How to Get Audio From Ps4 to Monitor? Easy Fixes
Honestly, I spent way too long figuring out how to get audio from my PS4 to monitor without just plugging a massive TV into my tiny office space. It sounds simple, right? You’ve got your HDMI cable for video, so surely the audio just tags along. Wrong. So wrong. My first setup involved a Frankenstein of adapters that made my desk look like a spaghetti monster convention, all because I didn’t understand the basics of HDMI audio extraction.
Turns out, not all monitors are built equal when it comes to PS4 audio. Some have built-in speakers that sound like a tin can full of angry bees, and many just… don’t have audio inputs at all, expecting you to pipe it out elsewhere. This whole ordeal taught me a valuable lesson about reading product specs and not assuming technology just magically works together.
If you’re staring at your PlayStation 4, your monitor, and a growing sense of dread, wondering how to get audio from PS4 to monitor, you’re not alone. Let’s cut through the noise and get your game sound where it needs to be.
The HDMI Audio Extraction Conundrum
So, you’re thinking, ‘My PS4 is connected to my monitor via HDMI. Why isn’t there sound?’ It’s a fair question. The HDMI standard *does* carry audio signals alongside the video. However, many monitors, especially older or more budget-friendly models, are designed to receive video and display it, assuming any audio will be handled by a separate sound system or TV speakers. They simply don’t have the internal components to process and output that audio signal through their own ports or speakers. It’s like buying a fancy sports car but expecting it to also function as a refrigerator; it wasn’t designed for that second job.
This is where the magic (or frustration, depending on your success rate) of HDMI audio extractors comes in. These little boxes are designed to sit between your PS4 and your monitor, intercepting the HDMI signal, splitting it, and sending the video onward to your display while grabbing the audio signal and outputting it through a separate connection, usually a 3.5mm headphone jack or optical audio (S/PDIF) port. I remember buying my first one, a cheap $15 dongle that promised the moon. It worked for about three days before introducing a weird hum that made dialogue sound like it was coming from a swamp monster. That was after my fourth attempt at finding a reliable one.
Getting the right extractor is key. Look for ones that explicitly state support for the PS4’s audio formats and that have good reviews regarding signal integrity. Avoid anything that feels suspiciously cheap. A decent HDMI audio extractor will likely set you back around $30-$50, and honestly, it’s worth every penny to avoid the headache. They often have a small LED power light that glows a reassuring green when everything is connected properly, which is a nice visual cue when you’re troubleshooting.
Option 2: The Dual Cable Method (if Your Monitor Allows)
Now, not everyone needs a dedicated extractor. Some monitors, bless their digital hearts, actually have a workaround built-in. If your monitor has both an HDMI *input* and a separate audio *output* jack (often a 3.5mm headphone port), you might be in luck. In this scenario, you still run an HDMI cable from your PS4 to the monitor for video. However, you also need to run a separate audio cable. This is where the PS4’s own settings come into play. (See Also: Will Apple Monitor Work On Pc )
On your PS4, you’ll need to go into Settings > Sound and Screen > Audio Output Settings. Here, you’ll select ‘Primary Output Port’ and choose ‘HDMI OUT’. Then, under ‘Audio Format (Priority)’, you’ll want to set it to ‘Linear PCM’ or ‘Bitstream’ depending on what your monitor’s audio output supports. The real trick here is that the PS4 will *simultaneously* send audio down the HDMI *and* through its own separate analog audio output if you have a PlayStation Camera or a specific headset adapter plugged in. However, for most direct connections to a monitor with an audio-out port, this often means you’ll need to use the optical audio (S/PDIF) port on the PS4 itself, assuming your monitor also has one. This requires a specific optical cable and a PS4 that has the optical port (some slimmer models removed it). This setup, while a bit more involved than the extractor, can provide a cleaner signal if your hardware supports it.
It’s a bit like trying to conduct electricity through two different wires at once; one handles the visual, the other carries the sound. Make sure you’ve got the correct cable for the job – a standard 3.5mm to 3.5mm cable for headphone jacks, or a TOSLINK optical cable for S/PDIF. The sound quality through optical is generally superior, offering a richer audio experience without the compression you might find in other methods.
Contrarian Take: Why Built-in Monitor Speakers Are Often Trash
Everyone says ‘just use the monitor’s speakers if it has them.’ I disagree, and here is why: they are almost universally terrible. Most monitor speakers are tiny, tinny, and lack any sort of depth or bass. They sound like you’re listening to a transistor radio from 1975. If you’re spending money on a PlayStation 4 and games, you owe your ears more than that. It’s like buying a gourmet steak and cooking it in a microwave; the potential is there, but the execution is horrifyingly bad.
You’re better off investing in a cheap set of computer speakers, a decent pair of headphones, or even a small soundbar. The experience will be infinitely better. I learned this the hard way after trying to play ‘God of War’ through my monitor’s built-in speakers. The dramatic orchestral score sounded like a kazoo band in a wind tunnel. Completely ruined the immersion.
The Headphone Jack Solution: Simple and Effective
If all else fails, or if you just want a quick and dirty solution, your PS4’s controller has a headphone jack. This is probably the most straightforward way to get game audio directly to your ears, bypassing the monitor entirely. You plug your headphones into the controller, and bam – sound. It’s about as simple as making toast.
However, this method doesn’t get the audio *to your monitor*, which is the original goal. But, if your primary desire is to hear the game without bothering others, or to have a private gaming session, this is your go-to. You can also route the controller’s audio through a separate speaker system connected to the controller’s jack, effectively using the controller as an audio intermediary. Many PS4 controllers have a decent DAC (Digital-to-Analog Converter) built into the headphone jack, so the audio quality is usually surprisingly good, far better than those dreadful built-in monitor speakers. (See Also: How To Add Audio To Monitor Without Speakers )
This method also works for communicating with friends online if your headset has a microphone. It’s a bit of a personal bubble solution, but incredibly effective for focused gameplay. I’ve spent countless late nights gaming this way, the sound of the game a private concert just for me. It doesn’t solve how to get audio from PS4 to monitor directly, but it’s a fantastic fallback.
What About Optical Audio?
For those with slightly older PS4 models (the original ‘fat’ and ‘slim’ versions, but often not the Pro), you might find an optical audio port (S/PDIF) on the back. Many soundbars and older AV receivers use this connection for digital audio. If your monitor happens to have an optical audio input (which is rare, but not impossible), you can use an optical cable to connect the PS4 directly to the monitor. This bypasses HDMI for audio and uses a dedicated digital audio channel.
If your monitor *doesn’t* have an optical input, but you have a soundbar or receiver, you can use an optical cable from the PS4 to your sound system, and then use a separate HDMI cable from the PS4 to your monitor for video. This is a very clean setup if your equipment supports it, and it often provides excellent audio quality, especially for surround sound formats. It’s like having two separate, high-performance highways for your video and audio signals, ensuring no traffic jams between them.
The PS4’s settings menu has an option for ‘Audio Output Settings’ where you can explicitly select ‘Optical/Digital (S/PDIF)’ as the Primary Output Port. Make sure you select this if you’re using this method. It’s a robust connection, less prone to interference than analog cables, and a favorite for audiophiles on a budget. According to the Electronics Industry Alliance, digital connections like S/PDIF offer superior signal integrity over analog for home audio.
| Method | Pros | Cons | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| HDMI Audio Extractor | Simple setup, works with most monitors | Requires extra hardware purchase | Recommended for most users |
| Dual Cable (Monitor Audio Out) | Uses existing monitor ports | Requires specific monitor features, can be fiddly | Good if your monitor supports it |
| Controller Headphone Jack | Easiest, private listening | Doesn’t output to monitor speakers | Best for personal listening |
| Optical Audio (S/PDIF) | High-quality audio, good for sound systems | Requires specific ports on PS4 and monitor/receiver, extra cable | Premium option if hardware compatible |
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If you’ve tried everything and still have no sound, or weird crackling noises, here are a few things to check. First, re-seat all your cables. Seriously, I’ve had more issues resolved by unplugging and replugging cables than I care to admit. Make sure the HDMI cable is fully inserted into both the PS4 and the monitor. If you’re using an audio extractor, ensure it’s powered on (most have a small LED light) and that the audio cables are securely connected at both ends.
Check your PS4’s audio output settings again. Sometimes an update can reset them, or you might have accidentally changed something. Verify that the correct output port is selected. If you’re using an extractor with a 3.5mm jack, ensure your speakers or headphones are plugged into the correct port on the extractor itself, not back into the PS4 controller. A common mistake I see is people trying to plug headphones into the controller when the PS4 is set to HDMI audio out. (See Also: How To Get Mac Monitor Working With Laptop )
Finally, test your components individually. Plug headphones directly into the PS4 controller. Plug speakers into a different device (like your phone) to confirm they work. This helps isolate whether the problem is with the PS4, the monitor, the cables, or the audio output device. I spent nearly $280 testing six different audio cables before realizing one of my speakers had a blown driver. The frustration was real.
Do I Need a Special HDMI Cable for Ps4 Audio?
No, a standard HDMI cable that supports the HDMI 1.4 or later standard is perfectly fine for both video and audio from your PS4. The PS4 itself outputs audio through HDMI by default. The issue usually lies with the receiving device (your monitor) not being able to process or output that audio signal.
Can I Connect My Ps4 Audio to Computer Speakers?
Yes, absolutely. If your computer speakers have a 3.5mm audio input, you can use an HDMI audio extractor with a 3.5mm output, or route the audio through your controller’s headphone jack and then connect that to your speakers. Some advanced setups might even allow for USB audio, but that’s a bit more complex.
My Monitor Has Speakers, Why Is There No Sound From Ps4?
As discussed, many monitors are designed to display HDMI video but not to process or output the audio that comes with it. You’ll need to check your monitor’s manual or specifications to see if it explicitly states support for HDMI audio input and output. If it doesn’t, you’ll likely need an HDMI audio extractor.
What Is the Best Way to Get Audio From Ps4 to Monitor?
For most people, the simplest and most reliable method is using an HDMI audio extractor. It’s a dedicated device that does one thing well: separates the audio from the HDMI signal so you can output it to your headphones, speakers, or sound system independently of your monitor. It avoids fiddling with complex settings and works with virtually any monitor that has an HDMI input.
Final Thoughts
So, figuring out how to get audio from PS4 to monitor can feel like navigating a tech maze, but it’s usually a solvable problem with the right approach. Don’t get bogged down by overly complicated advice; most of the time, a simple HDMI audio extractor is your best bet for consistent results.
If you’re still stuck, double-check those PS4 audio settings. It’s amazing how often a simple configuration tweak can save you hours of frustration and the cost of unnecessary gadgets. Remember to test your components individually if you suspect a hardware failure.
Ultimately, the goal is to hear your games without the headache. Whether you’re aiming for crisp headset audio or booming surround sound through a separate system, getting that PS4 audio out of the console and into your ears is achievable. My final advice? Invest in a decent extractor. It’s a small price to pay for sound that doesn’t sound like it’s coming through a tin can.
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