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If your TV has a picture but no sound, first check mute, volume, and which speaker or audio device the TV is using. Then test the TV’s built-in speakers, isolate any streaming box or soundbar, and check the connection and audio format. Menu names vary by model and software version, so use your TV’s manual or manufacturer support page when a path below does not match.

First, identify where the sound problem occurs

Make sure the TV has a picture and the correct input is selected. If the picture is missing too, troubleshoot the video or input problem separately. Note whether sound is absent on every source or only one app, channel, HDMI input, streaming player, or surround-sound program. This distinction helps show whether the issue is likely in the TV or in one part of the signal path.

  • No sound from any source: Start with the TV’s mute, volume, and speaker-output setting, then run its sound test if available.
  • No sound from one app, channel, or input: Check that source device’s volume, mute, output, and connection.
  • No sound only from surround-sound content: Check whether every device in the audio path supports the selected format; test stereo.

Check mute, volume, and the selected audio output

Turn off mute and raise the TV volume to an audible level. Then check whether the TV is set to play through its internal speakers or an external audio system. A TV can remain routed to a soundbar or receiver even after that device has been disconnected.

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On Samsung TVs, an example path is Settings > Sound > Speaker Settings; check that TV Speaker is selected if you want to test the built-in speakers. The precise labels and path depend on the model.

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If you use a set-top box, streaming player, soundbar, or AV receiver, check that device’s mute, volume, and selected input as well. A connected audio system may be on the wrong input or muted even when the TV’s settings are correct.

Run the TV’s built-in sound test

A sound test can help separate a TV audio issue from a problem with an external device or its connection. A test that plays sound shifts attention toward the connected device or signal path. If the test itself is silent, follow the manufacturer’s support or service process; that symptom alone does not establish a hardware failure.

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Samsung documents Settings > Support > Self Diagnosis > Sound Test. Menu paths vary across models and software generations. Samsung’s TV sound troubleshooting guidance was last updated June 18, 2026.

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LG’s guidance is to check Sound Out and run Sound Self-Diagnosis. The exact menu labels depend on the TV. See LG’s no-audio or low-volume instructions, dated July 13, 2026.

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Isolate a streaming player, cable, soundbar, or receiver

If the problem appears only with a connected player or a particular input, check the selected TV input, the external device’s output and volume, and whether its connections are seated. For a Roku player with picture but no sound, Roku advises checking the TV’s mute and volume, the player’s connection, and the relevant input. See Roku’s no-sound troubleshooting steps.

  1. Check the soundbar or receiver’s input and volume, and confirm it is not muted.
  2. Reseat the connections at both ends. If the setup includes an AVR or soundbar, test a simpler direct connection between the source and TV when practical; this can help identify which device or link is involved.
  3. Try a known-working TV input or source. Change only one cable at a time so you can tell whether the change affects the symptom.
  4. If a cable or connection is suspect, try a known-working replacement cable that meets the equipment manuals’ requirements. Cable replacement is a diagnostic step, not a universal fix.

For Samsung’s external-audio HDMI test, its support guidance describes connecting the device directly to the TV with an HDMI cable under 2 meters. This is Samsung-specific test guidance, not a general cable-length requirement. Follow Samsung’s instructions for the applicable model.

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Check HDMI ARC/eARC and device control for a soundbar or AVR

When a soundbar or receiver gets TV audio over HDMI, confirm that the TV’s audio output is set to the external system and that the HDMI cable is connected to the ports labeled ARC or eARC as required by the equipment. Also check HDMI-CEC on the TV and audio system. Manufacturers may use names such as Anynet+ or SIMPLINK, and the relevant settings vary by device.

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If ARC is selected but remains silent, check the TV’s digital audio output setting and the audio system’s input. Google’s guidance for its streaming devices also calls out HDMI-CEC and digital audio output when troubleshooting ARC; see Google’s audio troubleshooting guidance.

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Try stereo if only surround-sound content is silent

If ordinary programs play but surround-sound content does not, one device in the chain may not support the selected audio format. The TV, streaming player, AVR, and soundbar need a compatible format throughout the path.

As a diagnostic, select stereo or another format supported by all connected equipment. Roku distinguishes direct HDMI, AVR or soundbar, and optical setups, and documents choosing a compatible digital output format for optical connections. See Roku’s surround-sound troubleshooting guidance. Google likewise advises checking that connected media equipment supports the selected format in its audio troubleshooting instructions.

Restart devices and know when to contact support

After checking settings and connections, restart the TV and connected devices. Samsung also recommends checking for software updates for the TV and connected equipment. If the TV’s built-in sound test is silent, or the problem remains after you have isolated the external devices and signal path, contact the TV or equipment manufacturer for model-specific support. A factory reset is not a first troubleshooting step in the cited guidance.

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