Audio Issues on TCL Roku TV: (Real and Quick Fixes)

If you’re experiencing audio issues on your TCL Roku TV, you’re not the only one.

Many users have reported problems with intermittent sound loss, popping sounds, audio delay, and distorted audio and there are several solutions worth trying.

In this post, we’ll break down the potential causes and solutions, with insights from real users on Reddit who have faced and overcome these very issues.

Audio Problems Affect Many TCL Roku TV Users

From distorted sound to complete audio dropouts, these issues have been echoed by several TCL Roku TV owners across different platforms.

Here are just a few of the complaints shared by users:

• “I’ve been having intermittent audio problems that are getting worse. For example, I open YouTube, hear the splash sound, but the rest of the app has no sound at all.”
• “When I try to play audio through apps on my new TCL Roku TV, the sound is full of pops every second, making it unwatchable. The only way I can stream content is through my Xbox or PlayStation.”
• “My sound bar has been cutting out when base kicks in, and the issue is persistent in all streaming apps. It only started after a recent update.”

These problems have made it clear that this isn’t a rare occurrence—it’s something that many TCL Roku TV users are dealing with.

The good news is that there are fixes, and they have worked for others, so chances are, you can resolve the issue too.

Why Is This Happening? The Reasons Behind TCL Roku TV Audio Issues

The audio issues you’re facing could be caused by several factors, including:

1. Faulty Firmware Updates

Sometimes, firmware updates can introduce new bugs that affect audio functionality.

Some users have noticed that the problems only arose after a particular update, which could have changed how the TV interacts with audio settings and connected devices.

“Sadly I’ve seen this issue crop up more and more. I’ve had this issue since version 9.4.” -u/FordMan100

2. Digital Output Format Misconfiguration

By default, the TV might be set to an automatic audio output format that doesn’t play well with certain setups, especially external sound systems.

3. HDMI and Cable Connection Issues

Faulty or loose HDMI cables can cause distorted audio or complete sound dropouts.

Additionally, HDMI ARC (Audio Return Channel) settings can sometimes misbehave, especially if the cable isn’t of good quality.

4. External Soundbar or Speaker Setup

When using external sound systems like soundbars, the issue could lie with the connection between the TV and the sound system.

Sometimes, users report issues related to syncing, popping sounds, or audio cutting out when external systems are used.

How to Fix Audio Issues on Your TCL Roku TV

Now that we’ve covered the potential causes, let’s dive into the solutions that have worked for real users.

1. Reset the TV and Adjust Audio Settings

One of the first troubleshooting steps is to reset the TV’s audio settings.

Several users have found success by adjusting the digital output format.

Switching from “Auto” to “Passthrough” or disabling Dolby Digital Plus can often resolve sound issues.

• “I had the same issue. I switched the audio input to Dolby Digital (not Plus). It was a slight downgrade, but it was the only solution I found when I was experiencing this issue.”
  (Reddit user)

If this doesn’t fix the problem, you can also try resetting the TV to its default settings.

• “I switched from auto to custom and turned off Dolby Digital +, which worked for me. I’ve also tried multiple cables, and the issue was definitely the DD+ setting.”
  (Reddit user)

2. Check HDMI Connections

A simple but often overlooked solution is ensuring that all your cables are securely connected and in good condition.

Faulty or old HDMI cables might be the cause of sound issues, especially with ARC connections.

• “Double-check that your Roku firmware is up-to-date, then try a different HDMI cable. Preferably, use a newer one.”
  (Reddit user)

Additionally, if you’re using an external sound system, ensure it’s connected correctly.

• “Reset the HDMI input after a service update. Unplug your soundbar, restart the TV, and then plug the soundbar back in. The TV should re-detect it and fix the issue.”
  (Reddit user)

3. Test with Built-in Speakers

If you’re using external speakers or a soundbar, try switching to the TV’s built-in speakers to check if the issue persists.

This can help you pinpoint whether the problem lies with the TV itself or with the external audio setup.

• “Try using the TV’s built-in speakers for a few days. If the problem goes away, it could be an issue with the HDMI port or HDMI cable.”
  (Reddit user)

4. Adjust Audio Delay

For those experiencing lip-sync or audio delay issues, using the Roku mobile app to adjust the audio delay has proven effective for many users.

• “Download the Roku app, connect it to your TV, and use the ‘Adjust Audio Delay’ feature. It fixed the issue for me, although it doesn’t always stick after turning off the TV.”
  (Reddit user)

Additionally, adjusting the Digital Output Format to “Passthrough” might help with delay issues.

5. Firmware Updates and Customer Support

Sometimes, new firmware releases cause issues, so it’s always a good idea to keep both the TV and connected devices updated.

If these steps don’t resolve your issues, contacting TCL customer support could provide further assistance.

• “If nothing works, you should call TCL customer service at 877-300-8837 for further support.”
  (Reddit user)

Conclusion

Whether it’s resetting audio settings, checking your connections, or adjusting the audio delay, one or more of these fixes could help restore your sound experience.

Remember to stay updated with the latest firmware, and don’t hesitate to reach out to TCL customer support for further assistance.

Hopefully, with these steps, your audio troubles will be a thing of the past!