Cinelink - General Audio Troubleshooting Steps

Summary

Cinelink audio issues can be caused by several different elements within the playback environment.

1. Content File Issues
2. Signal Path Issues
3. Cinelink Device Issues

Content File Issues

1. While many titles play smoothly without any problems, there are certain titles that experience issues with their audio. Specifically, some titles may present distorted or glitching sound during playback. This audio distortion may manifest as crackling, buzzing, skipping, or other irregular sound artifacts that disrupt the normal flow of the audio track. Such issues can occur intermittently or persist throughout the entire playback.
   • Resolution: The issue you are experiencing might be related to the audio format being sent as Surround Sound. Certain titles or media files may not include Surround Sound audio tracks. To resolve this, try manually selecting either "PCM" or "Stereo" audio tracks. 
2. Try to replicate this issue with multiple titles.
   • If an issue is identified with a specific title, please [e-mail] to have the source file tested at Swank.

Signal Path Issues

1. Make sure that cables are secured properly at both ends.
2. Test with known working spare cables to ensure there are no issues with the cable(s).
3. Is there anything within the signal path between the Cinelink and the display device (projector/TV) that could attribute to this issue? 
   • Try connecting directly to a display device to eliminate any additional variables.
     • If the audio works in this configuration, then there may be an issue with another component in the audio signal path.
   • Try testing the analog audio out on the front panel of the Cinelink.
4. Please keep in mind If the 3.5 mm audio output is being used, only analog stereo quality will be provided. HDMI audio would have to be used for multi-channel. A title may have multiple audio language tracks from which to select.
   •  
     • Audio Options:
       • English = English Stereo
       • English (Dolby Digital) = English Dolby Digital Stereo*
       • English (Surround) = English PCM Stereo
       • English (Dolby Digital Surround) = English Dolby Digital 5.1*
       • Languages will be in stereo: i.e. German Stereo, French Stereo, etc.
       • The 3.5mm analog jack supplies 2 ch PCM stereo.
     • *Note: Keep in mind that your audio system must have a compatible Dolby Digital decoder and the appropriate amplifiers and speakers for Dolby audio tracks.  If a movie includes a surround track, it will be labeled as "English Dolby Digital 5.1".
5. To change/view audio tracks: 
   • Select the movie in the carousel, arrow down to select Audio, then press OK. Make your selection then press OK.
     • 

Cinelink Device Issues

1. Can you still replicate the issue after rebooting the device?
2. Is the device in an open area where it can be properly cooled?

If the symptom(s) persist on multiple end point devices and on multiple pieces of content, then we may need to replace the device.

Note: Any audio track versions Swank has available will be included with your order.