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How Do I Set Up Audio on My PS4? A Comprehensive Guide

Setting up audio on your PlayStation 4 (PS4) can be straightforward, but with the various options available, it’s helpful to have a clear guide. Essentially, you’ll manage your PS4 audio through the Settings menu, allowing you to choose your preferred output device, adjust the audio format, and even control the volume. Here’s how you can do it:

Navigate to Settings: From the PS4 home screen, scroll to the top menu and select the Settings icon (it looks like a toolbox).
Access Sound and Screen: Within the Settings menu, find and select Sound and Screen.
Open Audio Output Settings: In the Sound and Screen menu, choose Audio Output Settings.
Select Audio Format (Priority): Here, you’ll see the Audio Format (Priority) option. The default setting is usually Linear PCM, which is fine for most setups. However, you can adjust this if you’re using a specific audio system that requires a different format such as Dolby or DTS.
Choose Your Primary Output Port: You will have options for Primary Output Port. Select the port where your audio is going to be output from. Generally this will be HDMI OUT, unless you have an optical audio out connection.
Select Output to Headphones: If you’re using a headset, navigate to Output to Headphones and select whether you want Chat Audio or All Audio to be directed to your headset. Choosing All Audio ensures all game sounds are also routed to your headphones.
Adjust Volume (if needed): While not directly in the audio settings, you can hold the PS button on your controller to bring up the Quick Menu. From there, navigate to Sound/Devices and adjust your volume settings for the headphones or the controller speaker.

By following these steps, you can ensure that your PS4 audio is set up just the way you like it, whether you’re using a soundbar, a headset, or your TV speakers.

Understanding PS4 Audio Options

The PS4 offers several options for audio output, catering to various setups and preferences. Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know:

Audio Output Settings

The core of your audio adjustments is in the Audio Output Settings menu. Here, you can set the primary output port, choose the audio format, and adjust output to headphones. Understanding each of these settings is essential for optimal audio performance.

Primary Output Port: This setting determines where the primary audio signal is sent. Usually, the primary output is HDMI which sends both audio and video to your TV. Other options may be Optical Out if you use an optical cable.
Audio Format (Priority): This determines the digital audio format used. Linear PCM is the standard, but Dolby Digital and DTS are available if your audio system supports them. Linear PCM is uncompressed audio and will work with all modern TVs and audio systems. For older sound systems you might want to experiment with Dolby Digital or DTS.
Output to Headphones: This option lets you route either Chat Audio (for voice chat) or All Audio (game sounds and chat) to your headset. This is especially helpful when you want to be fully immersed in the game and not disturb others.
HDCP: Also found in the settings is Enable HDCP. This allows higher resolution audio to be played.

Controller Audio Options

The PS4 controller features a built-in speaker and a 3.5mm headphone jack, both of which offer unique audio experiences.

Controller Speaker: Some games and applications use the controller’s built-in speaker for special effects, adding an extra layer of immersion. You can adjust the volume of the controller speaker via the Quick Menu.
Headphone Jack: The 3.5mm port on the controller lets you plug in any standard wired headphones. This is ideal for private gaming and chatting with friends.

Troubleshooting Common PS4 Audio Issues

Sometimes, things don’t work as smoothly as planned. If you’re experiencing audio problems on your PS4, here are a few common issues and how to resolve them:

No Sound Output

Check Cables and Ports: Ensure your HDMI or other audio cables are properly connected to both your PS4 and TV or audio system. Try a different HDMI cable and HDMI port if you continue to have issues.
Test Another Device: If possible try plugging in another device like a blu-ray player to the same HDMI cable and port, If it works, it narrows down the issue being with your PS4.
Audio Settings: Make sure the correct output settings are selected in the Audio Output Settings menu. Ensure that the volume isn’t muted.
Restart Your PS4: Sometimes a simple restart is all that’s needed to fix minor glitches.
Direct Connection: Try connecting your PS4 directly to your TV’s HDMI port, bypassing other audio/video devices to see if that resolves the problem.

Headphone Not Working

Check the Connection: Make sure your headphones are securely plugged into the 3.5mm jack on the controller or the USB port.
Audio Device Settings: Go to Settings > Devices > Audio Devices > Headset and Headphones. Ensure your headset is recognized and not muted. If the volume bar is grayed out, your PS4 is not recognizing your headset.
Controller Connection: Try the headphones on another device to rule out a headphone problem.
Adapter Check: Make sure a USB headset adapter is fully connected into the PS4 if using one. It may require the use of force.

Bluetooth Audio Issues

PS4 Limitations: PS4 doesn’t offer native support for Bluetooth audio. It is designed to reduce audio lag during games. This means that you can’t connect Bluetooth headphones directly to the console.
Bluetooth Adapter: To use Bluetooth headphones, you will need a third-party USB Bluetooth adapter that is compatible with PS4, make sure the adapter is correctly installed and recognized by the system.
Audio Settings: Once the adapter is connected, go to Settings > Devices > Audio Devices to confirm that your headphones are connected and that the audio is outputting correctly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are 15 frequently asked questions to provide additional clarity and support for setting up audio on your PS4:

How do I get to audio settings on PS4?
You can access the audio settings by going to Settings > Sound and Screen > Audio Output Settings.
Why is my PS4 audio not working?
Check your cables, ports, audio settings, and try restarting your PS4. Make sure all connections are tight and correct.
Can you play audio on PS4?
Yes, your PS4 can play music files from a USB device and audio from games, applications, and voice chat.
Does the PS4 controller have a built-in speaker?
Yes, the PS4 DualShock controller has a built-in speaker for additional game sound effects.
What are the Chat Audio & Game Audio headset options on PS4?
You can choose to have just Chat Audio sent to your headset, or All Audio, which includes game sounds. This can be selected under Output to Headphones.
Does my PS4 controller have a speaker?
Yes, the controller has a built in speaker that can be adjusted in the Quick Menu under Sound/Devices.
How do I connect my Bluetooth speaker to my PS4?
You cannot connect a Bluetooth speaker directly. You can connect using a 3.5mm audio cable from the speaker to your PS4 controller. Alternatively you can connect a compatible Bluetooth USB adapter.
Why is my PS4 not outputting to headphones?
Ensure your headset is properly connected, is being recognised and that it has not been muted. Also, check the Output to Headphones settings.
How do I fix audio not playing?
Try checking all your hardware, cables, and audio settings. Restart your console and if necessary, reset your audio settings.
How do I unmute my PS4?
You can unmute by highlighting your username and pressing the OPTIONS button. In-game chat can be enabled and disabled via Party Settings > Chat Audio.
Why is there no sound coming from my TV?
Check the volume on your TV and PS4, and ensure that both have the correct inputs and settings selected. Also, check your cable connections.
Does PS4 allow Bluetooth audio?
PS4 has limited support for Bluetooth Audio, typically only for controllers. For headphone audio, a USB Bluetooth adapter is needed.
Can you use AirPods on PS4?
You can use AirPods on the PS4 via a third-party Bluetooth adapter connected via USB. Be aware that there may be some issues related to chat audio due to audio lag.
Does PS4 support USB audio?
Yes, you can use USB headsets. Make sure to select the correct audio output settings and ensure the device is recognized in Audio Devices
How do I hear games through my headset on PS4?
In the Quick Menu, navigate to Sound/Devices > Output to Headphones and select All Audio.

By following this guide, you should be well-equipped to set up and manage your audio on the PS4. Enjoy your gaming experience with great sound!

How do I set up audio on my PS4?