Keep the programme and output path constant
Choose the same programme segment and note the current Roku volume mode. Roku lists modes such as Off, Leveling and Night, with availability depending on the device. Record whether the change began immediately after enabling one of those controls.
Compare the receiver or soundbar’s reported input before and after the change. A programme badge describes an available presentation, while the audio equipment reports what it is receiving through the current path. Keep those two observations separate when investigating a processing change.
Use Off for the format comparison
Roku’s volume-mode help warns that streamed Dolby Digital, DTS, Dolby Digital Plus or Atmos may be converted to stereo. It says Off may be needed to hear the surround format through a connected receiver or soundbar. Try that supported comparison without changing the programme or HDMI wiring at the same time.
If the volume menu is unavailable in the current app, Roku notes that some applications assign a different function to Star. Its documented alternative is to open another app, adjust the mode there and return; the setting remains. Follow the relevant model instructions rather than assuming every app exposes the same Options menu.
Choose the preferred listening result
Volume processing and retaining the original surround presentation can serve different listening goals. Record which result matters for the session: more even loudness or the surround format available through the setup. Do not treat a deliberate processing choice as evidence that your account lost an audio tier.
For an unresolved result, provide the Roku model, selected mode, programme, audio-device model and reported input format. Also state whether Off changed the result. That gives support a focused processing comparison and avoids changing several decoder, receiver and player settings without knowing which one mattered.