Technology changes and improves at a rapid rate. While this is generally great news it can sometimes cause compatibility issues. Not all modern equipment works with older technology and this can cause issues when you upgrade part of a system. We look at the issue of how to connect external speakers to a TV without audio output.
There is little doubt that adding quality external speakers will enhance the sound and improve your viewing experience. For many years most decent TVs came with audio output in the form of analog RCA outputs. This made connecting speakers a breeze.
Most TVs now rely on HDMI as well as wireless technology to deliver audio output. This leaves some people with a challenge.
If you are wanting to connect speakers but do not have an audio output, do not despair. There are several quick and easy ways to get around this issue. We will take a look at the best options.
3.5mm Headphone Jacks
This is a fast and inexpensive way to solve the problem. Most TVs will have 3.5mm audio jacks. This will allow you to use computer speakers or headphones.
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You can connect to speakers using an RCA jack.
While this might not help with a full surround-sound system, some computer speakers are excellent and will certainly improve the audio output of your TV. Many people want to do gaming on their TV due to the larger screen and again this is an ideal solution.
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TOSLINK Cables
The ultimate solution, if you have an HD TV, is to use TOSLINK Cables. HD TVs, by definition, should have TOSLINK outputs. This is a fiber optic system of connection and is reliable and effective. The only factor to note is that the speakers also need to have TOSLINK inputs. Most of the better modern ones do.
If the speakers do not have this feature and only have RCA inputs, there is still a way around this problem (stick with us, we have all the hacks). You will need to invest in a digital to analog converter (DAC). They are affordable and allow you to connect your speakers to your TV using TOSLINK Cables if the speakers only have RCA inputs.
Using TOSLINK Cables you will be able to enjoy full 5.1 surround sound.
HDMI Switcher Box
Another option is an HDMI switcher box. Odds are your TV will have one or more HDMI ports. HDMI was the standard for many years. It is capable of carrying video and audio signals.
If your speaker supports HDMI then the connection is simple. If they have RCA inputs only then an HDMI switcher box is the answer. This will allow you to connect multiple devices even if your TV has a single HDMI port.
Set-top Box/DVD or Blu-ray Player
If you have a slightly older TV the chances are that you are using some form of set-top box. At the very least you are likely to have a DVD or Blu-ray Player. All of these generally give you the option to connect your speakers using TOSLINK or HDMI. In most cases, these devices will have RCA outputs making connecting speakers even easier.
Final thoughts
There are multiple options to solve the issue of how to connect external speakers to a TV without audio output. This article should give you the information you need. Consider the system you have to find the ideal solution. That will enhance your viewing pleasure.
