How to set up Xbox Series X with a soundbar

There’s nothing worse than diving into your favorite game only to find the audio sounds flat or underwhelming. If you want an immersive experience, setting up your Xbox Series X™ with a soundbar is a game-changer. Whether you’re looking for booming explosions in Halo Infinite or rich background music in Elden Ring, optimizing your audio setup can make all the difference. At Asurion, we help gamers get the most out of their consoles, and we’re here to walk you through the best way to connect your Xbox Series X to a soundbar.

How to connect a soundbar to Xbox Series X

You’ll need to choose the right connection method to get the best sound quality. Here are your options.

Connect via HDMI ARC or eARC (recommended)

For the best audio experience, use HDMI ARC (Audio Return Channel) or eARC (Enhanced Audio Return Channel) if your soundbar and TV support it.

1. Connect your Xbox to the TV. Use an HDMI 2.1 cable to connect your Xbox Series X to your TV’s HDMI IN port.
2. Connect the TV to the soundbar. Use another HDMI cable to connect the TV’s HDMI ARC/eARC port to the soundbar’s HDMI ARC/eARC port.
3. Enable HDMI ARC/eARC. On your TV, go to Settings > Sound > Audio Output, then enable HDMI ARC/eARC.
4. Set Xbox audio settings. On your Xbox:
   • Go to Settings > General > Volume & audio output.
   • Under Speaker audio, select Bitstream out.
   • Under Bitstream format, choose Dolby Atmos for Home Theater or DTS:X if supported.

Connect via optical audio cable (if supported)

If your soundbar has an optical audio input, follow these steps:

1. Connect an optical cable from your Xbox’s S/PDIF optical port to the soundbar’s optical input.
2. Then, adjust Xbox audio settings:
   • Go to Settings > General > Volume & audio output.
   • Under Speaker audio, select Optical audio and choose Bitstream out.
   • Select Dolby Digital or DTS Digital Surround.

Connect via Bluetooth (if applicable)

Some soundbars support Bluetooth®, but Xbox Series X does not have native Bluetooth audio output. To use Bluetooth:

1. Connect your Xbox to the TV using HDMI.
2. Pair the soundbar to the TV via Bluetooth settings.
3. Set the TV’s audio output to Bluetooth.

Note: Bluetooth may have audio lag, so it’s not the best option for gaming.

Optimizing your Xbox Series X sound settings

Once you’ve connected your soundbar, fine-tuning your audio settings can enhance your experience.

• Enable Dolby Atmos or DTS:X. These formats provide 3D spatial audio for a more immersive experience.
• Turn on passthrough audio. Go to Settings > General > Volume & audio output, then enable Allow passthrough to send unprocessed audio to your soundbar.
• Adjust in-game audio settings. Many games offer sound customization, such as boosting dialogue or reducing background noise.

FAQ

What is the best way to connect a soundbar to Xbox Series X?

HDMI ARC/eARC is the best option for high-quality audio and seamless integration with your TV and soundbar.

Can I use Bluetooth speakers with Xbox Series X?

Xbox Series X does not support native Bluetooth audio, but you can connect a Bluetooth soundbar through your TV’s Bluetooth settings.

Why is there no sound from my Xbox to my soundbar?

Check that the correct audio output is selected in your TV and Xbox settings. Restart your console and soundbar if needed.

How do I enable Dolby Atmos on my Xbox?

Go to Settings > General > Volume & audio output, select Bitstream out, and choose Dolby Atmos for Home Theater.