/ARC input again.
Echo or doubled voices
Echo usually means the TV speakers and soundbar are playing simultaneously. Select only the external audio system. If the echo persists, test PCM and the available A/V Sync control; LG lists both as possible remedies when internal and external speakers are combined.
Best Value
- Top Technology--8K@60HZ: This 8K Ultra-High Speed 2.1 HDMI Cable uses the most cutting-edge technology, which is compatible with 8K@60HZ,4K@240HZ and 4K@120HZ clearly displays every particle, and accurately processes every signal source.
- Upgrade Revolution: Highwings Ultra High Speed HDMI Cable 2.1 8K supports 48Gbps (6GB/s) which can will no longer be stuck or dropped frames when watching video. It is also backward compatible with HDMI 2.0b/2.0a/1.4/1.3/1.2/1.1 versions.
- For Game Enthusiasts: This 8K Ultra High Speed HDMI Cable 2.1 can achieve a super smooth picture of 4K@120HZ. Its latest game mode supports variable refresh rate, maximizes the value of the graphics card and CPU to obtain a smoother and more detailed picture.
- Reinforced high-quality materials: This 8K HDMI Cord uses Highwings' most popular classic style. The tail's anti-bending design has been upgraded to make it more durable. The military grade tensile nylon material also greatly extends its life.
- The ultimate perfectionist: Highwings every parts of the cable has been put through rigorous the performance tests in the laboratory. After we've combined every flawless part into a perfect 8K cable and it can be presented to you.
Audio trails or leads the picture
- Open the TV’s A/V Sync, Audio Delay, or similarly named control and adjust it in small increments while watching speech.
- Review Digital Audio Out and pass-through. Sony’s delay guidance specifically recommends checking these options and trying PCM where appropriate.
- Test a different source, because a streaming app, broadcast tuner, and console can introduce different processing delays.
- If the delay remains, connect the source device directly to an available soundbar input, as Sony suggests for persistent synchronization problems. This bypasses the TV’s audio-return processing, although you must then choose the soundbar input for that source.
Optical connection has no audio
Set the soundbar input to optical, verify the optical cable’s plugs are fully seated, and select PCM on the TV as specified in Sony’s optical-only instructions. Optical does not automatically support every format available through eARC; use the two device manuals to confirm compatible modes.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Use HDMI-CEC for everyday control
HDMI-CEC allows the TV remote to control soundbar volume and can switch the bar on when the TV starts. Manufacturer names differ, but the control is usually in a General, External Inputs, System, or HDMI settings menu. Turn it on at both ends when the manuals require it. If CEC causes repeated input switching or the bar wakes unexpectedly, disable it temporarily while diagnosing audio, then decide whether the convenience is worth re-enabling.
Choose settings by the symptom and goal
| Your goal | Start with | Change only if |
|---|---|---|
| Basic TV sound through the bar | External audio system/Sound Out; soundbar on TV/ARC. | No audio or the TV selects internal speakers. |
| Highest supported return-channel capability | eARC enabled on an eARC TV and eARC soundbar; pass-through if documented. | Either device is ARC-only, or a source loses audio. |
| Maximum compatibility | PCM. | You need an encoded surround format that both devices explicitly support. |
| Eliminate doubled sound | One output only; TV speakers disabled when using the bar. | Echo or a persistent timing mismatch remains. |
| Correct lip-sync | A/V Sync or Audio Delay adjustment. | The delay varies by source or survives every TV setting; test a direct source-to-bar connection. |
Device-specific differences to expect
Support pages from LG and Sony use different paths, and even two televisions from the same brand may expose different labels after a software update. A setting named “Audio system” on one model may appear as “HDMI ARC” or “External speaker” on another. Do not assume that an option shown in a generic guide exists on your device.
Check the television manual for the exact ARC/eARC port, supported output formats for built-in apps, and whether pass-through is available. Check the soundbar manual for its accepted ARC/eARC formats, input names, and any requirement to enable TV audio or HDMI control. This model-specific check is especially important when combining an eARC TV with an ARC-only soundbar.
Final setup checklist
- The HDMI cable is connected to the TV port labeled ARC/eARC and the soundbar port labeled HDMI OUT ARC/eARC.
- The TV’s Sound Out/Speakers setting names the external audio system.
- The soundbar input is TV, ARC, or eARC rather than another HDMI, optical, or Bluetooth source.
- eARC is enabled only when both devices support it.
- Digital Audio Out is set to Auto or pass-through for a documented encoded-format goal, or PCM for a compatibility test.
- Only one speaker system is active when checking for echo.
- A/V Sync is adjusted only after the basic routing works.
- Optical users select optical on the bar and PCM on the TV when following the documented optical setup.
- Any remaining failure is checked against the exact manuals for the TV, soundbar, and source device.
These choices follow the current guidance in Sony support articles updated June 30, 2025, and August 31, 2026, plus LG support pages dated November 4, 2023, March 4, 2026, and September 12, 2026. The manuals for your specific models remain authoritative where their menus or format support differ.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
