Google 4K Streamer does not support passthrough

[tootzm8]

I have a Google 4K Streamer and also a Chromecast w/ Google TV.

I also have a 3.1 setup w/ a Denon x-1700H. 

From my hours of troubleshooting this, I've come to the conclusion that the Google 4K Streamer does not support passthrough, and will always default to Dolby Surround, even if the audio source format is Stereo (YouTube, Spotify) 

This is incredibly frustrating as it's a step back from the Chromecast w/ Google TV; from my use case, there is no good reason to "upgrade" to the Google TV Streamer - heck, it's a downgrade! 

I pray this is a bug. If it is, I'd happily keep the Google TV 4K streamer. Otherwise it's immediately going to get returned, and I'll have to look elsewhere to best take advantage of my home theater.  

Has anyone had the same issue? Has anyone figured out a resolution? 

Here's a thread about this 1 year ago, and it seems as of 6 months ago what I'm experiencing is expected behavior which is incredibly disappointing. 

https://www.reddit.com/r/AndroidTV/comments/1hzu7mq/google_streamer_no_audio_pass_though/

[branches78 · Accepted solution]

Hello,

It's not a BUG.

The Google TV Streamer unfortunately only supports an "Auto" option which adapts to where it is connected, a Dolby Digital Plus option, a Dolby Digital option and a Stereo PCM option.

As far as I've heard somewhere at the Android TV subreddit, there is some kind of setting with Denon receivers you must turn OFF to avoid getting Dolby Surround, however, whether you use Auto or the Dolby Digital Plus option, you should be able to get from stereo up to 5.1 and even Atmos downmixed to your 3.1 speaker configuration.

Can you clarify what apps do you use?

[GOnlygetsworse]

I'm having a similar problem and also have a Denon receiver. Everything worked fine on my previous Chromecast but the 4k streamer will only output mono. What a step backwards!

I've tried all the advice to switch audio output to manual settings... nothing works.

Wha a disappointment. 

[branches78]

It only outputs mono?

The steamer has two audio sections, one where you must select "Auto" and the other where you have to decide between Auto and the Dolby Digital Plus option.