Most often, we pair soundbars with TVs. However, it is possible to pair them with your computer to use as regular speakers. The soundbar produces a sound that is of a higher quality than your computer’s speakers. For the perfect sound, you can connect your soundbar to your laptop.
Can you use a soundbar as a computer speaker?
Yes, you can. The soundbar produces high-quality sound with a touch of bass that you will love. You can use any adapter when connecting. But because of how thin it is, sometimes you may require mounting it above your monitor. You can place the soundbar behind the monitor stand for a single monitor and still enjoy the impressive sound.
But with two monitors, the sound is much better when the soundbar is in front. Because of its thinness and length, mounting seems the only logical way to position it to enjoy great sound. Using it with your laptop also requires mounting as it is relatively small when on your desk. Here’s how to connect your soundbar to your computer.
How do you connect a soundbar to a computer?
Below are a few ways you can use:
- Connect the soundbar to your computer with HDMI
- Connect them through Bluetooth
- Use a 3.5mm jack cable
- In rare cases, you can use an optical cable
Before choosing a connection method, it is essential to remember that each soundbar comes with its connection options. So first, check your device to see which method of connection it supports. If you are yet to buy a soundbar, it is advisable to go for one that supports multiple connections so that if one method fails, you have other alternatives.
How to connect a soundbar to a computer through Bluetooth
This method is the easiest because most computers have built-in Bluetooth, meaning there is no need for wires.
- Enable the pairing mode on your soundbar
- Open the Bluetooth on your computer
- Select the soundbar icon that appears on your screen
- Wait as the connection completes
When the connection is complete, your computer’s audio is sent to the soundbar via Bluetooth. Every time the speaker is in range, your PC automatically connects with it because of the pairing. The downside to this method is that there may be slight audio delay instances, especially when watching movies. However, for other media like playing music, the soundbar performs as expected.
Can you connect a soundbar to a computer via USB?
Yes. You can still connect a soundbar to your computer even if it does not have Bluetooth. You can connect by using a 3.5mm, a USB Bluetooth adapter, or HDMI. It is advisable to buy a USB Bluetooth dongle as you can use it with other devices.
Use a 3.5mm cable
Most computers have a 3.5mm port provided for audio to connect headphones and external speakers. Here’s how to connect.
- Power the soundbar
- Plug one end of the 3.5mm cable into your PC’s audio port and the other end into the soundbar.
- Check whether your computer detects it.
On your computer, there are about three audio ports on the rear panel that are primarily coded green, while your laptop has one multi-functional port marked with a headset icon or two ports on the front side.
How do I connect my soundbar to my computer with HDMI
HDMI is the least reliable method of connection and may or may not work. This is because your computer expects the HDMI to connect to a monitor. In this regard, your computer will detect your connection as an extra monitor instead of an audio device.
Also, a computer cannot use the HDMI ARC service. You should connect your soundbar with an HDMI port to a device with the HDMI ARC feature like a tv.
However, for this method to work, you can tweak the Windows settings. Also, you can connect your computer to the tv through HDMI, then connect the television and soundbar via the HDMI ARC port. This way, you can move the audio from your computer to the soundbar via your tv. The connection may be quite a hassle, but it could work.
Use optical cables
Using optical cables is a rare method because most modern computers do not house an optical port. However, if your computer is one model with an optical port, you need to locate the SPDIF OUT label. Then, plug your cable into the port and soundbar.
Audio extractors
If your computer lacks matching ports, you can use adapters to connect it to the soundbar.
Here are some adapters to use.
HDMI audio extractor
This audio extractor enables you to channel the audio via an HDMI source into your soundbar. It works with PCs and laptops.
USB sound card
If you are already using all ports on your computer, a USB sound card is a great way to add extra ports. It creates room for additional audio ports, and you will find one compatible with your soundbar.
USB-C to 3.5mm adapter
If your computer only has one 3.5mm, which you are using with your headphones, you can buy a USB-C to 3.5mm adapter, but if you have a free USB-C port. You can also use this adapter with USB-C phones that lack a 3.5mm port.
Check this too: How to Connect a Microphone to a Soundbar
Are soundbars too big for your computer?
Most people shy away from connecting their computers to a soundbar because of the soundbar’s size. The commercially available soundbars are primarily about one meter wide and are designed for TVs. This size is too big and will require ample space on the top or under your desk. Before choosing to pair your computer with a soundbar, you need to consider space availability and your space’s aesthetic appeal to select the ideal soundbar size.
Conclusion
With these different ways to connect your soundbar to your computer, you are in a better position to make the connection on your own. In addition to these methods, you can also try using audio extractors, especially if your devices are not compatible.