To connect a Bluetooth speaker or headphones to a TV, put the speaker in pairing mode, open the TV’s Settings, go to Sound, then Sound Output, then Bluetooth speaker list, and select the device. If your TV has no Bluetooth, plug a Bluetooth transmitter into the headphone jack, the optical port or an HDMI ARC port. Bluetooth can add a small audio delay, so lip sync may be off with some devices, and a soundbar on HDMI ARC or optical gives better, more reliable sound.
PCBy the Pixl Canada install team. Updated . 5 min read.
- Pairing steps and the no-Bluetooth workaround
- Why audio lags and how to reduce it
- Bluetooth vs optical vs HDMI ARC
- We set up and mount soundbars
- Pair through Settings, Sound, Sound Output on most smart TVs.
- No Bluetooth on the TV? Add a transmitter to the audio output.
- Bluetooth audio delay is normal. Use low-latency devices or a wired connection for movies.
- For the best sound, use a soundbar on HDMI ARC or optical.
How do you pair a Bluetooth speaker or headphones with a TV?
- Put the speaker or headphones in pairing mode. Hold the Bluetooth button until it flashes.
- Open the TV’s Settings and go to Sound.
- Choose Sound Output, then Bluetooth speaker list or Bluetooth devices.
- Select your device from the list.
- Wait for “Connected” and play something to test.
- Turn the TV speakers off if both are playing.
What if your TV has no Bluetooth?
| Option | Plugs into | Good for |
|---|---|---|
| Bluetooth transmitter | Optical (TOSLINK) or the headphone jack | Headphones or a speaker |
| Streaming stick with Bluetooth | HDMI | Apps, with Bluetooth audio built in |
| Soundbar | HDMI ARC or optical | Best sound. See what is HDMI ARC |
Why is there a delay between picture and sound?
| Cause | Fix |
|---|---|
| Standard Bluetooth latency | Use a low-latency transmitter or headphones that support it |
| TV audio sync setting | Adjust Audio Delay or Lip Sync in the TV sound menu |
| Distance or interference | Move closer and away from other wireless devices |
| For movies and games | Use a wired soundbar or wired headphones |
Bluetooth, optical or HDMI ARC: which should you use?
| Connection | Quality | Delay | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bluetooth | Good, compressed | Noticeable on some devices | Headphones and portable speakers |
| Optical | Good, up to 5.1 compressed | Very low | Older TVs and soundbars |
| HDMI ARC / eARC | Best, up to Atmos on eARC | Very low | Soundbars and receivers |
Pixl installs soundbars for $50 and mounts them for a further $50, before tax. See soundbar vs surround sound, how to connect a soundbar to a TV and home theatre installation cost.
Bluetooth speaker or headphones with a TV: frequently asked questions
How do I connect a Bluetooth speaker to my TV?
Put the speaker in pairing mode, then in TV Settings go to Sound, Sound Output, Bluetooth speaker list and select it.
How do I connect headphones to a TV?
Pair them the same way, or use a Bluetooth transmitter on the TV’s audio output if the TV has no Bluetooth.
Why is the sound delayed on my Bluetooth speaker?
Bluetooth adds latency. Use low-latency devices, adjust the TV’s audio delay or use a wired connection.
Can I connect two Bluetooth devices to a TV?
Most TVs connect to one at a time. Some support two with a specific feature.
Is a soundbar better than a Bluetooth speaker?
Yes for TV sound. A soundbar on HDMI ARC or optical has lower delay and better audio.
Can Pixl install my soundbar?
Yes. Installing is $50 and mounting is a further $50, before tax. You pay after the job.
Want better TV sound set up properly?
Soundbar install $50, mounting a further $50, before tax. You pay after the job.
Connect a soundbar to a TV
Soundbar vs surround sound
Custom home theatre
Soundbar installation prices
Sources and method. General guidance from TV manufacturers’ support pages and the Bluetooth and HDMI specifications. Menu names vary by brand and year. Pixl prices were checked in October 2026, in Canadian dollars, before tax.
About Pixl Canada. Pixl Canada is an installation company based in Edmonton, Alberta, serving cities across Canada with TV mounting, security cameras, appliance installation and smart home setup. Call or text (587) 899-7495. Open Monday to Saturday 8am to 8pm and Sunday 9am to 7pm.