This easy-to-follow guide will explain How To Fix Kodi Sound Error. We’ll walk through a few simple steps to get your sound back.
Sound issues are a common frustration for Kodi users. They can pop up unexpectedly, which is super annoying when you’re trying to enjoy your content.
There are a few reasons why this problem might occur. I recommend resetting Kodi to create a clean slate before trying the fixes below. This can help ensure Kodi is running at its best without any hiccups.
How To Fix Kodi No Sound Error
Restart Kodi
If you’re having sound problems, try force restarting Kodi. This simple fix can often restore your sound by refreshing the configurations in your OS. It also helps by clearing any existing connections.
Here’s how you can force stop the Kodi app to get things working again:
On Firestick and Fire TV
Step 1
Begin by navigating to the home screen and clicking Settings.
Step 2
From there, proceed by clicking Applications.
Step 3
Next, select Manage Installed Applications.
Step 4
Locate and click Kodi from the list of applications.
Step 5
Finally, click Force stop to restart the application.
Step 6
Relaunch Kodi and play any media file. This helps to determine if the audio is functioning correctly.
Exit command
Here’s another approach you can take
Step 1
Begin by clicking the Power button.
Step 2
Proceed by selecting the Exit option. This action will close Kodi and return you to your device’s operating system. It’s a quick way to shut down the application.
Check the volume on Kodi
Sometimes the issue is as basic as the volume settings. It’s possible the volume hasn’t been enabled correctly or needs adjustment.
Step 1
Start by going to the home screen and clicking on Movies.
Step 2
Locate the folder containing your videos and select it. It’s usually where you store your media content.
Step 3
Go ahead and play the video. If you’re not hearing any sound, don’t worry! Just take a look at the lower right corner. You’ll see a Settings icon. Give it a click.
Step 4
Once you’ve clicked on Settings, you’ll want to find Audio settings. Click on that to proceed.
Step 5
Now it’s time to adjust the volume. See that toggle button on the Volume setting? Drag it to the right and you’ll hear the difference.
Step 6
Lastly, just hit the Close button and you’re all set.
Step 7
To see if the sound is working, try playing the video again.
Enable Passthrough
Kodi first decodes the audio stream. It then sends the audio to the channels and speakers. Consider enabling passthrough on Kodi. That way, the audio is sent to the device in its raw format without being decoded.
This lets your TV use its speakers to play the audio directly from the source. For example, HD audio is transmitted digitally and can be played “as is.”
Step 1
On the home screen, simply click on Movies.
Step 2
Choose the folder where your videos are stored.
Step 3
Start playing the video. If you don’t hear any sound, click the Settings icon. It’s in the bottom right corner.
Step 4
Go to Settings, then select Audio settings.
Step 5
Toggle the Allow passthrough button. Move it to the right to enable it.
NOTE: Kodi recommends enabling passthrough for the best viewing and listening experience. Consider enabling it on your TV (AC3), AVR SPDIF (AC3/DTS), and on AVR HDMI (with or without HD audio).
Step 6
Click the Close button to exit.
Step 7
Play the video again. Make sure the sound is working correctly.
Configure Kodi audio settings
You can configure settings in Kodi’s Audio section if you’re experiencing a No Sound error. Here’s how to access the Audio section.
Step 1
Go to the Kodi home screen. Click the Settings icon.
Step 2
Click System to proceed.
Step 3
Click Audio to access the audio settings.
Here you’ll see Kodi’s basic audio settings.
Audio output device
– lets you pick which audio output to use. It also determines if you can configure some of the other settings below.
Number of channels
– lets you set the number of channels that are supported. This applies to digital audio connections or the number of speakers for analog connections.
Output configuration
– lets you configure how the audio output works. You can set it as:
- Fixed – sets the speaker settings and audio output sampling rate permanently.
- Best Match – sets the audio output based on the source properties’ closest match. It’s highly recommended for all equipment.
- Optimised – sets the audio output when playback starts. It stays the same even if the source properties change.
Volume control steps
– lets you adjust how many button presses it takes to go from mute to full volume.
Maintain original volume on downmix
– lets you balance surround channels by downmixing audio. If your Kodi’s sound is too low or there’s no sound, enable this setting. It’ll restore the original audio source’s volume. Keep in mind, this might affect the dynamic range (the difference between the quietest and loudest volume).
Resample quality
– lets you resample audio at different rates (low, medium, and high). Resampling changes the sample rate (how fast samples are taken) in an audio file, which is useful if you want to modify it from the original source.
Keep audio device alive
– lets you set how long audio devices wait, sleep, or stay suspended when there’s no sound needed.
NOTE: Kodi suggests setting the time to just 1 minute.
Send low volume noise
– This setting keeps audio devices awake by sending a quiet, inaudible noise signal. You can disable it when using headphones or analog audio output devices.
The GUI Sounds section controls the feedback and confirmation audio you hear when using the Kodi interface. These are the settings you’ll find:
Play GUI sounds
– lets you configure when sounds play: always, never, or only when playback is stopped (which is the default).
GUI sounds
– lets you choose a sound theme.
Check hardware for any issues
The Kodi No Sound error is often blamed on the system. But, sometimes the hardware you’re using might be faulty. Here are some tips to ensure your hardware is problem-free.
Audio Cables
Check your audio cables for any problems like frayed ends or wires tangled together. If there’s no sound, try swapping in a different cable or fix the damaged one by soldering.
You might also be using the wrong cable or have it plugged into the wrong spot. If that’s the case, your device’s manual can help you out.
Also, make sure your audio cable is away from things that create electromagnetic radiation, like computer monitors and power supplies, to prevent noise interference. If space is tight, you can cross cables at 90-degree angles or arrange them in parallel to reduce buzz.
Connecting ports
Connecting ports can get dusty and dirty, causing static, choppy audio, or even no sound at all. Use an air can to blow out any dust or lint. Then, use a cotton swab to clean out any remaining debris.
Bluetooth audio connection
When Bluetooth devices interfere with signals from other technologies, it weakens their ability to communicate. Keep Bluetooth devices away from things that can disrupt them, like microwave ovens, external monitors, and even fluorescent lights. Brick walls and metal desks can also block signals.
If you’re still having trouble, turn off all other Bluetooth connections except the one for Kodi. This helps pinpoint the issue more effectively.
Manage Sound Settings
You can adjust both Kodi’s and your device’s sound settings to ensure everything’s working correctly.
On Windows/PC
Step 1
Press the F8 key on your keyboard.
Step 2
Use the “+” or “–“ keys to adjust the volume up or down.
On the device (Windows sound option)
Step 1
Open Settings.
Step 2
Click System.
Step 3
Start playing a video. If there’s no sound, click the Settings icon in the lower right corner, then click Sound.
Step 4
From the Choose your output device drop-down, go ahead and select the correct device.
Step 5
Locate the Device properties section. Then, adjust the volume as needed.
Step 6
To ensure the sound is now functioning correctly, try playing your video again.
On the device (Mac sound option)
Step 1
Start by clicking the Apple icon. Next, navigate to System Preferences….
Alternatively, you can click the Volume icon. From there, select Sound Preferences…. After that, you can skip ahead to Step 3.
Step 2
Click on Sound.
Step 3
Take a moment to adjust your sound settings as needed.
Step 4
Replay the video to determine if the sound issue is resolved.
Switch audio channel
Each device has its own speaker configurations. The 5.1 channel layout is very common. You’ll find it in streaming services, broadcast TV, DVD players, and home theater systems. This layout uses four speakers and a subwoofer to provide a great surround sound experience.
Sometimes, Kodi might only output sound through this 5.1 channel. If you need to switch to this channel, you can follow these instructions.
Step 1
Start by going to the Kodi home screen. Then, click on the Settings icon.
Step 2
Next, click on System.
Step 3
From there, click Audio.
Step 4
Click on Number of channels.
Step 5
Finally, select the desired channel.
NOTE: Ensure you’ve enabled audio passthrough for optimal functionality.
Step 6
Relaunch Kodi. Then, play a file to see if the sound is now working correctly.
Check and update the add-on
The add-on you’re using is super important when you stream with Kodi. If you notice audio issues, it’s a good idea to check if the add-on is the culprit.
TROYPOINT maintains a handy list of the Best Kodi Add-Ons. This list is updated every single day! You can be sure they’re all working and ready for you to install.
It’s also smart to keep your add-on updated to benefit from any bug fixes. This is easy to do. Just follow these steps:
Step 1
Go to the Kodi home screen and click the Settings icon.
Step 2
Click on Add-ons.
Step 3
Click the specific add-on you want to check.
Step 4
Click the Update icon to initiate the update.
Step 5
From there, you can simply select the desired version for installation.
Step 6
Simply give the update a moment to finish.
Explore Different Sources
When troubleshooting Kodi’s no sound error, it’s wise to experiment with various sources. If your chosen source isn’t producing audio, try a few alternatives. This helps ensure the issue isn’t with the streaming link itself.
Begin by testing the audio with other software or applications. There are instances where audio might not function with one app but works fine with others. If the audio functions correctly elsewhere, you can move on to the next troubleshooting step.
Keep Kodi Updated
Most Kodi add-ons are designed for the latest Kodi version. If you haven’t updated Kodi, you’re more likely to experience sound-related problems. Kodi 18.2 Leia, the newest version, is considered stable. You can explore further details about this update through the provided link.
I’ve also compiled step-by-step update guides for different devices. Select the link that matches yours:
How to Update Kodi on Firestick, Fire TV & Fire TV Cube
Update Kodi on Android TV Box
How to Update Kodi on Windows
Reinstall or Reset Kodi
If Kodi is acting up, you might want to try reinstalling or resetting it, just like you would with other software. This can sometimes resolve bugs present in the previous installation.
I’ve also put together some helpful guides on resetting Kodi:
How to Reset Kodi on Fire TV
Reset Kodi on Android TV Box
How to Reset/Restore Kodi on Windows
Update Your Audio Driver
Sound problems can sometimes stem from outdated audio drivers. Regular driver updates help ensure proper sound delivery to your audio devices. Here’s how you can update them:
For Windows Users
Step 1
Start by clicking the Start button. then type “Device Manager”.
Step 2
Locate Sound, video and game controllers. Click the arrow next to it to expand the section.
Step 3
Find High Definition Audio Device. Right-click on it and choose Properties.
Step 4
To proceed, choose the Driver tab. Then, simply click on the Update Driver button.
Step 5
Your system will then start searching online for the necessary software updates.
Step 6
Next, you’ll be prompted to choose how you’d like to search for drivers. Select the option to Browse my computer for driver software.
Step 7
From the options presented, choose Let me pick from a list of device drivers on my computer.
Step 8
Finally, click on the hardware model that’s compatible with your system.
Step 9
To proceed, simply click Next.
Step 10
Initiate the driver update by clicking Yes. The update process will then commence.
Step 11
After the update finishes, give your computer a restart. Then, take a moment to check if your audio is working properly.
For Mac
Step 1
Begin by clicking the Apple icon.
Step 2
From the options, proceed to select App Store…..
Step 3
You can either click the UPDATE ALL button to update everything at once. Or, you can individually select which updates you’d like to install.
Step 4
Keep in mind that certain updates might necessitate restarting your device. This ensures the changes take effect properly.
Configure Audio Settings of Your Device
Sometimes, the “No Sound” issue can stem from your device’s audio settings. It’s worth checking if the sound icon is accidentally set to mute. This simple oversight can easily be the culprit.
If you’re using Windows, a quick click on the sound icon is all it takes to unmute it. It’s a straightforward fix that often resolves the problem.
For Mac users, adjusting the sound is just as easy. Simply toggle the Volume button to the right to increase the sound level as needed.
If, after these steps, the No Sound error is still giving you trouble, there are a few more things you can try to get your audio back on track. These additional steps might help pinpoint the issue and get your sound working again.
Step 1
Locate the volume icon in the bottom right corner of your screen. Right-click on this icon to open up a menu of sound options.
Step 2
To proceed, click on Playback devices.
Step 3
From the available options, select the audio device you intend to use.
Step 4
Click the Set Default button to make it your primary audio output.
NOTE: A green check mark beside your device indicates that it’s properly selected.
Step 5
To confirm your selection, click Apply, and then OK.
Step 6
To ensure the sound issue is resolved, try playing a movie within Kodi. This will allow you to verify if the audio is functioning correctly.
Try other audio formats
Sometimes, configuring your audio settings alone might not resolve the sound issue. You might need to experiment with different audio formats to find one compatible with your Kodi setup.
Step 1
Start by right-clicking the volume icon. You’ll find it in the bottom right corner of your screen.
Step 2
Next, click on the Playback devices option.
Step 3
Select your preferred audio device from the list.
Step 4
Click Properties to access the device’s settings.
Step 5
Navigate to the Advanced tab for further customization.
Step 6
Look for the Default Format section. Choose an audio rate from the list. Then, click the Test button to see if it produces sound. If you don’t hear anything, try selecting a different audio format and repeat the process.
Step 7
Once you find a format that works, make sure to save the changes you’ve made.
Step 8
Finally, play a movie on Kodi to confirm that the sound issue is completely resolved. This will verify whether the selected audio format is compatible and the sound is working as expected.
That’s all there is to it. We hope these steps help you fix the sound problem on your Kodi.
If you’ve discovered a different solution for the “Kodi No Sound” error, we encourage you to share it with us in the comment section. Your insights can be valuable to others facing similar issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my sound not working on Kodi?
Several factors could be causing sound issues with Kodi. This guide addresses some of the most common culprits behind this problem. It aims to help you pinpoint the cause and guide you toward a solution.
How do I fix Kodi sound not working?
The tutorial above outlines various methods to troubleshoot sound problems in Kodi. These methods provide a comprehensive approach to resolving the issue, ensuring you can enjoy your Kodi content with audio.
Can I get Subtitles on Kodi?
Yes, absolutely! Setting up subtitles on Kodi is a breeze. You can easily configure them using reliable providers like OpenSubtitles.org or others that cater to your language preferences.
How do I adjust volume within Kodi?
Kodi allows for seamless volume control and other audio adjustments. You can conveniently fine-tune these settings within the Kodi interface to suit your listening preferences and environment. Just explore the audio options within the settings menu.