Connecting a soundbar to a TV takes a few minutes and one cable in most cases. The best option is HDMI ARC, then optical, then Bluetooth, and which one you can use depends on the ports on your TV and soundbar. For other audio equipment, see how to connect audio devices to any TV.
Find the Right Connection
Check the back or side of your TV for an HDMI port marked ARC or eARC, an optical (TOSLINK) output, or a Bluetooth option in the settings menu.
If the TV has HDMI ARC and the soundbar has an HDMI ARC output, use that. It is the simplest and best option.
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Connect With HDMI ARC
Plug an HDMI cable into the TV’s HDMI ARC port and the soundbar’s HDMI out (ARC) port. Turn both on, open the TV’s audio settings, and set the output to HDMI ARC or external speakers.
Turn on HDMI-CEC in the settings so the TV remote controls soundbar volume. If you want to know more about the newer version, read what eARC is.
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Connect With Optical
If there is no ARC port, use an optical cable. Remove the plastic caps, line up the square plug, and push it into the TV’s optical output and the soundbar’s optical input.
Set the TV’s audio output to optical or digital audio out. Optical handles stereo and common surround formats, but it cannot carry the highest-quality audio formats.
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Please REMOVE the end protective caps before using the cable.
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Optical digital audio cable: Perfect for equipment with a TOSLINK interface (OPT In / OPT Out or S/PDIF In / S/PDIF Out). TOSLINK connector to TOSLINK connector (F05 connector)
Connect With Bluetooth
Put the soundbar in Bluetooth pairing mode, open Bluetooth settings on the TV, and select the soundbar from the list.
It is the easiest wireless method, but it can add a delay that makes speech look out of sync. If so, switch to a wired connection or look for a low-latency option.
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App and Wi-Fi Setup
Many soundbars have an app that handles Wi-Fi setup, music streaming, and sound adjustments such as bass and dialogue level.
Wi-Fi is not needed for TV sound.
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Placement and Final Checks
Put the soundbar centered below the TV with nothing in front of it, and play a scene to test it. Make sure the TV’s own speakers are off.
For placement, see soundbar placement tips, and if you are still choosing, read soundbar vs speaker system.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use a Soundbar Without a TV?
Yes. Connect it to a phone, tablet, or computer by Bluetooth or an audio cable, and use it as a speaker for music, videos, or games.
Do Soundbars Work With Older TVs?
Yes, if the TV has an output the soundbar can accept. Older TVs usually have optical or analog outputs, such as RCA or a 3.5mm headphone jack. Match the TV output to a soundbar input and use the right cable.
How Do I Control Volume With a Soundbar?
Use the soundbar’s remote, the buttons on the unit, or your TV remote. With HDMI ARC and HDMI-CEC enabled, the TV remote often controls the soundbar. Some TV remotes can be programmed to control it through infrared if CEC does not work.
Can I Connect Multiple Devices to a Soundbar?
Yes, if it has several inputs. Many soundbars have extra HDMI, optical, and Bluetooth inputs, and you switch between them with the remote. Connecting devices to the TV and sending sound through ARC is often simpler.
Do Soundbars Need Wi-Fi to Function?
No. A soundbar works with a power cord and a cable or Bluetooth link to the TV. Wi-Fi adds music streaming, voice assistants, and multi-room features.
