TV audio settings screen with a soundbar below the television

If your cable box plays through the soundbar but Netflix, YouTube, or other built-in TV apps do not, the soundbar and cable box are probably fine. The problem is usually the TV audio-output setting, ARC or eARC connection, CEC control, or app audio format.

1. Select the soundbar as the TV audio output

Open the TV Sound or Audio menu and choose HDMI ARC, eARC, Receiver, External Speakers, or Audio System. Do not leave the setting on TV Speakers.

2. Confirm the ARC or eARC port

Connect the soundbar to the one TV HDMI port labeled ARC or eARC. A cable box can use a regular HDMI input, but TV-app audio must return through ARC/eARC or optical.

3. Enable CEC and eARC

Turn on HDMI-CEC in the TV menu. The name may be Anynet+, Simplink, Bravia Sync, VIERA Link, or HDMI Control. If available, set eARC to Auto or On.

4. Test PCM, then Auto or Pass Through

Choose PCM to see if TV-app audio returns. If it does, switch to Auto or Pass Through and test again. Some apps send formats that an older soundbar cannot decode.

5. Restart the TV and soundbar

Unplug both for 60 seconds, reconnect the ARC cable, then power on the TV first. This renews the HDMI handshake.

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For testing or replacement, consider a certified HDMI cable or a replacement soundbar remote.

FAQ

Why does the cable box have sound but TV apps do not?

The cable box sends audio directly through its own HDMI route. Built-in apps rely on the TV sending sound back to the soundbar.

Will optical fix TV-app sound?

Yes, optical is a good fallback when ARC remains unreliable, although it may limit some advanced formats and TV-remote control behavior.

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