Connecting PS4 to Speakers Without Optical Port: A Comprehensive Guide

When your speakers don't have an optical port, connecting them to your PS4 might seem challenging. However, there are various methods you can use to ensure you can enjoy immersive audio without any issues. This guide will walk you through the steps to connect your speakers to your PS4, ensuring a seamless audio experience.

1. Using an HDMI Audio Extractor

One of the most versatile methods is to use an HDMI audio extractor that has an optical output along with other audio outputs like RCA or 3.5mm. Here's what you need to do:

Connect the PS4 to the Extractor: Use an HDMI cable to connect your PS4 to the HDMI input of the extractor. Connect the Extractor to the Speakers: Use the appropriate cables (RCA or 3.5mm) to connect your speakers to the extractor.

With this setup, you can take advantage of higher audio quality often associated with digital optical connections.

2. Utilizing a 3.5mm AUX Cable

If your speakers come with a 3.5mm input, you can connect them using a 3.5mm AUX cable. Here's how:

Connect the Cable: Use the AUX cable to connect the PS4 controller's headphone jack to the speakers. Configure Audio Settings: On your PS4, go to Settings>Sound and Screen>Audio Output Settings and make sure that the audio is set to output through the controller.

This method is simple and doesn't require any additional hardware beyond the 3.5mm AUX cable.

3. Bluetooth Speakers

If your speakers support Bluetooth, pairing them with your PS4 is a breeze:

Access Bluetooth Settings: Go to Settings>Devices>Bluetooth Devices on your PS4. Pair the Speakers: Put your Bluetooth speakers in pairing mode and select them from the list on the PS4.

Bluetooth connectivity is convenient and allows you to move the speakers around freely without any wires.

4. RCA Connections

If your speakers have RCA inputs, you can use an HDMI converter that outputs RCA:

Connect the PS4: Use an HDMI cable to connect your PS4 to the HDMI input of the converter. Connect the Converter to the Speakers: Connect the converter’s RCA outputs to your speakers using RCA cables.

This method allows you to keep the speaker system simple and keeps everything neat and tidy.

5. USB Speakers

USB speakers can be directly connected to one of the USB ports on your PS4:

Connect the USB Speakers: Plug the USB speakers into the PS4's USB port. Adjust Audio Settings: Go to Settings>Sound and Screen>Audio Output Settings and select USB.

USB speakers come with their own set of benefits, such as easy portability and sometimes enhanced audio quality.

Steps to Configure Audio Settings

After connecting your speakers, you may need to adjust the audio output settings to ensure the best audio experience:

Access Settings: Go to Settings>Sound and Screen>Audio Output Settings. Select the Appropriate Output: Choose the appropriate output method based on your chosen connection (HDMI, USB, or audio device).

Following these methods, you should be able to connect your speakers to your PS4 without an optical port, ensuring a high-quality audio experience.

For those who prefer a more traditional setup, you can also use an optical output to RCA converter. These converters are widely available on Amazon and can be used to connect directly to an amplifier or receiver. An optical to RCA converter typically costs around $12, making it a cost-effective solution.

Alternatively, you can find used receivers at thrift stores or garage sales for under $25, and then connect your speakers to the receiver using RCA cables.