Can't hear the dialogue in shows and movies? Here's how to fix that
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So you found your next date-night movie or binge-worthy show. The problem is you can’t hear what the characters are saying! Low-volume dialogue isn’t just annoying and unpleasant — you might miss something important under all the noise.
Thankfully, most current smart TVs offer plenty of sound options for a richer and more comfortable experience. EQ, bass and much more are all totally under your control. Can’t hear what people on TV are saying? There’s probably a good reason for that, although they do vary. Here’s how to solve the problem.
Adjust your TV’s settings
Which sound settings should you start with? Aside from simply adjusting the volume, try dynamic range sound. Enabling dynamic range compression will lift soft tones and lower loud ones, essentially narrowing the volume band into which each one must fit.
Your TV’s brand may impact the name you’ll find this setting under. Here are a few popular monikers dynamic range goes by and their associated brands:
- Clear Voice (LG).
- Dolby Volume (Dolby Labs).
- Accuvoice (Zvox Audio).
- Audyssey Dynamic Volume (Audyssey).
- Reduce Loud Sounds (Apple TV).
- Studio Sound and TruVolume (DTS).
You might also find what you’re looking for using things like speech enhancement or dialogue enhancement, volume leveling or dynamic range control (DRC). These settings even the score aurally, compensating for poor conditions or a bad mix. Consult your owner’s manual for the exact details on adjusting these settings.
On an Apple TV, for example, you’ll find the Reduce Loud Sounds option under Video and Audio settings. For an Amazon Fire TV, try enabling Dolby Digital Plus under Dolby Digital Output in your nested Audio settings. You’ll find these in Display and Sounds.
If you’re using a Blu-ray or DVD player, the device itself may present similar volume options for dialogue. Check out the owner’s guide and tinker until you find a configuration that works for you.
Use headphones
Is an external audio device the key? It could be. Headphones or earbuds can be fabulous for loud commutes or listening in an otherwise chaotic environment. Tap or click here for our top five noise-canceling headphones.
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Soundbars are an excellent option to get that great quality, as they can improve the sound on any TV or projector. They’re also much more affordable than getting speakers, subwoofers, or separate A/V receivers for your home theater.