Discussions

[MattL2]

hi. This issue has been driving me nuts for literally over a year. I bought a Roku stick 4K for my LG 4K TV. I use an app called Tablo (that connects to a DVR in my house that records over-the-air broadcast television). 

The TCL Roku TV in my bedroom has surround sound but the LG in my living room has a stereo sound bar. The Tablo only has one audio setting for every TV it is connected to. I would like to record in surround for when I watch shows in my bedroom. But in my living room I get the error in quotes above, about the roku unable to play surround sound. It SHOULD be able to combine the five channels into stereo, that’s what happens when I watch a DVD or YouTube video that has 5.1

so I just stupidly bought a Roku express 4K+ thinking the problem was the Roku stick. But I’m getting the same error! What can I do?

[RokuHaz-M · Accepted solution]

Thanks for letting us know! @MattL2

Just a heads-up—surround sound only works with the Roku Streambar, Roku Streambar SE, or some Roku-branded TVs. You'll also need a pair of Roku Wireless Speakers and Roku Wireless Bass Subwoofer to activate the surround sound on these devices. You can visit this link to learn about Roku audio setup configurations. Hope this helps. 

Cheers!

Roku Community Team

[MattL2]

Hi. The TV in my bedroom has a Samsung-brand Surround System, and it works fine. However, it IS a Roku/TCL TV. So are you saying it only works in my bedroom because the TV is a Roku? 

And furthermore, are you saying the living room setup, with an LG TV and a Yamaha soundbar will not process 5.1 sound, even though the streaming device I am using is a Roku Stick?

If so then that is bogus, sounds like a sneaky way to sell more Roku Soundbars. 

[RokuHaz-M · Accepted solution]

Hi @MattL2 

Thanks for the update!

You're absolutely correct! Roku TVs are compatible with third-party surround sound systems, which explains why your Samsung surround sound system is functioning properly. However, the Roku Stick has inherent limitations in its design that prevent it from supporting surround sound capabilities. If you're looking to set up a 5.1 surround sound system, the Roku Streambar is my recommendation, but it's really up to you. Thanks for your understanding! I hope I was helpful.

Best,

Roku Community Team