Fixing LG TV Sound Problems: No Audio, Distortion and Intermittent Sound

Sound issues on an LG TV can range from complete silence to crackling, buzzing, or audio that cuts in and out unpredictably. Because audio problems can stem from settings, external devices, or internal hardware, working through them systematically saves you from replacing parts that were never faulty.

No Sound at All

Start by checking the volume level and mute status directly on the TV, not just the remote, since a stuck mute button on the remote can sometimes send the wrong signal. Next, check the audio output settings in the menu; if the TV is set to output sound to an external speaker or soundbar that isn't actually connected, you'll get no sound through either device. Test a different HDMI input and a different content source, such as switching from a streaming app to a cable box, to see if the silence is isolated to one source or affects everything.

Distorted, Crackling, or Buzzing Sound

Audio that sounds distorted or crackly across every input and volume level usually points to a fault in the TV's internal speakers rather than a setting or source issue. Try adjusting the equalizer settings to a flat or default profile first, since some sound modes can introduce artificial distortion at high volumes. If the crackling only happens at specific volume levels or on certain frequencies, like heavy bass scenes, it often indicates a speaker cone that has become loose or partially damaged.

Intermittent Sound That Cuts In and Out

Sound that randomly drops and returns, especially if it correlates with picture glitches at the same time, often points to a loose internal connection rather than the speaker itself. This can happen after a TV has been moved, knocked, or if a cable inside has worked loose over time. If the intermittent sound only occurs over HDMI while other inputs work fine, the issue is likely related to the HDMI port or handshake protocol rather than the audio system generally.

Sound Delay or Sync Issues

Audio that's slightly out of sync with the picture is usually a settings or source problem rather than a hardware fault. Check if an external soundbar or speaker system is causing the delay by testing the TV's built-in speakers instead. If the built-in speakers are perfectly synced but an external system isn't, the issue lies with the audio delay settings on that external device.

When External Devices Are the Real Cause

Before concluding the TV itself is faulty, disconnect any soundbars, home theater systems, or Bluetooth audio devices and test the TV's built-in speakers on their own. A large number of reported "TV sound problems" actually trace back to a paired Bluetooth speaker, a soundbar with its own fault, or an HDMI ARC cable that isn't fully compatible with the TV's audio return channel.

Software Related Audio Bugs

Occasionally, a firmware update introduces an audio bug that affects specific apps or sound modes. If the problem appeared right after an update and is app-specific, such as only affecting one streaming service, check for a further update that may address the bug before assuming it's a hardware fault.

When to Call a Technician

Persistent internal speaker distortion, audio that cuts out only after the TV has been running for a while, and combined audio-and-picture faults are signs of an internal hardware issue that goes beyond settings adjustments. A technician can test the speaker components directly and check the sound processing chip on the main board to confirm exactly where the fault lies before recommending a repair.