Televisions LG middle and budget segments often lack built-in Bluetooth module, and models without Smart TV don't support wireless connections at all. However, even such a TV can be connected wireless headphones There are workarounds for this using external adapters, crossovers, and alternative interfaces. The key is to choose the right method based on the available ports on your TV and the type of headphones you have.
In this article we will look at All possible ways to connect wireless headphones to LG without Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, from the simplest (through 3.5 mm AUX) to advanced (through HDMI ARC or external Bluetooth transmitter). You'll learn what equipment you'll need, how to avoid audio lag, and which adapter models work best with TVs. LG 2018–2026. We will pay special attention to solutions for TCL/Roku TV at the base LG WebOS - they often have limited capabilities.
If your TV is older than 2015 or belongs to the series LG LED/LCD without Smart platform, most of the methods in this article will work for it as well. The only exception is methods that require digital outputs (optics or HDMI ARC), which may not be present in the oldest models.
1. Checking available ports on your LG TV
Before choosing a connection method, inspect the back or side panel of your TV. The type of available ports will determine what equipment you'll need. Here's what to look for:
- 🔌 3.5 mm AUX (mini-jack) — an analog headphone output. This is found on almost all models, even the oldest ones.
- 💿 Optical output (TOSLINK) — digital audio output, found in mid-range and premium segment TVs.
- 📺 HDMI ARC/eARC — a modern interface for audio transmission, supported in models since 2017.
- 🔄 RCA (tulips) - analog output (white/red connectors), rarely found in new TVs.
If on yours LG there is only RCA or AUX, you will need Bluetooth transmitter with analog input. For optics or HDMI ARC More advanced adapters with support will be suitable aptX Low Latency (to minimize audio delay).
| TV connector | Headphone type | Necessary equipment | Sound delay |
|---|---|---|---|
3.5 mm AUX |
Any Bluetooth | Bluetooth transmitter with AUX input | 100–200 ms |
Optics (TOSLINK) |
Bluetooth with aptX LL | Bluetooth transmitter with optical input | 40–80 ms |
HDMI ARC |
Bluetooth or Wi-Fi | Soundbar with Bluetooth or TV set-top box | 20–50 ms |
RCA |
Bluetooth | Bluetooth transmitter with RCA input + RCA→AUX adapter | 150–250 ms |
⚠️ Warning: On TVs LG series UK6300 and earlier (2018-2019) the optical output may be blocked when using some applications (e.g. Netflix or YouTube). In this case, the sound will be transmitted only throughHDMI ARCorAUX.
2. Method 1: Connecting via 3.5mm AUX (the easiest method)
If your TV LG equipped with standard 3.5 mm An audio output is the most cost-effective and versatile connection method. You'll need:
- 🎧 Bluetooth transmitter with AUX input (For example, 1Mii B06 Plus or Avantek APT-X).
- 🔋 AUX-AUX 3.5 mm cable (usually comes with the transmitter).
- 📱 Wireless headphones with support
Bluetooth 4.0and above.
Step-by-step instructions:
- Connect Bluetooth transmitter to the TV through
3.5 mm AUX. - Turn on the transmitter and put it into pairing mode (usually hold the power button for 3-5 seconds until the indicator light flashes).
- Activate search mode on the headphones and select the device from the list (transmitter model name).
- On the TV in the sound menu (
Settings → Sound → Sound Output) selectAudio output (3.5 mm).
Make sure the AUX output on the TV is working (try regular wired headphones) |
Charge the Bluetooth transmitter and headphones|
Select the correct sound source in the TV settings|
Turn off other Bluetooth devices nearby to avoid interference-->
The main disadvantage of this method is sound delay (lip sync), which can reach 200 ms. To reduce it:
- Use a transmitter with support
aptX Low Latency(For example, Creative BT-W5). - In the headphone settings (if available), select the mode
Game/Movie. - Make sure there are no obstacles (walls, furniture) between the transmitter and the headphones.
⚠️ Warning: On TVs LG OLED series C1/C2 when connecting viaAUXThe sound from the built-in speakers may be automatically muted. To turn it back on, go toSettings → Sound → Sound Output → External Speaker (AUX) + TV.
3. Method 2: Connecting via optical output (TOSLINK)
Optical output provides higher quality sound and lower latency compared to AUXThis method is suitable for TVs. LG middle and premium segment (series UN, UK, SK, NanoCell, OLED). You will need:
- 💿 Bluetooth transmitter with optical input (For example, 1Mii B06 Pro or Mpow BH359A).
- 🔌 TOSLINK cable (optical cable).
- 🎧 Headphones with aptX LL support (For example, Sony WH-1000XM5 or Sennheiser Momentum 4).
Connection instructions:
- Connect the optical cable to the output
Digital Audio Out (Optical)on TV. - Connect the other end of the cable to the Bluetooth transmitter.
- Turn on the transmitter and activate pairing mode.
- On the headphones, start searching for devices and connect to the transmitter.
- In the TV menu (
Settings → Sound → Sound Output) selectDigital audio output (optical).
Advantages of optical connection:
- 🎵 Without loss of sound quality (as opposed to AUX).
- ⏱️ Minimal delay (40–80 ms when using
aptX LL). - 🔇 Multi-channel audio support (5.1, 7.1), if headphones support it.
How to check if the optical output is working on LG?
On some models LG The optical output is disabled by default. To enable it:
1. Go to Settings → Sound → Additional settings.
2. Find the item Digital audio output and select On or PCM.
3. If the option is missing, update the TV firmware (see section 6).
If the sound is not transmitted:
- Check if the optical cable is inserted correctly (it should click).
- Make sure the transmitter is in the selected mode.
Optical In(and not AUX). - Turn it off in your TV settings.
HDMI ARC, if it interferes with the operation of the optical output.
4. Method 3: Connecting via HDMI ARC (for modern models)
If your TV LG supports HDMI ARC (Audio Return Channel), you can connect headphones through soundbar or TV set-top box with Bluetooth. This method ensures minimal latency and high sound quality.
You will need:
- 📦 Soundbar with Bluetooth (For example, LG SN5Y, Samsung HW-Q600C).
- 🔌 High Speed HDMI Cable (version 2.0 or higher).
- 🎧 Wireless headphones (any compatible with soundbar).
Step-by-step setup:
- Connect the soundbar to the TV via the port
HDMI ARC(usually signed on the back panel). - In the TV menu (
Settings → Sound → Sound Output) selectHDMI ARC. - Turn on the soundbar and activate Bluetooth mode.
- Connect your headphones to the soundbar (like a regular Bluetooth device).
An alternative option is to use TV set-top box (For example, Apple TV 4K or Nvidia Shield):
- Connect the set-top box to the TV via
HDMI. - In the set-top box settings, activate Bluetooth audio transmission.
- Connect the headphones to the set-top box.
- On your TV, select Sound from the Sound menu.
HDMIas a source.
⚠️ Warning: On TVs LG With WebOS versions below 5.0 when connecting via HDMI ARC The sound may disappear in some applications (for example, Prime Video). The solution is to update the firmware or use the optical output.
5. Method 4: Connection via RCA (tulips) - for older models
If your TV LG produced before 2016 and equipped only RCA output (red/white connectors), you will need:
- 🔌 Bluetooth transmitter with RCA input (For example, TaoTronics TT-BA07).
- 🔄 RCA → 3.5 mm adapter (if the transmitter does not have an RCA input).
- 🎧 Headphones with Bluetooth 4.2+.
Instructions:
- Connect
RCA cableto the TV (red - right channel, white - left). - If your transmitter doesn't have an RCA input, use an adapter.
RCA → 3.5 mm. - Connect the transmitter and activate pairing mode.
- Connect the headphones.
- In the TV menu (
Settings → Sound → Sound Output) selectAudio output (RCA).
Features of this method:
- ⚠️ Maximum delay (up to 250 ms) due to double signal conversion (analog → digital → Bluetooth).
- 🔊 Mono sound - Many RCA transmitters do not support stereo.
- 🔋 Low volume - an amplifier may be required.
If the sound is too quiet:
- In your TV settings, increase the output level to
RCA(if there is such a parameter). - Use a transmitter with a volume control (eg Mpow BH129).
- Connect between TV and transmitter headphone amplifier.
6. Method 5: Using an external Bluetooth adapter for USB (if there is a port)
Some TVs LG (for example, series UN7300, UK6500) have USB port, but do not support Bluetooth. In this case, you can use USB Bluetooth adapter, but with reservations:
- 🖥️ USB-Bluetooth adapter (For example, TP-Link UB400 or Asus USB-BT400).
- 🎧 Headphones with support
A2DP. - 🔧 Flashing a TV with USB audio support (not all models support).
How to connect:
- Insert the Bluetooth adapter into
USB portTV. - In the TV menu, go to
Settings → General → Devices → Bluetooth. - If the item
Bluetoothappeared - activate the device search and connect the headphones. - If there is no Bluetooth menu, the adapter is not compatible (see alternatives below).
Problems and solutions:
- The adapter is not detected → The TV does not support USB audio. Use the method with
AUXoroptics. - The sound is interrupted → Disconnect other USB devices (flash drives, keyboards).
- There is no sound in the headphones → In the sound settings, select
USBas a source.
7. How to reduce audio latency (lip sync) over a wireless connection
Audio lag is the most common issue when connecting wireless headphones to a TV. Depending on the connection method, it can range from 20 to 300 ms. Here's how to minimize it:
| Connection method | Typical delay | How to reduce |
|---|---|---|
HDMI ARC + Soundbar |
20–50 ms | Use soundbar with aptX LL or eARC. |
Optics + Bluetooth (aptX LL) |
40–80 ms | Select a transmitter with Low Latency (For example, 1Mii B06 Pro). |
AUX + Bluetooth |
100–200 ms | Disable sound processing in headphones (EQ, noise reduction). |
RCA + Bluetooth |
150–250 ms | Use headphones with manual delay adjustment (eg. Sony WH-1000XM4). |
Additional tips:
- 🔄 Update your TV's firmware — new versions often optimize sound processing.
- 📵 Disconnect other Bluetooth devices nearby (smartphones, speakers).
- 🔊 Use headphones and transmitter of the same brand (For example, Sony + Sony) - this reduces codec conflicts.
- 🎛️ Adjust the delay manually (if there is such an option in the headphones or transmitter).
If latency is critical (for example, for games or movies with fast dialogue), the best option is HDMI ARC or optics With aptX Low LatencyTo watch news or music it is enough and AUX-connections.
8. Common mistakes and their solutions
When connecting wireless headphones to LG Without Bluetooth, users often encounter common problems. Here are the most common ones and how to fix them:
- 🔇 There is no sound in the headphones:
- Check if the correct audio source is selected in the TV settings (
Settings → Sound → Sound Output). - Make sure the Bluetooth transmitter is turned on and paired with the headphones.
- If you use
optics, check if the outlet is plugged with a protective plug.
- Check if the correct audio source is selected in the TV settings (
- 🔊 The sound only comes through the TV.:
- In the TV menu, turn off the built-in speakers (
Settings → Sound → TV Speakers → Off). - For
HDMI ARCactivate the optionAudio Return Channel (ARC).
- In the TV menu, turn off the built-in speakers (
- 🔋 The Bluetooth transmitter does not turn on:
- Check the charging (some models require a USB connection to work).
- Reset the transmitter to factory settings (usually the button
Reseton the body).
- 🎵 The sound is interrupted or distorted:
- Reduce the distance between the transmitter and the headphones (maximum 10 meters).
- Turn off noise cancellation or 3D sound features on your headphones.
- Change the codec to
SBC(in the headphones or transmitter settings).
⚠️ Warning: On TVs LG With WebOS when connecting viaopticsorHDMI ARCThe volume may drop after switching channels. The solution is to disable this feature.Automatic volume controlin the sound settings.
If none of the methods worked:
- Check if the sound on the remote is muted (
Mute button). - Reset your TV to factory settings (
Settings → General → Reset). - Contact support LG - In some models, sound outputs are blocked due to regional restrictions.
FAQ: Answers to Frequently Asked Questions
Can AirPods be connected to an LG TV without Bluetooth?
Yes, but with reservations. AirPods (including AirPods Pro And AirPods Max) support only Bluetooth, so you will need an external one Bluetooth transmitter (For example, 1Mii B06 Plus). Connect it via AUX or optics, then conjugate AirPods with a transmitter. Please note that the audio delay can reach 200 ms, and the functions Spatial Audio will not work.
Why does the sound in my headphones lag behind the picture by 1–2 seconds?
This delay occurs due to:
- Uses
AUXorRCA- these interfaces add delay when converting the signal. - Codec incompatibilities (for example, if the transmitter uses
SBC, and the headphones areAAC). - Old versions of Bluetooth (below 4.0).
Solutions:
- Go to
optical connectionwith a transmitter that supportsaptX Low Latency. - In the headphone settings, select the mode
Game ModeorLow Latency. - Update the firmware of your TV and transmitter.
What are the best Bluetooth transmitters for LG?
Recommended models (in order of priority):
- 1Mii B06 Pro - optimal for
optical input, supportsaptX LL. - Avantek APT-X - the best for
AUX, minimal delay. - Mpow BH359A - a budget option with
RCAAndAUX. - Creative BT-W5 - premium transmitter for
opticsAndcoaxial. - TaoTronics TT-BA07 - for old TVs with
RCA.
When choosing, pay attention to:
- Input type (must match the connector on the TV).
- Codec support (
aptX LL,AAC). - The presence of a volume control (important for
RCA).
Is it possible to connect multiple pairs of headphones at the same time?
Yes, but you need it for that Bluetooth transmitter with multi-connection support (For example, 1Mii B06 Plus or Avantek APT-X). Most models allow you to connect 2 pairs of headphones simultaneously. For larger quantities, specialized equipment will be required (e.g. Bluetooth hub).
Restrictions:
- Audio latency may increase when multiple devices are connected.
- Not all codecs (for example,
aptX) support multi-connection. - The headphones can have different volume levels (adjusted separately).
What should I do if my LG TV doesn't detect the Bluetooth transmitter?
The problem may be:
- Protocol incompatibilities — the transmitter uses
Bluetooth 5.0, and the TV only supports4.0(relevant for USB adapters). - Port blocking - on some models LG
USBoropticsare disabled by default (see section 3). - Cable faults - try another one
AUXoroptical cable.
Solutions:
- Connect the transmitter to another source (for example, a smartphone) - if it works, the problem is with the TV.
- Update your TV firmware.
- Reset sound settings to factory defaults.