Note: The Sony STR-DH790 supports HDMI ARC only — it does not support eARC (Enhanced Audio Return Channel). If you need eARC for lossless Dolby Atmos (TrueHD), you will need a newer receiver. The STR-DH790 can still pass lossy Dolby Atmos via Dolby Digital Plus over ARC.
Quick answer
- Ensure your HDMI cable is labeled as "Ultra High Speed" for optimal performance.
- Check that ARC is enabled in both the STR-DH790 settings and your TV settings.
- Make sure your devices are connected to the correct HDMI ports.
- Restart all devices to refresh the connection.
Symptoms
If your Sony STR-DH790 is not working with ARC, you might experience:
- No audio output from your sound system.
- Audio and video sync issues.
- The TV not recognizing the receiver as an audio output device.
- Error messages related to HDMI connections.
Quick checks
Before diving into detailed troubleshooting, perform these quick checks:
- Confirm that your TV supports ARC (the STR-DH790 uses ARC, not eARC).
- Ensure all devices are powered on.
- Verify that the HDMI cable is securely connected at both ends.
- Check for any firmware updates for your STR-DH790 and your TV.
Step-by-step fix
- Check HDMI Cable: Make sure you are using a certified HDMI cable. Consider using a Certified Ultra High Speed HDMI cable (paid link) for best results.
- Enable ARC on your TV: Go to your TV's audio settings and ensure that ARC is enabled. Look for options like "HDMI Audio Output" or "ARC."
- Configure STR-DH790 Settings: On the STR-DH790, navigate to the HDMI settings and ensure that ARC is enabled.
- Select the Correct HDMI Input: Make sure that the HDMI input on the STR-DH790 corresponds to the ARC-labeled port on your TV.
- Restart Devices: Power off your TV and STR-DH790. Unplug them from the power source for about 30 seconds, then plug them back in and turn them on.
- Test Audio: Play content from your TV to see if audio is now coming through the STR-DH790.
If it still doesn't work
If you've followed the steps above and ARC is still not functioning, consider:
- Checking for firmware updates for both your STR-DH790 and your TV.
- Trying a different HDMI cable to rule out a faulty connection.
- Consulting the user manuals for both devices for any specific troubleshooting steps.
FAQ
Q: Does the STR-DH790 support eARC?
A: No. The Sony STR-DH790 supports standard HDMI ARC only, not eARC. For lossless Dolby Atmos (TrueHD), you need a receiver with eARC support. The STR-DH790 can still decode lossy Dolby Atmos (Dolby Digital Plus) delivered over ARC from compatible streaming apps.
Q: Can I use a regular HDMI cable for ARC?
A: While you can use a regular HDMI cable, it's recommended to use a certified Ultra High Speed HDMI cable for the best performance.
Q: Why is my TV not recognizing the STR-DH790?
A: This could be due to incorrect settings, a faulty HDMI cable, or a compatibility issue between devices.
Q: Do I need to enable ARC on both devices?
A: Yes, ARC needs to be enabled on both the TV and the STR-DH790 for it to function properly.
Q: What should I do if I still have no sound?
A: Double-check all connections, settings, and consider testing with another HDMI device to isolate the issue.