Start with a clean baseline
Input and output are separate paths. Prove left/right playback and microphone capture independently before blaming Bluetooth, the app or the entire headset.
Live evidence
Relevant checks
Left Right Speaker TestPlay left and right channel tones separately.
→Stereo Audio TestPlay stereo cues to verify channel separation.
→Stereo Phase TestPlay an out-of-phase stereo reference tone to help identify channel or wiring behavior by listening.
→Speaker Frequency Sweep TestPlay a user-controlled frequency sweep for speaker/headphone inspection.
→First sequence
Do the high-signal checks before risky changes
- 1
Confirm TV or source audio-output mode and selected connection
- 2
Compare another source or input
- 3
Use the soundbar maker's test and update guidance for persistent faults
Decision points
What the result should change
If playback passes but microphone failsKeep the diagnosis on input selection, headset profile, mute/gain or microphone hardware.
If only one channel failsCompare cable/earcup/driver and balance settings rather than reinstalling all audio drivers.
If browser audio passes but conferencing audio failsPrioritize the conferencing app's device routing and processing.
Browser can help check
- Generate controlled stereo and frequency audio from the browser source
- Help prove whether a source browser can output sound
Browser cannot prove
- Read HDMI or eARC handshake state generically
- Test individual soundbar amplifiers or drivers
- Verify surround decoding from every TV or app
Repair boundary
Know when to stop browser troubleshooting
- High playback levels can damage hearing; use moderate levels during tests.
- Bluetooth codec/profile negotiation is not fully exposed to websites.
- Battery swelling or heat in wireless audio devices requires service/disposal guidance.
Used-device inspection
What to verify before paying or signing off a repair
- Left/right and frequency sweep at safe level
- Microphone recording and mute controls
- Wired/wireless connection modes and charging behavior