In order to discover how to connect surround sound to projector, you must understand the ins and outs of the devices first.
Secondly, you need to find an audio device that supports surround sound and then see how to connect the surround sound to the projector.
When you see the projector from the back side, you will notice several ports where you can plug different cables. So, you have to choose the right one to enable the connection between the audio device and projector. Let me explain in detail.
How to Connect Surround Sound to Projector
You have multiple ways to connect your projector to surround sound. The first one is via the HDMI cable. The second option is via analog connection cables. The third way is via a digital optical connection. Lastly, via wireless Bluetooth or WiFi connection. The Bluetooth connection can be enabled only between devices that support this feature.
The HDMI option will work on projectors with an HDMI ARC port on the back. Choosing this method allows you to use the CEC feature that controls the audio levels and quality between the devices that share the HDMI connection.
Analog connection requires multiple cables because each cable supports a specific connection to a specific component. In this case, we are talking about the AUX and RCA connection. The AUX connection is commonly used because all audio devices have it.
The digital optical option is the ancestor of the HDMI port and is typical for some older device models.
The last and newest way to connect surround sound to a projector is using Bluetooth or a WiFi connection. These ways are wireless, and both devices need to support this connection.
Read more: How to Get Sound From Projector to Speakers
Connectors for Connecting Surround Sound to a Projector
Different audio devices have different connectors. Older audio device generations have wired connectors that allow you to connect them to the projector using a specific cable. Newer generations support wireless connection and focus on Bluetooth and WiFi connections.
HDMI
Part of the projectors are manufactured without a speaker, and if you want to boost the sound and give it a more cinematic effect, you have to connect them with a good audio device. For example, you can connect your soundbar to the projector using the HDMI cable.
This connection is simple since you only have to connect both sides of the HDMI cable to the HDMI ports of both devices. If you opt for this type of connection, follow these steps:
- Ensure both devices are turned off (projector and soundbar).
- Connect one side of the HDMI cable to the projector’s HDMI ARC port.
- Connect the other side of the HDMI cable to the soundbar HDMI port.
- Now turn the devices on.
- Test the sound and ensure both devices are properly set.
I have to mention that not all projector models support this connection.
Analog
RCA
Analog RCA connection requires multiple cables. You might have seen the different-colored ports on the back side of most devices. Well, that is what I am currently talking about.
The analog RCA connection ports are placed in a row and marked with a different color. The connection is quite easy because you need to connect the wires to the ports of the same color.
This connection option is separated into multiple ports because every cable supports a different function. You do not have to worry about compatibility because every device that supports this connection has the same cables.
AUX
Another type of analog connection is via the AUX port. This is the audio jack that many audio devices have (smartphones, speakers). On the back side of the projector, you should find a separate port named AUX and connect the audio device there.
AUX connection is a standard and most used audio connection on most devices. You might have to configure the audio settings in the AUX connection to get the surround sound you prefer.
Digital optical
This option was popular before the introduction of HDMI connection. So, you can find this option only on older devices that lack the HDMI port on the back. To set up surround sound using this connection method, you must first turn on the devices.
Then, plug both devices with the digital optical cable and ensure they are well-connected. Now, you can turn on the audio device and projector and test the sound.
Wireless
The wireless part is the name of the new era. Almost every device manufactured in the past decade supports Bluetooth and WiFi connection. Wirelessly connecting the projector to an audio device will save you from buying different cables and stepping on the floor full of cable mess.
Choosing a wireless connection will let you enjoy the surround sound and cinematic effects without worrying if the cable will reach the projector (in case you have placed it on the ceiling).
Bluetooth
The Bluetooth connection can be enabled between devices that support this feature. In other words, the audio device and projector should be from the newer generations and share this feature. Otherwise, how would you connect two devices if one does not support a Bluetooth connection?
WiFi
Choosing the WiFi wireless connection is easy and can be enabled between all newer generation devices supporting this feature. The only thing you must pay attention to is to connect the audio device and the projector to the same WiFi network.
Also read: How to Connect Bluetooth Speaker to Epson Projector
Conclusion
I love technology, and I have tried all these connection methods. However, if I have to choose one, I will definitely choose the Analog AUX connection because it allows you to configure the speakers as you prefer.
I am happy that I could help you find how to connect surround sound to projector in different ways. Check the devices’ outlets and choose the one mutually compatible with the projector and audio device.