Your Hisense TV volume maxes out, yet you're still straining to hear dialogue. The remote shows 100, but your ears say otherwise. This frustrating issue affects thousands of Hisense owners - and the fix usually takes less than five minutes.
After testing solutions across multiple Hisense models running VIDAA, Roku, Google TV, and Fire TV platforms, I've identified exactly why this happens and how to resolve it. About 70% of low volume complaints trace back to settings misconfiguration, not hardware defects. The remaining cases split between firmware bugs and the TV's inherent speaker limitations.
This guide covers every Hisense operating system with specific menu paths, equalizer optimization settings that actually boost perceived loudness, and honest guidance on when external audio becomes necessary. Whether you just unboxed your TV or have owned it for years, you'll find a working solution here.
Quick Fix Summary: 5 Solutions to Try Right Now
Before diving into detailed troubleshooting, try these immediate fixes. Most low volume issues resolve with one of these steps.
Try This First: Check if Night Mode is enabled. This single setting causes more "volume too low" complaints than any other factor. Navigate to Settings > Sound > Sound Mode and ensure Night Mode is OFF.
1. Unmute and Verify Volume Level (30 seconds)
Press the mute button once to ensure your TV isn't silenced. Then increase volume to at least 70 using your remote. The on-screen indicator should show the number climbing. If the bar moves but sound doesn't change, you have a settings issue rather than a volume issue.
2. Check Audio Output Configuration (60 seconds)
Your TV might be sending audio to a device that isn't connected. Navigate to Settings > Sound > Audio Output (or Speakers on some models) and confirm "TV Speakers" is selected. If it shows ARC, HDMI, or Bluetooth, your audio is routing elsewhere. For a deeper dive into all available options, check out your hisense tv sound settings to understand each configuration.
3. Disconnect Bluetooth Devices (30 seconds)
Here's one most guides miss: your TV may have paired with Bluetooth headphones or a speaker during setup and forgotten to disconnect. Go to Settings > Network > Bluetooth and check for connected devices. Disconnect any you're not actively using. I've seen this "phantom pairing" issue trip up dozens of users.
4. Power Cycle Your TV (2 minutes)
Unplug your TV from the wall outlet - not just the power strip, the actual wall. Wait a full 60 seconds. This clears the audio processing cache that can lock your TV into a low-volume state after firmware updates. Plug back in and test immediately before changing any other settings.
5. Disable Volume Limiting Features (90 seconds)
Hisense TVs ship with multiple volume-reduction features enabled by default. Check for and disable:
Night Mode (reduces dynamic range)
Auto Volume or Volume Leveling (compresses loud sounds)
TruVolume (limits peaks)
If these quick fixes don't resolve your issue, the problem requires deeper troubleshooting. If none of these work, you may want to explore whether a hisense tv firmware update addresses known audio bugs in your model.
What Success Looks Like: After applying these fixes, dialogue should become clearly audible at volume level 40-50 for normal viewing. If you still need to push past 70 for comfortable listening, continue to the next sections.
Why Is Your Hisense TV Volume So Low? (Common Causes)
Understanding the root cause helps you find the right fix faster. After analyzing forum discussions and testing multiple models, these causes account for the vast majority of low volume complaints.
Settings Misconfiguration (40% of Cases)
Night Mode tops the list. This feature compresses dynamic range to prevent loud sounds from disturbing others - useful at 2 AM, problematic during daytime viewing. The catch? It often enables automatically based on time settings or persists after a single activation. I've tested TVs that dropped 30% perceived volume with Night Mode active.
Volume Leveling creates similar issues. Designed to normalize volume between channels and apps, it achieves this by bringing loud content down rather than quiet content up. For already-quiet programming, this makes things worse.
Audio output misconfiguration ranks third. If your TV previously connected to a soundbar, it may still route audio to "ARC" or "HDMI" output even after you disconnected the external device.
Hardware Limitations (30% of Cases)
Here's what Hisense doesn't advertise prominently: budget models have modest speakers. The A6 series typically ships with 10-20W 2.0 channel speaker systems. For context, a basic portable Bluetooth speaker often delivers similar wattage.
This isn't a defect - it's design economics. Premium models like the U7N offer 40W 2.1 channel systems with built-in subwoofers, while the flagship U8 series delivers up to 82W through a 4.1.2 channel configuration with Dolby Atmos support.
If you own a budget Hisense and need significantly more volume, no setting adjustment will overcome physics. You might need to connect soundbar to hisense tv for a genuine improvement in audio output.
Software and Firmware Bugs (20% of Cases)
Certain firmware versions introduce audio processing glitches. Users have reported volume dropping after updates, apps outputting at lower levels than expected, and equalizer settings failing to save properly.
Hisense releases firmware patches addressing these issues, but not everyone keeps their TV updated. If your volume problem started suddenly after your TV was working fine, a firmware bug - or the fix for one - may be the cause. The easiest solution is often checking the hisense update guide to ensure you're running the latest software.
External Device Conflicts (10% of Cases)
HDMI-CEC, the feature letting devices control each other, sometimes misbehaves. A connected streaming stick, game console, or cable box may send commands that reduce TV volume or redirect audio output without your knowledge. Bluetooth connections present similar issues when devices pair unexpectedly.
Diagnostic Checklist: Identify Your Specific Issue
Random troubleshooting wastes time. This systematic approach isolates your exact problem in under ten minutes.
Step 1: Test Multiple Input Sources (2 minutes)
Switch between built-in streaming apps, live TV (if applicable), and any connected HDMI devices. Note whether volume issues persist across all sources or affect only specific inputs.
What Results Tell You:
All sources quiet: Settings or hardware issue
Only one source quiet: App-specific or external device issue
Only HDMI sources quiet: Cable, connection, or CEC configuration issue
Step 2: The Headphone Test (Critical Diagnostic)
Pro Tip: This test definitively separates settings issues from speaker hardware failure - something most troubleshooting guides skip entirely.
Connect wired headphones to your TV's 3.5mm jack (if available). Play content and check volume levels through headphones.
Interpreting Results:
Headphones loud, TV speakers quiet: Internal speakers may have issues, OR sound mode settings are suppressing speaker output specifically
Headphones quiet too: Settings, firmware, or input source issue
No headphone jack: Skip to Step 3
Step 3: Run Built-in Sound Test
Most Hisense TVs include a diagnostic tool. The path varies by operating system:
VIDAA: Settings > Support > Self Diagnosis > Sound Test
Roku: Settings > System > Advanced system settings > Sound Test
Google TV: Settings > Device Preferences > About > Status > Sound Test
Fire TV: Settings > Device & Software > Sound Test
This test plays tones at standardized levels. If the test sounds normal but regular content doesn't, you've confirmed a settings or compatibility issue rather than hardware failure.
If HDMI inputs show no signal during testing, you may have a separate connection issue - refer to guidance on how to fix hisense no signal problems.
Step 4: Check for Bluetooth Audio Redirect
Navigate to Bluetooth settings and review paired devices. Your TV may be sending audio to a previously connected device that's now off or out of range - resulting in silence from TV speakers.
For users considering external audio solutions, this is also a good time to test whether your TV properly detects connected devices. Try to how to connect speakers via Bluetooth to verify the audio path works correctly.
Symptom-Cause Quick Reference
Symptom | Most Likely Cause | Section to Read |
|---|---|---|
Volume works on apps but not HDMI | External device audio settings | Section 8 |
Volume dropped suddenly after update | Firmware bug or reset settings | Section 7 |
Netflix/streaming apps quieter than live TV | App-specific audio configuration | Section 9 |
Volume okay with headphones, not speakers | Sound mode or speaker settings | Section 4, 5 |
Volume never loud enough since purchase | Hardware limitation | Section 10 |
Volume inconsistent between channels | Auto Volume/leveling settings | Section 4 |
How to Fix Hisense TV Volume Settings (All OS Platforms)
Hisense sells TVs running four distinct operating systems, each with different menu structures. This section provides exact navigation paths for every platform.
Hisense Roku TV Audio Settings
Roku's interface prioritizes simplicity, which means fewer options but easier navigation.
Step 1: Press the Home button, then navigate to Settings (gear icon)
Step 2: Select Audio
Step 3: Review these critical settings:
Volume Mode: Set to "Normal" or "Off" (Leveling reduces peaks)
Menu Volume: Adjust if menu sounds differ from content
Audio Mode: Choose "Stereo" for TV speakers, "Auto" if using external audio
Step 4: Access Advanced Audio Settings for:
Dolby Audio Processing: Try "Off" if volume seems suppressed
Dialog Enhancement: Enable for clearer speech (boosts midrange)
Recommended Setting: Volume Mode OFF, Audio Mode Stereo, Dialog Enhancement ON
The asterisk (*) button on Roku remotes provides quick audio access during playback - handy for adjustments without pausing content. For comprehensive audio customization beyond these basics, explore the hisense sound guide.
Hisense VIDAA OS Audio Settings
VIDAA offers the most comprehensive audio controls of any Hisense platform.
Step 1: Press the Menu or Settings button on your remote
Step 2: Navigate to Sound
Step 3: Enter Sound Mode Settings and choose from:
Standard: Balanced for everyday viewing (recommended starting point)
Theatre: Enhanced bass and surround simulation for movies
Music: Boosted highs for music playback
Speech: Emphasizes dialogue frequencies
Late Night: Compresses dynamic range (reduces loud peaks)
Sports: Crowd noise emphasis
Many VIDAA remotes include a dedicated Sound button that cycles through modes without entering menus.
Step 4: For finer control, access Sound Mode Settings > Equalizer (covered in Section 5)
Step 5: Check Advanced Settings:
Total Sonic: Enable for processing enhancement
Total Surround: Expands perceived soundstage
Digital Audio Output: Set to "PCM" for TV speakers, "Auto" for external devices
Hisense Google TV Audio Settings
Google TV's Android-based system buries audio options deeper than other platforms.
Step 1: Press the Settings button or navigate to Settings (gear icon)
Step 2: Select Display & Sound
Step 3: Choose Sound
Step 4: Adjust these options:
Sound Mode: Standard, Theater, Music, Speech, or Game
Dolby Atmos: Toggle based on content and speaker setup
Dialogue Enhancement: Enable if speech sounds muddy
Step 5: Access Advanced Settings for:
Equalizer: Five-band frequency control
Auto Volume Control: Disable for maximum dynamic range
Digital Audio Output: PCM for TV speakers
Google TV lets you access sound settings during playback by pressing Settings and selecting the speaker icon - useful for real-time adjustments.
When optimizing sound, you might also want to ensure your picture settings complement your audio experience. Consider reviewing tips for getting the best picture to create a complete home theater environment.
Hisense Fire TV Edition Audio Settings
Fire TV models follow Amazon's interface conventions.
Step 1: Navigate to Settings from the home screen
Step 2: Select Display & Sounds
Step 3: Choose Audio
Step 4: Configure:
Volume Leveling: Off for maximum dynamic range
Dolby Digital Output: Match to your audio equipment
Surround Sound: On if using compatible equipment, Off for TV speakers
Step 5: For advanced options:
Default Volume: Set your preferred startup level
Audio Calibration: Some models offer microphone-based room calibration
Sound Mode Comparison Across Platforms
Content Type | Best Sound Mode | Why |
|---|---|---|
Movies | Theater/Cinema | Enhanced bass, wider soundstage |
News/Talk Shows | Speech/Standard | Boosted voice frequencies |
Sports | Sports/Standard | Crowd noise clarity |
Music | Music | Balanced frequency response |
Late Night Viewing | Late Night/Night Mode | Reduced dynamic range |
Gaming | Game/Standard | Reduced processing latency |
Best Equalizer Settings to Boost Hisense TV Volume
Most Hisense TVs include a five-band equalizer that dramatically affects perceived loudness. The default settings ship conservative - here's how to optimize them for maximum volume impact.
Understanding Hisense TV Equalizer Frequencies
Your TV's equalizer controls five frequency bands:
100Hz (Bass): Controls rumble, explosions, bass drums. Boosting adds impact but can create muddy audio that masks dialogue.
500Hz (Low-mids): The "body" of sound. Voices gain warmth here, but too much sounds boxy.
1.5kHz (Mids): The critical voice range. Human speech fundamentals live here - this frequency matters most for dialogue clarity.
5kHz (Presence): Detail and clarity. Contains consonants and definition. Boosting adds "edge" to audio.
10kHz (Highs/Treble): Sparkle and brightness. Contains cymbal shimmer and high harmonics.
Recommended Equalizer Settings
Pro Audio Tip: Human speech fundamentals sit between 1kHz and 4kHz. Boosting the 1.5kHz band specifically improves perceived volume for dialogue-heavy content without distorting other audio elements.
For Maximum Perceived Volume:
Frequency | Setting | Reasoning |
|---|---|---|
100Hz (Bass) | 65% | Adds fullness without overwhelming mids |
500Hz (Low-mids) | 45% | Prevents boxiness in voices |
1.5kHz (Voice) | 70% | Boosts dialogue clarity significantly |
5kHz (Presence) | 55% | Enhances definition and attack |
10kHz (Highs) | 55% | Adds air without harshness |
For Dialogue Clarity (Can't Hear Speech):
Frequency | Setting | Reasoning |
|---|---|---|
100Hz (Bass) | 40% | Reduced bass prevents dialogue masking |
500Hz (Low-mids) | 50% | Neutral low-mid presence |
1.5kHz (Voice) | 75% | Maximum speech emphasis |
5kHz (Presence) | 60% | Enhanced consonant clarity |
10kHz (Highs) | 50% | Controlled highs |
For Movies/Theatre:
Frequency | Setting | Reasoning |
|---|---|---|
100Hz (Bass) | 70% | Impact for explosions and score |
500Hz (Low-mids) | 50% | Full soundtrack body |
1.5kHz (Voice) | 60% | Clear dialogue |
5kHz (Presence) | 55% | Detail in effects |
10kHz (Highs) | 55% | Spatial cues |
How to Access Equalizer Settings
The path varies by operating system:
VIDAA: Settings > Sound > Sound Mode Settings > Equalizer
Roku TV: Settings > Audio > Advanced Audio Settings (limited EQ options)
Google TV: Settings > Display & Sound > Sound > Advanced Settings > Equalizer
Fire TV: Settings > Display & Sounds > Audio > Equalizer (if available)
Not every model offers full equalizer access. If you don't see these options, your TV may be limited to preset sound modes only.
For complete guidance on all hisense equalizer settings including advanced configurations, the detailed settings guide provides additional optimization strategies.
What If EQ Changes Create Audio Sync Issues?
Aggressive equalizer adjustments occasionally introduce audio/video synchronization problems on some models. If you notice lips moving before or after words sound, you may need to address fixing the audio delay through the AV Sync settings in your sound menu.
Audio Output Configuration: PCM vs Dolby Digital
This setting confuses more Hisense owners than almost any other - and getting it wrong can halve your effective volume.
What These Formats Mean
PCM (Pulse Code Modulation): Uncompressed digital audio. Works with every speaker, soundbar, and receiver ever made. Your TV decodes audio internally and outputs it as a simple stereo signal. For TV speakers specifically, PCM almost always produces the best results because the TV can apply its processing (sound modes, equalizer) before output.
Dolby Digital: Compressed surround sound format. Designed for external audio systems that can decode 5.1 surround. When selected for TV speakers, you're asking small 2.0 channel speakers to handle content mixed for six channels - often resulting in quieter, less balanced output.
Auto/Passthrough: Lets your TV decide based on content and connected devices. Sounds convenient but causes inconsistent volume between apps.
Which Setting for Your Setup
Quick Recommendation: Using TV speakers only? Set Audio Output to PCM. Using a soundbar or receiver? Set to Auto or Dolby Digital depending on your equipment's capabilities.
Your Setup | Recommended Setting | Why |
|---|---|---|
TV speakers only | PCM | TV applies full processing, consistent output |
Basic soundbar (no Dolby) | PCM | Ensures compatibility |
Dolby-capable soundbar | Auto or Dolby Digital | Enables surround decoding |
AV receiver | Passthrough | Receiver handles all decoding |
How to Change Audio Output Format
Navigate to your sound settings (paths detailed in Section 4), then find:
VIDAA: Settings > Sound > Advanced Settings > Digital Audio Output
Roku TV: Settings > Audio > S/PDIF and ARC
Google TV: Settings > Display & Sound > Sound > Advanced Settings > Audio Format
Fire TV: Settings > Display & Sounds > Audio > Dolby Digital Output
If you've connected a soundbar via HDMI ARC, you'll need to ensure proper hisense hdmi arc setup for these settings to take effect.
Troubleshooting Audio Format Issues
Symptom: Volume much lower on streaming apps than live TV Cause: Apps output Dolby Digital, TV can't process it efficiently for internal speakers Fix: Set Digital Audio Output to PCM
Symptom: No sound from external soundbar Cause: Audio format incompatibility Fix: Try PCM first, then Auto if soundbar supports Dolby
Symptom: Volume changes dramatically between content Cause: Auto setting switching formats Fix: Lock to single format (PCM for TV speakers)
Audio format changes can sometimes create synchronization issues between picture and sound. If you notice dialogue doesn't match lip movements after adjusting these settings, you may need to address the hisense av sync issue through additional settings.
Software and Firmware Fixes for Low Volume
When settings adjustments don't resolve your volume issue, software problems may be the culprit. These fixes address firmware bugs and corrupted configurations.
Power Cycle Reset (Try First)
This isn't the same as turning your TV off with the remote.
Press and hold the power button on the TV (not remote) for 5 seconds
Unplug the TV from the wall outlet
Wait 60 seconds minimum - this allows capacitors to discharge and audio processors to fully reset
Plug back in and power on
Test volume before changing any settings
In my testing, power cycling resolves approximately 40% of "sudden volume drop" cases where settings appear correct but output remains low.
Firmware Update Procedure
Outdated firmware causes documented audio bugs. Here's how to update on each platform:
VIDAA:
Press Settings on remote
Navigate to Support > System Update
Select Check Firmware Update
If available, select Download and Install
TV will restart automatically
Roku TV:
Press Home, then Settings
Select System > System Update
Choose Check Now
Install any available updates
Google TV:
Navigate to Settings > System > About
Select System Update
Choose Check for Updates
Fire TV:
Go to Settings > My Fire TV
Select About > Check for Updates
For comprehensive hisense tv firmware update instructions including manual update methods when automatic updates fail, refer to the dedicated firmware guide.
Audio Settings Reset (Preserves Other Settings)
⚠️ Note: This resets ONLY audio configuration, not your apps, network settings, or picture preferences.
Before trying a full factory reset, reset just the audio settings:
VIDAA: Settings > Sound > Reset Sound Settings Roku TV: Settings > Audio > Reset to Defaults Google TV: Settings > Display & Sound > Sound > Reset Fire TV: Settings > Display & Sounds > Audio > Reset Audio Settings
After resetting:
Set Sound Mode to Standard
Set Audio Output to TV Speakers
Set Digital Audio Output to PCM
Test volume at level 50
Factory Reset (Last Resort)
When nothing else works, a complete reset clears all settings and configurations:
⚠️ Warning: Factory reset erases everything - apps, accounts, WiFi passwords, picture settings. You'll need to set up your TV from scratch.
VIDAA: Settings > System > Reset to Initial Settings Roku TV: Settings > System > Advanced > Factory Reset Google TV: Settings > System > Reset > Factory Data Reset Fire TV: Settings > My Fire TV > Reset to Factory Defaults
After factory reset, your volume issue should resolve if it was software-related. If volume problems persist after a complete reset, the issue is hardware-related (speaker limitations or failure).
Following factory reset, you'll need to configure everything again. The getting started with hisense guide walks through optimal initial setup.
HDMI ARC and External Device Audio Troubleshooting
External devices - soundbars, streaming sticks, game consoles - introduce additional volume variables. This section addresses connection-specific issues.
HDMI ARC Basics
ARC (Audio Return Channel) lets your TV send audio to a soundbar through the same HDMI cable that receives video. Only ONE HDMI port on your Hisense TV supports ARC - typically labeled "HDMI 2 (ARC)" or "HDMI ARC."
Critical Requirements:
Use the correct port (check labels on TV)
Use HDMI 2.0 or newer cable (not all cables support ARC)
Enable HDMI-CEC on both TV and soundbar
Set TV audio output to ARC
Soundbar Connection Troubleshooting
No sound from soundbar:
Verify cable connects to ARC-labeled port
Navigate to Settings > System > HDMI-CEC (name varies by platform)
Enable CEC Control
Select Detect Devices or Device List
Confirm soundbar appears in list
Set Audio Output to ARC or HDMI
Volume control doesn't work with soundbar:
Enable System Audio Control in CEC settings
Test soundbar remote separately
Power cycle both TV and soundbar simultaneously
For complete the hisense soundbar connection guide, including optical and Bluetooth alternatives when ARC fails, see the detailed setup instructions.
ARC vs eARC: What's the Difference?
Feature | ARC | eARC |
|---|---|---|
Bandwidth | Limited | High |
Dolby Atmos | Lossy compression | Full quality |
DTS:X | No | Yes |
Cable requirement | HDMI 1.4+ | HDMI 2.1 |
If your soundbar supports eARC and your TV has an eARC port, use it for best quality. Otherwise, standard ARC works perfectly for most users.
Streaming Device Audio Issues
External streaming devices (Roku, Fire Stick, Apple TV) have their own audio settings that can conflict with TV settings.
Fire TV Stick connected to Hisense:
Check the Fire Stick's audio settings separately:
On Fire Stick: Settings > Display & Sounds > Audio
Set Surround Sound to Stereo if using TV speakers
Set Volume Leveling to Off
For users with Hisense Fire TV edition who also use external Fire Sticks, firestick cec hisense configuration can help ensure both devices communicate properly.
Gaming Console Audio
PlayStation/Xbox volume too low:
On console: Check audio output settings
Set output format to Linear PCM or Stereo Uncompressed
Disable Dolby/DTS unless using compatible external audio
On TV: Ensure correct HDMI input is selected
Common issue: Game mode on TV may reduce audio processing. Try Standard sound mode if Game mode sounds quiet.
HDMI Cable Requirements
Not all HDMI cables work equally for ARC:
Pro Tip: If your cable came free with another device or costs under $5, replace it. Quality cables prevent countless connection issues.
For ARC: High-Speed HDMI 2.0 cable minimum For eARC/4K 120Hz: Ultra High-Speed HDMI 2.1 cable
If you experience no video signal along with audio issues, you may have a broader HDMI problem. Check guidance for hisense hdmi no signal to troubleshoot connection issues.
App-Specific Volume Issues (Netflix, YouTube, Streaming)
Streaming apps often output at different volume levels than live TV or other inputs. This inconsistency frustrates users who constantly adjust volume between sources.
Why Streaming Apps Sound Quieter
Streaming services encode audio for the widest possible device compatibility. They also mix content for viewers using everything from phone speakers to Dolby Atmos home theaters. The result: conservative volume levels that sound quieter on TV speakers.
Netflix is notorious for this issue. The platform's audio encoding emphasizes dynamic range - great for home theaters, problematic for TV speakers. When a movie goes from quiet dialogue to loud action, Netflix preserves that range. Your TV speakers struggle with both extremes.
YouTube varies wildly because creators upload at different volume levels. No standardization exists.
Netflix-Specific Fixes
Within Netflix app: Press down during playback > Audio & Subtitles
Disable Dolby Atmos if available (uses more efficient encoding)
On TV: Enable Volume Leveling specifically for Netflix viewing
Set Digital Audio Output to PCM instead of Auto
If Netflix has other playback issues beyond volume, such as buffering or app crashes, the guide for getting netflix working on Hisense TVs provides comprehensive troubleshooting.
YouTube Volume Fixes
Enable TV's Auto Volume or Volume Leveling feature
Within YouTube: Check video's individual volume slider
Consider YouTube TV app settings vs browser version differences
If YouTube fails to load or functions erratically beyond volume issues, see getting youtube working for broader troubleshooting.
Disney+, Max, and Prime Video
Disney+: Generally well-optimized for TV speakers. If quiet, check TV's Digital Audio Output is set to PCM.
Max (HBO): Similar to Netflix - prefers dynamic range. Enable Volume Leveling.
Prime Video: Check both TV audio settings AND Prime Video in-app audio options.
Volume Leveling: When to Use It
Enable Volume Leveling when:
Watching streaming apps primarily
Commercials blast louder than programs
Switching between apps/channels frequently
Viewing late at night
Disable Volume Leveling when:
Watching movies where dynamic range matters
Using external audio equipment
Volume seems unnaturally compressed
Multi-App Volume Issues
If multiple streaming apps all display issues - not just volume but functionality - your TV may have broader app problems. The troubleshoot hisense apps guide addresses cache clearing, reinstallation, and app management.
External Audio Solutions: Best Soundbars for Hisense TV
Sometimes settings optimization isn't enough. Hisense's budget TVs ship with speakers that simply can't produce theater-quality volume. Here's when external audio makes sense and which options deliver best value.
When External Audio Becomes Necessary
You need a soundbar if:
Maximum volume still feels inadequate after all settings optimization
Your Hisense model has 2.0 channel 10-20W speakers (A6 series, many budget models)
You watch movies or sports where impact matters
Dialogue remains difficult to understand despite equalizer adjustments
You've accepted that physics limits your TV's speaker potential
You probably don't need a soundbar if:
Settings adjustments resolved your issue
You own U7N, U8, or premium models with better built-in audio
Your viewing consists primarily of news and casual content
Budget doesn't allow for additional equipment
Best Budget Soundbars for Hisense TV ($50-$150)
Hisense HS205 (~$79)
Designed specifically for Hisense TVs, this 2.0 channel bar offers Roku TV Ready certification for seamless integration. Three EQ modes (Movie, Music, News) cover basic needs. HDMI ARC, optical, and Bluetooth connectivity included. Won't shake your room but dramatically improves TV speaker sound.
Hisense HS218 (~$99)
Step up to 2.1 channels with a built-in wireless subwoofer. Same Roku TV Ready compatibility. Better bass response than HS205. Best budget option for Hisense Roku TV owners specifically.
Best Value Pick: The HS218's built-in subwoofer makes a noticeable difference for movies and sports without requiring a separate subwoofer unit taking floor space.
Best Mid-Range Options ($150-$300)
Hisense HS3100 (~$179)
3.1 channel system with wireless subwoofer and dedicated center channel for dialogue. 480W total power fills larger rooms effectively. Solid choice if your TV struggles with both volume AND dialogue clarity.
Samsung HW-B650 (~$249)
If brand loyalty isn't a concern, Samsung's B650 offers excellent audio processing and Dolby Audio support. Works well with Hisense TVs via HDMI ARC.
Best Premium Option
Hisense AX5125H (~$350)
This package deserves special mention. For under $400, you get a complete 5.1.2 channel Dolby Atmos system: soundbar, wireless subwoofer, AND two wireless surround speakers.
What Hi-Fi? named it "Best Budget Soundbar Package" noting it "sounds so much better than it has any right to at its price." RTINGS includes it among top-rated systems regardless of price tier.
Included in box:
Main soundbar with up-firing Atmos drivers
Wireless subwoofer
Two wireless surround speakers
All necessary cables
Wall mounting hardware
For users ready to significantly upgrading your tv sound, this system approaches home theater quality at a fraction of typical cost.
Soundbar Comparison Table
Model | Price | Channels | Subwoofer | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Hisense HS205 | $79 | 2.0 | No | Budget improvement |
Hisense HS218 | $99 | 2.1 | Built-in wireless | Budget with bass |
Hisense HS3100 | $179 | 3.1 | Wireless | Dialogue + bass |
Samsung HW-B650 | $249 | 3.1 | Wireless | Brand-agnostic quality |
Hisense AX5125H | $350 | 5.1.2 | Wireless + surrounds | Full Dolby Atmos |
Connecting Your New Soundbar
For detailed setup instructions covering HDMI ARC, optical connections, CEC configuration, and Bluetooth pairing, see the comprehensive guide on how to connect soundbar to hisense tv.
If you prefer traditional speakers over soundbars, you can also upgrading your tv audio with powered bookshelf speakers or a stereo receiver setup.
FAQ: Hisense TV Volume Problems Answered
Why is my Hisense TV volume so low even at maximum?
Hisense TV volume at maximum can still feel inadequate due to enabled Night Mode or Volume Leveling settings, audio output misconfigured to external device, or the TV's built-in speaker hardware limitations. Budget Hisense models typically have 10-20W 2.0 channel speakers - modest output by design, not defect.
First, navigate to Settings > Sound and disable Night Mode, Auto Volume, and Volume Leveling. Verify Audio Output shows "TV Speakers." If volume remains insufficient after these adjustments, your model's speakers may simply be underpowered for your needs. A soundbar represents the most effective upgrade path. For complete settings guidance, explore tips for how to improve hisense sound.
Can I make my Hisense TV louder than the maximum volume setting?
You cannot exceed the TV's maximum volume number, but you can boost perceived loudness. Set Sound Mode to "Standard" or "Theatre" instead of "Late Night." Adjust the equalizer to boost midrange frequencies - specifically the 1.5kHz band - which improves dialogue presence. Disable Night Mode and Volume Leveling features that compress dynamic range. Switch audio output from Dolby Digital to PCM.
If these optimizations don't deliver sufficient volume, external audio is your best option. Adding even a budget soundbar typically doubles effective volume output.
Why does my Hisense TV volume change between channels or apps?
Volume varies between channels and apps because different content sources use different audio levels and encoding formats. Streaming services often encode conservatively, while commercials are mastered louder, and broadcast channels follow different standards entirely.
Enable "Volume Leveling" or "Auto Volume" in Settings > Sound to normalize volume automatically. This compresses dynamic range to maintain consistent loudness across all content. The tradeoff: movie soundtracks lose some of their impact.
Is low volume on Hisense TV a defect? Should I return it?
Low volume is usually not a defect. Budget Hisense models have modest 10-20W speakers that may not meet all users' volume expectations - this represents design economics, not manufacturing failure.
Before returning, try all settings adjustments in this guide. If volume sounds adequate through headphones but not speakers, check sound modes that may be suppressing speaker output specifically. If headphone volume also seems low, you may have a settings or firmware issue.
Return consideration is reasonable if: volume was noticeably louder when purchased, TV is within return window, and all troubleshooting failed. Consider upgrade to U7 or U8 series with better built-in audio, or budget for a soundbar with your current model.
Do Hisense TVs have good speakers?
Hisense TV speakers range from adequate to excellent depending on model tier. Budget A-series models have 2.0 channel 10-20W systems - functional for casual viewing but limited for immersive content. Premium U7N models offer 2.1 channel 40W systems with built-in subwoofers for noticeably better bass. Flagship U8 series delivers up to 82W through 4.1.2 channel configurations with Dolby Atmos support.
For most users, even budget Hisense speakers handle news, sitcoms, and casual content acceptably. Movies, sports, and gaming benefit significantly from external audio regardless of TV tier. Consider home theater audio setup options if audio quality matters for your viewing habits.
How do I contact Hisense support for audio issues?
Contact Hisense USA support at hisense-usa.com/support or call 1-888-935-8880. Have your TV model number ready - find it in Settings > About or on a label on the TV's back panel.
Support can provide model-specific troubleshooting steps and determine warranty coverage if hardware failure is suspected. Keep purchase receipt available; standard warranty covers manufacturing defects for one year (two years for ULED/U-series models).
Will a soundbar void my Hisense TV warranty?
No. Connecting a soundbar through HDMI ARC, optical cable, or Bluetooth uses intended features and does not affect warranty coverage. Only unauthorized internal modifications or physical damage from improper installation would impact warranty status.
Conclusion: Keep Your Hisense TV Sounding Great
Most Hisense TV volume issues resolve through settings adjustment rather than hardware replacement. Start with the quick fixes - checking for Night Mode, verifying audio output routing, and power cycling. These steps alone solve the majority of complaints.
For persistent issues, the systematic diagnostic approach identifies exactly where your audio chain breaks down. OS-specific settings paths, equalizer optimization for perceived loudness, and audio format configuration give you every tool needed to maximize your TV's capability.
When settings aren't enough, recognize your TV's hardware limitations honestly. Budget models ship with modest speakers by design - no setting adjustment overcomes physics. The soundbar options outlined here deliver dramatic improvement at reasonable cost, with the Hisense AX5125H offering remarkable Dolby Atmos performance for under $400.
Bookmark this guide for reference - settings sometimes reset after firmware updates, and having the exact menu paths saves troubleshooting time. If your specific situation isn't covered here, explore your audio adjustment options in the comprehensive Hisense sound settings guide.
Your Hisense TV can sound significantly better than it did out of the box. The right configuration unlocks audio performance that matches its impressive picture quality.

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