Sound bars and simple/neat integration with TV

[theaxe]

I recently replaced my old Sony TV with a new Samsung. My Sony surround system worked well with the old TV, turning on/off as required and using the same controller for volume.

However the new TV doesn't use the surround system as a source, just as an output device via an optical connection, so I have to turn the sound system on/off separately and use a separate remote to control the volume.

So, I was considering a sound-bar and I have a few questions.

1. If I get a Samsung one can I assume that it'll integrate neatly (ie. volume, power etc all controlled from the TV)?
2. If i get a non-Samsung one (eg. the Sonos) should I assume that it'll involve multiple remotes?
3. Should I just accept having a less neat solution and get a programmable master remote?

[varsas]

theaxe said:

I recently replaced my old Sony TV with a new Samsung. My Sony surround system worked well with the old TV, turning on/off as required and using the same controller for volume.

However the new TV doesn't use the surround system as a source, just as an output device via an optical connection, so I have to turn the sound system on/off separately and use a separate remote to control the volume.

So, I was considering a sound-bar and I have a few questions.

1. If I get a Samsung one can I assume that it'll integrate neatly (ie. volume, power etc all controlled from the TV)?
2. If i get a non-Samsung one (eg. the Sonos) should I assume that it'll involve multiple remotes?
3. Should I just accept having a less neat solution and get a programmable master remote?

It sounds to me like you were using HDMI 'CEC' (different brands call it different things, Bravia sync for Sony, Anynet+ on Samsung).

In theory, connectiong your Samsung TV to the Sony surround system via your TV's HDMI ARC port (your TV may only have one HDMI socket that supports ARC, check the manual) should give you back the functionality you had, have you tried this?

The other option is just to use the headphone socket from your TV to your soundbar (or sony surround system), you can then use the TV volume control for the sound. Doing this will not switch the sound on/off with the TV unless it's got auto signal sensing.

Yes, I would expect a Samsung soundbar to work with the Samsung TV in the way you describe, but only if it's connected via HDMI. Other brands? I don't know.

Edited by varsas on Tuesday 15th September 16:41

[barpilot]

I picked up a recent Samsung soundbar which has seemingly 'learned' the older TV remote off/on signals. Quite handy and not something I'd expected. Only linked via optical too.

HTH

[belleair302]

I have a Philips sounder which works beautifully with my Panasonic and also a Geneva Soundbox which is an amazing piece of kit and this also works perfectly with a Panasonic plasma so long as you go into Hotel mode to switch off the integrated speakers. I use a decent Optical cable for both.

[varsas]

barpilot said:

I picked up a recent Samsung soundbar which has seemingly 'learned' the older TV remote off/on signals. Quite handy and not something I'd expected. Only linked via optical too.

HTH

Hadn't thought of that. I've never seen an AV amp do this.