Mac HDMI to TV No Sound? Fixes That Work

If your Mac is connected to a TV via HDMI but there’s no sound, the fix is almost always a simple setting change or a cable/port issue. This article walks you through the most common causes and step-by-step solutions, from checking the correct audio output device to resetting the Mac’s core audio services.

Why HDMI Audio Fails on a Mac

HDMI carries both video and audio signals over a single cable. When you connect a Mac to a TV, the Mac should automatically switch its audio output to the TV. However, this doesn’t always happen because of how macOS handles audio outputs, the TV’s input settings, or the cable itself. The most frequent culprits are:

• Wrong audio output selected – macOS may still be sending sound to the Mac’s internal speakers or a Bluetooth device.
• TV input not set to the HDMI port – some TVs mute audio on other inputs.
• Faulty or non-HDMI cable – some cables are video-only or damaged.
• HDMI port issues – on the Mac, the TV, or both.
• macOS audio service glitch – a temporary software hiccup that can be reset.

Quick Fix: Check the Sound Output Setting

The most common reason for no sound is that your Mac isn’t sending audio to the TV. Here’s how to check and change it:

1. Click the Apple menu and select System Settings (on macOS Ventura or later) or System Preferences (on older versions).
2. Click Sound, then select the Output tab.
3. Look for your TV in the list – it may appear as the TV’s brand name or as “HDMI.� Select it.
4. If you don’t see it, try unplugging and re-plugging the HDMI cable, then check again.

If the TV doesn’t appear in the list, the Mac isn’t detecting it as an audio device. That points to a cable or port problem, or the TV’s HDMI port may not support audio return (rare, but possible on very old TVs).

Check the TV’s Input and Audio Settings

Even if your Mac is sending audio, the TV might not be playing it. Most TVs have separate audio settings for each input. Look for:

• Input source – make sure the TV is set to the correct HDMI input you plugged the Mac into (e.g., HDMI 1, HDMI 2).
• Speaker output – ensure the TV’s speakers are not set to “External� or “Audio System� if you’re not using a soundbar or receiver.
• HDMI Audio Format – some TVs have an option like “Bitstream� or “PCM.� Try switching to PCM, as macOS typically outputs PCM audio.

Test the Cable and Ports

HDMI cables can fail or be of poor quality. A cable that works for video may not carry audio if a pin is bent or broken. Try these steps:

1. Unplug the HDMI cable from both ends and re-seat it firmly.
2. Try a different HDMI cable – ideally one that is “High Speed� or “Ultra High Speed� certified.
3. Plug the Mac into a different HDMI port on the TV.
4. If you’re using an adapter (e.g., USB-C to HDMI), try a different adapter or a direct HDMI connection if your Mac has one.

Reset the Mac’s Core Audio Service

If the settings look right but sound still doesn’t come through, the audio service on your Mac may be stuck. You can restart it without rebooting the whole computer:

1. Open Activity Monitor (found in Applications > Utilities).
2. Search for coreaudiod in the search box.
3. Select it and click the X button to quit the process. It will restart automatically.
4. Wait a few seconds, then check if sound works.

This is a safe process that only restarts the audio system – no data is lost.

Other Things to Try

If the above steps don’t work, consider these additional fixes:

• Restart your Mac – a full restart often clears temporary glitches.
• Update macOS – check for system updates in System Settings > General > Software Update. Audio bugs are sometimes fixed in updates.
• Reset NVRAM (Intel Macs only) – shut down, then turn on and immediately press and hold Option+Command+P+R for about 20 seconds. This resets some hardware settings.
• Check the volume level – the Mac’s volume might be muted or set to zero. Press the volume up key on the keyboard or use the menu bar volume slider.
• Try a different app – some apps have their own audio output settings. For example, in QuickTime Player, you can choose the audio output in the Window menu.

When the TV Still Shows No Sound

If you’ve tried everything and the TV still shows no sound, the issue might be with the TV’s HDMI port or the Mac’s video output. Test with another device (like a Blu-ray player or game console) to see if the TV’s HDMI port works at all. If the port works with another device but not your Mac, the Mac’s HDMI output may be faulty. In that case, contact Apple Support or an authorized service provider.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my Mac show video but no sound on the TV?

This usually means the Mac is sending video but the audio output is still set to the Mac’s internal speakers. Go to System Settings > Sound > Output and select the TV. If the TV isn’t listed, the cable or adapter may not support audio, or the TV’s HDMI port might be set to a mode that ignores audio.

Can I use a USB-C to HDMI adapter for audio?

Yes, most USB-C to HDMI adapters carry both video and audio. However, some very cheap adapters may only support video. Look for one that explicitly states audio support. Also, make sure the adapter is plugged into a port that supports DisplayPort Alt Mode (most Macs do).

Why is the TV listed as an audio device but still no sound?

If the TV appears in the sound output list but no sound comes out, check the TV’s own volume and mute settings. Also, try changing the TV’s audio format from “Bitstream� to “PCM� in the TV’s settings menu. Some TVs have a “HDMI ARC� setting that can interfere – try turning it off if you’re not using ARC.

Does the HDMI cable version matter for audio?

All HDMI versions support audio, but the cable must have the correct pins. A damaged or very low-quality cable may not carry audio reliably. If you’re using a long cable (over 10 meters), signal degradation can cause issues. Try a shorter, certified cable.

My Mac doesn’t have an HDMI port – what should I use?

Most modern Macs use USB-C/Thunderbolt ports. You’ll need a USB-C to HDMI adapter or a USB-C to HDMI cable. Make sure the adapter supports audio – most do. If you’re using a docking station, try plugging the HDMI cable directly into the Mac via an adapter instead of through the dock.

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