Should external speakers automatically activate (rMBP)?

[BC-2]

I have USB external speakers that I've used on several PC lap tops and when plugged in, they work without having to select them via settings. On my rMBP, I have to manually select them in order to work. Also, I connected my rMBP to my TV via HDMI and the audio also did not automatically switch (only video). Should it be automatic or is this normal?

 

[gentlefury]

Audio, since Lion, has been a little testy. I have my Mac Mini plugged into the living room TV and it will occasionally switch itself back to internal speakers instead of HDMI...no idea why...I will come back to use it later and it will be on internal. It's pretty annoying.

 

[BC-2]

It's not a huge deal but a little annoying to have to manually select audio output. At least when I plug in headphones, it switches automatically.

Anyone else have this issue?