How to connect a soundbar to a Samsung TV using HDMI ARC, eARC or optical
A soundbar can make TV speech and music much clearer. Most connect with one cable, and the easiest is HDMI ARC.
Choose the right socket
Look at the back of the TV. One HDMI socket is marked ARC or eARC. Use this one, and plug the other end into the soundbar socket marked HDMI OUT (ARC) or TV (ARC). Plugging into the wrong sockets is the most common mistake.
What is ARC and eARC
ARC sends sound from the TV back to the soundbar down the same HDMI cable. eARC is a newer version that can carry higher quality sound. You need an HDMI cable in good condition. Your TV and soundbar manuals will say whether they support eARC.
Set it up
- Turn on the TV and the soundbar.
- Go to Settings > Sound > Sound Output.
- Choose the soundbar or Receiver (HDMI) if it appears.
- If nothing happens, switch on Anynet+ (HDMI-CEC) in the Settings menu. The name and position can vary, so search Settings if needed.
Use an optical cable instead
If the soundbar has no HDMI ARC, use a digital optical cable. Plug it into the Digital Audio Out (Optical) on the TV and the Optical input on the soundbar. Remove the plastic caps first. Then set Sound Output to Optical if offered.
If there is no sound
- Check the soundbar is on the right input and is not muted.
- Swap to a different HDMI cable.
- Try the Sound Test under Settings > Support > Device Care > Self Diagnosis.
- Restart both devices by unplugging them for a minute.
Remote controls
With the right setting, the TV remote can usually control the soundbar volume. If not, use the soundbar's own remote.
When to get more help
If you have tried a new cable and different settings and there is still no sound, the HDMI socket or the soundbar may be faulty. Vision Tech can help you check.