Mac mini (2018) – Omega with black bar on top



Hello everyone,
I recently switched from a Linux HTPC to a macOS-based system. To be more specific, I am running Kodi Omega on a Mac mini (2018), Intel architecture, Sonoma 14.5. Ever since transitioning, I have been experiencing a display issue in Kodi.
To explain, I have black bars at the top and bottom edges (most prominent on top) as soon as I start Kodi. They are about 0.5 to 1 cm wide and cannot be removed through Kodi’s internal video calibration. Notably, these borders are not there when I exit Kodi and the macOS desktop interface is displayed. To clarify, this is not only an issue during video playback. It’s the GUI itself that is not displaying correctly.
Here are the things I’ve tried to solve the issue:

  • Initially, I assumed the problem was caused by different resolution sizes in Kodi and macOS. But in both cases, it is 3840×2160@60Hz.
  • ChatGPT suggested that I disable hardware acceleration. Not that ChatGPT has been of great help in my search for a solution, but I tried that as well. Without success.
  • ChatGPT also suggested clearing my cache, which was also ineffective.
  • I’ve tried setting my AVR video config to “passthrough.” Again, without success.

Interestingly enough, when I downgraded Kodi to Nexus 20.5, this display issue disappeared! I’ve contemplated just sticking with 20.5, but that’s only a last-resort solution in my view.
I couldn’t discern much from the log. If needed, I am happy to provide the file.

Thanks in advance for any ideas you might have!