Modern flat TVs, despite their high resolution, often disappoint the quality of the built-in sound. Thin cases do not allow you to accommodate full-fledged speakers, which makes the dialogue of actors slurred and special effects lose depth. It is at this point that external acoustic systems come to the rescue, among which Xiaomi soundbars occupy a leading position due to the optimal ratio of price and quality.
The process of integrating acoustics into a home entertainment system may seem daunting for a beginner, but it’s actually quite simple. Xiaomi has envisioned several connectivity options covering both older TV models and the latest panels with advanced data protocols. The right way to connect directly affects the final quality of the audio picture.
In this article, we will take a look at all the switching options available, from wired interfaces to wireless technology, how to set up volume control from the TV remote and what nuances to consider when choosing a cable, and competent tuning will unlock the potential of your audio system to the fullest hundred percent.
Choosing the optimal connection interface
Before you start physical manipulation, you need to carefully inspect the back and side panels of both devices. Connection interfaces can vary significantly depending on the year of the TV and soundbar model. The presence of certain connectors dictates the choice of cable that will ensure the best audio stream without loss.
The most modern and functional standard is HDMI ARC (Audio Return Channel), which allows high-quality audio, including multi-channel formats like Dolby Digital, to be transmitted using a single cable, and allows soundbar volume control via a remote control, which is extremely convenient for everyday use.
If your TV doesn’t have an ARC-enabled HDMI port, you should look at Optical’s (Toslink) optical output, which also provides clean audio but doesn’t support volume control from your native TV remote in automatic mode. Analog connectors like the 3.5mm AUX or RCA are considered obsolete and only used if other options are not available.
⚠️ Note: Before buying a cable, make sure your TV supports audio output through the cable. HDMI ARC. Not all ports. HDMI TVs have this function, usually the desired connector marked with a special inscription.
Connecting via HDMI ARC: the best option
Using an HDMI cable with reverse audio is the preferred scenario for most users, providing maximum convenience and high audio quality. To implement this method, you will need an HDMI cable version 1.4 or higher, which usually comes with a soundbar or is purchased separately.
First, connect one end of the cable to an HDMI port (ARC) on your TV. It is important to use the one that is signed accordingly, as other ports can only work on the input signal. The second end of the cable connects to the HDMI OUT port (ARC) on the back of the Xiaomi Mi Soundbar soundbar or Redmi TV Soundbar soundbar.
After the physical connection, you need to program the settings. Go to the TV menu and find the section responsible for setting the audio or audio devices. Select HDMI ARC or External Speaker as the main audio output device.
To activate volume control from one remote, you need to turn on CEC (Consumer Electronics Control), which can be called by different TV manufacturers: Anynet + for Samsung, SimpLink for LG, Bravia Sync for Sony. Once this function is turned on, the TV remote will start adjusting the soundbark volume.
☑️ Checking the settings HDMI ARC
Use of Optical Cable (Toslink)
The optical interface remains a popular solution for connecting audio systems to TVs that lack ARC support or require stable digital transmission without electromagnetic input. The Toslink cable transmits a signal in the form of light pulses, which ensures that there is no interference and distortion.
The connection process begins with removing the protective plugs from the ends of the optical cable. One end is inserted into the Optical Out port on the TV, and the other end is inserted into the Optical In port on the soundbar. The cable should be inserted before the characteristic click, but without undue effort, so as not to damage the fragile light guide.
The TV setup is similar to the previous method: in the audio menu, you need to choose Optical or Digital Audio Out as the source, and it is also important to change the format of the output to PCM or Bitstream, if the soundbar does not decode complex surround sound formats automatically.
It is worth noting that when using an optical cable, the soundbar volume control from the TV remote is usually not available. You will have to use the remote from the speaker system itself or a button on the device body to adjust the sound level.
| Interface. | Sound quality | Control from the remote | Support for formats |
|---|---|---|---|
| HDMI ARC | High. | Yes (via CEC) | Dolby Digital, DTS, PCM |
| Optical (Toslink) | High. | No (usually) | Dolby Digital, PCM |
| AUX 3.5 mm | Average. | No. | Stereo PCM |
| Bluetooth | Depends on the codec. | Partially. | SBC, AAC, aptX |
What if there is no sound through Optical?
Wireless connection via Bluetooth
Modern soundbar models Xiaomi and Redmi often feature Bluetooth, which allows you to create wireless audio communications, a method ideal for those who want to get rid of unnecessary wires, although it may be inferior to wired connections in stability and sound retention.
To start pairing mode on the soundbar, you need to press the button to switch signal sources (Input) before the Bluetooth indication appears or use the remote to activate the pairing mode.
On your TV, go to Settings → Sound → List of Bluetooth speakers (the path may vary depending on the TV OS). Run a device search and select your soundbark model from the list. Once successfully paired, the system will issue a notification.
When using Bluetooth, it is important to consider the possible desynchronization of audio and video, especially when watching movies. Many Android TVs have a latency correction feature that can be found in advanced settings.
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To minimize the audio delay when watching video via Bluetooth, use aptX Low Latency codecs if both devices support them. Otherwise, a wired connection is preferable.
Configuring sound parameters and equalizer
After successful physical connection and selection of the signal source, it is recommended to perform fine audio tuning. Basic settings are often too neutral, without revealing the bass potential of Xiaomi soundbars. To access the advanced options, you may need a mobile application Mi Home or Xiaomi Home.
In the app, select your soundbar from a list of devices and go to the sound settings. Here you can choose from one of the modes: Movie (movie), Music (music), News (news). Movie mode usually enhances low frequencies and makes dialogue more clear, which is critical for home cinema.