Learning how to connect Sonos Arc to Samsung TV is usually straightforward, but the best results depend on the right HDMI port, correct TV settings, and a few audio-format checks.
This guide explains the full setup process and the fixes that matter when sound does not play as expected.
What you need before connecting Sonos Arc to a Samsung TV
Before you start, confirm that both devices support the connection method you plan to use.
The Sonos Arc is designed primarily for HDMI eARC or HDMI ARC, which provides the best audio quality and the simplest control experience.
- Sonos Arc soundbar
- Samsung TV with HDMI ARC or HDMI eARC
- High-speed HDMI cable or the Sonos-provided HDMI cable
- Sonos app installed on a phone or tablet
- Wi-Fi network for initial setup and updates
If your Samsung TV has only optical audio output, you can still use the Sonos optical adapter, but HDMI ARC or eARC is preferred for Dolby Atmos support, better lip sync, and easier remote integration.
How to connect Sonos Arc to Samsung TV with HDMI eARC or ARC
The standard connection method is HDMI from the Sonos Arc to the TV’s ARC or eARC port.
On most Samsung TVs, that port is labeled HDMI IN (ARC) or HDMI IN (eARC).
Step 1: Find the correct HDMI port
Look on the back or side of your Samsung TV for the HDMI port marked ARC or eARC.
On many models, only one port supports audio return, and using the wrong HDMI input will prevent the Sonos Arc from receiving sound.
Step 2: Connect the HDMI cable
Plug one end of the HDMI cable into the HDMI port on the Sonos Arc and the other end into the Samsung TV’s ARC or eARC port.
Make sure the cable is fully seated on both ends.
Step 3: Power on both devices
Turn on the TV and the Sonos Arc.
If the soundbar does not wake automatically, open the Sonos app and confirm the Arc is added to your system.
Step 4: Set up the Sonos Arc in the Sonos app
Open the Sonos app, go to Settings, and follow the prompts to add a home theater product if the Arc is new.
The app may also guide you through room assignment and updates.
Step 5: Enable HDMI-CEC on the Samsung TV
Samsung refers to HDMI-CEC as Anynet+.
This feature allows your TV remote to control the Sonos Arc volume and power behavior.
In Samsung TV settings, enable Anynet+ if it is not already on.
Samsung TV settings to check after connection
Even when the cable is connected correctly, the TV may need specific audio settings to send sound properly to Sonos Arc.
These settings vary slightly by Samsung model, but the following are the most common.
- Sound Output: Select HDMI eARC or Receiver (HDMI)
- HDMI-CEC / Anynet+: Turn on
- Digital Output Audio Format: Choose Pass-Through or Auto when available
- eARC Mode: Set to Auto or On if your TV supports it
If your Samsung TV offers multiple sound format options, avoid forcing stereo unless necessary.
Auto or Pass-Through usually gives the Sonos Arc the best chance to receive Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, or Dolby Atmos from compatible apps and devices.
How to connect Sonos Arc to Samsung TV without eARC
You can still use Sonos Arc with Samsung TVs that only have ARC.
The connection works with the same HDMI process, but the audio format may be more limited than with eARC.
With ARC, many Samsung TVs can deliver compressed surround sound formats such as Dolby Digital.
However, uncompressed and higher-bandwidth formats may not be available.
If you mainly stream from built-in apps like Netflix, Disney+, or Prime Video, ARC can still provide a strong home theater experience.
If your Samsung TV has no ARC at all, the Sonos optical adapter becomes the fallback option.
This method is functional, but it does not support Dolby Atmos and may require more manual control than HDMI.
How to get Dolby Atmos from Sonos Arc on Samsung TV
To get the best audio format, both the TV and the source device must support Dolby Atmos.
Not every Samsung TV model passes Atmos through every input or app.
Check these points if you want Atmos playback:
- Your Samsung TV must support HDMI eARC or Atmos passthrough on the relevant port
- The content must include Dolby Atmos audio
- The app or streaming device must output Atmos-compatible audio
- Samsung TV audio settings should allow pass-through rather than downmixing
For the most consistent results, use the TV’s built-in streaming apps or a known Atmos-capable device connected to an HDMI input that supports the format.
Common problems and fixes
If the Sonos Arc is connected but no sound plays, the issue is usually one of a few common setup mistakes.
Start with the simplest checks first.
No sound from Sonos Arc?
- Confirm the HDMI cable is in the TV’s ARC/eARC port
- Check that the TV sound output is set to HDMI ARC or eARC
- Verify that Anynet+ is enabled on the Samsung TV
- Restart the TV, Sonos Arc, and any connected streaming device
- Try a different HDMI cable if the connection seems unstable
TV remote does not control volume?
This usually means HDMI-CEC is off or not communicating properly.
On Samsung TVs, enable Anynet+ and allow the TV to recognize the connected sound system.
In the Sonos app, confirm the Arc is set as the home theater speaker for that room.
Sound is delayed or out of sync?
Audio delay can happen when the TV processes sound before sending it to the soundbar.
Use the Sonos app’s TV audio delay or lip sync tools if available.
You can also disable extra sound processing features on the TV, such as heavy surround enhancement modes.
Dolby Atmos is not showing?
If Atmos does not appear in the Sonos app, the source may not support it, or the Samsung TV may be converting the signal to a lower format.
Check the app, the content title, the HDMI input, and the TV’s audio output mode.
Best practices for the cleanest setup
Once you know how to connect Sonos Arc to Samsung TV, a few best practices can help maintain reliable performance over time.
- Use the HDMI port labeled ARC or eARC, not a standard HDMI input
- Keep the Sonos Arc firmware updated through the Sonos app
- Update Samsung TV software when available
- Use Pass-Through or Auto audio settings when possible
- Avoid unnecessary audio processors on the TV unless required for compatibility
Mounting the Sonos Arc below the TV can also improve dialogue clarity if the soundbar is centered and unobstructed.
If you use a Samsung sound-related feature such as Q-Symphony on supported models, test whether it improves or worsens clarity, since results can vary by room and content.
How to verify the connection is working correctly
After setup, test the system with dialogue-heavy content, a streaming movie, and a music track.
You should hear sound immediately from the Sonos Arc, the TV remote should adjust volume smoothly, and the Sonos app should identify the TV as the active source.
A successful setup usually includes these signs:
- TV audio plays through the Sonos Arc instead of the TV speakers
- Volume changes appear on-screen when using the Samsung remote
- The Sonos app recognizes the TV signal
- Streaming apps output surround sound or Atmos when supported
When these elements are in place, the connection is stable and ready for everyday use.
The combination of Samsung TV hardware, HDMI ARC or eARC, and Sonos software gives you a simple home theater setup with minimal manual switching.