GPU HDMI -> TCL P7K TV -> Hisense AX5100G via eARC, PC does not read the ability to pass through 5.1 Surround Sound.

Unlocking 5.1 Surround Sound Through HDMI: Troubleshooting Guide for PC to TCL P7K TV to Hisense AX5100G Soundbar

Are you experiencing difficulties in passing through 5.1 surround sound from your PC to your Hisense AX5100G soundbar via your TCL P7K TV? If your PC only detects stereo sound despite your setup, you’re not alone. This comprehensive guide aims to help you diagnose and resolve common issues preventing proper 5.1 audio transmission using HDMI connections and eARC technology.

System Overview

• Operating System: Windows 11 Pro
• Processor: Intel Core i7-13900K
• Graphics Card: NVIDIA RTX 3070
• RAM: 32GB
• Audio Devices:
  • Soundbar: Hisense AX5100G
  • TV: TCL P7K (mounted high on the wall)

Connection Setup

• HDMI from PC GPU to TCL P7K TV
• eARC connection from TV to Hisense AX5100G soundbar

Issue Description

Despite proper physical connections, the PC perceives only stereo audio output from the soundbar. When selecting 5.1 surround sound, the system either outputs front left/right channels only or upmixes Dolby audio, channeling front signals through surround speakers. Attempts to force passthrough and bypass limitations through software adjustments have not yielded the desired results.

Troubleshooting Steps Taken

1. HDMI Cables Verification
2. Used different HDMI 2.0 cables between the GPU and TV

3. Ensured cables are high quality and capable of supporting 4K60Hz and multichannel audio

4. TV Settings Configuration

5. Set the TV audio output to “passthrough” mode

6. Confirmed that the TV’s audio settings do not restrict to 2-channel LPCM

7. Software Modifications

8. Used Custom Resolution Utility (CRU) to override TV limitations and enable 5.1 LPCM transmission
9. Revised Windows audio settings to select appropriate digital audio formats

Persistent Challenges

Despite these efforts, the PC remains unable to recognize the full 5.1 audio channel configuration through the setup. This suggests potential hardware or firmware limitations, misconfigurations, or compatibility issues.

Recommendations for Resolution

• Update Firmware and Drivers:
  Ensure your TV, soundbar, and GPU have the latest firmware and drivers installed to maximize