If your TV remote changes the TV volume but will not control the soundbar, the connection is usually working only partway. The fix is normally in HDMI-CEC, ARC, the TV’s audio-output menu, or the soundbar’s selected input.

Quick answer

For one-remote volume control, connect the TV’s HDMI ARC/eARC port to the soundbar’s HDMI OUT/TV ARC port, select HDMI/TV input on the soundbar, turn on CEC on the TV, and choose external speakers. Optical connections can deliver sound, but they usually cannot pass TV-remote volume commands automatically.

1. Confirm the connection type

Look at the HDMI label on the TV. Use the port marked ARC or eARC, then connect the other end to the soundbar port marked HDMI OUT, TV, ARC, or eARC. Do not use a soundbar HDMI IN port for this return-audio connection.

2. Turn on HDMI-CEC

CEC lets compatible devices exchange control commands. Its name changes by brand: Samsung Anynet+, LG SIMPLINK, Sony BRAVIA Sync, Vizio CEC, and Roku 1-touch play are common examples. Enable CEC in the TV settings, then restart both devices.

See how to enable HDMI-CEC for a soundbar if you need help finding the setting.

3. Set TV audio to external speakers

Choose Audio Output, Sound Output, Receiver, HDMI ARC, or External Speakers in the TV menu. If TV speakers remain selected, the remote may adjust the television speakers instead of the soundbar.

4. Select HDMI/TV on the soundbar

Use the soundbar Input or Source button. A soundbar set to Bluetooth, Optical, AUX, or USB may play no TV audio and cannot receive HDMI control commands.

5. Power-reset both devices

Turn off the TV and soundbar, unplug both for 60 seconds, reconnect the HDMI cable firmly, then power on the TV first. This forces a new HDMI handshake.

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When optical is the better choice

Use optical when your TV has no ARC port or HDMI control remains unreliable. You will still need the soundbar remote, an IR-learning feature, or a universal remote for volume control.

For a compatible HDMI cable, see high-speed HDMI cable options. If your soundbar supports it, a universal remote can be another practical solution.

FAQ

Why does the TV remote control power but not volume?

Power control can be a separate CEC command. Check audio output, ARC connection, soundbar input, and CEC settings.

Can I control a soundbar with the TV remote through optical?

Usually not automatically. Optical carries audio but does not carry HDMI-CEC control information.

Do I need eARC for remote volume control?

No. Standard ARC with CEC is normally enough for volume and power control.

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