Quick Answer
- Ensure your HDMI cable supports ARC (Audio Return Channel) functionality.
- Check that the TV and receiver are connected to the correct HDMI ports labeled "ARC."
- Verify that the ARC feature is enabled in both the TV and receiver settings.
- Restart both the TV and Onkyo receiver to refresh the connection.
Symptoms
You may experience the following issues if the ARC feature is not functioning properly:
- No audio from the TV through the Onkyo TX NR646.
- The TV remote does not control the volume of the receiver.
- The receiver does not automatically switch to the correct input when the TV is turned on.
Quick Checks
Before diving into more detailed troubleshooting, perform these quick checks:
- Confirm that the HDMI cable is securely connected at both ends.
- Make sure the TV's firmware is up to date.
- Check if the Onkyo receiver has the latest firmware installed.
- Look for any physical damage on the HDMI cable.
Step-by-Step Fix
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Check HDMI Cable: Make sure you are using a compatible HDMI cable. For optimal performance, consider using a Certified Ultra High Speed HDMI cable (paid link).
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Verify Connections: Ensure that the HDMI cable is plugged into the HDMI ARC port on both the TV and the Onkyo receiver.
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Enable ARC on TV: Go to your TV settings, navigate to the audio settings, and enable HDMI ARC.
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Enable ARC on Receiver: On your Onkyo TX NR646, go to the setup menu, find the HDMI settings, and ensure that ARC is enabled.
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Restart Devices: Turn off both the TV and the receiver. Wait for about 30 seconds, then turn them back on.
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Test Audio: Play something on your TV and check if the audio is now coming through the Onkyo receiver.
If It Still Doesn't Work
If you've followed the steps above and ARC is still not functioning, consider the following:
- Try a different HDMI cable to rule out cable issues.
- Test the receiver with a different TV that supports ARC.
- Consult the user manuals for both devices for any specific settings or troubleshooting tips.
FAQ
Q: What is HDMI ARC?
A: HDMI ARC (Audio Return Channel) allows audio to be sent from the TV back to the receiver through the same HDMI cable used for video.
Q: Can I use any HDMI cable for ARC?
A: Not all HDMI cables support ARC. It's best to use a high-speed HDMI cable that explicitly states it supports ARC.
Q: Why can’t I control the receiver volume with my TV remote?
A: This may happen if ARC is not enabled on both devices or if the HDMI cable is not properly connected.
Q: What should I do 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 audio cable to connect the TV to the receiver.
Q: Is there a difference between ARC and eARC?
A: Yes, eARC (Enhanced Audio Return Channel) offers higher bandwidth and supports advanced audio formats. Check your devices to see which one you need.