Soundbar Problems? Here’s How to Fix Them Like a Pro

Soundbars have become a popular solution for enhancing the audio experience of modern, thin televisions. However, as with any electronic device, issues may arise that can be both frustrating and disruptive. Fortunately, troubleshooting common soundbar problems can be a straightforward process. In the event that more drastic measures are needed, a factory reset can often be performed. This guide will provide you with solutions for common soundbar problems, allowing you to restore your soundbar to proper functionality quickly and effectively.

Prior to engaging in troubleshooting, it is recommended to attempt some preliminary solutions for soundbar issues. Your smart TV should automatically select the appropriate audio settings for your soundbar. Therefore, soundbar problems typically occur as a result of software glitches, faulty cables, or external video source settings (e.g. DVD player, streaming stick, cable box, or gaming console).

To avoid unnecessary complications, it is advised to try the following quick fixes before proceeding with specific troubleshooting steps outlined in this article:

• Perform a power cycle on your TV and soundbar by disconnecting them from the electrical outlet for a minimum of 10 seconds. This will enable the TV and soundbar to reestablish their connection, resolving any glitches or other issues. Please note that pressing the power button does not result in the complete shutdown of these devices, requiring you to unplug them.
• Please verify the audio source of your soundbar. It is possible that your soundbar is attempting to play audio from an incorrect source. To resolve this, please select your preferred input (typically HDMI or optical) using the soundbar's remote or button.
• Firmware Update: In the event that your soundbar ceases to function correctly, or if a new soundbar fails to operate, a smart TV firmware update may provide a solution. After installing the update, we recommend power cycling your TV and soundbar. If you prefer to maintain your smart TV offline, you may disconnect it from the internet following the update.
• It is recommended to verify the integrity of connections between your TV and soundbar to ensure that they are not loose. If you have connected your soundbar and TV using an HDMI cable, it is important to ensure that both devices are using the HDMI ARC or eARC jack. If Bluetooth is being used, a wired connection may be worth trying as an alternative.
• It is possible that your HDMI cable may have malfunctioned. As a solution, we recommend trying a different cable. It is advisable to invest in an HDMI 2.1 cable as it is equipped to support both HDMI ARC and eARC standards.
• It is advisable to examine the source settings of your video device, such as your streaming stick, cable box, DVD player, or game console, as they may be the root cause of the issues you are experiencing. Please review the audio settings of the device, and if available, enable the "comfort noise" feature. Additionally, ensure that the audio output mode is set to "auto," and if available, calibrate any audio synchronization settings.

It is possible to resolve certain issues by performing a factory reset on your smart TV and soundbar. To do so, refer to the manufacturer's guidelines as the process may vary depending on the brand. You may consult the instruction manuals provided or perform a search online for the manuals of your equipment.

Conclusion

In conclusion, soundbars are an excellent solution for enhancing audio quality from ultra-thin televisions. However, like any electronic device, soundbars can encounter problems that can hamper their performance. Fortunately, identifying these issues and resolving them is often a straightforward process. By following the guidelines outlined in this blog post, you should be able to troubleshoot your soundbar's issues and restore it to optimal functioning. Remember to always consult your user manual for specific instructions and seek professional help if needed.

Read here for more advance troubleshooting steps to fix various common soundbar issues: Solved: How do I troubleshoot and resolve common soundbar problems?