Soundbars have emerged as a highly convenient way to improve the audio of your TV. No longer do you have to choose between subpar built-in speakers or a complex surround sound setup. Soundbars are easy to install, they look great, and they sound even better!
But, if you’re planning to grab your first soundbar, you might find yourself hesitating. Worrying whether your new soundbar might not even work with your TV! After all, do soundbars work with every TV? And how do you find out if a soundbar will be compatible with a display of your own?
These questions could be enough to put anyone off buying their own soundbar. But, today, our Reliant tech experts are going to help us find some answers! Let’s get right into it!
Do Soundbars Work With All TVs?
You might be surprised to learn that there are actually a dozen different ways to connect a soundbar to a TV. As such, it’s possible for a soundbar to connect to most TVs currently available on the market!
Soundbars are most often connected to a TV through the use of a HDMI cable, but they can also be connected in other ways. For instance, some can connect totally wirelessly, through Bluetooth, while others can connect through the use of optical cables.
A soundbar can be connected to a TV using a number of different mediums. From HDMI cables to Bluetooth. As such, it’s possible that a soundbar can easily connect to just about any TV!
If you’ve ever hesitated about buying a soundbar, for fear that it might not work with your TV, then you can purchase with confidence. Just check to make sure that your TV is compatible with your chosen connection method, and you’ll be good to go! For instance, if you want to connect your soundbar via HDMI, you’ll need to make sure your TV has an HDMI input port!
Can You Pair Different Brands Of Soundbar With Different Brands Of TV?
You might also wonder whether a soundbar can connect to a TV of the opposite brand. For instance, can a Samsung soundbar connect to an LG TV?
There are absolutely no limits when it comes to mixing soundbars and TVs. Mixing brands will not have any impact on the performance or quality of your soundbar. If you have an LG TV, but you’ve heard great things about one of Samsung’s soundbars, you won’t have to go without grabbing one!
The only thing you might miss out on is some advanced functions and controls. For instance, pairing a Samsung soundbar to a Samsung TV makes it easier to control the two via Samsung’s own SmartThings smart home platform! SmartThings isn’t necessary to make the most of a Samsung soundbar, however. So mix and match to your heart’s content!
What Are The Different Methods For Connecting A Soundbar To A TV?
As we mentioned, there are a few ways to connect a soundbar to a TV. In order to make sure the two can connect, you’ll want to make sure they’re both compatible with your chosen connection method.
HDMI
One of the most popular ways to connect a soundbar and TV is through an HDMI cable. HDMI cables are able to transmit both video and audio, which makes it a perfect option for connecting a soundbar to a TV.
The HDMI method makes use of an “Audio Return Channel”, which is what allows audio information to travel back and forth between the TV and soundbar.
Bluetooth
Connecting a soundbar to a TV via Bluetooth is also a very popular option. Through Bluetooth, you can connect the two wirelessly. This makes it a great option for decluttering and cutting down on wires.
Just make sure that your TV is compatible with Bluetooth, or it won’t work!
Optical Cables
Optical cables are another solid option for connecting the two together. They are incredibly sturdy and can transmit a highly detailed audio signal. This means you can count on them to work perfectly for years to come. Their sturdy nature helps them to prevent fraying!
Auxiliary Cable
If you’re stuck for options, you can also make use of an auxiliary cable. This will allow you to simply plug your soundbar directly into your TV’s dedicated headphone port.
This isn’t the preferred method, as auxiliary cables are not capable of transmitting detailed audio signals quite like optical cables can!
What Is The Best Way To Connect A Soundbar To A TV?
For the best performance, and for easier installation, you’re better off using an HDMI cable, or a Bluetooth connection. The HDMI method allows for the best audio playback, which is much more satisfying. If you’re worried about dedicating an entire HDMI port to your soundbar, it’s worth noting that most soundbars have ‘Pass-through’ technology. This allows you to connect other HDMI devices through your soundbar, and into the TV. So you won’t miss out on HDMI ports!
The best way to connect a soundbar to a TV is through an HDMI cable or through Bluetooth. HDMI connections are best for ensuring fantastic audio playback. Bluetooth allows you to connect wirelessly!
A Bluetooth connection is great for creating a more seamless look in your living room. It allows you to adopt a near-wireless look that makes your living room feel incredibly modern!
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Soundbars Work With Every TV?
For the most part, you can connect a soundbar to just about any TV. Soundbars are compatible with all kinds of connection types. So you can easily choose a connection method that is supported by both the soundbar and the TV! The best way to connect the two is via a HDMI cable. This ensures perfect audio playback.
Is It Worth Getting A Soundbar For TV?
Absolutely! Part of what has made soundbars such a popular technology is the fact that they can make up for subpar built-in TV speakers. Soundbars are inexpensive, easy to install, and yet have an incredible dynamic range. They can very easily improve the experience of your TV, so you can get more immersed!
