Quick answer
- Ensure your TV and soundbar are both powered on.
- Check that the HDMI cable is securely connected to the HDMI ARC port.
- Make sure HDMI ARC is enabled in your TV’s audio settings.
- Use a certified HDMI cable for best performance: Certified Ultra High Speed HDMI cable (paid link).
Symptoms
You may experience one or more of the following issues when your Hisense HS2100 HDMI ARC is not working:
- No sound from the soundbar when the TV is on.
- The soundbar does not turn on automatically with the TV.
- The TV does not recognize the soundbar as an audio output device.
- Audio lag or distortion when using the soundbar.
Quick checks
Before diving into more complex troubleshooting, perform these quick checks:
- Confirm that both devices are updated to the latest firmware.
- Verify that you are using the correct HDMI port labeled "ARC" on both the TV and soundbar.
- Test the HDMI cable with another device to rule out cable issues.
Step-by-step fix
- Power cycle both devices: Unplug the TV and soundbar from the power outlet. Wait for about 30 seconds, then plug them back in and turn them on.
- Check HDMI connections: Ensure the HDMI cable is firmly connected to the HDMI ARC port on both the TV and the soundbar.
- Enable HDMI ARC on the TV: Go to your TV’s settings menu, navigate to the "Audio" or "Sound" section, and ensure that HDMI ARC is enabled.
- Set the soundbar to the correct input: Make sure the soundbar is set to the HDMI input that corresponds to the ARC connection.
- Adjust audio settings: In the TV settings, set the audio output to "External Speakers" or "Soundbar" to ensure sound is directed to the soundbar.
- Test with different content: Play a movie or show to see if the soundbar now produces audio.
If it still doesn't work
If you’ve followed all the steps and your HDMI ARC connection is still not functioning, consider these additional troubleshooting tips:
- Try using a different HDMI cable, preferably a certified one, to eliminate cable issues.
- Check for any firmware updates for both the TV and soundbar and install them if available.
- Consult the user manuals for both devices for any specific settings related to HDMI ARC.
FAQ
Q: Why is my soundbar not turning on with the TV?
A: This could be due to HDMI CEC settings not being enabled. Check your TV’s settings for HDMI CEC and ensure it is turned on.
Q: Can I use a regular HDMI cable for HDMI ARC?
A: While a regular HDMI cable may work, it's recommended to use a certified HDMI cable for optimal performance and compatibility.
Q: What if my TV doesn’t have an HDMI ARC port?
A: If your TV lacks an HDMI ARC port, you may need to use an optical cable to connect your soundbar instead.
Q: How do I know if my HDMI cable supports ARC?
A: Most modern HDMI cables support ARC, but look for labels like "High Speed" or "Ultra High Speed" to ensure compatibility.