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How To GuideWhen diving into the technical realm of audio systems, here are some reasons why you might be facing difficulties with your audio output and solutions to each problem:
First things first! Before delving into more complex troubleshooting methods, always begin with the basics. A simple reboot, or power cycling, is a straightforward process that can often rectify many technology-related glitches if they aren't related to specific settings. Here's how to execute it:
If a quick restart of your JBL Soundbar doesn't resolve the issue, it's time to dive deeper.
Misconnections are often also a culprit for audio issues. For HDMI ARCs to function correctly, both ends of the cable must be connected to appropriate ARC-labelled inputs. Otherwise, the audio will be disabled. As such, do check that you're using the correct input.
Modern TVs offer a variety of audio settings, and occasionally, your current sound system may not be able to process the audio from the original media. In this case, adjusting the TV's settings to align with the audio format might be the solution. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do so:
There’s another audio setting called ‘Digital Sound Out’ that you should check before testing the setup again.
Besides this, another way to verify your audio settings is by adjusting your audio output to "PCM" (Pulse Code Modulation). While this may limit you to stereo sound that lacks the depth of multichannel audio, it better enables you to determine if the root cause lies in the audio format's compatibility.
Just like any other piece of hardware, regular wear and tear or accidental tugs can result in connection problems affecting ARC audio performance. If the internal wiring of the HDMI port gets detached from the motherboard, this will compromise the HDMI ARC’s functionality. Additionally, you should also check if your HDMI ARC is damaged or loose. If any component is damaged, consider seeking assistance from a repair shop or leveraging your warranty to address the issue.
The Consumer Electronic Control (CEC) setting is a linchpin for HDMI ARC functionality. Your ARC will not function correctly if CEC is turned off, since the CEC manages the ARC feature and enables the remote control of devices. Depending on your TV’s brand, your CEC setting might appear under a different name; here’s what you can do for some of the major brands:
If you don't find the CEC feature immediately, you might want to:
Sometimes, the problem might originate from the Soundbar itself, be it a hardware malfunction, software glitch, or outdated software. Resetting your JBL Soundbar based on the following steps can clear out potential glitches:
Be careful not to unplug the Soundbar during the reset to prevent potential software complications. If a reboot does not rectify the problem, you can also consider performing a factory reset on each connected device separately to remedy the problem.
If the HDMI ARC malfunction isn't due to the HDMI, the cable, or even the configurations, it might stem from the device you're employing, such as your TV, the streaming service, or even your JBL Soundbar. To pinpoint the issue, consider toggling between different streaming services or devices to determine whether the root cause lies with the HDMI connection, device, or streaming platform-related reasons.
Fixing technical issues can be a test of patience, but most problems can be resolved with the right approach. If you have identified that your JBL Soundbar is faulty, JBL NZ offers a one-year local warranty across our illustrious range. From TV Soundbars to noise-cancelling headphones and beyond, you can easily get your devices fixed at your nearest JBL service centre.
For the discerning audiophile seeking an elevation in their sonic experience, or those desiring to upgrade their audio setup, JBL's vast and sophisticated suite of products awaits. Whether your heart is set on an impeccable Soundbar for that theatre-like experience or other audio products,