How to fix YouTube TV audio problems

⚡ Fast fix

• Check if other apps have sound. If they don’t, it’s likely a TV or speaker issue.
• Restart your TV or streaming device. A full reboot fixes many audio glitches.
• Switch audio output settings. Try Stereo instead of Surround if sound is missing.
• Still out of sync? Check for app and device updates.

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You’re watching something on YouTube TV®, and suddenly the sound disappears—or the audio is out of sync with the video. Sometimes it’s delayed. Sometimes there’s no sound at all. When YouTube TV audio problems pop up, they can make even the best stream unwatchable.

Asurion Experts have the know-how to help with all of your tech care needs, including frustrating streaming issues like this. Let’s walk through the fixes that usually solve YouTube TV audio issues.

Why is YouTube TV not playing sound?

If there’s no sound on YouTube TV, first determine whether it’s the app or your device. Open another streaming app and play something. If there’s still no sound, the issue likely involves your TV, soundbar, or HDMI setup. If other apps work normally, the problem is probably isolated to YouTube TV.

Restart your TV or streaming device

Temporary audio glitches are common with streaming apps, and restarting refreshes the audio handshake between the app and your device. To restart correctly:

1. Turn off the TV or streaming device.
2. Unplug it from power.
3. Wait at least 60 seconds.
4. Plug it back in and turn it on.

Then reopen YouTube TV and test the sound again.

Check audio output settings

If you’re using a soundbar or home theater system, your audio format settings may not match the stream format. Incorrect output settings can cause missing sound or distorted audio.

On most TVs:

1. Go to Settings.
2. Select Sound or Audio.
3. Look for Digital Audio Output or Audio Format.
4. Switch from Dolby Digital or Surround to PCM or Stereo.

After switching formats, test YouTube TV again to see if sound returns.

Fix audio sync (lip-sync issues)

If the sound doesn’t match the video, restart the app and device first. If that doesn’t solve it, check for updates under Settings > Support > Software update and install anything pending.

If you’re using a soundbar, look for an audio delay or lip-sync adjustment setting. Many models let you manually fine-tune timing so dialogue matches the screen.

Check HDMI connections

Loose or older HDMI cables can cause intermittent audio dropouts. Reseat both ends of the HDMI cable, try a different HDMI port, or test with a new cable if available. If the issue disappears after switching cables or ports, the problem was likely hardware-related.

When audio problems continue

If you've tried all these steps and YouTube TV still has sound issues, try disconnecting external speakers or soundbars temporarily and testing through the TV’s built-in speakers. If sound works there, the issue is likely tied to your external audio setup rather than YouTube TV itself.

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FAQ

Why does YouTube TV have sound but no picture?

This usually points to an HDMI handshake issue or a video output setting mismatch. Restarting the device and checking HDMI cables often fixes it.

Why is YouTube TV audio out of sync?

Lip-sync problems are typically caused by soundbar delay settings, outdated firmware, or streaming lag. Restarting and adjusting audio delay usually resolves it.

Why does YouTube TV audio cut in and out?

Intermittent sound often indicates Wi-Fi instability or HDMI connection problems. Restarting your router and reseating HDMI cables can help.

Why is YouTube TV volume lower than other apps?

Some networks stream at different audio levels. Check your TV’s Sound settings for Auto Volume or Audio Leveling features.