Roku is a popular streaming service that offers a vast selection of entertainment options for its users. It's even built into many TVs now (“Roku TVs”). However, one of the most common issues that Roku TV users face is when the sound suddenly stops working. This can be a frustrating experience, especially when you are in the middle of watching your favorite show or movie, and it can happen if you're using a Roku streaming stick or box as well.
If your Roku TV sound isn't working, first power cycle everything, and make sure the volume is turned up. Next, make sure you're not accidentally using Roku's private listening mode. After that, you can check the TVs sound output settings before checking the physical connections between everything.
In this blog post, we will explore some of the reasons why Roku TV sound may stop working and provide you with practical solutions to fix the issue. So, if you are experiencing sound issues with your Roku TV, keep reading to find out how to fix it.
Troubleshooting Roku TV Sound Issues
If you're experiencing sound issues with your Roku TV (example on Amazon), don't panic. There are a few common causes and solutions that you can try to fix the problem. In this section, we'll go over some troubleshooting tips to help you get your sound back up and running.
Oh, and before we get too far, note that if you're troubleshooting a Phillips Roku TV with no sound specifically, you should check out our dedicated article on that here. For now, here's a quick-reference table of the 3 most common reasons this occurs and how to fix them:
| Cause | How To Fix |
| The Volume is Down | First restart everything, and then simply try to increase the volume using the remote; replace the batteries if needed! |
| The Audio Output Setting is Wrong | Navigate to the Settings on your TV and confirm where the sound is going by setting the sound output. If you're using a soundbar or speaker system, this is more likely the issue. |
| A Physical Cable Connection Has Failed | Again, this is more likely if you're using a soundbar or speakers, but, it's worth confirming that the actual, literal cables are connected properly and haven't been knocked out. |
There are a few other common Roku fail states, like a repeated restart issue some devices encounter, or flashing lights that are either blinking green or white on the remote. Have a look at our other guides if you're having those issues, but, for now, let's get back to damage controlling the lack of sound!
First, Power Cycle Everything (Roku Device, TV, etc.)
Sometimes, all it takes to fix sound issues is a simple power cycle. Start by turning off your Roku device and TV, then unplug both from their power sources.
Wait a few seconds before plugging them back in and turning them on again. This can often resolve any temporary glitches that may be causing sound problems.
Check Your Roku Remote and Batteries
If your sound issue persists, check your Roku remote and batteries. Make sure your remote is working properly and that the batteries are not dead.
If necessary, replace the batteries with fresh ones. Sometimes, sound issues can be caused by a malfunctioning remote, and sometimes the remote is the only thing you have to adjust the volume! If you need a replacement remote, don't worry: they're pretty cheap on Amazon.
Make Sure the Volume is Turned Up!
It may sound obvious, but make sure the volume on your TV and Roku device is turned up. Check both the TV and Roku device settings to ensure that the volume is not muted or turned down too low. This is a common mistake that can cause sound issues.
Watch Out for “Private Listening”
If you're using the “Private Listening” feature on your Roku device, make sure it's turned off. Private Listening allows you to listen to your TV through headphones connected to your Roku remote, but it can also cause sound issues if left on accidentally.
Check Your Roku TV Settings
Check your Roku TV settings to make sure they are set up properly. Go to the Audio settings and make sure the correct audio output is selected. If you're using a soundbar or other external speakers, make sure they are connected properly and set up correctly.
Check Your Physical Device Connections
Check your physical device connections to make sure everything is plugged in correctly. Make sure all cables are securely connected to the TV and Roku device. If you're using an HDMI cable, try switching to a different HDMI port on your TV to see if that resolves the issue.
Remember, the most common causes of sound issues are that the volume is down or private listening is on, the TV's audio settings aren't set properly, or there is a physical cable connection issue. Try these troubleshooting tips first before moving on to more complex solutions. With a little patience and persistence, you should be able to get your sound back up and running in no time.
Using a Soundbar or Stereo Speakers With a Roku TV
When it comes to enhancing the audio quality of a Roku TV, using a soundbar or stereo speakers can be an excellent option. Both of these devices can provide a more immersive audio experience that can help viewers feel more engaged in their favorite TV shows and movies.
One of the main benefits of using a soundbar or stereo speakers with a Roku TV is that they can offer a wider range of sound than the TV's built-in speakers. This can help create a more dynamic and realistic soundstage, which can make it easier to hear every detail of the audio in your home theater
To use a soundbar or stereo speakers with a Roku TV, viewers will need to connect the device to the TV using an HDMI cable or an optical cable. Once the device is connected, users can adjust the audio settings on the Roku TV to ensure that the sound is coming from the external device.
Advanced Troubleshooting
If the basic troubleshooting steps fail to fix the sound issue on your Roku TV, you may need to try some advanced troubleshooting techniques. Here are some additional steps you can take:
- Dig deeper into the audio settings on your Roku TV: Make sure your Roku TV is set to the correct audio output mode. Go to Settings > Audio > Audio mode and select the appropriate mode for your TV. If you have an AVR or soundbar connected to your Roku TV, make sure the correct input is selected on your AVR or soundbar. In rare cases, you may have multiple inputs that need to also be told where to send their audio, but this is rare.
- Check the HDMI connection and/or replace cables: Ensure that the HDMI cable connecting your Roku TV to your AVR or soundbar is properly connected. Try using a different HDMI cable or port to see if it fixes the issue.
- Update and/or Reset your Roku TV to factory settings: If all else fails, you can try updating or resetting your Roku TV to its factory settings. This will erase all your settings and data, so make sure to back up any important information before proceeding. Go to Settings > System > Advanced system settings > Factory reset and follow the on-screen instructions.
Remember that some Roku TVs may have different settings and options, so it's important to refer to your user manual or contact Roku support for further assistance. Additionally, if your Roku TV is still under warranty, you may be able to get a replacement or repair from the manufacturer.
Contacting Roku Support
If you've tried updating your software and apps and performing a factory reset and you're still experiencing sound issues, it may be time to contact Roku support. They can help you troubleshoot the issue and determine if there is a hardware problem with your Roku TV. You can contact Roku support through their website or by phone.
Can You Hear Me Now?
In the world of home theater systems, having your sound fail you can feel like a catastrophic event. But trust me, it's something we've all been through. That silent screen doesn't necessarily mean a busted TV or a call to the repairman, often it's just a glitch or a setting that needs tweaking.
Rokus can fail in strange and unexpected ways (like Roku TVs that just stop turning on at all!) but if you keep a calm head you can almost always work through these things!
