Bluetooth soundbars have become a popular audio solution for desktop setups due to their small size and wireless connectivity. Regardless, even the most reliable models can suffer from frustrating glitches. These issues are not always caused by faulty hardware; they’re often tied to connection interference, software mismatches, or user oversight.

Explore a breakdown of common Bluetooth soundbar issues and how to resolve them.

1. Intermittent Audio Dropouts

One of the most reported problems is random sound cut-outs during playback. This issue is often caused by Bluetooth interference from nearby wireless devices or poor signal quality.

Fix: Ensure the desktop soundbar is within 1–2 metres of the Bluetooth source, with no large metal or concrete obstacles in between. Remove or disable other Bluetooth or Wi-Fi devices nearby that may be operating on the same 2.4GHz frequency. Updating the PC or soundbar firmware can also stabilise connectivity.

2. Lag Between Video and Audio

A common complaint, especially among gamers and video editors, is audio lag, where the sound from the Bluetooth soundbar trails behind the visual content. This latency is typical in wireless audio transmission but becomes more apparent with high-precision applications.

Fix: Switch the soundbar to a wired AUX or optical connection if latency becomes unmanageable. Alternatively, choose soundbars that support low-latency codecs, like aptX Low Latency, and ensure your PC’s Bluetooth adapter also supports the same codec. Disabling audio enhancements in the Sound Settings of Windows devices can sometimes reduce lag as well.

3. Bluetooth Pairing Issues

Some desktop soundbars fail to appear in Bluetooth device lists, or they keep disconnecting shortly after pairing. This glitch could be caused by outdated drivers or conflicting pairings stored on the soundbar.

Fix: Clear the soundbar’s pairing memory, usually done by holding down a specific button combination until the LED flashes. On Windows PCs, go to Device Manager and update the Bluetooth drivers. Restart both devices and try pairing again from scratch. Test the soundbar with another device if the issue keeps persisting to isolate whether the problem is with the soundbar or the desktop.

ALSO READ: How to Choose the Best Soundbar For Your Home

4. Low Volume Output Despite Max Settings

Users may find that the desktop soundbar sounds too quiet, even when both the PC and soundbar are turned up to maximum. This issue often stems from software-level limitations or mismatched audio output settings.

Fix: Ensure your PC’s audio output is set to “Stereo” or “Headphones” rather than “5.1” or “Surround,” which can cause channel misdirection. Go to the Windows “Sound Control Panel,” select the Bluetooth soundbar, and check for any low-volume presets under “Properties.” Some soundbars also have internal modes that limit output, such as “Night Mode,” which should be turned off.

5. Soundbar Not Recognised After Sleep Mode

It’s common for a desktop soundbar to stop reconnecting automatically after a PC wakes from sleep mode. This problem happens when the system disables Bluetooth to save power.

Fix: Go to Device Manager > Bluetooth > Right-click your adapter > Properties > Power Management tab. Uncheck “Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power.” Restart your computer. Meanwhile, Mac users should disable “Power Nap” and ensure Bluetooth remains enabled when idle.

6. Distorted or Crackling Sound During Playback

Another frequent issue with desktop soundbars is distorted audio, where the sound cracks, buzzes, or becomes unclear during playback. This glitch can be caused by signal interference, outdated audio drivers, or even incompatible file formats.

Fix: First, try playing audio from a different application or file to rule out media-related corruption. Next, disconnect and reconnect the Bluetooth connection to refresh the signal. On Windows, update your audio and Bluetooth drivers via Device Manager. Also, check that the desktop soundbar isn’t positioned near routers or unshielded electronics, which can introduce electrical noise. The issue may be hardware-related and require professional servicing if the distortion persists even with a wired input.

Conclusion

Most Bluetooth soundbar glitches are easy to resolve once you understand the root cause. From latency issues to failed pairings, these problems are usually tied to either system settings or environmental interference. You can keep your soundbar functioning optimally without resorting to service calls or unnecessary replacements by following the fixes above.

Visit One Futureworld to shop for Bluetooth soundbars with low-latency support and multi-device connectivity features.