Your TCL soundbar is built to deliver clear, powerful audio—so if you’re hearing nothing at all, or getting static, hissing, or crackling, let’s get it fixed. Below are common causes and quick solutions to help restore great sound.

🔇 Issue 1: No Sound at All

✅ Step 1: Check the Volume and Mute Status

Make sure the soundbar and TV are both turned up.

Press Mute on both remotes to make sure audio isn't silenced.

If your soundbar has manual buttons, try using those in case the remote isn’t responding.

✅ Step 2: Confirm the Correct Input is Selected

Use the INPUT button on your soundbar or remote to cycle through inputs:

HDMI ARC

Optical

AUX

Bluetooth

USB

👉 If you're connected via Optical or AUX, the soundbar won’t auto-switch—you’ll need to select the right input manually.

✅ Step 3: Check Your TV or Source Audio Settings

Set your TV's audio output to match the connection you're using (HDMI ARC, Optical, etc.).

Change the Audio Format to PCM (especially important for Optical and ARC connections).

Make sure your TV isn't set to "TV Speakers" only.

🔌 Issue 2: Static, Hissing, or Distorted Audio

✅ Step 1: Reseat Your Cables

Unplug and firmly replug the HDMI, Optical, or AUX cable at both ends.

Inspect cables for damage—bent pins or frayed wires can cause audio noise.

Try a different cable if possible, especially if the current one is old or low quality.

✅ Step 2: Eliminate Interference (Bluetooth only)

If you're using Bluetooth, move your soundbar and device closer together.

Keep the area clear of other wireless devices (Wi-Fi routers, microwaves, baby monitors) that might cause interference.

Try unpairing and repairing the Bluetooth connection.

✅ Step 3: Check Source Volume

If your connected device is at maximum or minimum volume, it can create distortion or signal issues.

Adjust volume on both the TV/source and the soundbar for balanced audio.

🔁 Universal Fixes to Try

✅ Power Cycle Both Devices

Turn off your soundbar and TV (or connected device).

Unplug both from power for 30 seconds.

Plug them back in and power on.

This can fix temporary glitches or connection issues.

📋 Extra Tips by Connection Type

HDMI ARC/eARC: Make sure CEC is enabled on your TV (called T-Link on TCL TVs). Only use ARC-labeled HDMI ports.

Optical: Set TV audio to PCM, not Dolby/DTS. Optical can't carry those signals on most TCL models.

AUX: Check that you're not using a 4-pole TRRS (headset) cable—use a standard 3.5mm stereo cable.

Bluetooth: If you hear stuttering or dropouts, try disconnecting other paired devices and re-pairing.