To mute the TV speaker on a Samsung Smart TV, you must switch the audio output to an external device, which automatically disables the internal speakers. This is the primary method to mute TV speaker Samsung, as selecting an external audio output like a soundbar or Bluetooth speaker turns off the built-in speakers.
Change the sound output to an external device
This is the most common and reliable method to disable the TV's internal speakers. When an external audio device is selected as the sound output, the TV's internal speakers are typically disabled automatically.
- Press the Home button on your remote.
- Navigate to and select Settings from the Home screen.
- Select All Settings on some Samsung TV models.
- From the Settings menu, navigate to and select Sound.
- Select Sound Output from the Sound menu.
- Choose your desired external audio device from the list, such as Soundbar, Optical, Bluetooth Speaker List, or HDMI eARC.
Once you select an external device, the TV's internal speakers are disabled. When external speakers are set as the primary output, the TV's volume controls and some 'Expert Settings' for sound may become disabled or greyed out.
Use the SmartThings app
You can also use the SmartThings app on your mobile device as an alternative way to change the sound output setting and mute the TV's internal speakers. After connecting the app to your Samsung Smart TV, you can access the same audio settings, including the Sound Output option, to select an external device and disable the built-in speakers.
Instructions for older Samsung TV models
For older Samsung TV models, the menu path may differ. You might press the MENU/123 button, then navigate to Sound, and then Speaker Settings or Speaker Select to choose an external output. Some older Samsung televisions may not offer a direct setting to completely turn off the internal speakers. If a direct 'turn off internal speakers' option is unavailable on older models, a workaround is to turn the TV's volume all the way down.
Understanding multi-output audio and the mute button
The Mute button on the Samsung TV remote generally mutes all audio output, including any connected external speakers, not just the internal TV speakers. If 'Multi-output Audio' is enabled and a Bluetooth device is connected, pressing the volume mute button on the TV remote will mute the TV speakers while the Bluetooth device continues to play. This feature is useful for achieving wireless audio for your TV without interrupting the Bluetooth audio stream.
Connecting external speakers or headphones
Connecting external speakers or headphones via HDMI eARC, optical, or Bluetooth triggers the TV to disable its internal speakers. When you connect a device through these ports and set it as the primary audio output, the TV automatically routes sound to the external device and silences the built-in speakers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will muting the TV speaker affect audio from my soundbar?
No. When you mute the TV speaker by selecting an external audio output, the soundbar or other external device continues to play audio normally. The mute function only affects the built-in TV speakers when an external output is selected.
Why can't I find the "Sound Output" option in my TV settings?
The exact names of menus, settings, and buttons can vary depending on the specific Samsung TV model and its software version. Look for options like "Speaker Settings," "Audio Output," or "Speaker Select" in the Sound menu, especially on older models.
Does turning the volume to zero on an older TV damage the speakers?
No, turning the volume to zero does not damage the speakers. It is a safe workaround for older models that lack a direct option to disable internal speakers, as the speakers simply receive no audio signal.
Can I use Bluetooth headphones and keep the TV speakers off?
Yes. When you connect Bluetooth headphones and select them as the sound output, the TV's internal speakers are automatically disabled. The audio plays exclusively through the headphones.
