Quick answer
- Ensure your HDMI cable is labeled as "Ultra High Speed" for optimal performance.
- Check that eARC 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 eARC, 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 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 eARC: Go to your TV's audio settings and ensure that eARC is enabled. Look for options like "HDMI Audio Output" or "eARC Mode."
- Configure STR-DH790 Settings: On the STR-DH790, navigate to the HDMI settings and ensure that eARC is turned on.
- Select the Correct HDMI Input: Make sure that the HDMI input on the STR-DH790 corresponds to the HDMI port on your TV that supports eARC.
- 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 eARC 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: What is eARC?
A: eARC (Enhanced Audio Return Channel) allows for higher-quality audio formats to be transmitted from your TV to your audio system over HDMI.
Q: Can I use a regular HDMI cable for eARC?
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 eARC on both devices?
A: Yes, eARC 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.