Device help

Route Mac streaming audio to the correct HDMI display

Choose the connected display or speakers in macOS Sound settings after plugging in HDMI or switching away from a wireless output.

Apple MacBook Air product image
Photo by Apple

Confirm the output is visible

Open System Settings, Sound, then Output. Select the HDMI display if it can play audio, or choose the Mac speakers or a separate audio device if the display has no speakers. Play a short local audio clip to confirm the route. Some external devices control volume independently, so check the display or receiver’s own mute and volume if the Mac’s controls are unavailable.

Compare the stream with local audio

Keep the same output selected and try a streaming programme with a known stereo track. If local audio works but the stream is silent, check the player’s audio language and tab controls. If the HDMI device never appears as an option, reconnect it and test a direct route without a dock where practical. The Mac model, adapter and display name will help support reproduce the problem.

Sources