How to Control Soundbar with Roku Remote?

Having a Roku remote can be a game-changer if you want to have a premium entertainment experience. However, you might wonder how to control soundbar with Roku remote.

Turn off your TV and launch the Roku app. Then choose ‘Audio’ in the settings, go to the inputs and choose Auto or ARC. Afterward, go to the CEC in the system settings and find the CEC devices. Check if the soundbar is listed amongst the CEC devices. Finally, verify if the ARC is active or not. 

That’s it for now. But to get a more precise idea of setting up the soundbar control through the Roku remote and setting the audio options, keep reading until the article till the end. 

How to Control Soundbar with Roku Remote?

It’s too easy to use the Roku remote for controlling your soundbar. However, since the TVs are designed differently with different functionalities, the steps and setup of the Roku remote with your soundbar may vary. 

Follow the mentioned steps to use your soundbar with your Roku remote.

Step 1: Start your TV, launch the Roku app, and head over to Home. After that, from there to Settings.

Step 2: Scroll down a bit and choose” Audio”. Now, go to “Audio inputs”.

Step 3: Choose Auto or ARC with the soundbar’s name from the list.

Step 4: Go to Settings > System > CEC on the Roku TV to make sure it can control the soundbar.

Step 5: Select Find CEC Devices from the menu.

Step 6: Then, verify that the soundbar is listed among the CEC devices discovered. Additionally, make sure it says System audio control: Active and eARC: ARC Active. You’re done. 

However, you must enable the option on your TV’s settings menu if you’re using a Roku Streaming Stick or Roku Box.

Step 1: Navigate to the TV’s audio settings.

Step 2: Select the TV speakers or Audio System option by going to that item. Select an audio system.

Step 3: Because the HDMI CEC feature goes by multiple names depending on the manufacturer, the procedure for ensuring that it is turned on varies greatly. For instance, Sony TVs may refer to it as “Bravia Sync.” 

Step 4: Verify that your soundbar is included in the settings list of connected devices. For more information, refer to the help manual provided by the manufacturer of your TV.

Now, make sure to evaluate the difference between HDMI-CEC and ARC

HDMI ARC (Audio Return Channel) and HDMI-CEC (Consumer Electronics Control) serve different but complementary purposes in simplifying and enhancing the user experience of HDMI-connected devices. 

HDMI ARC primarily focuses on audio transmission, allowing audio signals to flow from the TV back to an audio device like a soundbar or receiver via the HDMI connection. This feature streamlines setup by consolidating both audio and video transmission through a single HDMI cable, reducing cable clutter. 

On top of that ARC facilitates bidirectional communication between the TV and audio device, enabling seamless interaction between the two.

On the other hand, HDMI-CEC enables connected HDMI devices to control each other, enabling features like using one remote to control multiple devices. This functionality extends to tasks such as automatically powering on/off connected devices together and controlling volume across devices. 

While HDMI-CEC operates as a separate protocol within the HDMI standard, it can work alongside HDMI ARC to provide an even more seamless user experience. 

Read also: Best Settings for LG Sound Bar

Set The Audio Options Using The Roku Remote

After applying the above-mentioned steps properly, your soundbar should be connected to the Roku remote. With your Roku remote in hand, you can now operate the soundbar. You must modify the soundbar’s volume using the Roku control.You can enable Virtual Surround for Dolby Atmos or enable it for all sound formats by clicking the star (*) icon and selecting Sound Settings. This will produce a surround sound effect.

Without using back speakers. You can activate the Dialog enhancer as well for better speech quality. Regardless of the soundbar you use, this will make the dialogue more understandable.

You now Have Control Over Your Soundbar With Roku Remote without the ARC. If your soundbar supports HDMI and your TV doesn’t have an HDMI ARC connector, you may still be able to operate it with the Roku TV remote. 

The majority of TVs produced in the last ten years should include an HDMI ARC port. In order to try it, enable System Audio Control and navigate to Settings > System > Control Other Devices.

Read also: Best Settings for Samsung Sound bar

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Can I use my Roku remote to control my soundbar?

Yes, you can often use your Roku remote to control your soundbar. This is possible if your soundbar and Roku device both support HDMI-CEC (Consumer Electronics Control).  However, compatibility can vary depending on your specific soundbar and Roku model. 

How do I set up my Roku to control my soundbar?

To set up your Roku to control your soundbar you need to ensure the HDMI-CEC compatibility. After that, enable the HDMI-CEC by going to the Roku settings. Through this, the Roku remote should be able to control the basic functions of your soundbar.

Can I control my soundbar with my TV remote?

Yes, you can often control your soundbar with your TV remote if both your TV and soundbar support HDMI-CEC (Consumer Electronics Control). HDMI-CEC enables your TV remote to manage various functions of the soundbar, such as volume adjustments and power control. 

Conclusion

How to Control Soundbar with Roku Remote? The steps are too simple, and any of you can easily follow them. Hopefully, this guide has helped you to control the soundbar with the Roku remote but if you still find problems then make sure to consult the technicians.