The new Apple TV refuses to set default audio output

I just bought the new Apple TV 4K 2021. I am not able to set a Default Audio Output of my Apple HomePods Mini. Which was the whole reason I bought the unit. In fact, it breaks down completely when I try to use the best video (Apple TV) with the best audio (HomePod). Complete breakdown, Apple is just not set up for that. Connects and then instantly disconnected. Forgets the HomePod exists altogether. This is a programming error. Why do this to me?

Why can't I enjoy best video with best audio? Half the time the Apple TV forgets which HomePods exist in my network. On a good day, I restart my Apple TV just 5 times to get it to work properly for a while.

This is well documented issue in Apple support online communities. Apple just doesn't care.

Apple is great for the occasional, super powerful multimedia experience. But if you want to live with the technology, just expect unnecessary frustration. Every day. Multiple times per day.

All I want is a way to set up the Apple TV to play through the HomePods as a default. I have tried over multiple Apple TV generations, multiple TVs, and many years. Turns out my wish is impossible over all this time. And difficult to achieve temporarily even with a lot of work. An I am a former computer programmer and longtime Apple enthusiast. But why would Apple do this to such loyal customer? They don't have their eye on the ball.

This is the end of the road for me. The frustration is so intense I'll leave the whole Apple ecoverse. When it comes to daily life you just can't get the basics from Apple. And years of unresolved Apple support posts on this issue show that Apple isn't going to solve the problem. Staying with Apple is just misery, on a daily basis. Apple TV is just the clearest example. Better to stay away from Apple altogether.