Soundbar Audio Issues: Troubleshooting Common Problems

Soundbars have become the go-to solution for improving TV audio, but when they stop working properly, the troubleshooting process isn’t always obvious. Here’s how to diagnose and fix common soundbar problems.

No Sound at All

When your soundbar is completely silent:

Check the Basics

• Is the soundbar powered on? Look for indicator lights
• Is the volume turned up on both the soundbar and your TV?
• Is the correct input selected on the soundbar?
• Are all cables securely connected?

Cable Connections

HDMI ARC/eARC:

• Must be connected to the TV’s ARC-labeled HDMI port
• Enable CEC/ARC in your TV’s settings
• Try a different HDMI cable

Optical (TOSLINK):

• Check for the red light in the cable ends
• Make sure the cable is fully seated
• Try reversing the cable ends

Analog (3.5mm or RCA):

• Verify the cable is in the correct jacks
• Check for damaged cables
• Test with a different audio source

TV Audio Settings

Your TV may not be sending audio to the soundbar:

• Go to your TV’s audio settings
• Select “External speakers” or “Audio out”
• Disable the TV’s internal speakers
• Enable HDMI CEC if using ARC
• Check the audio output format (PCM vs Bitstream)

Sound Cuts Out or Stutters

Wireless Interference

If your soundbar connects wirelessly to a subwoofer or rear speakers:

• Move the subwoofer closer to the soundbar
• Remove obstacles between components
• Move away from WiFi routers and other wireless devices
• Check for firmware updates

HDMI Handshake Issues

• Power cycle everything (TV, soundbar, source devices)
• Try a different HDMI cable
• Connect devices directly to TV rather than through a receiver
• Disable HDMI CEC and re-enable it

Overheating

• Check that ventilation isn’t blocked
• Don’t place the soundbar in an enclosed space
• Give it some breathing room above and below

Poor Sound Quality

Muffled or Tinny Sound

Check EQ settings:

• Reset to default/flat EQ
• Adjust bass and treble
• Try different sound modes (movie, music, dialogue)

Check audio format:

• Switch between PCM and Bitstream in TV settings
• Some formats may not be supported by your soundbar

Speaker placement:

• Don’t place the soundbar inside a cabinet
• Keep it clear of obstructions
• Position it at ear level when possible

Dialogue Hard to Hear

• Enable “dialogue enhancement” or “clear voice” mode
• Reduce bass/subwoofer level
• Check for a dedicated center channel setting
• Try “night mode” which often compresses dynamic range

Bass Problems

Too much bass:

• Reduce subwoofer level
• Move subwoofer away from corners
• Adjust the bass EQ

Not enough bass:

• Check subwoofer connection (wired or wireless)
• Increase subwoofer level
• Check for a bass boost setting
• Move subwoofer to a corner for more impact

Remote Control Issues

Remote Not Working

• Replace the batteries
• Check for obstructions blocking the IR sensor
• Clean the sensor on the soundbar
• Try the buttons on the soundbar itself

TV Remote Won’t Control Soundbar

• Enable HDMI CEC on both devices
• Check that both devices are CEC-compatible
• Some TV brands need specific settings enabled
• A universal remote may be needed

Bluetooth Problems

Won’t Pair

• Put the soundbar in pairing mode (check manual for method)
• Delete old Bluetooth pairings on both devices
• Move devices closer together
• Restart both the soundbar and your phone

Bluetooth Audio Lag

• This is common with Bluetooth audio
• Some soundbars have a “lip sync” adjustment
• Use HDMI or optical for video content
• Save Bluetooth for music only

Subwoofer Issues

Wireless Subwoofer Won’t Connect

• Re-pair the subwoofer (check manual for procedure)
• Move subwoofer closer to soundbar
• Check for interference from other devices
• Reset both soundbar and subwoofer

Subwoofer Has No Sound

• Check the subwoofer power and volume
• Verify the wireless connection
• Test with bass-heavy content
• Check if the LFE channel is enabled

When to Seek Professional Help

Consider repair when:

• No sound despite all troubleshooting steps
• Physical damage to speakers or enclosure
• Burning smell or visible damage
• Power issues (won’t turn on, turns off randomly)
• Crackling or distortion that persists

What We Can Repair

We fix many soundbar problems:

• Power supply issues - Common cause of no power
• Speaker driver replacement - For blown or damaged speakers
• Input jack repair - HDMI, optical, or aux ports
• Bluetooth module replacement - When wireless stops working
• Control board repair - When buttons or functions fail

Higher-end soundbars from Sonos, Bose, Samsung, and similar brands are usually worth repairing. Budget soundbars may cost more to repair than replace.

Prevention Tips

Keep your soundbar working reliably:

• Use a surge protector
• Keep ventilation clear
• Don’t expose to extreme temperatures
• Use quality cables
• Keep firmware updated
• Avoid moving the soundbar while it’s on

Having soundbar problems? Bring it in for a free diagnosis and we’ll help you get your home theater audio back on track.