Why tulips remain relevant in 2026

In the era of HDMI and optical cables, analog connectors RCA (tulips) may seem like a relic of the past. However, they are still widely used in budget home theaters, retro audio systems and even some modern televisions. The main advantage of this method is ease of connection without having to buy expensive adapters or switches.

According to statistics Statista 2023, about 18% of users in Russia still use analog connections for audio transmission, especially in regions with limited access to modern technology. Moreover, many owners Sony STR-DH590 or Yamaha YHT-1840 note that tulips provide a “warmer” sound compared to digital interfaces, which is appreciated by music lovers. But how to organize such a connection correctly to avoid noise and quality loss?

In this article we will look at a unique feature of connecting through tulips: the ability to transmit multi-channel 5.1 sound with the correct configuration of the receiver, which is not available through the standard 3.5mm audio input. You will also learn which cables to choose for minimal signal loss and how to circumvent the limitations of modern Smart TVs.

What cables and adapters will you need?

To connect sound through tulips (RCA) you will need a minimum set of equipment, but its choice directly affects the quality of the transmission. Main components:

  • 🔌 RCA to RCA cable (“tulip-tulip”) - standard option for direct connection. Optimal length: 1.5–3 meters. Brands: Belkin, AudioQuest, Supra.
  • 🔄 3.5mm to RCA adapter - if the TV only has a mini-jack (AUDIO OUT). Important: the adapter must be passive (without an amplifier), otherwise distortion will occur.
  • 🎛️ Receiver or amplifier with entrance AUX IN or CD IN (usually marked with white and red connectors). Popular models: Denon AVR-S540BT, Onkyo TX-NR595.
  • 🔊 Additional Y-cable — if you need to split the signal into a subwoofer and front speakers (relevant for 2.1 systems).

When purchasing cables, pay attention to gold plated connectors — they oxidize less and provide better contact. Avoid cheap "no-name" options: their escaping is often insufficient, which leads to background noise (especially noticeable at high volumes).

📊 What type of connection do you use most often?
  • HDMI ARC
  • Optical cable (TOSLINK)
  • RCA (tulips)
  • 3.5mm audio cable
  • Other

Step-by-step instructions: connecting via tulips

The connection process consists of three stages: physical connection of devices, setting up the TV and configuring the receiver. Let's look at each step in detail.

1. Physical connection

First, unplug all devices to avoid short circuits when handling cables. Next:

  1. Locate the connector on the back of the TV AUDIO OUT (usually signed as RCA OUT or LINE OUT). On modern models Samsung QLED or LG OLED it may be hidden under a cover.
  2. Connect white and red plugs RCA cable to the corresponding sockets on the TV (white - left channel, red - right).
  3. Insert the other end of the cable into the input AUX IN or CD IN on the receiver. If there are multiple inputs, select one that is not used by other devices.

The cables are connected to the correct connectors (white → white, red → red)|

No exposed wires or damaged insulation|

The TV and receiver are unplugged|

Cables are not twisted or strained

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2. Setting up your TV

After connecting, turn on the TV and follow these steps (the instructions are universal for most brands, but there may be nuances):

  1. Go to the settings menu: Sound → Sound Out (on Sony Bravia) or Settings → Sound → Audio Output (on LG NanoCell).
  2. Select mode Analog output (may be called Variable Audio Out or Fixed Audio Out).
  3. Disable the option Digital output (if active) to avoid signal conflict.
  4. Set the output volume level to 80–90% - This is the optimal range for minimizing noise.

On some models (for example, Philips The One) may need to be activated External Speaker in section Sound → Advanced Settings. If there is no such item, check the firmware update.

3. Receiver configuration

Now switch to the receiver or amplifier:

  1. Turn on the mode AUX or CD (depending on where the cable is connected).
  2. In the sound settings menu (Sound Mode) select Stereo or Direct - this will disable unnecessary signal processing.
  3. If your system supports virtual surround (For example, Dolby Pro Logic II), activate it to simulate multi-channel audio.

After completing these steps, turn on a test signal (such as a YouTube video of speaker testing) and make sure that the sound is coming from the theater speakers and not the built-in TV speakers.

💡

If the sound is too quiet, check the setting Audio Delay in the receiver. A delay of 50–100 ms often solves the problem of audio and video being out of sync.

Common problems and their solutions

Even with the correct connection, difficulties may arise. Here are the most common of them and how to eliminate them:

Problem Possible reason Solution
No sound at all Incorrect source selected on the receiver Switch input to AUX or CD using the remote control
Sound is interrupted or distorted Poor contact in connectors or damaged cable Check the reliability of the connections, replace the cable with a shielded one
There is background noise (hissing) High gain level on the receiver Reduce the volume on TV to 70% and increase on the receiver
Sound comes through only one channel Incorrect connection (white/red plugs are reversed) Swap cables or check balance in TV settings
Audio delay relative to video Signal processing in the receiver Activate mode Direct or Pure Audio

If the problem persists, try reset sound settings on the TV to factory settings. On Samsung this is done through Settings → Support → Reset settings → Reset audio settings.

⚠️ Attention: On some TVs (for example, Xiaomi Mi TV 4S) Analog output is disabled automatically when connected via HDMI. To activate it, you must manually select PCM in sound settings (Settings → Sound → HDMI Audio Format).

How to improve sound quality through tulips

Analog connections are prone to interference, but there are ways to minimize the loss of quality. Here are some pro tips:

  • 🔇 Use balanced cables (with XLR connectors) instead of standard RCA, if your receiver supports such an input. This will reduce the noise level by 20–30%.
  • 🔌 Connect the TV and receiver to the same surge protector - this will eliminate the potential difference, which is often the cause of background noise.
  • 🎚️ Adjust the equalizer On the receiver: reduce the low frequencies (below 80 Hz) and increase the mid frequencies (1-3 kHz) for clearer speech.
  • 🛠️ Update the firmware TV - new versions often improve analog signal processing (relevant for LG CX/OLED And Sony X90J).

For system owners 5.1 there is a trick: if your receiver supports Dolby Pro Logic II, turn it on in the sound modes menu. This will distribute the stereo signal from the tulips across all speakers, creating a surround sound effect. Customization available on most models Denon And Marantz.

What to do if there is no RCA output on the TV?

If your TV (for example, Samsung The Frame 2023) is not equipped with an analog output, you can use digital-to-analog converter (DAC) with optical input. Connect your TV to the DAC via TOSLINK, and then connect the DAC to the receiver via RCA. Popular DAC models: Topping D10s, FiiO D3.

Comparison of tulips with other connection methods

To understand whether it's worth using RCA, let's compare this method with alternative options:

Connection method Max. sound quality Latency (ms) Difficulty connecting Cost
RCA (tulips) Stereo/2.1 0–5 Low $$ (cable 300–1500 ₽)
3.5mm audio cable Stereo 0–10 Low $ (cable 100–500 ₽)
HDMI ARC Dolby Atmos, DTS:X 20–50 Average $$$ (cable 1000–3000 ₽)
Optical (TOSLINK) Dolby Digital 5.1 10–30 Average $$ (cable 500–2000 ₽)

As can be seen from the table, tulips are losing in terms of supported formats, but win in terms of minimum delay and ease of setup. This method is ideal for watching movies where the synchronization of sound and video is critical (for example, in action films or music videos).

Another advantage of RCA is compatibility with old technology. If you have a vintage amp Sony TA-FE370 or columns JBL LSR305, connecting through tulips will be the most reliable option.

💡

Tulips are the only way to transmit an analog signal without compression, which is appreciated by audiophiles when listening to vinyl records or cassettes via TV.

Connection features on popular TV models

Manufacturers implement analog outputs differently. Let's look at the nuances for the most common brands.

Samsung (QLED, Crystal UHD, The Frame)

On TVs Samsung 2019–2026 release AUDIO OUT often combined with DIGITAL AUDIO OUT (OPTICAL). To activate an analog signal:

  1. Go to Settings → Sound → Expert settings → Audio output.
  2. Select Analogue output (variable).
  3. Disable Anynet+ (HDMI-CEC)if it interferes with RCA operation.

LG (OLED, NanoCell, QNED)

U LG analog output can be hidden in the menu Additional settings. Important:

  • On models C1/C2/G2 must be disabled first LG Sound Sync (in section Sound → Sound Devices).
  • If exit RCA missing, use adapter with 3.5 mm on RCA, connected to the headphone jack.

Sony (Bravia XR, X90J, A80J)

Sony traditionally supports analog outputs even in top models. Features:

  • On the menu Sound → Audio Out select Analogue (fixed) for a stable signal level.
  • On XR-series mode available Center Speaker Mode, which duplicates the voice channel to the central speaker of the cinema.

Xiaomi, TCL, Hisense

Budget brands often skimp on connectors. If on your Xiaomi Mi TV P1 or TCL 6-series no RCA, use:

  • Adapter from 3.5 mm to RCA (connects to headphone output).
  • Bluetooth transmitter (For example, 1Mii B06 Pro), if the delay is not critical.
⚠️ Attention: On TVs Philips with the system Android TV (For example, Philips 8505) analog output may conflict with Google Assistant. To avoid automatically switching to the built-in speakers, turn off the voice assistant in Settings.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Is it possible to transmit 5.1 sound through tulips?

No, a standard RCA cable only carries a stereo signal (2.0 or 2.1). However, some receivers (for example, Yamaha RX-V485) can simulate multi-channel audio through technology Dolby Pro Logic II, distributing stereo over 5 speakers. For true 5.1 you will need an optical cable or HDMI ARC.

Why is the sound through tulips quieter than through HDMI?

This is due to the fact that the analog signal is not amplified by the TV's digital processors. Solution:

  1. Increase the volume on the receiver to 70–80%.
  2. In TV settings, select Analogue output (variable) instead of fixed.
  3. Check if the receiver mode is activated Late Night (it artificially lowers the volume).
Can tulips be connected to a soundbar?

Yes, if the soundbar has an input AUX IN (3.5 mm or RCA). For example, Samsung HW-Q600C or LG SP8YA support this connection. Use an adapter RCA → 3.5 mmif the connectors do not match. The sound quality will be better than via Bluetooth, but worse than via HDMI ARC.

How can I check if the analog output on my TV is working?

Connect to output RCA OUT headphones through the adapter and turn on any sound file. If there is a signal, but it is not on the receiver, the problem is in the cable or the cinema settings. If there is no signal even in headphones:

  • Check if the output is disabled in the service menu (on some Samsung this is done through *#0000#).
  • Update your TV's firmware.
  • Reset your audio settings to factory settings.
What is the maximum length of an RCA cable without loss of quality?

For domestic use, the optimal length is up to 5 meters. For longer lengths it is recommended:

  • Use cables with double shielding (For example, Canare L-4E6S).
  • Connect signal booster (For example, Behringer MIC2200).
  • Avoid laying cables near sources of interference (routers, microwaves).

At a length of 10+ meters it is better to switch to balanced connection (XLR) or optical cable.