Apple TV 4K latest version horrible static

Connected to Sony TV 65/OLED, Sennheiser and SVS subwoofer. When I run the TV directly to the sound system, no issues whatsoever. However, when I run the AppleTV 4K, I get sporadic static when switching apps (Prime, Paramount, Netflix, etc.)

At times (depending on where I left the volume) it's so bad I feel it's going to blow (or damage) my sound system.

I've switched HDMI cables and nothing. I even added high end fiber optic HDMI cables, and nothing. Again, same cables, same sound system, no issues when the TV runs directly through it. When I run the Apple TV this happens.

Its a shame, because I rather not have a $149 box sit there as a paperweight because I feel the image quality and overall OS surpasses the native Sony Google OS. 😞

David