Correct device selection in PS5 Audio Output often restores clear and steady sound.
Newer and firmly connected HDMI cables reduce audio dropouts and distortion.
Linear PCM audio format delivers consistent performance across most speakers and displays.
The PlayStation 5 is designed to provide a smooth gaming experience, yet sound issues persist for many players. The sound may become low, unclear, delayed, or stop entirely. These issues typically arise from audio settings, cable connections, or device compatibility issues. Most of the time, a few simple checks are sufficient to restore the sound to normal.
One of the most common reasons for missing or unclear sound is choosing the wrong audio output. A lot of households have multiple devices: TVs, monitors, soundbars, headsets, etc. When you have multiple devices connected, sometimes the PS5 chooses a different output than the one you expect.
To verify this, open Settings, navigate to Sound, and then select Audio Output. The device currently used should be selected here. If the sound is expected from the TV, select the HDMI device. If the sound is expected from headphones connected to the controller, choose Wireless Controller. The Audio Format set to Linear PCM usually provides steady and clear audio across most devices.
Sometimes sound issues are caused by simple volume controls. The DualSense controller has a microphone button. When this button shows an orange light, the system sound is muted. Pressing it once turns the sound back on. It is also important to check the TV or speaker volume separately. A sound system may have its own volume controls, so even if the PS5 volume is high, the speakers might still be set to a low level.
Loose or damaged cables can cause sound interruptions. The HDMI cable carries both video and audio signals, so if it has a weak connection, the sound can cut off or distort. Reconnecting the cable firmly often resolves this issue. If the cable is old or worn, replacing it with a newer HDMI cable that supports recent standards can improve performance.
Some people connect their PS5 to a soundbar or home theater system before connecting it to the TV. In this case, you'll have to check all the connections between those devices. Alternatively, you could connect the PS5 to the TV first and then send the audio from the TV to the speakers using ARC (or eARC). This reduces confusion between devices and can stabilize sound output.
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Different games come with their own audio settings. If the sound problem occurs only inside a particular game, the issue may be coming from that game's menu. Often, switching the game's audio output to Stereo or Linear PCM eliminates any issues. Since streaming apps operate a bit differently, the audio could vary as well. Audio from some movies might use a Dolby format that a specific speaker may not handle perfectly. Linear PCM is another solid audio format that usually produces good output.
System updates help maintain compatibility and fix known issues. If the PS5 software is not up to date, sound problems may appear even if all settings are correct. The update option can be found in System Software under the Settings menu. A restart after updating helps the changes take effect.
If adjustments over time have created conflicts, restoring the sound settings to default can help. This option resets only the sound configuration without affecting saved data or installed games. It helps clear older settings that might be causing interference.
To determine whether the PS5 or an external device causes the sound issue, it can be tested on another TV, monitor, or headset. If the sound works on the second device, the original speaker system or display might need separate adjustments.
Simple settings or connection problems typically cause most PS5 sound issues. Careful checking of audio output, cable connections, game settings, and system updates usually restores clear audio. A patient and step-by-step approach makes it possible to fix these issues without extra tools or technical assistance.
1. Why does the PS5 sometimes produce no sound even when the display works correctly?
This typically occurs when the incorrect audio output device is selected or the controller's microphone mute button is enabled.
2. How can incorrect HDMI cables affect PS5 sound quality or cause audio dropouts?
Old or loose HDMI cables may not transmit audio consistently. A newer cable with a proper connection helps maintain stable sound.
3. What audio format should be selected on the PS5 for precise and consistent sound output?
Selecting Linear PCM usually ensures steady and clear audio across TVs, headsets, soundbars, and speaker systems.
4. Why does sound only fail inside certain PS5 games and not in menus or apps?
Some games use their own audio settings. Adjusting those to Stereo or PCM often restores typical sound inside the game.
5. How does updating the PS5 system software help resolve audio problems?
System updates include fixes for audio compatibility. After updating and restarting, sound issues often reduce or disappear.