Sony HT-S400 Sound Bar Operating Instructions

Safety Precautions

On Safety

Should any solid object or liquid fall into the speaker system, unplug it and have it checked by qualified personnel before further operation. Do not climb on the speaker system to avoid injury or damage.

On Power Sources

Check that the operating voltage matches your local power supply. Disconnect from the wall outlet when not in use for extended periods. Grasp the plug, not the cord, to disconnect. Ensure the plug fits correctly; contact a dealer if it does not. The AC power cord must only be replaced by qualified service personnel.

On Heat Buildup

The speaker system may heat up during operation, which is normal. Avoid touching the unit to prevent burns, especially during prolonged high-volume use.

On Placement

Place in a location with adequate ventilation. Avoid heat sources, direct sunlight, excessive dust, and mechanical shock. Do not place objects on the bar speaker. Keep away from TVs, VCRs, or tape decks to prevent noise or picture quality issues. Use caution on treated surfaces to prevent staining. Be mindful of the bar speaker's corners to avoid injury.

On Operation

Turn off and unplug the speaker system before connecting other equipment. If color irregularity is observed on a nearby TV, turn the TV off and on again after 15-30 minutes. If the issue persists, move the speaker system further from the TV.

On Cleaning

Clean with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use abrasive pads, scouring powder, or solvents like alcohol or benzine.

About These Operating Instructions

These instructions describe remote control operations. Illustrations may differ from actual products. Characters in brackets [ ] appear on the front panel display.

Installation and Connection

Connecting a TV with an HDMI Cable and/or Optical Cable

Refer to the separate Startup Guide for connection details.

Mounting the Bar Speaker on a Wall

The bar speaker can be mounted on a wall. Ensure you use appropriate screws for your wall material and strength. For plasterboard walls, secure screws into wall beams. Install horizontally, hung by screws in studs. Professional installation by a Sony dealer or licensed contractor is recommended for safety. Note that large plugs may prevent wall mounting. Sony is not responsible for damage due to improper installation.

Steps for Wall Mounting:

1. Prepare two suitable screws (not supplied) for the rear wall mount holes.
2. Align the vertical line on the WALL MOUNT TEMPLATE with the center of your TV's width.
3. Align the bottom line on the WALL MOUNT TEMPLATE with the bottom of your TV, then adhere the template to the wall using adhesive tape.
4. Fasten the screws securely into the screw marks on the template's screw line.
5. Remove the WALL MOUNT TEMPLATE.
6. Hang the bar speaker on the screws by aligning its rear holes with the screws.

Note: Ensure the WALL MOUNT TEMPLATE is smoothed out fully when applying it.

Connecting the Subwoofer Manually

Perform manual connection if the subwoofer cannot connect automatically or if you need to specify the wireless link for multiple wireless products.

Steps for Manual Connection:

1. Press and hold the [BLUETOOTH] and [VOLUME +] buttons on the bar speaker for more than 5 seconds. The display will show [SECURE LINK], then [LINK] will flash. To cancel, repeat this step.
2. Press the [LINK] button on the subwoofer. The manual connection begins, and the subwoofer's power indicator flashes amber.
3. Confirm that [DONE] appears on the front panel display. The connection is established, and the subwoofer's power indicator lights amber.

Note: If [ERROR] appears, the connection failed. Repeat the manual connection process.

Parts and Controls

Bar Speaker

Front Controls and Indicators

• [POWER] button: Turns the speaker system on or sets it to standby mode.
• [TV] button: Selects the TV input.
• [BLUETOOTH] button: Activates Bluetooth function.
• [VOLUME +/–] buttons: Adjusts the volume level.
• BLUETOOTH indicator: Indicates Bluetooth status (flashes twice in blue for pairing standby, flashes blue for connection attempt, lights blue for connected).
• Front panel display: Shows system status and information.
• Remote control sensor: Receives signals from the remote control.

Rear Connections

• AC inlet: Connects the AC power cord.
• HDMI OUT (TV (ARC)) jack: Connects to a TV's HDMI input supporting Audio Return Channel (ARC) for sending TV sound to the speaker system.
• TV IN (OPTICAL) jack: Connects to a TV's optical audio output.
• IR repeater: Relays TV remote control signals to the TV if the bar speaker obstructs the TV's sensor.
• UPDATE port: USB Type-A port for software updates using a USB memory device.

Subwoofer

• Power indicator: Shows connection status (green: connected, red: standby, amber: manually connected, flashing green/amber: attempting connection, flashing twice amber: pairing standby, flashing amber quickly: software updating, off: powered off).
• [POWER] button: Turns the subwoofer on or off.
• LINK button: Used for manual subwoofer connection.
• AC inlet: Connects the AC power cord.

Remote Control

Buttons and their functions:

• [INPUT]: Selects the input source (cycles between TV and BLUETOOTH).
• [SOUND FIELD]: Turns the surround effect on or off.
• [VOLUME +/–]: Adjusts the main volume. The [VOLUME +] button has a tactile dot for guidance.
• [BASS +/–]: Adjusts the subwoofer volume.
• [POWER]: Turns the speaker system on or sets it to standby.
• [VOICE]: Turns the voice enhancement mode on or off.
• [NIGHT]: Activates or deactivates night mode for low-volume listening.
• [MUTE]: Temporarily mutes the sound.

Battery Replacement: If the remote control is unresponsive, replace the two R03 (size AAA) batteries.

Listening to Music/Sound

Listening to a TV Connected with an HDMI Cable (ARC) or Optical Digital Cable

1. Press [INPUT] repeatedly until [TV] is displayed on the front panel.
2. Adjust the volume using the [VOLUME +/–] buttons on the remote control.
3. Adjust the subwoofer volume using the [BASS +/–] buttons on the remote control.

Note: If both HDMI ARC and Optical jacks are connected, the input is selected based on which signal is received first.

Tip: You can also select the TV input by pressing the [TV] button on the bar speaker.

Listening to Music from a Mobile Device with the BLUETOOTH® Function

Connect your smartphone or tablet wirelessly via Bluetooth to play music through the speaker system without needing the TV.

Listening to Music by Pairing with a Mobile Device

Pairing is required to establish a wireless connection.

1. Press and hold the [BLUETOOTH] button on the bar speaker for 2 seconds. The BLUETOOTH indicator will flash blue twice, and [PAIRING] will appear on the display.
2. On your mobile device, search for Bluetooth devices and select "HT-S400". If prompted, enter "0000" as the passkey.
3. Once connected, the BLUETOOTH indicator will light blue, and [BT] will appear on the display.
4. Start audio playback from your mobile device's music app.
5. Adjust the volume using the remote control's [VOLUME +/–] and [BASS +/–] buttons.

Notes: Up to 9 Bluetooth devices can be paired. The oldest device is replaced when a 10th is paired.

Tips: Check the BLUETOOTH indicator for connection status. Pressing [BLUETOOTH] briefly while Bluetooth input is selected enters pairing mode.

Listening to Music from the Paired Mobile Device

1. Turn on the Bluetooth function on your mobile device.
2. Press [INPUT] repeatedly to select [BT], or briefly press the [BLUETOOTH] button on the bar speaker. The speaker system will automatically reconnect to the last connected device.
3. Confirm the BLUETOOTH indicator is blue and [BT] is displayed.
4. Start audio playback from your mobile device.
5. Adjust volume with [VOLUME +/–] and [BASS +/–].

Listening to Sony TV Sound with the BLUETOOTH Function

Connect your Sony TV (compatible with A2DP Bluetooth profile) wirelessly to listen to TV sound or sound from devices connected to the TV.

Listening to TV Sound by Connecting the Speaker System and TV Wirelessly

Pairing is required.

1. Turn on the TV.
2. Turn on the speaker system using the [POWER] button.
3. Press and hold the [BLUETOOTH] button on the bar speaker and the [INPUT] button on the remote control simultaneously for 5 seconds. [TV-BT] and [ON] will appear.
4. The BLUETOOTH indicator will flash blue twice, and [PAIRING] will appear.
5. On the TV, search for Bluetooth devices and select "HT-S400".
6. Once paired, the BLUETOOTH indicator will light blue, and [TV-BT] will appear on the display.
7. Select the TV program or input using the TV remote. Sound will play through the speaker system.
8. Adjust the speaker system volume using the TV remote control.

Notes: If TV sound is not output, ensure [TV] input is selected and check indicator status. If connected via HDMI, Bluetooth connection is canceled.

Listening to Sound of the Paired TV

1. Turn on the TV. The speaker system will turn on automatically.
2. Select the TV program or input. Sound plays through the speaker system.
3. Adjust volume using the TV remote.

Tip: Turning off the TV also turns off the speaker system.

Remote Control Operations: The supplied remote can control [SOUND FIELD], [VOLUME +/–], [BASS +/–], [INPUT], [VOICE], [NIGHT], and [MUTE]. Note that selecting BLUETOOTH input on the remote will prevent TV sound output; press [INPUT] to switch back to TV input.

Using the Speaker System by Interlocking with a TV

Operating the Speaker System by Interlocking with a TV (Control for HDMI Function)

Connecting a TV compatible with the Control for HDMI function via HDMI cable allows interlocking operations like power on/off and volume adjustment.

About the Control for HDMI function: This function enables operation of HDMI-connected devices by interlocking them. It works best with Sony devices but may function with others.

Preparing to Operate by Interlocking with a TV: Enable the Control for HDMI function on your TV. The speaker system's default setting is [ON]. If you enable "BRAVIA" Sync on a Sony TV, the speaker system's Control for HDMI function is also enabled automatically.

Performing Power Operation or Volume Adjustment by a TV Remote Control: When you turn the TV on/off or adjust its volume, the speaker system's power and volume will interlock accordingly.

Tip: To change Control for HDMI settings: Press and hold [VOICE] on the remote for over 5 seconds. [CONTROL FOR HDMI] appears. Use [VOLUME +/–] to select the setting and wait for it to confirm.

Operating the Speaker System by Interlocking with a TV Compatible with the “BRAVIA” Sync Function

“BRAVIA” Sync is an enhanced version of Control for HDMI developed by Sony. It allows interlocking control of compatible devices, including power and volume adjustments.

Saving Power Consumption

Turning the Speaker System Off by Detecting the Using State

The auto standby function, when enabled, sets the speaker system to standby mode after approximately 20 minutes of inactivity or no input signal.

To enable/disable auto standby: Press and hold the [POWER] and [TV] buttons on the bar speaker for more than 5 seconds. [AUTO STANDBY] will appear. Use [VOLUME +/–] to select the desired setting and wait for confirmation.

Saving Power in Standby Mode

To minimize standby power consumption, turn off the BLUETOOTH standby mode and the Control for HDMI function. Instructions for changing these settings are available in the "Changing the Settings" section.

Changing the Settings

Audio Settings

• Easily listening to low volume sounds ([DRC]): Compresses dynamic range for clearer low-volume audio, primarily for Dolby Digital signals. Enable by holding [POWER], [TV], and [VOLUME –] on the bar speaker for over 5 seconds.
• Adjusting the volume of the connected device automatically ([A.VOL]): Automatically adjusts volume based on input signal or content. Enable by holding [NIGHT] on the remote for over 5 seconds. Use [VOLUME +/–] to select the setting.
• Selecting the sound for multiplex broadcast ([DUAL]): Choose the sound output for multiplex broadcasts. Enable by holding [MUTE] on the remote for over 5 seconds. Use [VOLUME +/–] to select the setting.

BLUETOOTH Settings

• Turning the BLUETOOTH standby mode on or off ([BT STANDBY]): Allows the system to turn on and initiate Bluetooth connection via a Bluetooth device's operation while in standby. Enable by holding [POWER], [BLUETOOTH], and [VOLUME –] on the bar speaker for over 5 seconds.
• Turning the BLUETOOTH function on or off ([BT POWER]): Enable or disable the Bluetooth function. Enable by holding [POWER] and [BLUETOOTH] on the bar speaker for over 5 seconds.

Notes: BLUETOOTH standby mode increases standby power consumption. It cannot be set if the BLUETOOTH function is off.

Front Panel Display/Indicators Settings

• Adjusting the brightness of the front panel display and indicators ([DIMMER]): Change the brightness of the front panel display, BLUETOOTH indicator, and subwoofer power indicator. Enable by holding [TV] and [BLUETOOTH] on the bar speaker for over 5 seconds. Use [VOLUME +/–] to select the brightness level. Selecting [OFF] turns the display off, but it will light up briefly when a button is pressed.

Other Settings/Functions

• Checking the sound settings and software version: Press and hold [SOUND FIELD] on the remote for over 5 seconds. Cycle through stream information, sound field, voice mode, night mode, and software version using [VOLUME +/–].
• Using the IR repeater function: If the bar speaker obstructs the TV's remote sensor, enable this function to relay TV remote signals. Enable by holding [BLUETOOTH] and [VOLUME –] on the bar speaker for over 5 seconds. Use [VOLUME +/–] to select [ON]. Install the bar speaker at least 9 cm from the TV screen when using this function.
• Updating the software: Connect a USB memory device with the software update file to the UPDATE port. Press and hold [POWER], [BLUETOOTH], and [VOLUME +] on the bar speaker for over 5 seconds. [UPDATE] will appear, and the update will start. Ensure Bluetooth is on and the subwoofer is connected and powered on before updating. Visit Sony support websites for update files.

Troubleshooting

Follow these steps if the speaker system does not work properly:

1. Search for the cause and solution in this section.
2. Reset the speaker system to its initial settings (see "Resetting the Speaker System").
3. If problems persist, consult your nearest Sony dealer.

Power Issues

• System does not power up: Ensure the AC power cord is securely connected. Disconnect and reconnect after a few minutes.
• System turns off automatically: Auto standby is active. Disable it by holding [POWER] and [TV] on the bar speaker for over 5 seconds, then select [OFF] for [AUTO STANDBY] using [VOLUME +/–].
• System does not turn on with TV: Ensure Control for HDMI is enabled on both the TV and the speaker system. Check TV speaker settings. The system may not turn on if the TV speakers were used last.
• System turns off when TV turns off: Check Control for HDMI setting. The system turns off automatically if its input is set to TV and Control for HDMI is enabled.
• System does not turn off when TV turns off: Check Control for HDMI setting. The system only turns off with the TV if its input is set to TV and Control for HDMI is enabled. Ensure the TV supports Control for HDMI.

Picture Issues

• No picture or incorrect picture: When on TV input, select the desired TV channel using the TV remote.

Sound Issues

• Cannot connect to TV via Bluetooth: Disconnect any HDMI cable, as it cancels Bluetooth connection. Then, perform the Bluetooth connection process again.
• No TV sound output: Check HDMI or optical cable connections. Reconnect cables firmly. Ensure the TV's HDMI jack supports ARC and Control for HDMI is enabled on both devices. If the TV is not ARC compatible, use the optical cable. Select [TV] input. Increase TV volume or unmute. Turn on the TV first, then the speaker system. Set TV speakers to "Audio System." Check TV sound output settings. Ensure TV digital audio out is set to "PCM" if unsupported formats are played.
• Sound from both speaker system and TV: Adjust TV audio output settings to use external speakers only. Set TV volume to minimum.
• Volume level difference: Output levels may differ due to sound processing. This is not a malfunction.
• No surround effect: Ensure input signal and sound field settings are appropriate. Check digital audio output settings on connected devices for multi-channel audio.

Subwoofer Issues

• No or low subwoofer sound: Increase subwoofer volume using [BASS +]. Ensure the subwoofer power indicator is green or amber. Check subwoofer power connection and ensure it's turned on. If the indicator is red, move the subwoofer closer to the bar speaker or perform manual connection. If flashing red, check for blocked ventilation. Bass may be low on some sources; play the built-in demo music by holding [TV] on the bar speaker for 5 seconds. Set night mode to [OFF].
• [BASS +/–] not working, [NOT USE] displayed: The subwoofer is likely not connected. Check its power and connection status.

Mobile Device Connection Issues

• Bluetooth connection cannot be completed: Ensure Bluetooth is on for both devices, they are close, and pairing is attempted correctly. Try re-pairing. If Bluetooth is off on the speaker, enable it.
• Pairing cannot be achieved: Bring devices closer. Minimize interference from Wi-Fi, other 2.4 GHz devices, or microwaves. Turn off other nearby Bluetooth devices.
• Sound not output from connected mobile device: Ensure Bluetooth is on and devices are close. Minimize interference. Remove obstacles between devices. Reposition the mobile device. Switch nearby Wi-Fi to 5 GHz. Increase volume on the mobile device.
• Sound not in sync with image: A slight delay may occur with movies.

Remote Control Issues

• Speaker system remote not working: Point at the sensor, remove obstacles, replace batteries, check correct button press.
• TV remote not working: Ensure the bar speaker does not obstruct the TV's remote sensor. Enable the IR repeater function.

Other Issues

• Control for HDMI not working: Check connections, ensure Control for HDMI is enabled on the TV, wait a few seconds after power-on, confirm TV compatibility, and check the number of connected HDMI CEC devices.
• [PROTECT] message: Protection feature activated. Disconnect power, ensure ventilation is clear, and power on after a while.
• TV sensors not working: Move the bar speaker away from the TV to avoid blocking sensors or emitters.
• System not working properly: It might be in demo mode. Reset the system by holding [POWER] and [VOLUME –] on the bar speaker for over 5 seconds.
• "Please select the desired TV channels..." message: Select TV programs using the TV remote control.

Resetting the Speaker System

To reset: Press and hold [POWER] and [VOLUME –] on the bar speaker for over 5 seconds. [RESET] will appear. Disconnect the AC power cord, then reconnect it and turn the system on.

Specifications

Bar Speaker (SA-S400)

Amplifier Section:

• POWER OUTPUT (rated): Front L + Front R: 60 W + 60 W (at 4 ohms, 1 kHz, 1% THD)
• POWER OUTPUT (reference): Front L/Front R speaker: 100 W (per channel at 4 ohms, 1 kHz)

Input/Output:

• Input: TV IN (OPTICAL)
• Output: HDMI OUT (TV (ARC))

HDMI Section:

• Connector: Type A (19 pin)

USB Section:

• UPDATE port: Type A (For software update only)

BLUETOOTH Section:

• Communication system: BLUETOOTH Specification version 5.0
• Output: BLUETOOTH Specification Power Class 1
• Maximum communication range: Line of sight approx. 25 m (actual range varies with obstacles, etc.)
• Maximum number of devices to be registered: Mobile device: 9, Sony TV: 1
• Frequency band: 2.4 GHz (2.4000 GHz - 2.4835 GHz)
• Maximum output power: < 14 dBm
• Modulation method: FHSS (Freq Hopping Spread Spectrum)
• Compatible BLUETOOTH profiles: A2DP, AVRCP
• Supported Codec: SBC
• Transmission range (A2DP): 20 Hz - 20,000 Hz (Sampling frequency 32 kHz, 44.1 kHz, 48 kHz)

Front L/Front R Speaker Section:

• Speaker system: 2 speaker system
• Speaker: 52 mm × 100 mm cone type, 4 ohms

General:

• Power requirements: 220 V - 240 V AC, 50 Hz/60 Hz
• Power consumption: On: 35 W; Standby mode: ≤ 0.5 W (Power Saving mode, Control for HDMI/Bluetooth standby off), ≤ 2 W (Control for HDMI/Bluetooth standby on). Auto enters Power Saving mode without HDMI connection or Bluetooth history.
• Dimensions (approx.): 900 mm × 64 mm × 88 mm (w/h/d, excluding projection)
• Mass (approx.): 2.4 kg

Subwoofer (SA-WS400)

• POWER OUTPUT (reference): 130 W (at 4 ohms, 100 Hz)
• Speaker system: Bass reflex
• Speaker: 160 mm cone type, 4 ohms
• Power requirements: 220 V - 240 V AC, 50 Hz/60 Hz
• Power consumption: On: 20 W; Standby mode: ≤ 0.5 W
• Dimensions (approx.): 192 mm × 387 mm × 400 mm (w/h/d, excluding projection)
• Mass (approx.): 7.3 kg

Wireless Transmitter/Receiver Section

• Frequency band: 2.4 GHz (2.404 GHz - 2.476 GHz)
• Maximum output power: < 10 dBm
• Modulation method: GFSK

Supplied Accessories

• Remote control (1)
• R03 (size AAA) battery (2)
• WALL MOUNT TEMPLATE (1)
• Optical digital cable (1)
• AC power cord (mains lead) (2)
• Startup Guide
• Operating Instructions (this document)

Design and specifications are subject to change without notice.

Supported Input Audio Formats

(HDMI OUT (TV (ARC)) or TV IN (OPTICAL))

• Dolby Digital
• Linear PCM 2ch

On BLUETOOTH Communication

• Range: Devices should be within approx. 10 meters (33 feet) unobstructed. Range may decrease due to obstacles, microwave ovens, static electricity, etc.
• Interference: BLUETOOTH and wireless LAN (2.4 GHz) can interfere. Keep devices apart or turn off LAN devices.
• Medical Device Interference: Radio waves may interfere with medical devices. Turn off the system in hospitals, airplanes, gas stations, or near flammable gases, automatic doors, or fire alarms.
• Security: Supports BLUETOOTH security functions, but caution is advised. Sony is not liable for information leaks.
• Compatibility: Not all BLUETOOTH devices with the same profile are guaranteed to connect. Devices must comply with BLUETOOTH specifications. Characteristics may differ.
• Noise/Cut-off: May occur depending on the connected device, environment, or surrounding conditions.

Copyrights and Trademarks

This speaker system incorporates Dolby Digital. Dolby, Dolby Audio, and the double-D symbol are trademarks of Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corporation. The BLUETOOTH® word mark and logos are registered trademarks of Bluetooth SIG, Inc. HDMI™, HDMI High-Definition Multimedia Interface, and the HDMI Logo are trademarks of HDMI Licensing Administrator, Inc. "BRAVIA" logo is a trademark of Sony Corporation. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. ©2022 Sony Corporation. Printed in China.