When using an optical cable, make sure you remove the plastic caps and firmly insert each end into the TV and soundbar until they click.

Some HDMI cables, like the AmazonBasics Premium HDMI Cable, specifically mention ARC capability in their listings. Plug in the cable to your soundbar and your TV.Īnd if you’re wondering if you have to have an HDMI Arc cable (as opposed to any old HDMI cable you have lying around like directional cables) the answer is yes! Luckily any HDMI cable with the 2.0 standard or newer will work. Whether you are using an optical or HDMI ARC connection, you should have been provided the correct cable with your soundbar from the soundbar manufacturer.

Connect an HDMI or Optical Cable to Each Device On the soundbar, find the DIGITAL AUDIO IN(OPTICAL) or OPTICAL IN port. If you are planning to use an HDMI cable, locate the HDMI OUT or HDMI OUT(ARC) port on your soundbar, as well as the HDMI IN(ARC) port on your TV.įor connecting via Digital Fiber Optical Cable (referred to as’ optical cable’ in the rest of the article), identify the DIGITAL AUDIO(OUT) or DIGITAL OPTICAL OUT port on the back of your TV. Once you’ve decided which one to use, keep working through the directions below. If so, there’s some more discussion about that in another one of our articles. If your TV and soundbar have both options, you may be wondering which one you should be using. However, if your TV doesn’t have it, a digital optical cable is a good alternative. Many soundbars and TVs have HDMI ARC available, and that is the best way to make a connection. Troubleshooting Tips: If issues arise, remember to check sound or audio settings on the TV and ensure correct input selection on the soundbar consult specific TV brand instructions for detailed guidance.įind the Optical or HDMI ARC Connection on both the Soundbar and TVĬheck out your TV and soundbar to see the type of inputs you have available.TV Brand Compatibility: Works with commonly used brands including Samsung, LG, VIZIO, Sony, Hitachi, Panasonic, TCL, and Hisense.Key Steps for Connection: Connect using HDMI ARC or an optical cable adjust TV and soundbar settings for optimal audio control.Soundbar-TV Remote Control: Controlling your soundbar with a TV remote is possible through HDMI ARC or optical connections.Here’s a breakdown of what you need to do to control a soundbar with your TV remote. While each TV brand’s method of connecting to and controlling your soundbar is slightly different, it’s fairly straightforward to connect the two, and we will mention specific instructions for the most popular brands. Test and Troubleshoot Any Connection IssuesĬlick or tap here to jump straight to the instructions for each brand.Connect an optical or HDMI cable to each.Find the optical or HDMI ARC connection on both the soundbar and TV.How to control a soundbar with a TV remote: Luckily, there is a way to avoid fiddling with multiple remotes and simplify your whole entertainment system. If you recently got a soundbar, or you’re simply wanting to streamline your current soundbar/TV connection, controlling both your TV and soundbar with one remote is ideal.

Sound control button samsung soundbar