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This guide explains how to connect a soundbar (and an optional set-top box) to an LG TV using HDMI ARC/eARC, then select the correct inputs and settings so TV sound plays through the soundbar.
Please Note
- Turn off the TV, soundbar, and set-top box (if used) before connecting or disconnecting HDMI cables.
- Use a High-Speed HDMI cable that supports CEC for SIMPLINK (HDMI-CEC) and ARC/eARC features.
- Connect the soundbar to the TV’s HDMI port labeled ARC or eARC; other HDMI ports may not return TV audio to the soundbar.
- Depending on the LG SIGNATURE model, the HDMI terminal location and cable cover/stand structure may differ.
- Do not force covers, clips, or fixing pins; confirm alignment to avoid damage.
Soundbar connection issues can occur in these situations.
If the soundbar does not output TV sound or the HDMI device is not recognized, the most common causes are an incorrect HDMI port connection, the soundbar being set to the wrong input, or SIMPLINK (HDMI-CEC) being turned off on the TV.
1. The soundbar is connected to a non-ARC/eARC HDMI port on the TV
ARC/eARC works only when the soundbar is connected to the TV’s HDMI port labeled ARC or eARC. If connected to a standard HDMI IN port, video may work but TV audio may not return to the soundbar.
2. The soundbar input is not set to the HDMI port being used
If the soundbar is set to a different function (for example, Bluetooth or Optical), it will not play audio from the HDMI connection even if the cable is connected correctly.
3. SIMPLINK (HDMI-CEC) is disabled on the LG TV
ARC/eARC and device control features typically require SIMPLINK (HDMI-CEC). If it is Off, the TV may not route audio to the soundbar or may not switch inputs as expected.
Connect the soundbar and LG TV using HDMI ARC/eARC.
Step 1. Connect the soundbar to the LG TV with HDMI ARC/eARC
1. Turn off the TV and the soundbar.
2. Connect an HDMI cable from the soundbar’s HDMI OUT labeled TV (ARC/eARC) to the TV’s HDMI IN port labeled ARC or eARC.
3. Turn on the TV and the soundbar.
4. On the soundbar, press the Function button (often labeled F) repeatedly and select the HDMI mode used for TV audio (ARC/eARC). Confirm the soundbar display indicates HDMI/ARC/eARC according to your model.
Step 2. If you use a set-top box, connect it through the soundbar
1. Connect an HDMI cable from the set-top box HDMI OUT to the soundbar HDMI IN (HDMI1 or HDMI2).
2. Keep the soundbar HDMI OUT (TV ARC/eARC) connected to the TV’s HDMI ARC/eARC port.
3. On the soundbar, press the Function button (F) and select HDMI1 or HDMI2 (whichever the set-top box is connected to).
4. On the TV, select the HDMI input that corresponds to the soundbar connection when needed.
Step 3. Turn on SIMPLINK (HDMI-CEC) on the LG TV
Setting: Settings > General > External Devices > HDMI Settings > SIMPLINK (HDMI-CEC) > On
Turn SIMPLINK (HDMI-CEC) On, then power the TV and soundbar off and back on. This helps the TV detect the soundbar and enables ARC/eARC audio return and device control.
Step 4. Select the correct TV input for the connected HDMI port
Press the Input button on the TV remote and select the HDMI port you used. If the TV shows the connected device name after SIMPLINK is enabled, select that device.
FAQ
- Q. Do I need to enable SIMPLINK (HDMI-CEC) to use HDMI ARC/eARC with a soundbar?
- A. In most cases, yes. On LG TVs, ARC/eARC audio return and automatic device recognition commonly work best when SIMPLINK (HDMI-CEC) is set to On.
- Q. My soundbar is connected, but there is still no sound. What should I check first?
- A. Confirm (1) the soundbar HDMI OUT (TV ARC/eARC) is connected to the TV’s HDMI port labeled ARC/eARC, (2) the soundbar function/input is set to the correct HDMI/ARC mode, and (3) SIMPLINK (HDMI-CEC) is On in the TV settings.
Still Need Help?
If the steps above did not resolve your issue, please visit the LG Electronics Support website. You can chat with our virtual assistant or schedule a service repair for further assistance.
※ Please note that service fees may apply for engineer visits if your product is out of warranty.