Question:

How to troubleshoot audio sync issues when your TV is connected to an HD cable or satellite box?

Answer:

Subject:  TV Connected To an HD Cable Or Satellite Box (Using TV's Speakers)

To troubleshoot if your TV is connected to an HD cable or satellite box, follow these steps: 

(1)  Determine if the audio is leading or following the picture.

• Leading means that you hear the audio before the lips move.
• Following means the lips move before you hear the audio.

(2)  Try different channels.

• If the audio is in sync on other channels, then there could be a broadcasting issue with the original channel or program.
• If the audio is not in sync on the other channels, test additional HD and SD channels.
• If the audio is out of sync on all other channels, then there could be an equipment or cabling problem.

Cable subscribers, go to Step 3. Satellite subscribers, go to Step 4.

(3)  Disconnect the incoming cable line from the cable box (usually labeled "cable in") and connect it directly to the TV.

Perform an Auto program on your TV so that your TV memorizes channels.

• After your TV has memorized channels, test five or six channels to see if there is an audio sync issue.
• If there is no audio sync issue, your cable box may be defective or the cables connecting the box to the TV may be defective.
• Try replacing your cables and/or cable box to resolve the issue.
• If there is still an issue on all channels, there could be an issue with your broadcast signal or the TV.
• Go to Step 4.

(4)  To determine whether the problem is caused by the broadcast signal or your equipment, connect a secondary device to the input connection you are using for your set top box or satellite box.

A secondary device could be a DVD player, VCR, Game system, etc.  

Play something on the secondary device and see if the audio is in or out of sync.

• If the Audio is in sync, then the cabling connecting the set top box to the TV may be defective or the box itself may be defective.
• Replace the cables and/or box.
• If the issue continues after you’ve replace the cables or box, your broadcast signal is most likely at fault.
• Contact you service provider for further assistance.
• If the audio is out of sync when you play the second device, your TV needs service.