Sound randomly switching between TV speaker and soundbar

[zsc0re]

I have a Sony soundbar HT-X8500 and a Sony Android TV KD-49XG9005BU.  I have connected these via the eArc connection using HDMI. I purchased this HDMI cable https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B07KWNPZ1L

Now, the following happens frequently when viewing TV (either internet streams, cable etc.)
- the TV output continues to randomly switch between the TV Speaker and Audio System (soundbar).

I have no idea why this is happening.

Has anyone experienced this issue before please?

Thanks
Ben

[zsc0re]

Thank you @Joe_Dohn .  

No obstructions, the soundbar is free standing on a table.  Feels like another question for Sony Support.  

[Joe_Dohn]

I agree with you on that actually, do let us know how things end up so others can benefit as well.

[zsc0re]

I think we have success.  I have been having a back and forth conversation with Sony Support, sharing the repo steps and diagnostics.  Yesterday, Sony Support shared the Android 9 Pie upgrade Firmware update to v6.7140 | Sony UK which includes various fixes, one of which is listed as " Resolves a no sound issue from a specific sound bar connected via HDMI ARC".   I was asked to upgrade.  The file is 1.6GB.  Looks like it was released end of November. 

So far after 24 hours, the sound coming from the HT-X8500 has been perfect and consistent - no random switching between TV speaker output and soundbar output (audio system).   I have tested with internet streams (YouTube , Netflix, Disney, Prime) and so far so good.  I am keeping my fingers crossed. 

[zsc0re · Accepted solution]

Hi all

I need to share the outcome/conclusion on this topic as I discovered the root cause of the sound switching between TV and soundbar audio output.

It has also taught me a lesson to consider all options rather than just an issue with the device (soundbar). 

I upgraded the Sony TV to the latest Android software but the sound switching issue persisted.

After a while, I decided to unplug other devices from the TV one by one.  I unplugged a Humax Freeview box 5000t from the Sony TV (HDMI connection).  Ever since doing so, the sound has never switched devices and has been flawless for the past 4-5 months.  I have concluded that the always-on Humax Freeview box must have been interfering somehow with the audio.

Lesson learned for me.

Thanks for all the feedback and support to date.

Ben. 

[Joe_Dohn]

Thanks a lot for taking the time to share the update!

It'd be even more helpful if you mark your last post as the solution so others can start with your findings instead of reading through the whole thing.

Thanks again!

- JD

[Hartley1972]

Hi, I am having the exact same issue, but your firmware link doesn't work, any help would be great 

[Jordrop]

I had the exact same issue and unplugged the box for my security cameras (HDMI 4). This seems to have also solved the issue for me! Very strange.