Plex app doesn't choose multichannel over 2 channel

[DJ-R]

You really should update these categories, as the newer devices aren't just for casting...

Anyway, installed the Plex app on a shiny new CC w GTV (4K). Streams flawlessly after some minor tweaking to the HDMI settings. That said, it still consistently chooses the 2 channel audio over the 5.1 audio every time. It will play either and selecting either is easy enough, but you have to do it on every single movie, every single time when playing from Plex.

The container I'm using is MP4 although observe the same result on MKV. Plex doesn't seem to recognize the capabilities of the device and chooses to stream the 2 channel audio stream instead of the surround stream. The 2 channel in this case is always AAC, and the surround is AC3 5.1.

I've tried tweaking the settings on the Plex side and the Chromecast side. As I mentioned it will play either if chosen manually. The expected result is that it would play the higher bitrate and deeper channel depth than, rather than the base 2.1

[Dhdhdhdu]

This is really a Plex issue, nothing to do with the hardware.

[Kimy]

Hi folks,

Thanks for your help, @Dhdhdhdu.

@DJ-R, thanks for posting here in the Google Nest Community. Have you tried to see if the same behavior is happening on other apps like Netflix, YouTube, Disney+, etc.? We look forward to your response.

Thanks,

Kimy

[DJ-R]

I did check a few other apps. Those appear to select the proper outputs, but then again, those can typically be set directly to DTS Surround, or whatever the case is. Plex is a bit more complicated in that it looks at profiles. I'm assuming this device is new enough that the profile may not have been updated in the Plex app. I'll try posting the question in their support forum. 

Thanks

[Kimy]

Hi DJ-R,

I appreciate the response. What you saw were applications that make use of the standard to function with streaming devices (Chromecast is one example) that adhere to a certain standard for their platform. This Plex software/app operates differently because of its complexity. Take Netflix as an example; its website (which is compatible with browsers) differs technically from its mobile app (designed for phones, tablets, etc.), and with its app version with Smart TVs or Streaming devices. Without mentioning its MacOS or iOS variations. To sell their apps on these platforms, app developers modify their creations. I hope this clarifies the issue. We eagerly await your response.

Cheers,

Kimy

[Alex_S]

Hey DJ-R,

I wanted to follow up and see if you still needed help. Please let me know if you still have any concerns or questions from here, as I would be happy to take a closer look and assist you further.

Kind regards,
Alex

[DJ-R]

No, at this point I h ave to assume it is the Plex app that isn't recognizing the device profile for the Chromecast 4K Live TV. Disappointing as it's been available for some time. I guess they don't actively develop for it on Plex.

[Kimy]

Hi there,

Thanks for the reply. I suggest you contact Plex about this. To determine if they already have an implementation timeline for this. I’m sure you’re not the only one who has this concern. You can probably send feedback from their app. You can also check if they have a community or forum where other users of the app might have found ways around it.

I’ll keep this thread open for one more day. Feel free to create a new one if you have questions in the future.

Cheers,

Kimy