How to change the audio output on PS4 consoles

Learn how to change the audio output on your PlayStation®4 console.

How to change the primary audio output port on PS4 consoles

When you connect your PS4® console to your TV, home theatre, or other connected device, the audio format that's output from the PS4 console is automatically optimized for that device. If you connect a device to the PS4 console's DIGITAL OUT (OPTICAL) port, you can manually change the audio output setting.

    1. Go to Settings > Sound and Screen.
    2. Select Audio Output Settings > Primary Output Port.
    3. Select DIGITAL OUT (OPTICAL).
    • The CUH-2000 series doesn't have an optical digital output terminal.
    • Please note, if your speakers can't support the selected audio output from your PS4 console, they might get damaged.
    • Your PS4 console can't output video and audio if a device connected via HDMI isn't compatible with HDCP (High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection). HDCP can be turned off for gameplay only.
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    How to change HDCP settings on PS4 consoles

    HDCP stands for High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection, and it prevents gameplay and video content from being recorded using external computers or video capture systems. By default, HDCP is enabled for the HDMI output on your PS4 console.

    You can enable or disable HDCP settings by following the steps below. Please note, all applications close when you make this change.

    1. Go to Settings > System.
    2. In the Enable HDCP setting, place a check in the box to enable, or remove the check to disable HDCP.
    • This feature works for gameplay only. If you try to play a Blu-Ray, DVD, or DRM video through a streaming service, the PS4 console will display a message instructing you to enable HDCP to view the content.

    How to set output to headphones on PS4 consoles

    You can set your audio output to your compatible headset for all audio, or only chat audio.

    1. Go to Settings > Devices.
    2. Select Audio Devices > Output to Headphones. The default setting is Chat Audio.
    Visit the online user’s guide for more information

    How to set audio format (priority)

    You can set the format of audio output from the PS4 console.

    1. Go to Settings > Sound and Screen.
    2. Select Audio Output Settings > Audio Format(Priority). The default setting is Linear PCM.

    Having issues?

    Some of the questions you may have about audio settings are covered below.

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