Question:

I’m experiencing recurring connectivity problems with my Sony HT-S400 soundbar linked to an LG 70UN7370AUD TV via HDMI ARC. Initially, the soundbar occasionally failed to power on with the TV, requiring a manual disconnect and reconnect to resolve. This seemed to be a common issue upon research, so I didn’t give it much thought.

However, the problem has escalated recently. The soundbar now frequently loses connection to the TV’s ARC channel, displaying ‘TV’ as the input source but remaining undetected by the TV itself.

After substituting the HDMI cable, the system functioned perfectly, leading me to suspect a faulty cable. Yet, the problem has resurfaced even with the new cable, suggesting a potential issue where the TV or soundbar might be causing damage to the HDMI cable, rendering it inoperative.

Is there a known solution to this issue? I prefer to avoid using Digital Audio Out, as it necessitates using separate remotes for the TV and soundbar.”

Answer:

HDMI ARC (Audio Return Channel) has revolutionized home audio systems by allowing a single HDMI cable to transmit audio data to and from your TV and soundbar. However, when connectivity issues arise, it can be a source of significant inconvenience. Let’s delve into the problem you’re facing with your Sony HT-S400 soundbar and LG 70UN7370AUD TV and explore potential solutions.

Your Sony soundbar is experiencing intermittent connectivity issues with your LG TV’s HDMI ARC feature. Initially, these were sporadic, but they have now become more frequent. The soundbar fails to be recognized by the TV, despite indicating the correct ‘TV’ input source. Replacing the HDMI cable seemed to resolve the issue temporarily, suggesting that the cable was at fault. However, the problem has returned, leading to the suspicion that either the TV or the soundbar may be damaging the HDMI cable over time.

Potential Solutions:

1.

Firmware Updates

: Ensure that both your TV and soundbar have the latest firmware updates installed. Manufacturers often release updates to fix known issues, including connectivity problems.

2.

Cable Quality

: Not all HDMI cables are created equal. Invest in a high-quality, certified HDMI cable that supports the bandwidth required for HDMI ARC.

3.

Port Inspection

: Examine the HDMI ports on both the TV and soundbar for any signs of physical damage or debris that could interfere with the connection.

4.

Power Cycle

: Perform a power cycle by unplugging both devices from the power source, waiting a minute, and then plugging them back in. This can reset the ARC connection.

5.

TV Sound Settings

: Navigate to the sound settings on your TV and ensure that the ARC or eARC mode is enabled. Also, check if there are any specific settings or modes that need to be activated for your soundbar model.

6.

Soundbar Settings

: Some soundbars have specific settings for HDMI ARC. Consult your soundbar’s manual to ensure these are correctly configured.

7.

Alternate Connection

: As a temporary workaround, you could use an optical cable for audio output. This won’t require different remotes if your soundbar supports control through the TV’s remote.

8.

Professional Help

: If none of the above solutions work, it may be time to seek professional help. A technician can diagnose if the issue is with the hardware and suggest repairs or replacements.

Conclusion:

The convenience of HDMI ARC is unparalleled when it works correctly. By methodically troubleshooting the issue using the steps above, you can hopefully restore seamless connectivity between your soundbar and TV. If the problem persists, professional assistance will provide a more definitive solution, ensuring that you can enjoy your home entertainment system to its fullest potential. Remember, the key to resolving such technical issues lies in patience and systematic troubleshooting.