How to Control Soundbar with Roku Remote: Step By Step Guide

Soundbars have become a popular choice for many TV owners due to their superior sound quality and sleek design. However, juggling between different remote controls can be a hassle. Fortunately, many soundbars can now be controlled with your Roku remote, making it easier to switch between devices.

In this step-by-step guide, we will show you how to control your soundbar with your Roku remote.

What do ARC and HDMI-CEC stand for?

Before we dive into the steps, it’s important to understand two key terms that will be used throughout this guide: ARC and HDMI-CEC.

• ARC stands for Audio Return Channel. It is a feature found on most modern TVs and soundbars that allows audio to be sent back from the TV to the soundbar. This eliminates the need for an extra cable between the two devices.

• HDMI-CEC stands for High Definition Multimedia Interface – Consumer Electronics Control. It is a communication protocol that allows multiple HDMI-connected devices to be controlled with just one remote.

Related: Roku Alternatives For TV Streaming Devices 

Determine Your Setup:

The first step in controlling your soundbar soundbar using your Roku TV remote is to determine your setup. This will help you identify which method will work best for you.

• Roku TV: If you have a Roku TV (a TV with Roku built-in), you’ll likely be able to control your soundbar directly using HDMI-CEC.
• Roku Streaming Device: If you have a separate Roku streaming device (like a Roku streaming stick or Roku Box), you’ll need to explore alternative methods. This is because media devices do not have HDMI inputs that support ARC.

Benefits of Controlling Soundbar using Roku Remote

What is the benefit of using the Roku remote to manage your soundbar? Well, let me tell you. The Roku remote is currently the most advanced remote out there, packed with cutting-edge features that your ordinary soundbar remote can’t match.

One of the standout features is the voice control. Just imagine, you can control your soundbar simply by speaking to the remote, without even lifting a finger. Pretty amazing, right?

But that’s not all. When you have to juggle between two remotes to control your TV and soundbar, it can be a real hassle and waste of time. By connecting your soundbar to the Roku remote, you can enhance your viewing experience with convenience and enjoyment. Why settle for less when you can have the best? Upgrade to the Roku remote and stylishly control your soundbar.

Controlling the Soundbar with ROKU TV OS

Manufacturers such as TCL and Hisense offer built-in Roku TVs, providing an all-in-one solution for streaming and TV viewing. If you have one of these TVs, follow these simple steps to control your soundbar with the Roku remote:

• To get started, make sure all your devices are powered on. Then, establish a connection between your Roku TV and soundbar using an HDMI ARC connection.
• To access the “Menu“, please use the TV remote.
• Next, navigate to the “Settings” option and go to “Audio Settings“.
• Go to “Audio Output” and choose “ARC” from the available options.
• Navigate to the “System Settings” option.
• Choose the “CEC Devices” option.
• Once you’ve made your selection from the list, you’re all set with your chosen soundbar. You should now be able to control your soundbar with the Roku remote.

Controlling Soundbar with a Roku Streaming Device

Controlling the soundbar with the ROKU TV streaming stick requires a slightly different process. You’ll need to navigate through the ROKU TV’s menu and select the appropriate audio settings, in addition to adjusting the TV’s native settings. Here’s how to do it:

• To access the menu on your TV, navigate to the “Menu” option.
• From there, proceed to the “Settings” section.
• Finally, open the “Audio Settings” to make adjustments.
• Select “System Audio” as the preferred output source.
• In some TVs, you may need to enable “CEC” in the system settings.

Optimize the Audio Options with Roku TV Remote.

Once you have set up your soundbar with your Roku TV, you can optimize your audio experience by adjusting various features. Simply press the star (*) button on your remote, navigate to the “Sound Settings” option, and explore the following enhancements:

• Virtual Surround for Dolby Atmos: Enhance your audio by enabling virtual surround sound, which creates an immersive experience without the need for back TV speakers.
• On For All Sound Formats: Enjoy the benefits of virtual surround sound for all sound formats, ensuring a consistent and captivating audio experience across different content.

Additionally, to enhance the clarity of dialogues, you can activate the Dialog Enhancer feature. Regardless of the type of soundbar you use, this option will significantly improve the speech quality, making dialogues more intelligible and crisp.

Experience the full potential of your Roku TV and soundbar combination by customizing these settings to suit your preferences and elevate your audio enjoyment.

Control Bose Soundbar With Roku TV Remote on Roku OS

Now, let’s take a look at how to set up and control a Bose soundbar with your Roku TV remote on the latest Roku OS 9.4.

• Start by connecting your Bose soundbar to your TV using an HDMI ARC cable.
• To control the Bose soundbar with your Roku TV, simply navigate to the “Settings” option.
• Navigate to the “Audio” settings and locate the “Audio Source settings” option.
• Select the “HDMI ARC” option as the preferred input.

To proceed, follow these steps:

• Open the “Settings” in the second step.
• Navigate to the “System” settings.
• Access the CEC feature from the  “CEC Devices” option.
• From the list of available devices, select your soundbar.

Once completed, you’re all set! You can now use your Roku remote to control your Bose soundbar effortlessly, including adjusting the volume, switching inputs, and more.

Control Samsung Soundbar With Roku TV Remote on Roku OS

Controlling your Samsung soundbar with a Roku TV  on Roku OS primarily relies on a feature called HDMI-CEC (Consumer Electronics Control). Here’s a step-by-step guide with visuals to help you set it up:

Connection Type you have:

• HDMI-ARC: This is the preferred method for two-way communication and control. Connect your soundbar’s HDMI-ARC port to the TV’s HDMI-ARC port using an HDMI cable.
• Optical Cable: If your TV or soundbar lacks HDMI-ARC, use an optical cable. But this only transmits audio, and you’ll need separate controls for the soundbar’s power and volume.

Now move onto the steps to control the Samsung soundbar using the Roku remote on Roku OS.

Here’s how:

• On your Roku remote, press the Home button to open the main screen
• Start by navigating to the “Menu” option on your Roku TV.
• Once there, proceed to access the “Settings” menu.
• From there, locate and select the “Audio” settings.
• Next, choose the “Audio Source Settings” option.
• Finally, set the input source to “HDMI ARC”.

Once you’ve completed these steps, it’s time to move on to the next set of instructions. To do this, navigate to the “System Settings” menu.

• Within the “System Settings” menu, locate the “CEC” settings.
• Scan for available devices, select your desired device, and you’re good to go!

Conclusion

As you can see, controlling your soundbar with Roku Television is simple and hassle-free. Whether you have a built-in Roku TV or are using a Roku streaming device, you can easily set up and control your soundbar for the ultimate audio experience. With various customization options available, you can tailor your audio settings to suit your preferences and enjoy high-quality sound every time you watch your favorite shows and movies.

F.A.Q

Where is the HDMI ARC port on a Roku TV?

The HDMI ARC port can typically be found on the back or side of your Roku TV. It is usually labeled as “HDMI-ARC” or “Audio Return Channel”. If you are having trouble locating it, refer to your TV’s manual or consult a technician for assistance. 

Is it possible for me to use my Roku remote to operate any soundbar?

No, not all soundbars are compatible with Roku remotes. To control a soundbar with a Roku remote, the soundbar must have HDMI-CEC (Consumer Electronics Control) capabilities.

Can a Roku control a Polk soundbar?

Yes, Polk soundbars are compatible with Roku remotes as long as they have HDMI-CEC capabilities. Follow the same steps outlined in this guide to set up and control your Polk soundbar with a Roku remote.

Is Roku TV compatible with a soundbar?

Yes, Roku TVs are compatible with soundbars. You can easily connect and control your soundbar using an HDMI-ARC or optical cable, depending on your TV and soundbar’s capabilities. So, you can enjoy high-quality audio without the need for multiple remotes.

Which Roku remote has a volume control?

Most Roku remotes have volume control capabilities, including the basic remote, voice remote, and enhanced voice remote. However, for certain soundbars, you may need to use a universal remote or your TV’s remote to control the volume.