Audio Compatibility mode was added as a workaround for an issue created by Roku’s OS 14 update.
This setting is available only in the 4th Generation Tablo app for Roku, Android and iOS. It is only visible if firmware 2.2.54 is also installed.
Roku’s OS 14 system update changed how Roku streaming devices deal with Surround Sound audio (AC3). Since Surround Sound is the standard audio format for over-the-air television, this change impacted how 4th Generation Tablo devices interact with Roku for live TV playback.
Specifically, if the Roku player software expects a video with Surround Sound (AC3) and does not receive it, the Roku player software will crash, sending the user back to the Tablo app.
We have developed a workaround for users impacted by this issue, which will re-enable playback of live TV from the Tablo app on affected Roku devices.
Audio Compatibility Mode Prompt
When Tablo’s Roku app encounters this issue, the following prompt will be displayed:
Selecting SWITCH TO STEREO (ACC) will disable Surround Sound for your Tablo and deliver all video in Stereo Audio.
As a global setting, when Audio Compatibility Mode is enabled, your Tablo will deliver ALL NEW recordings and live TV in Stereo Sound (AAC) to every device on your network.
Enabling or Disabling Audio Compatibility Mode From Settings
Enabling or disabling Audio Compatibility mode can also be accessed from SETTINGS > TROUBLESHOOTING in apps with this feature.
There you can turn AUDIO COMPATIBILITY MODE ON or OFF.
Selecting ON will display the following prompt:
You may then turn the setting ON or keep it OFF.
Once Audio Compatibility Mode has been enabled within the 4th Generation Tablo app, you can disable it at any time. If you do, Surround Sound (AC3) will immediately return for live TV, but recordings previously created in Stereo Sound (AAC) will not be converted to Surround Sound (AC3).
Audio Compatibility Playback Chart
If you still have questions about how enabling Audio Compatibility Mode will affect old and new recordings, please consult the chart below.