If your Onkyo receiver suddenly stopped sending sound over eARC or ARC from built-in TV apps, you're not alone — this happens more often than you'd think. HDMI-CEC, eARC, and app updates all interact in strange ways, so a small change in one place can mute the whole setup.
Quick answer
- Power cycle both devices — unplug TV and receiver for 60 seconds, disconnect HDMI cable during power off
- Check the correct ports — HDMI cable must go to TV's eARC/ARC port and receiver's ARC-labeled input
- Reset HDMI-CEC handshake — turn off HDMI-CEC on both devices, then turn back on
- Match audio formats — try switching TV audio output from PCM to Dolby Digital or Auto
- Use certified high-speed HDMI cable — old cables cause eARC dropouts
Symptoms
- Sound works from external devices but not TV's built-in apps
- Onkyo receiver shows "TV Audio" but plays no sound or intermittent audio
- Receiver keeps switching back to TV speakers automatically
- Audio cuts out when switching between streaming apps
- Front panel shows no audio format indicators (Dolby Digital, PCM, etc.)
Quick checks
- Confirm HDMI connection — cable must connect TV's eARC/ARC port to receiver's ARC-labeled input
- Set TV audio output — go to TV sound settings and select external receiver/soundbar instead of TV speakers
- Check receiver volume and input — ensure receiver isn't muted and is set to correct input
- Disable Bluetooth audio — if TV is paired with Bluetooth headphones, it may route sound there instead of eARC
Step-by-step fix
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Power everything off completely — turn off TV and Onkyo receiver, then unplug both from power for 60 seconds to clear HDMI control state
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Disconnect HDMI cable — unplug the cable between TV's eARC/ARC port and receiver during the power off period
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Reconnect HDMI cable firmly — plug cable back into TV's eARC/ARC port and receiver's ARC-enabled input (avoid adapters or wall plates)
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Power on in correct order — turn on TV first and let it reach home screen, then power on Onkyo receiver
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Reset HDMI-CEC on TV — go to Settings → HDMI-CEC (or Anynet+, Bravia Sync, etc.) and turn off, wait 10 seconds, turn back on
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Reset ARC on receiver — access receiver menu and disable ARC/eARC setting, wait 10 seconds, re-enable
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Test with streaming app — open Netflix or YouTube on TV and play video. Watch receiver's front panel for audio format indicators (Dolby Digital, PCM, etc.)
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Adjust audio format if needed — if still no sound, go to TV Settings → Audio → Digital Output and switch from PCM to Dolby Digital or Auto
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Verify across multiple apps — test at least 2-3 different streaming apps to confirm consistent audio
If it still isn't working
Try these advanced steps: temporarily disconnect all other HDMI devices from both TV and receiver to eliminate HDMI-CEC conflicts. Test with just the TV and receiver connected. If eARC works with external streaming devices but not built-in apps, check for TV firmware updates. If the receiver never shows ARC input or keeps dropping connection, look for receiver firmware updates. Document exact behavior including TV model, HDMI port used, what receiver display shows, and which apps fail — this helps support teams diagnose faster than generic "no sound" reports.
FAQ
Why does eARC work sometimes but not others? HDMI-CEC handshake timing varies between apps and after TV updates. The power cycle process re-establishes a clean connection state.
Do I need a special HDMI cable for eARC? Yes, use a certified Ultra High Speed HDMI cable. Standard cables often cause intermittent eARC audio dropouts.
Why does audio work from my streaming stick but not TV apps? External devices bypass the TV's internal audio processing. Built-in apps rely on TV firmware to properly format and send audio over eARC.
Can other connected devices interfere with eARC? Absolutely. Game consoles, streaming boxes, and soundbars on other HDMI ports can confuse HDMI-CEC and disrupt eARC audio routing.