The PlayStation 4 has its fair share of bugs, glitches, and frustrations. One of the most common issues is audio problems, which can easily ruin your gameplay experience at the worst moment. Thankfully, these issues can be resolved quickly and easily.
PS4 sound cuts can result from faulty hardware, configuration issues, and software bugs, among other problems. Inspect your hardware and connections to be sure they’re clear of dust and damage. From there, you may need to reconfigure the device or perform a software update.
Don’t panic if you’re experiencing audio issues; these problems can typically be resolved in a speedy fashion. However, following the proper troubleshooting techniques is crucial to fixing the issue. We’ll cover everything you need to know to diagnose and fix your PS4’s sound.
Are Audio Cuts Common on PS4?
Sound problems can completely ruin your gaming experience. Without proper sound, you can’t fully immerse yourself in the game or communicate with your teammates.
However, audio cuts and feedback issues are fairly standard on the PS4, so you’re not alone. Thankfully, there are easy solutions to this problem.
What Causes the PS4 Audio to Cut Out?
There are multiple reasons for PS4 audio and feedback issues. Sometimes, the problem is with the hardware itself and can be resolved quickly. Software issues and corrupted game files can also cause audio problems. Let’s review some of the potential causes:
Device Malfunctions
Faulty hardware and device malfunctions could be behind your audio cutting out. Loose cables on headsets and frayed cables, as well as problems with the aux input, Bluetooth devices, and other ports can all cause feedback errors.
Audio Configuration Issues
Audio and device configuration issues could also be the culprit. When you use a new audio device, you’ll have to configure it in the PS4 settings to ensure it’s working properly. This applies to monitors, speakers, headphones, and other Bluetooth devices.
Software Bugs and Corrupted Files
Just like configuration issues, software bugs and corrupted files can lead to very frustrating experiences. You may need to install the latest software update or reconfigure your console to resolve these issues.
Quick Fixes and Solutions for Audio Cuts
Sound problems usually aren’t a sign of significant issues. Troubleshooting audio cuts and poor feedback is generally a straightforward process.
However, your solution will depend on the device you’re using. Follow along with the solutions below to determine your problem and resolve it accordingly.
Check Your Input Settings
Signal and input issues can cause audio problems. This is more likely if you’re using the speakers from your monitor or television.
To resolve this, try switching the input channels on your display and then changing it back. For example, you may need to switch from the HDMI 1 port to the HDMI 2 port and then back to HDMI 1. Afterward, you can restart your game, console, and monitor to see if the problem is resolved.
If you aren’t sure how to access the input settings on your monitor, consult the instruction manual or the manufacturer’s website. You may also need to purchase new cables if yours are damaged. Luckily, you can find high-quality cables at affordable prices online, such as the Mastercables 2-Meter HDMI Cable (on Amazon).
Check the Hardware and Connections
Sound problems are often caused by hardware issues and faulty connections. However, this doesn’t necessarily mean you have to buy a completely new headset. Be sure to restart your console before troubleshooting.
- Unplug your headset from the console. Inspect the cables, connections, and ports for any damage. Plug your device in gently and see if the problem is resolved.
- Plug your headset into another device like your laptop, tablet, or phone. If the audio is working from those devices, it may be a configuration issue.
If this resolves your audio issues, congratulations! But if you’re still experiencing problems, follow the troubleshooting steps below.
Configure the Audio Device
If your hardware doesn’t seem to have any visible damage, you may be experiencing a configuration issue. To configure your audio settings, proceed as follows:
- From the home screen of your PS4, go into the Settings menu, select Devices, and then select Audio Devices.
- Click the Volume Control option and increase the volume to its highest setting. You can adjust this later.
- Select Output to Headphones and pick All Audio.
- From there, you can restart your PS4 to see if the audio issues are resolved.
If you’re still experiencing issues after configuring your device, you may need to troubleshoot the audio output settings.
Configure the Audio Output Settings
Incorrect audio outputs can also cause sound issues. Resolving this problem is similar to configuring the audio device.
- From the home screen of your PS4, go to the Settings menu.
- Select Sound and Screen, then choose Audio Output Settings. A new menu should show up with two options.
- From there, select Primary Output Port.
- Select Digital Out (Optical) from the available options.
- Check all the boxes and formats that your audio device supports and hit OK.
- Select Audio Format (Priority), and then choose Bitstream (Dolby).
- Restart your PS4 to see if the sound is working correctly.
Update Your Software
Outdated software can also cause audio and feedback issues. Typically, PS4s have automatic downloads enabled. However, you can run software updates manually if the situation calls for it.
- From the home screen of your PS4, go to the Settings menu.
- Choose System Software Update.
- Select the option Update Now.
- Follow the prompts provided, choose Next, and wait for the download to complete. You’ll see the license agreement when the download is finished.
- Accept the software update.
- The software update should begin to install. Your PS4 may restart during the update.
Restore Your PS4 to the Default Factory Settings
Another way you can troubleshoot audio issues is by restoring your PS4 to the default factory settings in safe mode. Follow the steps below to begin.
- Hold down the power button until your PS4 turns off.
- Keep holding the power button down until your PS4 enters Safe Mode. You’ll know you’ve entered Safe Mode after hearing a beep.
- Press the PS button on your controller.
- You’ll see the options Change Resolution, Rebuild Database, and Restore Default Settings.
- Select either Rebuild Database or Restore Default Settings.
- Select Restart.
Rebuild Database won’t delete anything unless there’s a corrupted game file. Restore Default Settings, however, will delete all data not backed up on the Cloud, so only use this solution as a last-ditch effort to fix your PS4.
Tips to Avoid Audio Cuts While Using PS4
Audio and feedback problems are a nuisance whenever they occur. These problems can ruin your immersion and gaming experience. Thankfully, you can employ some of the methods below to avoid audio cuts while you’re gaming on the PlayStation 4.
Ensure the Cables and Ports Are Working Properly
Loose cables, dusty ports, and other damage can cause audio issues. Ensure you’re using a high-quality HDMI cable, like this one from Mastercables (on Amazon), and that the cable isn’t damaged at all. Make sure all the wires are properly plugged in and working accordingly.
You should also check to see if the ports and connections have any dust or debris. You can easily clean these ports with a can of compressed air (on Amazon).
Don’t Use Faulty Hardware or Accessories
Broken headsets and Bluetooth devices can also cause audio issues. Avoid using faulty or damaged hardware to prevent sound problems. Inspect the physical elements of your peripherals to ensure they don’t have any damage.
Regularly Update and Configure Your Software
Ensuring your console is using the latest software update can help you avoid audio problems in the future. If you don’t have your PS4 set to automatic updates, either update the software manually or enable the feature. If you get a new audio device, configure it in the settings to ensure it’s working correctly.
Following these tips and tricks should solve your audio issues so that you can play without interruption. If you’re still experiencing issues, you may need to contact PlayStation Support for further assistance.