Can You Connect Speakers to PS5 via USB?

Here’s What You Need to Know

When you’re setting up your PlayStation 5 for gaming, one of the most important aspects of the experience is the audio. While the PS5 offers some great sound quality through its built-in speakers and headphone jack, many gamers prefer to use external speakers to enhance the sound experience, especially for immersive games or movie nights. One common question that arises is whether you can connect speakers to the PS5 via USB.

Understanding USB Audio on PS5

The short answer is: no, you cannot directly connect traditional speakers to the PS5 via USB for audio output. The USB ports on the PS5 are typically designed for connecting controllers, external hard drives, or other accessories. While USB speakers do exist, the PS5 doesn't support direct USB audio output to speakers in the same way it does for some other devices like headphones.

However, that doesn’t mean you’re out of options for improving your PS5’s audio output. Let’s explore how you can still connect external speakers to your PS5 for better sound.

1. Using HDMI Audio Output

The PS5 offers an HDMI port that carries both video and audio signals. If you have speakers or a sound system with HDMI support (like a soundbar or AV receiver), you can connect them via the HDMI port to get high-quality audio.

• How it works: Simply connect your PS5 to your sound system using an HDMI cable. The PS5 will send both the video and audio signals through the HDMI cable to your speakers or receiver, allowing you to enjoy surround sound and deep bass.
• Ideal for: Surround sound systems, soundbars, and home theater setups.

2. Using Optical Audio with an HDMI Converter

The PS5 doesn’t come with a dedicated optical audio out port (found on previous PlayStation models), but if your speakers support optical input (TOSLINK), you can still make it work using a converter.

• How it works: Purchase an HDMI-to-optical audio converter, which will extract the audio signal from the HDMI output on the PS5 and send it to your speakers via the optical cable.
• Ideal for: Home theater setups or high-quality external speakers that support optical input.

3. Connecting Bluetooth Speakers

While the PS5 doesn’t natively support Bluetooth audio devices, you can still connect Bluetooth speakers using a Bluetooth transmitter or dongle. This device plugs into the PS5’s USB or audio output port and enables Bluetooth audio transmission.

• How it works: Plug the Bluetooth transmitter into one of the PS5’s USB ports or the audio jack. Pair it with your Bluetooth speaker, and you should be able to enjoy wireless audio.
• Ideal for: Wireless setups where you don’t want cables cluttering your space.

4. Using the 3.5mm Audio Jack

If your speakers have a 3.5mm input, you can directly connect them to the PS5’s controller.

• How it works: Plug the 3.5mm audio cable from your speakers into the DualSense controller. You’ll need to control volume through the controller, but it’s a simple and effective way to connect standard speakers.
• Ideal for: Small speakers, portable speakers, or when you’re gaming alone and want a more compact setup.

5. USB-C Audio via Adapter (for specific USB speakers)

While you can’t directly connect USB speakers to the PS5, there are some USB-C to audio adapters that may work with USB speakers. However, this is not a guaranteed method and might require specific hardware compatibility.

• How it works: Use a USB-C to 3.5mm adapter, then connect your speakers to the adapter’s 3.5mm port. However, this method may not work with all types of USB speakers.
• Ideal for: USB-powered speakers that have compatible connectors.

Conclusion

While you can’t directly connect USB speakers to the PS5, there are plenty of alternative methods to achieve high-quality sound. Whether you’re using HDMI output, Bluetooth, optical audio converters, or the audio jack on your controller, there are many ways to enhance your gaming and entertainment experience with external speakers.

If you’re setting up your PS5 and looking to improve your sound, consider investing in a sound system that supports HDMI or Bluetooth, or try the other workarounds mentioned above. With the right setup, you’ll be able to fully enjoy the immersive audio that your PS5 games and media offer!

By understanding the available options, you’ll make the most of your PS5’s sound system and create a gaming environment that’s as dynamic and engaging as the gameplay itself. Happy gaming!

Let me know if you'd like additional tips on setting up your PS5 audio!