When voices do not match the picture, start by identifying where the delay begins. A soundbar can be late because of TV processing, Bluetooth latency, source settings, or an audio-delay control set too high.

Quick fix checklist

  1. Use HDMI ARC/eARC or optical instead of Bluetooth for TV sound.
  2. Set TV and soundbar audio delay to zero, then increase only the device that is early.
  3. Restart the TV, soundbar, and source device.
  4. Disable extra picture processing temporarily.

Find the source of the delay

Test a built-in TV app, then test a cable box or streaming device. If only one source is late, adjust that device first. If every source is late, check TV output and soundbar delay settings.

Use lip-sync controls carefully

TV menus may call this AV Sync, Audio Delay, Lip Sync, or Digital Audio Delay. Soundbars may call it Sync or Delay. Change one setting at a time in small steps while listening to dialogue.

TV news broadcast with two anchors, a street vehicle, 55 mph sign, and soundbar audio delay waves
A news broadcast scene helps demonstrate how audio can arrive late relative to the TV picture.

Why Bluetooth often causes delay

Bluetooth must encode and buffer audio. It is convenient for music but often poor for television video. Switch to HDMI ARC/eARC whenever possible.

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Check compatible HDMI cables or optical audio cables if a wired connection is needed.

FAQ

Should I adjust the TV or soundbar delay?

Start at zero on both. Adjust only the device whose timing is wrong after testing.

Can HDMI ARC fix lip sync?

It can reduce delay compared with Bluetooth, but TV and source processing can still create a mismatch.

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