Engadget guide: How to fix distorted audio on PlayStation 5

According to the guide, the first step is to restart every device in the chain. Users should turn off the TV, speaker system and console completely, not just put them in sleep mode, then turn them back on to clear temporary glitches. If the issue persists, the guide says to narrow the source by connecting a spare pair of headphones and testing another game or app. If smart TV native apps sound fine, the TV speakers are less likely to be the cause. A spare HDMI device, such as a laptop, Roku or Apple TV, can be tested with the same cable and HDMI port as the PS5 to see whether the issue follows the console.

Engadget also advises checking the connection chain. Users should try another HDMI port and another HDMI cable, and do the same for other connections, especially with an external speaker system. The guide notes that a bad HDMI cable can cause audio problems and that replacing it can immediately fix them. Complex setups involving a receiver, HDMI switch or capture card create more failure points. To rule out other devices, the guide suggests temporarily connecting the PS5 directly to the TV and using the television speakers. That simplified setup can help identify whether an extra device or cable is responsible, though each item may need to be tested one by one.

On the console, the guide points to Settings > Sound > 3D Audio (TV), where users can compare standard stereo sound with 3D audio. If they prefer 3D audio, the guide says to follow on-screen instructions and use the controller's microphone to measure the room's acoustics from the normal playing position. The process must be repeated after moving the console to a new room or changing where the player sits.

To match the audio format to the equipment, the guide directs users to Settings > Sound > Audio Output. They should check Output Device, set the HDMI Device Type to match their setup, and select AV Amplifier if one is in use. The Number of Channels setting should match the speaker configuration, such as 5.1 or 7.1 surround. For Audio Format (Priority), the guide recommends starting with Linear PCM. It says this is usually best for a TV's internal speakers and that the PS5 can output uncompressed Linear PCM up to 7.1 channels with compatible equipment, preserving audio detail.

If a TV passes the PS5's audio to a soundbar or AV system, the guide says there is more to consider. Standard HDMI ARC carries stereo PCM, while eARC supports multichannel PCM with the right equipment. Users need to connect the TV to the sound system through the correct HDMI port, check the TV manual to identify eARC ports, use one if available, and confirm that eARC is enabled on the TV. Otherwise, standard HDMI ARC will limit Linear PCM to stereo. Surround sound requires a supported compressed format such as Dolby Audio. The guide also recommends double-checking TV or sound system settings, especially any virtual surround effects, because a TV may have its own audio format settings for each HDMI connection that sound poor when paired with the wrong PS5 format.

Engadget stresses making only one change at a time. After each adjustment, users should save the setting and repeat the steps that produced the distorted audio. When the problem disappears or improves, they will know which setting caused it.

Editor's Summary

Engadget's guide outlines a methodical troubleshooting process for distorted PS5 audio, starting with full device restarts and source isolation before moving to cables, 3D audio and output format settings. It emphasizes simplifying complex setups, matching PS5 audio output to the receiving equipment, and changing one setting at a time. The guidance is aimed at helping players avoid unnecessary hardware replacements and restore accurate game audio.