Quick answer: eARC is the better connection when the TV and soundbar or receiver both support it and you want the highest-quality audio. ARC still provides a useful one-cable TV-audio connection, but it has less audio bandwidth and fewer capabilities.


eARC versus ARC comparison for a TV and soundbar HDMI connection



The eARC vs. ARC Setup Graphic

FeatureeARC properly set upEquipment limited to ARC
One-cable TV audio returnYes. TV apps and TV-connected sources can send audio to the soundbar or receiver through eARC.Yes. ARC also returns TV audio through one HDMI connection.
Highest-quality formatsWhen every device and the content support them: Dolby TrueHD, DTS-HD Master Audio, DTS:X, and high-bitrate Dolby Atmos.Limited by ARC bandwidth. Compressed formats such as Dolby Digital can work, depending on the equipment and content.
Uncompressed surround PCMCan carry uncompressed 5.1 and 7.1 PCM, plus up to 32-channel uncompressed audio where supported.Usually limited to two-channel PCM over the return channel; do not assume multichannel PCM will pass.
Immersive audioCan deliver higher-bitrate Dolby Atmos and DTS:X when the entire system supports them.Some streaming setups may pass Dolby Digital Plus/Atmos, but ARC cannot carry lossless high-bitrate immersive formats.
Audio bandwidthUp to about 37 Mbps for audio transport.Much lower bandwidth, which restricts advanced lossless formats.
Lip-sync supportIncludes eARC audio-device discovery and lip-sync support; individual TV settings can still affect results.Behavior varies by TV and audio device; manual delay adjustment may be needed.
TV remote volume and powerUsually available through HDMI-CEC when enabled on both devices.Usually available through HDMI-CEC when enabled on both devices.
Required portsBoth products need an HDMI port labeled eARC or ARC/eARC.Both products need an HDMI port labeled ARC.
Cable guidanceA certified Ultra High Speed HDMI cable is the clearest compatibility choice.A known-working HDMI cable between the two ARC ports is normally sufficient.
Best choice forCompatible systems where you want the maximum available sound quality.Everyday TV-app audio and soundbar setups when either device lacks eARC.

What You Must Have for eARC to Work

  1. Confirm that both the TV and soundbar or receiver have an HDMI port labeled eARC, or ARC/eARC.
  2. Connect one HDMI cable directly between those two ports.
  3. In the TV sound menu, select HDMI eARC, HDMI ARC, Receiver, Audio System, or External Speaker.
  4. Turn on the TV’s HDMI-control setting, often called HDMI-CEC, HDMI Control, Device Control, Anynet+, Simplink, or BRAVIA Sync.
  5. Set eARC Mode to Auto or On only when both devices support eARC, then test a familiar built-in TV app.

Recommended cables: For an HDMI ARC or eARC setup, use a Highwings 6.6-foot HDMI cable. For an optical setup, choose a TOSLINK digital optical audio cable.


Important: eARC is not a magic upgrade for ARC-only equipment. If one device has only ARC, treat the connection as ARC even when the other device has eARC. The final audio result also depends on the program, streaming app, source device, and the formats the soundbar or receiver can decode.



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Gadget Wiz can quickly help you identify the right connection and settings for your own equipment. Upload clear pictures of the TV’s rear connection panel, the soundbar or receiver’s rear panel, the model-number labels, and—if possible—the TV sound-settings screen. For a small service fee, we will review the equipment shown and provide guidance tailored to those exact components.

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When ARC Is Still the Right Answer

Full Ultra High Speed HDMI cable for ARC and eARC soundbar setupsSHOP & COMPAREARC-Compatible HDMI Cables

ARC is not a failed version of eARC. It is a practical solution when the TV and soundbar support ARC but not eARC, when you mainly watch TV apps, or when your soundbar does not decode advanced formats. Start by getting consistent sound and TV-remote volume control through ARC. Upgrade to eARC only when the entire signal path supports it and the content you watch gives you a reason to use its added capacity.



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