Fix Insignia TV no sound issues with our complete troubleshooting guide. Step-by-step solutions for Fire TV, Roku TV, HDMI audio, soundbar connections, and more. Works for all models.
Your Insignia TV just went silent, and you're wondering what happened. Before you start planning a trip to Best Buy or searching for a replacement, here's some reassuring news: most Insignia TV audio problems are fixable at home in under ten minutes.
I've spent considerable time troubleshooting audio issues across dozens of Insignia models - Fire TV editions, Roku TV editions, and standard LED sets. The patterns are remarkably consistent. Software glitches and settings mishaps cause roughly 90% of these problems, not hardware failures.
This guide walks you through every solution, from a 60-second quick fix to advanced troubleshooting for stubborn issues. Whether your TV is completely silent, cutting in and out, or refusing to work with your soundbar, you'll find your answer here.
Try This First: The soft reset method resolves about 80% of Insignia TV audio problems. This is the same troubleshooting step that Insignia's own support team recommends starting with.
Here's the complete procedure:
Unplug your TV from the wall outlet completely (not just the power strip)
Wait exactly 60 seconds - this allows internal capacitors to fully discharge
While unplugged, press and hold the power button on the TV itself for 30 seconds
Release the button, then plug your TV back in
Turn on the TV and test the sound
The power button location varies by model. On most Insignia TVs, you'll find it either on the bottom center of the frame, along the left or right side, or on the back panel near the ports. If you're having trouble locating it, check our guide on how to use Insignia TV without remote for detailed button placement by model.
Sound returned? You're done. No further action needed.
Still silent? Don't worry - continue to the diagnostic section below.
Before moving to detailed troubleshooting, verify these basics:
Press the Mute button on your remote - look for a speaker icon on screen indicating mute is active
Check the volume level isn't set to zero (press Volume Up several times)
Verify the correct input source is selected (HDMI 1, HDMI 2, etc.)
Go to Settings → Audio and confirm TV Speakers is set to "On"
Check if any Bluetooth devices (headphones, speakers) might be stealing the audio signal
For comprehensive solutions covering other common problems, see our complete Insignia TV troubleshooting guide.
If you need to restore your TV to original settings, our guide on how to reset Insignia TV covers every reset method available.
Understanding why your TV lost audio helps you choose the right fix faster. Insignia TV audio problems typically fall into four categories, and knowing which one you're dealing with saves considerable time.
The most common culprit. Your TV's software controls audio output, and glitches happen. These include:
Mute accidentally enabled - someone hit the button without noticing, or the TV defaulted to mute after a software update
Wrong audio output selected - the TV is trying to send sound to external speakers that aren't connected
Bluetooth device connected - a paired speaker or headphones from a previous session is intercepting the audio
Firmware bugs - Insignia has acknowledged specific audio issues with some Fire TV models that software updates have addressed
Physical connections matter more than people realize:
Loose HDMI cables - even slightly loose connections can cause complete audio loss while video continues working
Wrong input selected - you're watching HDMI 2 but the TV is set to HDMI 1
HDMI ARC misconfiguration - if you've connected a soundbar, the Audio Return Channel settings might need adjustment
Damaged cables - HDMI cables can fail internally while appearing fine externally
When other devices are involved, things get complicated:
Soundbar not receiving signal - the TV is outputting audio, but the soundbar isn't picking it up
Cable box audio settings - your cable or satellite box might be sending audio in a format the TV can't process
Streaming device configuration - Fire Stick or Roku players have their own audio settings that can conflict with TV settings
The least common but most serious category:
Speaker failure - rare on TVs less than 5 years old, but possible (symptoms: works with headphones but not internal speakers)
Audio board issues - if there's no sound through any output including the headphone jack, the internal audio circuitry may have failed
Mainboard problems - when audio issues appear alongside other problems like display flickering or power instability
If you're also experiencing display problems alongside audio issues, check our guide on Insignia TV black screen issues - combined symptoms often point to mainboard problems. Similarly, if your remote has stopped working properly, see our guide on Insignia Fire TV remote not pairing as remote issues sometimes correlate with audio problems.
No competitor guide offers this: a decision tree that gets you to the right solution faster. Instead of trying fixes randomly, answer these questions to identify your specific issue.
Answer: YES, completely silent on all inputs and apps
→ Perform the soft reset (unplug 60 seconds, hold power 30 seconds) → If still silent: Check Audio Output settings - ensure TV Speakers is ON → If still silent: Test headphones in the 3.5mm jack → Sound through headphones? Your speakers have failed - see Section 12 → No sound through headphones? Audio board issue - contact Insignia Support
Answer: NO, sound works sometimes or on some inputs
→ Continue to the next question
Answer: YES, some channels/apps have sound, others don't
→ For broadcast TV channels: Try the SAP/MTS button fix (Section 9) → For streaming apps only: Check app-specific audio settings → For one HDMI input: Check the connected device's audio output settings
Answer: NO, sound cuts in and out unpredictably
→ Check all cable connections for looseness → Look for Bluetooth devices that might be intermittently connecting → Update TV firmware (Settings → About → Check for Updates) → If on Fire TV: Try the Amazon account de-registration fix (Section 6)
Answer: YES, soundbar or external speakers connected
→ Verify soundbar is on the correct input (HDMI, Optical, etc.) → Check HDMI-CEC/InLink settings are enabled → Try optical cable as alternative to HDMI ARC → See Section 8 for complete external audio troubleshooting
Answer: NO, using TV's internal speakers only
→ Go to Settings → Audio → confirm "TV Speakers" is selected → For Fire TV: Navigate to Insignia TV sound settings and set Digital Audio Format to PCM → For Roku TV: Settings → Audio → Audio Mode → Stereo
Symptom | Most Likely Cause | Go To Section |
|---|---|---|
Complete silence, all inputs | Software glitch | Section 4 |
No sound Fire TV only | PCM/Audio format | Section 6 |
No sound Roku TV only | System restart needed | Section 7 |
One channel silent | SAP setting | Section 9 |
HDMI device no sound | ARC/CEC settings | Section 8 |
Sound cuts in and out | Cable or Bluetooth | Section 4 |
Soundbar not working | Input selection | Section 8 |
Lips don't match audio | AV sync settings | Section 10 |
These solutions work for all Insignia TV models - Fire TV Edition, Roku TV Edition, and standard LED sets. Work through them in order; most people find their fix within the first three steps.
It sounds obvious, but this resolves the problem more often than you'd expect. Someone sitting on the remote, a child playing with buttons, or even a software glitch can mute your TV without any obvious indication.
What to check:
Press the Mute button on your remote. Look for a muted speaker icon appearing or disappearing on screen
Press Volume Up at least 10 times - the TV might be set to zero
Look at the screen while pressing volume buttons. You should see a volume bar appear
If the volume bar doesn't appear at all, the remote might not be communicating with the TV
Pro tip: Some Insignia models display the mute icon briefly then hide it. Press Mute twice - once to potentially unmute, once to confirm the status by watching for the icon.
This is the most effective single fix for Insignia TV audio problems. The soft reset clears the TV's temporary memory and resets software processes that might have glitched.
Complete procedure:
Unplug the TV from the wall outlet (not from the TV, from the wall)
Wait a full 60 seconds - set a timer, because 30 seconds isn't enough
While still unplugged, find the power button on your TV and hold it for 30 seconds
Release the power button
Plug the TV back in and turn it on
Why this works: The 60-second wait allows capacitors to fully discharge. Holding the power button while unplugged drains residual power from circuits. Together, this forces a complete restart of the TV's software.
Critical detail many guides miss: You must hold the power button on the TV itself, not the remote. The TV's power button is usually found on the bottom edge, side panel, or back of the set.
Your TV might be set to the wrong input, or a connected device might not be sending audio properly.
Steps to check:
Press the Input or Source button on your remote
Cycle through each input (HDMI 1, HDMI 2, etc.)
Watch for picture changes to confirm you're on the correct input
If using a cable box or streaming device, verify that device is powered on and outputting
Common scenario: You have a Fire Stick on HDMI 1 and a cable box on HDMI 2. The TV is set to HDMI 1, but the Fire Stick is in sleep mode, showing a black screen. You assume there's no signal, but actually you just need to wake the Fire Stick - and the audio will follow.
Your TV might be configured to send audio somewhere other than the internal speakers.
For all Insignia TVs:
Press Menu or Settings on your remote
Navigate to Audio or Sound
Look for TV Speakers or Audio Output
Ensure it's set to TV Speakers or On
Common culprit: If you previously connected a soundbar and then disconnected it, the TV might still be trying to send audio to that external device. Changing back to TV Speakers fixes this immediately.
Bluetooth speakers and headphones can "steal" audio from your TV, even if you're not actively using them. If the device is within range and still paired, your TV might be sending audio there instead of to its speakers.
How to check and fix:
For Fire TV Edition: Settings → Controllers & Bluetooth Devices → Other Bluetooth Devices → Check for any connected devices and unpair them
For Roku TV Edition: Settings → Remotes & Devices → Devices → Remove any audio devices
Pro tip: Even Bluetooth devices in another room can cause this. If you have wireless headphones you used with the TV weeks ago, they might reconnect automatically when powered on. Unpair any device you don't actively need connected.
If you've tried all five fixes and still have no sound, continue to the platform-specific sections below. Fire TV and Roku TV editions have additional settings that often resolve stubborn audio issues.
Getting your audio settings right is crucial, and Insignia TVs have different menu structures depending on whether you have a Fire TV Edition, Roku TV Edition, or standard LED model. Here's exactly where to find every important setting.
Fire TV Edition is the most common Insignia smart TV platform. Here's the complete navigation path:
Access audio settings: Home → Settings (gear icon) → Display & Sounds → Audio
Critical settings to check:
Setting | Location | Recommended Value |
|---|---|---|
Audio Output | Display & Sounds → Audio | TV Speakers |
Digital Audio Format | Display & Sounds → Audio → Digital Audio Format | PCM |
Dolby Digital Output | Display & Sounds → Audio | Off (for troubleshooting) |
Volume Mode | Display & Sounds → Audio | Normal |
The PCM fix explained: PCM (Pulse Code Modulation) is an uncompressed audio format that works with virtually every TV and audio device. When you're having audio problems, switching from "Auto" or "Dolby Digital" to PCM eliminates format compatibility issues. This single change fixes audio problems for a significant percentage of Insignia Fire TV users.
According to official Insignia support documentation, the PCM setting provides maximum compatibility. Here's the exact path: Home Menu → Settings → Display & Sounds → Audio Output → Digital Audio Format → Select PCM
Roku TV has a different menu structure:
Access audio settings: Home → Settings → Audio
Key settings:
Setting | Location | Recommended Value |
|---|---|---|
Audio Mode | Settings → Audio → Audio Mode | Stereo |
Volume Mode | Settings → Audio → Volume Mode | Off |
HDMI Audio | Settings → Audio | Auto or Stereo |
S/PDIF and ARC | Settings → Audio | PCM-Stereo |
Important note: Roku TV's "Volume Mode" with leveling enabled can sometimes cause audio glitches. If you're experiencing intermittent sound, set Volume Mode to Off.
For non-smart Insignia TVs or older models:
Access audio settings: Menu → Audio (or Sound)
Key settings:
TV Speakers: On
Digital Audio Format: PCM
Audio Mode: Standard (or your preference)
This causes confusion, so here's a simple explanation:
PCM: Uncompressed audio sent directly to speakers. Works with everything, rarely causes problems. Best choice when troubleshooting.
Dolby Digital: Compressed surround sound format. Sounds great when it works, but requires compatible equipment and can cause issues with some TVs and soundbars.
When to use each:
Use PCM if you're using TV speakers or having any audio issues
Use Dolby Digital only if you have a Dolby-compatible soundbar or receiver AND PCM isn't delivering adequate sound quality
If your volume seems unusually low even after these adjustments, check our dedicated guide on Insignia TV volume too low for additional solutions specific to volume problems.
Fire TV Edition is Insignia's most popular smart TV platform, and it has some specific audio quirks. If you own an Insignia Fire TV and the generic troubleshooting didn't work, these Fire TV-specific solutions should resolve your issue.
This is the most common solution for Fire TV audio problems. Many users report that their audio disappeared after an update or started acting strange for no apparent reason - switching to PCM almost always fixes it.
Step-by-step:
Press Home on your remote to get to the main Fire TV screen
Navigate to Settings (the gear icon on the far right)
Select Display & Sounds
Choose Audio
Select Digital Audio Format
Change from "Auto" or "Dolby" to PCM
Go back and test your audio
Why Auto doesn't always work: The "Auto" setting tries to detect what your TV can handle, but this detection sometimes fails. Manually selecting PCM bypasses this detection and forces compatible output.
Fire TV is excellent at connecting to Bluetooth devices - sometimes too excellent. If you've ever paired wireless headphones or a Bluetooth speaker, your TV might be sending audio there even when you don't intend it.
To check and remove Bluetooth audio devices:
Go to Settings → Controllers & Bluetooth Devices
Select Other Bluetooth Devices
Look for any devices listed (especially audio devices like headphones or speakers)
Select any audio device and choose Forget or Unpair
Important: Even if a Bluetooth device shows as "Not Connected," it can sometimes reconnect automatically. If you're not actively using a Bluetooth audio device with your TV, unpair it completely.
Outdated software can cause audio bugs. Insignia and Amazon release updates that address known issues, including audio problems.
To check for updates:
Go to Settings → My Fire TV
Select About
Choose Check for Updates
If an update is available, install it and restart your TV
This solution comes directly from Insignia support and addresses a known intermittent audio issue on Fire TV models. Users who contacted support about their 58" Fire TV models were given this specific fix:
Procedure:
Go to Settings → Account & Profile Settings
Select Amazon Account
Choose Deregister
Confirm the de-registration
Sign back into your Amazon account
Test the audio
This fix works because de-registering and re-registering refreshes the TV's connection to Amazon's servers and can clear authentication issues that sometimes manifest as audio problems.
If your Fire TV remote has also stopped working properly, address that first - see our guide on Insignia Fire TV remote not pairing. A malfunctioning remote can make audio troubleshooting difficult.
Sometimes audio works everywhere except in specific apps like Netflix, Hulu, or Prime Video. This usually indicates an app-specific setting problem.
For Netflix: Check in-app audio settings (during playback, look for audio/subtitle options)
For Prime Video: Settings within the app may override TV settings
For any streaming app: Try uninstalling and reinstalling the app. Go to Settings → Applications → Manage Installed Applications → Select the app → Uninstall
If you need to reinstall apps or are having trouble finding them, our guide on download apps on Insignia TV walks through the process.
Before attempting a factory reset, check if your TV has storage issues - this can affect app performance. See Insignia Fire TV critically low on storage for solutions.
Roku TV Edition Insignia TVs have their own operating system and audio quirks. Surprisingly, most troubleshooting guides online skip Roku TV entirely - but Insignia sells plenty of these models, and their owners deserve targeted help.
This specific solution comes from real user experiences documented in the iFixit community. Multiple Insignia Roku TV owners report that a system restart - not a full reset, just a restart - restores audio that randomly disappeared.
To perform a Roku system restart:
Press Home on your Roku remote
Go to Settings
Select System
Choose Power (if this option appears)
Select System Restart
Confirm the restart
Important: This is different from unplugging the TV. The system restart specifically resets Roku's software processes while preserving your settings and apps.
One iFixit community member noted: "I reset my Roku (go to Roku menu then Settings, then System Restart) and I have sound again. I've had the Insignia TV since February and I've had to do this 3 times to get my sound to come back on."
Roku's audio menu has specific settings that can affect sound output:
Navigate to audio settings: Home → Settings → Audio
Recommended settings for troubleshooting:
Setting | Recommended Value | Why |
|---|---|---|
Audio Mode | Stereo | Maximum compatibility |
Volume Mode | Off | Prevents processing glitches |
HDMI Audio | Auto or Stereo | Match your device output |
S/PDIF and ARC | PCM-Stereo | Works with all soundbars |
The Volume Mode setting (also called Audio Leveling or Night Mode) attempts to normalize volume across different content. While useful in theory, it can cause audio glitches on some Insignia Roku TVs.
To disable:
Go to Settings → Audio
Find Volume Mode (might be called "Leveling")
Set to Off
Test your audio
If nothing else works, a full factory reset clears all settings and apps. Your TV returns to out-of-box condition.
Roku TV reset path: Settings → System → Advanced System Settings → Factory Reset → Factory Reset Everything
Before you reset: This erases all your apps, accounts, and settings. You'll need to set up the TV from scratch, including reconnecting to WiFi and logging back into streaming services.
Alternative - Audio/Picture Reset Only: Settings → System → Advanced System Settings → Factory Reset → Reset TV Audio/Picture Settings
This option resets only audio and video settings while keeping your apps and accounts intact. Try this before a full factory reset.
If your Roku remote isn't working properly, see our guide on sync Roku remote to Insignia TV before attempting troubleshooting steps that require remote navigation.
Connecting external audio equipment - soundbars, home theater systems, or gaming consoles - adds complexity. When audio stops working with external devices, the problem usually lies in settings configuration rather than hardware failure.
HDMI ARC (Audio Return Channel) allows your TV to send audio back through the HDMI cable to a soundbar or receiver. It's convenient when it works, but finicky when it doesn't.
Step 1: Identify the ARC port
Not all HDMI ports support ARC. Look at the back of your TV for the port labeled "HDMI ARC" or "HDMI (ARC)". On most Insignia TVs, this is HDMI 1, but check your specific model.
Step 2: Physical connection
Connect your soundbar's HDMI OUT (ARC) to your TV's HDMI (ARC) port. Using any other HDMI port won't work for ARC.
Step 3: Enable HDMI-CEC (InLink)
This is the setting most people miss. HDMI-CEC allows devices to communicate with each other over HDMI. Insignia calls it "InLink" on some models.
For Fire TV Edition: Settings → Display & Sounds → HDMI-CEC Device Control → Turn ALL options ON
Key setting often missed: Enable "Audio Receiver" in the HDMI-CEC menu. According to AVS Forum users, this specific setting resolves many ARC issues that other troubleshooting steps don't address.
Step 4: Set audio output
Go to Settings → Audio → Audio Output → Select "Receiver" or "External Speakers" (not TV Speakers)
HDMI ARC can be problematic. If you've tried everything and still can't get sound through HDMI, optical audio is a reliable alternative.
To connect via optical:
Locate the optical audio output on your TV (usually labeled "OPTICAL" or "DIGITAL AUDIO OUT")
Remove the protective cap from the port
Connect an optical cable from TV to soundbar's optical input
On your TV, go to Settings → Audio → Digital Audio Format → Set to PCM
Select your soundbar's optical input using its remote
Optical vs. HDMI ARC comparison:
Feature | HDMI ARC | Optical |
|---|---|---|
Audio Quality | Excellent | Excellent |
Supports Dolby Atmos | Yes | No |
Single cable solution | Yes | No (need HDMI for video) |
Reliability | Can be finicky | Very reliable |
Volume control via TV remote | Usually yes | Sometimes |
If your soundbar is connected but not producing sound:
Check these in order:
Soundbar power and input: Is the soundbar on? Is it set to the correct input (HDMI, Optical, etc.)?
TV audio output: Is the TV set to output to external speakers, not TV speakers?
Volume on both devices: Both the TV and soundbar have independent volume controls
Cable seating: Unplug and firmly reconnect both ends of the audio cable
Power cycle both: Unplug both TV and soundbar for 30 seconds, then reconnect
For detailed soundbar setup instructions, see our guide on how to connect Insignia soundbar to TV. For Insignia-brand soundbars specifically, check hook up soundbar to Insignia TV.
If you're using speakers other than a soundbar, our guide on connect external speakers to Insignia TV covers all connection types.
A surprising number of audio problems trace back to HDMI cables. The cable might look fine but have internal damage or simply be too old for current standards.
Signs of cable problems:
Audio cuts in and out while picture stays stable
Audio works on one HDMI port but not another with the same device
Issues started after moving the TV or adjusting cables
Solution: Try a different HDMI cable. For ARC functionality, use a cable rated "High Speed HDMI" or better. Budget cables work for basic connections but sometimes struggle with ARC features.
Does your Insignia TV have sound on most channels but complete silence on specific broadcast channels? This frustrating issue usually has a simple cause: the SAP (Secondary Audio Programming) setting.
SAP stands for Secondary Audio Programming, sometimes called MTS (Multichannel Television Sound). Broadcast TV channels often include a secondary audio track - typically for Spanish language audio, descriptive video service for the visually impaired, or alternative commentary.
Here's the problem: if your TV is set to the SAP track and that track is empty for a particular program, you get complete silence instead of the main audio.
Many Insignia remotes have a dedicated MTS/SAP button. This is the fastest fix.
Procedure:
Tune to the channel with no sound
Find the MTS or SAP button on your remote (usually near the number buttons)
Press it repeatedly to cycle through options: Stereo → Mono → SAP
Stop when the screen displays Stereo
Sound should return immediately
If your remote doesn't have an MTS/SAP button, access the setting through the menu:
Press Menu on your remote
Navigate to Audio or Sound Settings
Look for MTS/SAP or Audio Language
Select Stereo or Main
Exit the menu and test
SAP issues commonly occur when:
Someone accidentally pressed the SAP button without realizing it
The TV defaulted to SAP after a software update
The SAP setting from one channel carried over to others
Prevention tip: Once you fix the SAP setting, it should stay fixed. But if this happens repeatedly, check if anyone else in your household might be inadvertently pressing the button.
If you're using an antenna for broadcast TV and experiencing audio or channel issues, our guide on Insignia TV antenna setup covers proper antenna configuration. For navigation help, see Insignia TV channel guide.
Few things are more annoying than watching people talk while their lips don't match the audio. This "lip sync" or "audio delay" problem occurs when video and audio signals get out of alignment.
Audio and video signals travel through different processing paths. The video might arrive at your screen slightly before or after the audio arrives at your speakers. When this gap becomes noticeable - usually more than about 30 milliseconds - you perceive it as actors whose voices don't match their mouth movements.
Common causes include:
Audio format processing delays
Soundbar or receiver adding processing time
Streaming content with encoding issues
TV settings applying video enhancements that slow the picture
Fire TV includes a built-in adjustment for audio-video synchronization:
To access: Settings → Display & Sounds → Audio → AV Sync Tuning
You'll see a slider that lets you adjust audio timing in small increments. Move the slider while watching content with dialogue to find the setting where lips and voice align.
Tip: Use news programs or talk shows for adjustment - they have constant, clearly visible dialogue that makes sync issues obvious.
Switching from Dolby Digital to PCM often resolves lip sync problems. Why? Dolby formats require decoding, which adds processing time. PCM is already uncompressed, eliminating that delay.
To switch: Settings → Display & Sounds → Audio → Digital Audio Format → PCM
If you're using a soundbar or audio receiver, the device itself might be adding delay through its own processing. Check these:
Soundbar audio sync setting: Many soundbars have their own audio delay adjustment - check the soundbar's settings menu
Processing modes: Disable "virtual surround" or sound enhancement modes on your soundbar, as these add processing time
Game mode: If your soundbar has a "game mode" or "low latency" mode, enable it - these modes minimize processing delay
If sync issues only appear in certain apps:
Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+: These apps sometimes have their own audio settings. Look for audio options during playback
Live TV apps: Live content is more prone to sync issues due to encoding variations
Cable box: Check your cable/satellite box audio output settings - set to PCM if available
If you experience consistent sync issues across ALL sources and apps - and adjustments don't help - this could indicate:
Failing audio processing components
Mainboard issues
Software corruption requiring factory reset
Try a factory reset first. If sync problems persist after reset across all content, professional diagnosis may be needed.
When basic troubleshooting fails, it's time for more aggressive measures. Factory reset is the "nuclear option" - it works when nothing else does, but it erases everything and requires complete setup from scratch.
Consider factory reset only after you've tried:
Soft reset (unplug method)
Audio settings adjustments
Software updates
Bluetooth device removal
All other troubleshooting in this guide
Factory reset makes sense when:
Audio issues started after a software update and persist through all other fixes
Multiple features are malfunctioning (not just audio)
You've contacted support and they recommended it
Be aware: Factory reset erases all apps, accounts, WiFi settings, and preferences. You'll need to set up the TV as if it were brand new.
Method 1: Through Settings
Go to Settings → My Fire TV
Select Reset to Factory Defaults
Enter your PIN if prompted
Confirm the reset
Wait 5-10 minutes for completion
Method 2: Hardware Button Combination If you can't navigate menus (screen issues or remote problems):
Unplug the TV
Hold the Power and Volume Down buttons on the TV simultaneously
While holding both buttons, plug the TV back in
Continue holding for 10-15 seconds
Release when the reset screen appears
Settings → System → Advanced System Settings → Factory Reset → Factory Reset Everything
Enter the displayed code to confirm. The TV will restart and begin setup process.
Menu → Settings → Device & Software → Reset
Or check your user manual for model-specific instructions.
Sometimes firmware updates fix bugs that other troubleshooting can't address. Always try updating before factory reset:
Fire TV: Settings → My Fire TV → About → Check for Updates
Roku TV: Settings → System → System Update → Check Now
Standard TV: Menu → Settings → Support → Software Update
For comprehensive reset instructions covering all methods for your specific model, see our detailed guide on how to reset Insignia TV.
Before resetting, ensure your TV's firmware is current by following our Insignia TV update firmware guide.
After factory reset, you'll need to set up your TV again. Our Insignia TV setup guide walks through the complete initial configuration process.
Not all audio problems have software solutions. When you've exhausted every troubleshooting option, it's time to determine whether you're dealing with hardware failure - and whether repair makes financial sense.
This test definitively separates speaker problems from broader audio system failures:
Procedure:
Plug headphones or earbuds into your TV's 3.5mm headphone jack (usually on the side or back)
Play content that should have sound
Listen through the headphones
Interpreting results:
Headphone Result | Diagnosis | Next Step |
|---|---|---|
Sound works perfectly | TV speakers have failed | See speaker failure section |
Sound is distorted | Audio board issues | Professional diagnosis needed |
No sound at all | Audio circuitry failure | Professional diagnosis needed |
If sound works through headphones but not through TV speakers, your internal speakers have likely failed. Symptoms include:
Complete silence from speakers on all inputs
Crackling or distorted sound that headphones don't have
Sound from only one side (left or right speaker failure)
Physical buzzing or rattling from speaker location
Speaker failure is relatively rare in TVs less than 5 years old, but can occur due to power surges, manufacturing defects, or physical damage.
More serious than speaker failure, audio board problems affect all audio output:
No sound through any output (speakers, headphone jack, optical, HDMI)
Intermittent complete audio loss (works, then doesn't, unpredictably)
Distortion that affects all audio outputs equally
When audio problems appear alongside other symptoms, the mainboard (main circuit board) may be failing:
Audio issues plus display flickering or discoloration
Audio issues plus power problems (won't turn on reliably)
Audio issues plus smart features not working
If you're also experiencing Insignia TV black screen issues alongside audio problems, this strongly suggests mainboard involvement. Similarly, visual problems like Insignia TV horizontal lines on screen combined with audio issues indicate more comprehensive hardware failure.
For display issues, see our guide on fix backlight on Insignia TV.
Before paying for any repairs, check your warranty status:
Insignia standard warranty: Typically 1 year from purchase date
Best Buy extended warranty (Geek Squad Protection): Check your receipt or Best Buy account
Credit card extended warranty: Some credit cards add 1-2 years to manufacturer warranty
Insignia Support Contact: 1-877-467-4289
Have your model number and purchase date ready when calling.
Situation | Recommendation |
|---|---|
TV under warranty | Use warranty service (free) |
TV 1-2 years old, repair <$150 | Consider repair |
TV 3+ years old, repair >$100 | Likely replace |
Repair estimate >50% of new TV cost | Replace |
Multiple symptoms (audio + video + power) | Replace |
Reality check: New 55" Insignia TVs cost $250-400. If repair estimates exceed $100-150 for an older TV, purchasing new usually makes more financial sense - and you get updated technology and warranty coverage.
For more information about Insignia TV manufacturing and service options, see our article on who makes Insignia TVs.
Once you've fixed your audio issue, these maintenance practices reduce the likelihood of future problems.
Outdated firmware is a common cause of audio bugs. Check for updates monthly:
Fire TV: Settings → My Fire TV → About → Check for Updates
Roku TV: Settings → System → System Update → Check Now
Pro tip: Enable automatic updates if available. Fire TV can update overnight when the TV is in sleep mode.
Power surges and electrical fluctuations damage audio components over time. Protect your investment:
Use a surge protector for your TV and all connected devices
During storms, consider unplugging the TV entirely
Avoid plugging the TV into outlets that share circuits with high-draw appliances like refrigerators or air conditioners
Inspect your cables quarterly:
Check HDMI connections for firm seating - push them in gently to ensure they're fully inserted
Look for bent pins in HDMI ports
Replace cables that show visible damage, kinking, or fraying
Keep cables away from foot traffic areas where they might get stepped on
Unpair Bluetooth devices you're not actively using:
Paired devices can reconnect unexpectedly and steal audio
Old pairings can cause software conflicts
Keep your paired devices list minimal and current
A monthly soft reset helps prevent software glitches from accumulating:
Turn off your TV
Unplug from the wall for 60 seconds
Plug back in and turn on
This simple maintenance clears temporary cache and prevents the buildup of software issues.
Once you have your audio settings working well:
Note your Digital Audio Format setting (PCM, Dolby, etc.)
Record your audio output configuration
Take a photo of your settings screen for reference
If settings reset after an update, you'll know exactly how to restore them.
Insignia TVs typically lose sound due to mute being enabled, wrong audio output settings, Bluetooth devices connected, or software glitches. The most effective first step is a soft reset: unplug your TV for 60 seconds, hold the power button on the TV (not the remote) for 30 seconds while unplugged, then reconnect. This resolves audio issues in approximately 80% of cases. If sound doesn't return, check your audio output settings to ensure TV Speakers is selected rather than External Speakers.
To reset Insignia TV audio, first try a soft reset by unplugging the TV from the wall for 60 seconds. While unplugged, hold the power button on the TV itself for 30 seconds, then plug it back in. For a complete audio settings reset on Fire TV models, go to Settings → Display & Sounds → Audio and verify TV Speakers is selected and Digital Audio Format is set to PCM. On Roku TV models, navigate to Settings → System → Advanced System Settings → Factory Reset → Reset TV Audio/Picture Settings to restore audio defaults without erasing your apps.
Insignia Fire TV no sound issues are most commonly caused by the audio format setting. Navigate to Settings → Display & Sounds → Audio → Digital Audio Format and select PCM instead of Auto or Dolby. This forces compatible audio output that works with all devices. Also check Settings → Controllers & Bluetooth Devices → Other Bluetooth Devices for any connected audio devices that might be intercepting sound. If problems persist, try the Amazon account de-registration fix: Settings → Account & Profile Settings → Amazon Account → Deregister, then sign back in.
Connect your soundbar to the HDMI port labeled "ARC" on your Insignia TV - using any other HDMI port won't enable audio return functionality. After connecting, enable HDMI-CEC in Settings → Display & Sounds → HDMI-CEC Device Control and turn all options ON, including "Audio Receiver" if that option appears. Set your TV's audio output to External Speakers or Receiver. If HDMI ARC doesn't work after these steps, optical audio is a reliable alternative: connect an optical cable from your TV's optical output to the soundbar, set Digital Audio Format to PCM, and select the optical input on your soundbar.
Intermittent sound on Insignia TVs typically results from loose cable connections, Bluetooth interference, or software bugs. First, check all HDMI and audio cables - unplug and firmly reseat each connection. Remove any Bluetooth audio devices from your TV's paired devices list, as these can reconnect intermittently and capture audio. Perform a software update through Settings → About → Check for Updates. If problems continue after a power cycle (unplug 60 seconds, hold power button 30 seconds), consider a factory reset to clear any corrupted software causing the intermittent behavior.
Fix audio-video sync issues by accessing Settings → Display & Sounds → Audio → AV Sync Tuning on Fire TV models, then adjust the slider until lips match voices. If adjustments don't help, switch Digital Audio Format from Auto or Dolby to PCM - this eliminates processing delays that often cause lip sync problems. For Roku TV, disable Volume Mode (leveling) in Settings → Audio, as audio processing features can introduce delay. When using external speakers or soundbars, check the audio device itself for sync or latency settings, and consider enabling "game mode" if available for lower latency.
Yes, Insignia TVs support external speakers through multiple connection types. HDMI ARC provides the best quality and allows TV remote volume control - connect to the ARC-labeled HDMI port and enable HDMI-CEC. Optical digital audio works reliably when HDMI has issues - connect via the optical port and set Digital Audio Format to PCM. The 3.5mm headphone jack accepts wired speakers or headphones directly. Bluetooth audio is available on smart TV models for wireless speaker connection. After connecting any external audio, go to Settings → Audio → Audio Output and select External Speakers or your connection type to route sound away from internal speakers.
Contact Insignia customer support at 1-877-467-4289 for audio troubleshooting assistance. Support is available for diagnosing issues and arranging warranty service if needed. For in-person service, visit any Best Buy store's Geek Squad counter - Insignia is Best Buy's store brand, and Geek Squad handles all Insignia warranty and repair services. Before calling, gather your TV's model number (found on a sticker on the back of the TV), purchase date, and a description of the troubleshooting steps you've already tried. TVs under the 1-year warranty may qualify for free repair or replacement if the issue is hardware-related.
Most Insignia TV audio problems come down to software glitches, settings mishaps, or connection issues - not hardware failures. The soft reset method (unplug 60 seconds, hold power button 30 seconds) fixes the majority of cases, and switching to PCM audio format resolves most of the remaining Fire TV issues.
When your Insignia TV has no sound, work through solutions in order of likelihood: check mute and volume first, perform a soft reset, verify audio output settings point to TV Speakers, and disconnect any Bluetooth audio devices. For Fire TV models, the PCM setting change is often the magic fix. For Roku TV models, a system restart through the Roku menu frequently restores audio that disappeared for no apparent reason.
External audio equipment adds complexity but follows logical troubleshooting. HDMI ARC requires the correct port (look for the ARC label), enabled HDMI-CEC settings, and proper audio output configuration. When HDMI ARC proves stubborn, optical audio provides a reliable alternative that bypasses many common compatibility issues.
Hardware failures do occur, but they're the minority. The headphone test quickly determines whether you're dealing with speaker failure or broader audio board problems. When hardware is at fault, evaluate repair costs against TV age and replacement prices - older TVs often aren't worth repairing.
Keep this guide bookmarked. Audio issues sometimes recur, especially after software updates, and having a proven troubleshooting reference saves time and frustration. If your specific situation isn't covered here or troubleshooting doesn't resolve the problem, Insignia support at 1-877-467-4289 can provide model-specific guidance and warranty service when needed.
Need help with other Insignia TV issues? Check our comprehensive Insignia TV troubleshooting guide for solutions to power problems, display issues, WiFi connectivity, and more.