Sony Receiver: Why is there no sound from ARC on STR-DH models? Solutions

Quick overview: This guide explains how the HDMI Audio Return Channel (ARC/eARC) works with STR-DH series gear and why TV audio might not route to your speakers. You will get fast checks, core settings, and simple fixes.

Start by using the TV input jack labeled ARC/eARC and plug the HDMI cable into the receiver’s TV OUT jack. Then enable the TV’s System Audio Control or Control for HDMI. On the unit, set <HDMI> > CTRL.HDMI = CTRL ON and, for TV input, set <INPUT> > IN MODE = AUTO.

Common symptoms include no audio, low volume, or a muted panel. A TV home screen can block audio until you exit that interface. If the TV lacks ARC/eARC, use an optical digital cable as a reliable fallback.

What you’ll find next: quick checks for cables and jacks, step-by-step menu changes, and tips on power order, cable types, and confirming volume and mute states so audio returns to your speakers.

Quick diagnostics before you dive into menus

Begin with a quick hardware check to confirm the TV and receiver are using the proper ARC/eARC HDMI ports. These simple steps can restore audio fast and avoid deep menu changes.

Confirm ARC/eARC HDMI jack usage on both TV and receiver

Make sure the TV uses the HDMI input labeled ARC/eARC and the receiver is plugged into the TV OUT jack. A non-ARC jack will not return sound to the speakers.

Use a High Speed or Premium High Speed HDMI Cable with Ethernet

Use a High Speed HDMI cable with Ethernet for standard signals. For 4K/60p, upgrade to a Premium High Speed HDMI cable (18 Gbps) to avoid intermittent sound.

Power-on sequence, volume, and muting on the display panel

Turn on the TV first, then the receiver. If “MUTING” appears on the display panel, unmute and raise volume to confirm audio is allowed through.

Switch the input and exit the TV’s Home menu

Set the receiver input to TV so audio return is active. Exit the TV’s Home screen before testing—some home interfaces block audio output.

Check physical connections are fully seated

• Gently push each HDMI and speaker plug until it clicks to ensure a solid fit.
• Disconnect nonessential devices and test with only the connected HDMI to the receiver to isolate faults.
• Verify speakers are firmly wired and not shorted at the binding posts to avoid protection mute.

If these quick checks fail, move on to the detailed settings in the next section.

Sony Receiver: Why is there no sound from ARC on STR-DH models?

Check HDMI control and audio routing first. On the TV, enable Control for HDMI (CEC) and set speakers to Audio System so the amp can manage playback via arc.

Set CTRL.HDMI and eARC behavior

On the unit, press amp menu and go to <HDMI> > CTRL.HDMI. Choose CTRL ON on the display panel to allow CEC volume and control.

Next, pick <HDMI> > EARC = ON to enable eARC when available, or OFF to force legacy arc for compatibility.

Input mode and audio output path

When using the TV input, set <INPUT> > IN MODE = AUTO. This lets the amp detect and decode audio types without manual switching.

Choose <HDMI> > AUDIO.OUT = AMP to force sound to the amp only, or TV+AMP when the TV lacks System Audio Control and you want both outputs.

Fallbacks and device nuances

If the display lacks arc/earc support, run an optical digital cable from the TV’s optical out to the amp to listen sound from apps and tuner without HDMI return.

Also check playback device HDMI format, HDCP and resolution. Some codecs need lower image resolution or PCM/Bitstream selection to pass audio. Exit the TV home screen before testing.

• If audio goes to a projector or the TV instead of speakers, set <HDMI> > AUDIO.OUT = AMP.
• Follow your TV’s operating instructions for exact CEC/eARC labels and extra steps on non-matching brands.

Common ARC pitfalls and how to fix them now

Common quirks can block audio return when gear from different brands talks via HDMI. ARC may work with non-Sony TVs, but operation is not guaranteed. Verify the TV’s eARC/ARC function and enable the appropriate setting in the TV menu before troubleshooting the amp.

Practical checks that fix most issues

• Input routing: If you try to hear a Blu‑ray or console while the receiver is set to TV input, change the input to the device’s HDMI source to restore sound.
• TV home menu: Exit the TV home screen and retest. Some displays mute return audio while the menu or guide is shown.
• Device HDMI settings: Review each device’s HDMI audio format and handshake choices and refer operating instructions for exact steps.
• AUDIO.OUT = AMP: Force audio to your speakers if the display or projector takes the audio instead.
• Cables and HDCP: Use a known-good hdmi cable and swap ports if HDCP negotiation fails; power-cycle the chain to re-establish a clean handshake.

These quick fixes cover most compatibility and routing faults. If problems persist, check firmware and consult the TV and device manuals for supported formats and advanced steps.

Conclusion

Finish with a short checklist to confirm the amp and TV are set to pass audio reliably. Press amp menu and verify <HDMI> > CTRL.HDMI = CTRL ON, EARC as needed, and <INPUT> > IN MODE = AUTO.

Make sure the TV uses its ARC/eARC jack, use a certified hdmi cable, and confirm every connected hdmi plug is firmly seated in the connected receiver and display. Set <HDMI> > AUDIO.OUT = AMP to route audio to your speakers only.

If the display lacks arc support, run an optical cable and set the receiver so you can listen sound from TV apps and tuners. For upgrades and buying tips, see next AV receiver features.

Final step: check the panel for muting or format notices, then re-check settings after firmware updates and any port changes. Refer operating instructions for brand-specific labels and steps.

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