How to Connect Soundbar to TV With HDMI [Step-by-Step]

An HDMI connection allows you to enjoy unprecedented sound from your TV through the soundbar. In fact, HDMI is one of the most efficient, and old-school ways of connecting a soundbar to a TV.

Although the procedure of connecting a soundbar to the TV using the HDMI cable is super-easy, still, a lot of people are always confused about connecting a soundbar to a TV.

Therefore, we have compiled this step-by-step guide, om which we have thoroughly elaborated all the steps for connecting the soundbar to the TV using an HDMI cable.

That being said, let’s jump right into the details.

Steps for Connecting the Soundbar to TV with HDMI Cable

Despite the fact, connecting the soundbar to TV via HDMI is a super-easy task, and you don’t have to be tech-savvy for this connection, a lot of people find it tricky to connect the soundbar to TV using the HDMI cable.

Thus, we have put together all the steps in great detail below. By following the below-given guide, you can easily connect the soundbar to the TV using the HDMI cable.

Step 1: Get an HDMI ARC Cable

HDMI cable is a super-common cable, which is available in almost all households, still, if you do not have an HDMI ARCcable handy, then you will need to get an HDMI cable first.

An HDMI ARC cable is a dual-link cable, which supports both the audio and video format. Since you are getting the HDMI cable for enjoying sound through the soundbar, you don’t need to compromise on the quality, as getting a quality HDMI cable ensures you get multi-channel sound, and also the quality of the sound is perfect.

Apart from the quality of the HDMI cable, you need to take the cable length into consideration. Getting a short cable can be trouble. We recommend getting a cable that is at least three feet long. So, you can easily plug the soundbar into the TV using the HDMI cable.

Step 2: Locate the HDMI port on the TV

After getting the HDMI cable, you will need to figure out, where are you exactly going to plug that cable in. Plugging the cable into the TV is a little trickier than plugging it into the soundbar. Since it says HDMI, people simply plug the HDMI cable into the HDMI port on their TV, instead of the HDMI ARC port.

The difference between the HDMI and the HDMI ARC port is that the HDMI port only supports video, while the HDMI ARC (Audio Return Channel) supports both the audio as well as video connectivity, which is absolutely amazing.

So, on your TV you will need to find out the HDMI ARC port. Usually, the HDMI ARC ports are present on the sides of the TV. Just make sure, you do not lift it too much, as it can make the TV drop from the wall brackets.

Step 3: Locate the HDMI port on the Soundbar

After locating the HDMI port on the TV, now you will have to find the HDMI port on the soundbar. Finding the HDMI port on the soundbar is easier as compared to the TV, as there is no simple HDMI port, and all the ports are HDMI ARC.

HDMI ARC ports on the soundbar vary from manufacturer to manufacturer, and model to model, but usually, the HDMI ARC port is present at the backside of the monitor.

Step 4: Plug the Cable into the Soundbar

Now, you will need to plug the HDMI cable into the soundbar. So, you will need to switch it off, if it is already turned on, and unplug it from the power socket.

After you have unplugged the soundbar from the power socket, you will now have to plug one end of the HDMI cable into the HDMI ARC port on the soundbar, and then when you have already plugged the cable into the HDMI port of the soundbar, you need to turn it on the back again.

Step 5: Plug the cable into the TV

After plugging the HDMI cable into the soundbar, now it’s time to plug the cable into the TV. Just like the soundbar, you need to switch off your TV and unplug it from the power socket. Afterward, plug in the other end of the HDMI cable, and switch the TV on again.

Step 6: Select the Soundbar Source

The majority of the soundbars automatically pick up the preferred audio as the HDMI. However, there are cases when the soundbar needs to be manually tuned for HDMI mode. If your soundbar comes with a remote, then you can use the Source button on your soundbar, and then select the HDMI input using the Keys. Also, there are soundbars that have dedicated buttons for selecting the right input according to your needs.

If your soundbar does not come with the remote, then you will have to use the buttons available on the soundbar itself to select the HDMI as the preferred input type.

Step 7: Select the TV Audio Output Source

Finally, you have to select the soundbar as your source of audio from the TV itself. Usually, the TV automatically selects the soundbar as the preferred audio channel, still, there are times when you need to do the process manually.

The process of selecting the soundbar as your preferred audio streaming device varies from manufacturer to manufacturer, still, it generally involves the same steps, as firstly you will need to go to the Settings>Audio Settings, and then finally select the soundbar as your preferred audio device.

Now, you should be able to enjoy the sound from the soundbar instead of the TV speakers.

Advantages & Disadvantages of Using an HDMI Cable for Soundbar Connection

There is no doubt that the HDMI ARC connection is one of the most reliable, and widely used cable connections right now for connecting the soundbar to the TV. However, just like every electrical appliance out there, the HDMI cable still has some cons. 

Below, we will discuss the pros & cons of using an HDMI cable in detail. So, you can easily figure out, which method are you going to use for connecting your soundbar to the TV. 

Advantages of Using the HDMI Cable for Soundbar Connectivity

• The first benefit that you get with the HDMI cables is availability. HDMI cables are widely available in the market, as well as in households, so in the vast majority of cases, you do not need to buy one.
• HDMI offers superior quality, and performance. It’s a multi-channel setup, which works with 5.1 channels, and retains the quality of the connection, which is absolutely amazing.
• Last not least, the HDMI cable connection unlike the RCA connection or the optical fiber connection is very easy to manage. 

Disadvantages of Using the HDMI Cable for Soundbar Connectivity

• The only drawback that comes with the HDMI cables (as well as other cables) is that they come with clutter. So, using Bluetooth connectivity, or WIFI connectivity on a soundbar is always a better option.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the Difference Between HDMI & HDMI ARC Port?

Well, the HDMI and the HDMI ARC look the same. However, there is a major difference between both of these ports, as the HDMI port carries video signals only, while the HDMI ARC port carries video as well as video signals. So, when you are connecting a soundbar with a TV, you always connect it with the HDMI ARC port.

I Have Plugged the HDMI Cable by Following the Guide, Still, There is No Sound, Why?

There can be a variety of different reasons which cause this issue. However, one of the most common issues here is that you have not set the right audio preference in the TV settings.

Is HDMI the Best Way to Connect Soundbar to TV?

Yes, HDMI is the best way to connect the soundbar to a TV, as it offers simple connectivity and unparalleled sound without any fuss.

Conclusion

Connecting the soundbar to a TV using the HDMI cable can be a little tricky, especially, when you have not done it before.

Therefore, we have compiled this step-by-step guide, in which we have listed all the steps that you need to follow for the HDMI connection. By following these simple steps, you can easily connect your soundbar to the TV via HDMI.