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How to fix Apple TV no sound issue? 

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  • 4 min read

There are many streaming devices at the moment, and most big tech companies are also getting in on the game. However, as good as these devices might be, they still do run into errors from time to time. 

In this article, we’re talking about Apple TV’s no sound issues, its reasons, and what you can do to fix the problem.


What causes this issue?

There are several reasons why you might run into this error. Some of the most common ones include:

  • Loose connections. 
  • Damaged audio cable.
  • Source is muted.
  • Issues with the Apple TV itself. 

Also read: Toshiba fire tv remote not working: 8 Fixes


How to fix this?

Here are eight fixes you can try out. 

Restart Apple TV

One of the first things you should do when diagnosing issues like these is to try and restart your device. Restarting your Apple TV requires heading into the settings, selecting System and then the Restart option within. This can fix seemingly random issues on your device, including any sound issues. 


Check the volume

Another rather basic thing you should check for is the volume of both the TV and the Apple TV streaming device. Make sure the volume is set to a loud enough level and that the source isn’t muted. 


Set Audio mode to auto

Changing audio settings can also cause this issue. Set your Audio mode to auto to let Apple TV work out the best output for itself. 

Step 1: Head over to Settings.

Step 2: Click Audio and Video.

Step 3: Ensure that the correct speakers are selected as the output device. 

Step 4: Set the Audio Mode to Auto.

You should start hearing audio after this. 


Check the input source

TVs with multiple HDMI inputs can decide between input sources. Check to ensure you’ve got the right input source active in your TV corresponding to the HDMI port your Apple TV is plugged into. 

HDMI vs VGA vs DVI vs Displayport: Which one to use and when?

There’s also a possibility that the HDMI port you’re using on your TV is broken. Try switching to a different HDMI port and changing the corresponding input source to see if that solves your problem.


Disable Dolby Digital

While Dolby Digital is supposed to enhance your audio output, sometimes it can get in the way as well. Follow these steps to disable it and see if that helps. 

Step 1: Head over to Settings.

Step 2: Click Audio and Video.

Step 3: Scroll down to Dolby Digital Out and disable the setting. 


Change Audi settings

Reverting to the default audio settings can also help resolve a bunch of errors.

Step 1: Head over to Settings.

Step 2: Click Audio and Video.

Step 3: Find and click the Audio Format category.

Step 4: Select Change Format.

Step 5: Select Use Best Available. 


Reset Apple TV

Resetting your Apple TV to its factory default settings can also fix a bunch of issues. Here’s how.

Step 1: Power off the Apple TV and connect it to your PC using a USB cable before turning it back on again. 

Step 2: Once iTunes opens on your computer, click the Restore Apple TV option.

Step 3: Confirm the action by selecting Restore and Update.

Now wait for the process to complete and your Apple TV should be up and running in no time.


Contact Apple Support

If nothing else works, your best bet is to take the Apple TV device to an authorised Apple repair centre and have them fix the issue for you. You might also want to contact Apple TV support before turning your device in to see if they can fix the issue remotely. 

Also read: Apple TV blinking light: 6 Fixes

Yadullah Abidi

Yadullah Abidi

Yadullah is a Computer Science graduate who writes/edits/shoots/codes all things cybersecurity, gaming, and tech hardware. When he's not, he streams himself racing virtual cars. He's been writing and reporting on tech and cybersecurity with websites like Candid.Technology and MakeUseOf since 2018. You can contact him here: yadullahabidi@pm.me.

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