Streambar usable without HDMI-ARC or optical ports?
Hi, I just bought a Streambar(my first Roku device) and the instructions say I need an HDMI-ARC port or optical port on my TV. My TV is a few years old(2014 Funai/Manavox 50ME314V) and it has three regular HDMI but no ARC and no optical port.
Can I still use this Roku or do I need a different device and a regular sound bar? BTW I am admittedly technologically ignorant so talk to me like I'm 5(maybe 3). 🙂 Thanks in advance.
SteveInPA- I don't have a Streambar, but this is my understanding (which could well be wrong):
An HDMI-ARC and/or Optical connection from the TV to the Streambar is needed in order to deliver audio FROM THE TV to the Streambar. Lacking either of these two connections, you'll only hear audio from the Roku function via the Streambar's speakers. Other functions on the TV will just play through the TV's own speakers.
SteveInPA wrote:Thanks so much! So if I understand correctly, everything I get through the Roku will have audio through the Streambar. The Roku will be the sole source of programs for this TV, so I'm good to go right? FYI the TV is specific to our toddler's playroom, so a few specific "channels" for kids is all we plan to have on it.
If eventually we add a game console I realize it will only output through the TV speakers, right?
Thanks again.
All the Roku-based apps' audio will be through the streambar itself, so you're good to go.
Yes - anything connected to/through the TV's input ports will only come through the TV's speakers, unless and until either ARC is enabled (new TV?) or an Optical cable is connected (new TV?).
