You’re Not Getting the Best Sound From Your Soundbar—Until You Change This One Setting

We often invest in soundbars expecting a dramatic improvement in audio quality compared to our televisions’ built-in speakers. However, many users find themselves underwhelmed, feeling they’re not getting the full sonic potential from their investment. The culprit? Often, it’s a single, easily overlooked setting. We’re here to guide you through this simple yet transformative adjustment that can unlock your soundbar’s true capabilities.

The Underappreciated Setting: Your TV’s Audio Output

The key to optimizing your soundbar’s performance lies in understanding how your television communicates with it. The audio signal path, from the TV to the soundbar, is crucial. The setting we’re referring to is your TV’s audio output setting. Far too often, televisions are left on their default audio output settings, which are rarely optimized for external sound devices like soundbars.

Why the Default Setting Fails

Televisions are designed to output audio through their internal speakers. Consequently, the default settings often prioritize delivering a balanced, albeit often compressed, audio signal intended for these small speakers. This means that valuable audio information can be lost or altered before it even reaches your soundbar. For example, some TVs might downmix multichannel audio to stereo or apply unwanted audio processing effects that muddy the sound. This is especially true for older TV models that lack advanced audio processing capabilities. The result is a diminished audio experience, lacking the clarity, depth, and immersive quality your soundbar is capable of delivering.

Identifying the Correct Audio Output Setting

Navigating your TV’s menu to find the audio output settings can vary depending on the manufacturer and model. However, the general process remains relatively consistent. We will guide you through common terminologies and pathways to locate the relevant settings. Look for these options:

• PCM (Pulse Code Modulation): This is generally considered the cleanest, uncompressed digital audio format. When available, selecting PCM ensures your TV sends the purest audio signal possible to your soundbar. However, PCM typically only supports stereo (2.0) audio. Therefore, if you intend to use surround sound, this option may not be ideal.
• Bitstream: This option allows your TV to pass through the audio signal without modification. It is essential for delivering surround sound formats like Dolby Digital, DTS, Dolby TrueHD, and DTS-HD Master Audio. If your soundbar supports these formats, choosing Bitstream is crucial for experiencing true surround sound.
• Auto: Some TVs have an “Auto” setting that attempts to automatically detect the connected audio device and select the appropriate audio output format. While convenient, this setting is not always reliable. We recommend manually selecting either PCM or Bitstream based on your soundbar’s capabilities and your desired audio output.
• HDMI ARC/eARC: When connecting your soundbar via HDMI ARC (Audio Return Channel) or eARC (Enhanced Audio Return Channel), ensure this option is enabled both on your TV and soundbar. ARC/eARC allows audio to be sent from the TV to the soundbar via the HDMI cable, eliminating the need for a separate optical or coaxial cable. eARC offers higher bandwidth than ARC, enabling it to transmit lossless audio formats like Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio. Ensure your TV and soundbar both support eARC to take full advantage of its capabilities.

Step-by-Step Guide to Changing the Audio Output Setting (General)

1. Access the TV’s Menu: Use your TV remote to open the main menu. The button is typically labeled “Menu,” “Settings,” or a similar term.
2. Navigate to Sound/Audio Settings: Look for a section related to sound or audio. It may be under a broader category like “Settings” or “System.”
3. Find the Audio Output Option: Within the sound/audio settings, locate the “Audio Output,” “Digital Audio Output,” or a similar option.
4. Select the Appropriate Format: Choose either PCM or Bitstream based on your soundbar’s capabilities and desired audio output. As we mentioned earlier, use PCM for stereo and Bitstream for surround sound.
5. Confirm and Exit: Save your changes and exit the menu.

Specific TV Brand Examples:

While menus vary, here’s a general guide to finding the audio output setting on some popular TV brands.

• Samsung: Navigate to Settings > Sound > Expert Settings > Digital Audio Output. Options will likely include PCM, Auto, and Bitstream formats like Dolby Digital and DTS.
• LG: Navigate to Settings > Sound > Sound Out > HDMI ARC or Optical. Then, navigate to Digital Sound Out and choose PCM, Auto, or Passthrough.
• Sony: Navigate to Settings > Sound > Audio Output > Digital Audio Out. Options include PCM, Auto 1, Auto 2 and PCM. Choose either PCM or Bitstream/Dolby Digital based on your need.
• Vizio: Navigate to Menu > Audio > Digital Audio Out. Then, select PCM, Bitstream or Auto.

Important Considerations When Selecting the Correct Audio Output Setting

• HDMI cable: For optimal performance of the soundbar, it is recommended that you use HDMI 2.1 cable as it has more bandwidth to transmit lossless audio formats like Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio
• Soundbar Capabilities: Before making any changes, consult your soundbar’s manual to determine which audio formats it supports. Connecting a soundbar that only supports Dolby Digital to a TV outputting DTS-HD Master Audio will result in no sound or distorted audio.
• Source Material: The audio output format should also be compatible with the source material. For example, if you are watching a Blu-ray disc with a Dolby TrueHD soundtrack, your TV and soundbar must both support this format to experience it correctly. Streaming services also use various audio formats, so check the app settings or content description to determine the audio format being used.
• eARC Support: To play lossless audio formats, ensure that your TV and soundbar both support eARC. If only ARC is available, you are limited to compressed audio formats like Dolby Digital Plus.
• Bypass TV Speakers: Ensure the TV speakers are turned off within the TV settings, forcing the audio to be routed to the external speakers.

Beyond the Audio Output: Fine-Tuning Your Soundbar for Optimal Performance

Changing the audio output setting is a crucial first step, but it’s not the only adjustment you can make to maximize your soundbar’s potential. Several other factors can influence the overall sound quality, and we’ll explore them in detail.

Soundbar Placement: The Key to Immersive Audio

The position of your soundbar significantly impacts the soundstage and overall audio experience. Here’s how to optimize placement:

• Optimal Height: Ideally, your soundbar should be positioned at ear level when you’re seated. This ensures that the sound waves reach your ears directly, providing a more accurate and immersive listening experience. If placing the soundbar on a TV stand, ensure it’s not obstructed by any objects. Wall-mounting the soundbar just below the TV is also an excellent option, as it frees up space and maintains a clean aesthetic.
• Centering with the TV: Align the soundbar with the center of your TV screen. This creates a balanced and symmetrical soundstage, enhancing the realism of the audio. Avoid placing the soundbar off to one side, as it can skew the sound and create an uneven listening experience.
• Distance from Walls: Avoid placing the soundbar too close to walls, as this can cause unwanted reflections and resonances that muddy the sound. Leave some space between the soundbar and the wall to allow the sound waves to propagate freely. Experiment with different distances to find the sweet spot that delivers the best sound quality in your room.
• Subwoofer Placement: If your soundbar includes a separate subwoofer, its placement is equally important. Subwoofers are generally less directional than soundbars, so their placement is less critical. However, experimenting with different locations can significantly impact the bass response. Placing the subwoofer in a corner will typically amplify the bass, while placing it along a wall will provide a more balanced sound.
• Room Acoustics: The acoustics of your room can also affect the sound quality of your soundbar. Hard surfaces like walls and floors can cause reflections that muddy the sound, while soft surfaces like carpets and curtains can absorb sound and improve clarity. Consider adding acoustic treatments to your room to optimize the listening environment.

Sound Modes: Choosing the Right Setting for Different Content

Most soundbars offer various sound modes designed to optimize the audio for different types of content. Understanding these modes and selecting the appropriate one can significantly enhance your listening experience.

• Movie Mode: This mode typically enhances the bass and treble frequencies, creating a more dramatic and immersive sound for movies. It may also emphasize the center channel to improve dialogue clarity.
• Music Mode: This mode typically provides a more balanced and natural sound for music listening. It aims to reproduce the audio as faithfully as possible, without adding any artificial enhancements.
• Game Mode: This mode often emphasizes sound effects and spatial audio cues, providing a more immersive and competitive gaming experience. It may also reduce latency to ensure that the audio is synchronized with the on-screen action.
• Night Mode: This mode reduces the dynamic range of the audio, making loud sounds quieter and quiet sounds louder. This is ideal for late-night listening when you don’t want to disturb others.
• Dialogue Enhancement: This mode focuses on improving the clarity of dialogue, making it easier to understand speech in movies and TV shows.

Equalization (EQ): Customizing the Sound to Your Preferences

Many soundbars offer equalization (EQ) settings that allow you to customize the sound to your liking. EQ settings allow you to adjust the levels of different frequency ranges, such as bass, midrange, and treble.

• Understanding Frequency Ranges:
  • Bass (20Hz-250Hz): These frequencies are responsible for the low-end rumble and impact in music and movies.
  • Midrange (250Hz-4kHz): These frequencies are responsible for the clarity and presence of vocals and instruments.
  • Treble (4kHz-20kHz): These frequencies are responsible for the brightness and detail in the sound.
• Adjusting EQ Settings: Experiment with adjusting the EQ settings to find the sound that best suits your preferences. If you find the sound too bass-heavy, try reducing the bass frequencies. If you find the sound too harsh or bright, try reducing the treble frequencies.
• Preset EQ Modes: Some soundbars offer preset EQ modes that are optimized for different types of content. These modes can be a good starting point for customizing the sound, but don’t be afraid to experiment with the individual EQ settings to fine-tune the sound to your liking.

Firmware Updates: Keeping Your Soundbar Up-to-Date

Manufacturers often release firmware updates for their soundbars to improve performance, add new features, and fix bugs. It’s essential to keep your soundbar up-to-date to ensure you’re getting the best possible performance.

• Checking for Updates: Check your soundbar’s manual or manufacturer’s website for instructions on how to check for and install firmware updates.
• Benefits of Updates: Firmware updates can improve sound quality, add new features like support for new audio formats, and fix bugs that may be affecting performance.

Troubleshooting Common Soundbar Issues

Even with the correct settings and placement, you may encounter issues with your soundbar. Here are some common problems and their solutions.

No Sound

• Check Connections: Ensure all cables are securely connected to both the TV and soundbar.
• Verify Audio Output Settings: Double-check that the TV’s audio output setting is correctly configured for the soundbar.
• Check the Volume: Ensure the volume is turned up on both the TV and soundbar.
• Unmute the Soundbar: Some soundbars have a mute function that may be accidentally activated.
• Try a Different Input: If you’re using HDMI ARC, try using a different HDMI input on your TV.

Distorted Sound

• Reduce the Volume: Excessive volume can cause distortion.
• Check Audio Format Compatibility: Ensure the audio format being output by the TV is compatible with the soundbar.
• Adjust EQ Settings: Reduce the bass or treble frequencies if they are causing distortion.
• Check Cable Connections: Damaged or loose cables can cause distortion.

Sound Delay (Lip Sync Issues)

• Adjust Audio Delay Settings: Many TVs and soundbars have settings to adjust the audio delay. Experiment with these settings to synchronize the audio with the video.
• Disable Audio Processing: Disable any unnecessary audio processing features on the TV and soundbar.
• Use HDMI ARC/eARC: HDMI ARC/eARC can help reduce audio delay compared to optical or coaxial connections.

Conclusion: Unlock Your Soundbar’s Potential Today

By understanding and adjusting the audio output setting on your TV, you can unlock the full potential of your soundbar. This simple change, combined with proper placement, sound mode selection, EQ adjustments, and firmware updates, can dramatically improve your audio experience. So, take the time to fine-tune your soundbar settings, and prepare to be amazed by the difference it makes. We hope this guide has been helpful in optimizing your soundbar’s performance and allowing you to fully enjoy your favorite movies, music, and games.