OPTICAL TO HDMI CONVERTER

@mj_kavanagh,

My thoughts are to perhaps use an audio extractor … see this link:

https://www.amazon.co.uk/SOUTHSKY-Converter-Digital-Extractor-Adjustable-Black/dp/B087N4K7KK

Connect the extractor between the TV (HDMI-ARC) port and connect its optical out port to the Playbar and see if that resolves the problem. Note the extractor above is just one I selected at random and you may find cheaper/better alternatives online at Amazon and other similar outlets.

(edit: I see you’ve got it working now, but if the TV optical connection does cause issues, then perhaps the extractor might prove to be an alternative option a little further down the line).

Glad to hear you got it working. If it breaks again try something like this extender cable and a bit of hot-glue to lock it into the TV once it is properly aligned.

https://www.amazon.com/SOUNDFAM-Optical-Extension-Toslink-Gold-Plated/dp/B096SBJQW4/ref=sr_1_5

I don’t like this sort of optical cable because the thick, stiff cable, combined with the large connector, risks damage to the socket. While I generally don’t like cheap cables, I prefer the cheap, flexible optical cables with small connectors because the risk of socket damage is much lower. In terms of signal quality, the cheap cables should not be used for long runs. I begin to get nervous as the cheap cable length reaches about 15feet.

I have used more expensive, flexible cable for a 45 foot run to a PLAYBAR. This particular cable was flexible enough that I did not have major worries about socket damage, but the the plugs were larger than I liked.

thank all for the help. this is what i have ordered which should hopefully relieve the problem 

I’m a fan of 90 degree connectors. People don’t always have a lot of space behind all devices. 

Just a clarification, what I suggested was a short Male-Female extender cable, not a standard Male-Male optical cable, with the intent it be positioned carefully and permanently attached to the TV.