Correcting HDMI Input Switching on Sony HT-S5000

When the Sony HT‑S5000 soundbar appears to ignore the HDMI source you’ve selected on your TV or switch to the wrong input automatically, it can be frustrating. This guide walks you through the most common causes, step‑by‑step troubleshooting, and fixes that should restore reliable HDMI input switching for your system.

Understanding the HDMI Input Switching Problem

The HT‑S5000 is a powerful 5.1‑channel soundbar that connects to your TV via an HDMI‑ARC or HDMI‑eARC cable. In theory, a single cable should carry both audio and video signals and let the soundbar respond automatically when the TV source changes. In practice, a handful of factors can break this seamless interaction:

• Incorrect HDMI‑CEC (Consumer Electronics Control) settings on either the TV or the soundbar
• Faulty or mismatched HDMI cables
• Outdated firmware on the soundbar
• Remote‑control conflicts or mis‑configured input lists
• TV‑specific auto‑switching behavior that conflicts with the soundbar’s expectations

The goal of this article is to help you identify which of these factors is causing the issue and apply the correct solution.

Step 1 – Verify Cable Quality and Connections

The most common culprit is a damaged or low‑quality HDMI cable. A single pin that is not fully seated can cause the soundbar to fail to detect a signal change.

1. Inspect the cable for visible damage, kinks, or exposed wires.
2. Check both ends: The TV HDMI port and the soundbar’s HDMI‑ARC/eARC port. Make sure the connectors are clean and the cable is fully inserted.
3. Try a different cable: Even a known good cable can fail if it’s been bent repeatedly or if the ends have become worn. Use a certified HDMI 2.0 or higher cable that supports eARC if you plan to use the full 5.1 channel output.

If you have a spare cable, replace the existing one and test the system again. A clean, properly seated cable often resolves the switching issue right away.

Step 2 – Check the TV’s HDMI‑CEC Settings

Both the TV and the soundbar must agree on how to use HDMI‑CEC to control inputs. Misaligned settings can lead to the soundbar switching to the wrong input or not switching at all.

2.1 Locate CEC Settings

• On most modern TVs: Go to Settings → System → HDMI‑CEC (the name may vary – some brands call it “Anynet+,” “Bravia Sync,” “Simplink,” or “CEC”).
• Turn HDMI‑CEC on if it is currently off.
• Look for “Auto‑Switch” or “Auto‑Detect” options: These allow the TV to automatically switch the soundbar to the active input. Enable this feature if available.

2.2 Test the CEC Function

• Switch the TV input to a device connected to a different HDMI port (e.g., a game console).
• Observe whether the soundbar’s input changes to match the TV’s current source.
• If it does not, or if the soundbar switches to a random input, proceed to the next step.

Step 3 – Set the HT‑S5000 to the Correct Input Manually

Sometimes the soundbar’s input list is out of sync with the TV’s active source. Manually selecting the correct input can reset the internal state.

1. Press the “Input” button on the soundbar remote (or use the on‑screen menu on the soundbar if it has a display).
2. Choose the HDMI‑ARC/eARC input that corresponds to the TV’s HDMI port.
3. Watch the TV screen: It should display the same input as the soundbar shows.

If the soundbar changes to a different input on its own after this, it’s a sign that CEC is still overriding manual selection. Disable CEC on the soundbar or adjust its settings to prefer manual input.

Step 4 – Disable Auto‑Switching on the Soundbar (if applicable)

The HT‑S5000 offers an “Auto‑Switch” feature that automatically selects the HDMI input when it detects a signal. In some setups, especially with older TVs or certain cable providers, this can conflict with the TV’s auto‑switching behavior.

1. Navigate the soundbar’s menu: Press the “Menu” button, then find “Settings” → “Auto‑Switch.”
2. Turn Auto‑Switch OFF.
3. Save the setting and exit the menu.

After disabling Auto‑Switch, test the system by changing TV inputs. The soundbar should now remain on the selected input unless you explicitly change it via the remote or TV.

Step 5 – Adjust TV Auto‑Switching and Input Behavior

If your TV has a feature that automatically switches HDMI inputs when a signal is detected (some Samsung and LG TVs call it “Auto‑Detect” or “Input Switch”), you may need to fine‑tune this behavior.

1. Open the TV’s input settings (the menu varies by brand).
2. Look for “Auto‑Switch” or “Auto‑Detect” options and set them to “Off” or “Manual.”
3. Reboot the TV to ensure changes take effect.

By controlling the TV’s input switching behavior, you reduce the chance of conflicting commands between the TV and the soundbar.

Step 6 – Update the Soundbar’s Firmware

Firmware bugs can cause input switching glitches. Sony releases updates that address CEC compatibility and other features.

1. Connect the soundbar to the internet using Wi‑Fi or an Ethernet cable.
2. Press the “Home” button on the remote to access the home screen.
3. Navigate to Settings → System Settings → Update.
4. Select “Check for Updates.” If an update is available, download and install it.
5. Restart the soundbar after the update completes.

After updating, test HDMI input switching again. If the problem persists, proceed to the next step.

Step 7 – Perform a Factory Reset (as a Last Resort)

If none of the previous steps work, a factory reset may restore the soundbar to a clean state, eliminating misconfigured settings that are hard to locate.

1. Press and hold the “Power” button on the remote for about 10 seconds until the light blinks.
2. Select “Reset” from the on‑screen menu.
3. Confirm the reset. The soundbar will reboot and restore factory defaults.

After a reset, re‑configure the soundbar’s network and HDMI settings from scratch. This often clears hidden configuration bugs that can interfere with input switching.

Step 8 – Test with Multiple Devices

To isolate whether the problem is with a specific input device, try switching between different HDMI sources:

1. Connect a Blu‑ray player to HDMI 1.
2. Connect a gaming console to HDMI 2.
3. Connect a streaming stick to HDMI 3.

Switch the TV input among these devices and observe the soundbar’s response. If the soundbar only misbehaves with one particular device, the issue may lie in that device’s HDMI output or CEC implementation.

Step 9 – Contact Sony Support or TV Manufacturer

If after all the above troubleshooting the soundbar still switches inputs incorrectly or fails to detect a signal, the issue may be a deeper hardware problem or a firmware bug that has not yet been fixed.

• Sony Support: Use the phone number or live chat on the official Sony website. Provide them with the model number, firmware version, and a description of the problem.
• TV Manufacturer: If the TV’s HDMI‑CEC is at fault, the TV manufacturer may release an update or provide a workaround.

Quick Reference Checklist

Why HDMI Input Switching Matters

Correct HDMI input switching is not just about convenience. A soundbar that fails to recognize the TV’s active source can lead to:

• Audio lag or loss: The soundbar may continue to play audio from the wrong source, causing confusion and a poor viewing experience.
• Wrong audio format: The soundbar may default to stereo or a lower bitrate if it misinterprets the input.
• Power consumption: Constantly switching inputs can drain the soundbar’s power more quickly, especially if the device is in standby mode but still receives signals.

By ensuring reliable HDMI input switching, you guarantee that the soundbar delivers the correct audio track for the visual content you are watching, maintaining immersion and enjoyment.

Final Thoughts

HDMI input switching can feel like a fickle problem, but most of the time it stems from simple misconfigurations or faulty cables. By systematically following the steps above—starting with the cable, checking CEC settings, updating firmware, and finally resetting—the soundbar should return to reliable operation.

If you’ve already tried all of this and the issue persists, the problem is likely deeper and may require professional repair or replacement. Until then, remember that the soundbar’s settings, the TV’s settings, and the cable all play a role in a smooth, seamless audio experience.

Enjoy crisp, room‑filling sound from your Sony HT‑S5000 without the annoyance of input switching headaches.