Change the audio format on your Samsung TV

Before you connect various devices to your Samsung TV, it's essential to differentiate between Input and Output devices. Input devices, such as Blu-ray players, game consoles, and Set-top boxes, send audio to your TV. In contrast, Output devices, like surround sound speakers, soundbars, and headphones, receive audio from the TV. The choice of audio format—PCM, Bitstream, or Dolby—depends on the device type and connection method. Ensure you review your devices and their connection methods to select the appropriate audio format.

Change the audio format on your Samsung TV

Choosing the best Digital Output Audio Format

For devices receiving sound from the TV, like soundbars or home theater systems, the Digital Output Audio Format is significant. Use PCM if you're not connecting such a device to avoid audio issues. For enhanced sound experiences, including multi-channel surround sound, choose the highest compatible mode with your system. Optical cables cannot support modes beyond 5.1 channels; use HDMI ARC for these setups.

To adjust this setting, navigate to Settings, All Settings, and then Sound. Open Expert Settings, and choose Digital Output Audio Format. Select the best option for your current setup.

PCM: Recommended if your system struggles with higher settings. Outputs only left and right channels without multi-channel capability.

Dolby Digital: Offers up to 5.1 channels of compressed audio, suitable for optical cables and capable sound systems.

Auto: Optimizes the format based on the content being played.

Pass-through: The TV will send audio to an external device like a soundbar. This setting is great for surround sound.

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