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HDMI ARC (Audio Return Channel) lets a TV send audio back through an HDMI connection to a soundbar or AV receiver. That means one HDMI cable can carry sound from the TV to the audio system, including audio from the TV’s built-in apps or devices connected to the TV. HDMI introduced ARC with HDMI 1.4; the enhanced version, eARC, supports higher-bandwidth audio formats.
What does HDMI ARC do?
Ordinarily, HDMI carries audio and video from a source device, such as a streaming box or game console, to a TV. ARC adds a return path: the TV sends audio upstream over that HDMI link to an audio system. The soundbar or receiver plays the sound, while the TV can remain the hub for its own apps and connected sources.
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ARC is a feature of the HDMI connection, not a separate cable or an audio format. It can eliminate the need for a separate optical or other audio cable between the TV and sound system. Sony describes the TV-to-audio-system connection using one High Speed HDMI cable.
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How is eARC different from ARC?
eARC, or Enhanced Audio Return Channel, serves the same purpose as ARC but has greater audio bandwidth. HDMI Licensing Administrator lists eARC support for audio up to 192 kHz and 24-bit, uncompressed 5.1- and 7.1-channel audio, and up to 32-channel uncompressed audio. Its listed formats include Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Atmos, DTS-HD Master Audio, and DTS:X. These are capabilities of eARC; they do not guarantee that every TV, sound system, source device, or streaming service will deliver every format.
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Assistrust Sound Bar for Smart TV, Soundbar with Bluetooth/ARC/Opt/AUX Connect, Auto Volume Boost, 3 Equalizer Modes, 2 in 1 Detachable Soundbar for TV/PC/Gaming/Projectors
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| Feature | ARC | eARC |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Returns TV audio to a soundbar or receiver over HDMI | Returns TV audio over HDMI with enhanced audio capability |
| Audio capability | Does not provide eARC’s higher-bandwidth, uncompressed audio support | Supports the formats and channel capabilities listed by HDMI, subject to compatible devices and content |
| Compatibility | Requires ARC support on the TV and audio system | Is not defined as backward-compatible with ARC; some products support both |
| Cable note | Follow the device manufacturers’ cable instructions | HDMI says Ultra HDMI Cables are designed to support eARC; other cable types might work but may not be certified |
For the standard’s capability details and compatibility notes, see HDMI’s eARC information.
What do you need to use ARC or eARC?
- A TV and a soundbar or AV receiver with compatible ARC or eARC support.
- An HDMI cable connecting the ports marked ARC or eARC on the two devices.
- For eARC, a cable appropriate to the devices’ specifications. HDMI says Ultra HDMI Cables are designed for eARC; it does not say every HDMI cable is guaranteed to support every eARC setup.
Check both product manuals for the exact ports and supported features. The ARC/eARC label matters: a TV’s ordinary HDMI port is not necessarily the one that returns audio.
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Bose TV Speaker - Soundbar for TV with Bluetooth and HDMI-ARC Connectivity, All-in-One Compact Soundbar, Includes Remote Control, Black
- HEAR YOUR TV BETTER: Designed with simplicity in mind, the Bose TV Speaker is an all-in-one soundbar that clarifies speech and is a simple fix for better TV sound
- WIDE, NATURAL SOUND: 2 angled full-range drivers deliver a more realistic, spatial audio experience for overall better TV sound from a small soundbar
- ENHANCED DIALOGUE: This sound bar for smart tv is designed to specifically focus on clarifying and elevating vocals and pronunciation
- BLUETOOTH TV SPEAKER: Pair your device to this Bluetooth soundbar to wirelessly stream your favorite music and podcasts. Connect up to 3 devices through the inputs (HDMI, Optical in, and AUX in); the first powered on device will automatically connect
- SIMPLE SETUP: A single connection from this compact soundbar to the TV via an optical audio cable (included) or an HDMI cable (sold separately) has you up and running in minutes
How can you tell whether a setup will work?
- Find the HDMI port labeled ARC or eARC on the TV and the corresponding port on the soundbar or receiver.
- Check the manuals for both devices to confirm they support the same return-channel feature. Do not assume an eARC device will work with an ARC-only device; eARC is not defined as backward-compatible, although some products support both.
- Connect the labeled ports with an HDMI cable that meets the manufacturers’ requirements. For eARC cable certification, consult HDMI’s eARC guidance.
Where did ARC come from?
HDMI introduced Audio Return Channel with HDMI 1.4. HDMI’s overview of getting the best sound from a TV dates ARC’s introduction to 2009.
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Bestseller No. 3
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ULTIMEA Sound Bar with Wireless Subwoofer, App Control, for Home Theater | 240W Peak Power, VoiceMX & BassMX, 2.1ch Soundbar for Smart TV, Adjustable Bass, HDMI, Optical, Bluetooth 6.0, Poseidon M30
- Wireless Subwoofer, Place It Anywhere: The wireless subwoofer connects to the soundbar without audio cables, giving you the freedom to place it anywhere in your room for flexible setup.
- Mica-Reinforced Drivers for Greater Accuracy: Mica-reinforced diaphragms increase driver rigidity by up to 30%, helping suppress cone breakup and unwanted resonance. The enhanced stability helps reduce distortion by up to 20%, delivering cleaner, more accurate sound with improved clarity and detail.
- VoiceMX Technology for Clear Dialogue: VoiceMX technology uses advanced DSP algorithms to isolate and enhance vocal frequencies in real time. By dynamically boosting the 120 Hz–6 kHz vocal range with adaptive EQ and gain control, dialogue stays clear and easy to follow in any scene.
- BassMX Deep Bass Technology: With an 18 mm high-excursion driver, 6.5 L tuned cabinet, and high-density magnetic circuit, the wireless subwoofer produces strong low-frequency output. BassMX optimizes 45–150 Hz bass for deeper, tighter, and more realistic sound at any volume.
- 240W Peak Output with 2.1 Channel System: Featuring a precision-tuned soundbar and a dedicated wireless subwoofer, the system delivers up to 240W of peak power for room-filling sound. With a frequency response of 45 Hz–18 kHz and a maximum SPL of 95 dB, it reproduces clear dialogue, detailed mids, and impactful bass for movies, music, and gaming.
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ULTIMEA 5.1CH Surround Sound Bar System with Dolby Atmos, Poseidon M60 | VoiceMX, BassMX, APP, 300W Soundbar for Smart TV, Surround Sound System for TV, with Subwoofer, Bluetooth 5.4
- Simplified 5.1ch Dolby Atmos Setup: Enjoy immersive 4D sound with real Dolby Atmos and 5.1-channel audio. Five built-in speakers, including two side-firing drivers, create wide surround without rear speakers. Precision DSP ensures <0.5 ms latency for smooth, theater-like sound. Setup takes less than 1 minute.
- Voice Clarity Enhancement: VoiceMX technology uses advanced DSP algorithms to isolate and enhance vocal frequencies in real time. Dialogue remains crisp and easy to follow by separating speech from background effects and music, even at low volumes or during intense scenes.
- 300W Output with 6-Driver System: Featuring five precision-tuned full-range drivers and a dedicated wired wooden subwoofer, the system delivers up to 300W of peak power for bold, room-filling sound. With a frequency response of 45 Hz–18 kHz and a maximum SPL of 99 dB, it reproduces everything from subtle nuances to explosive cinematic effects.
- 18 mm High-Excursion Driver: Powered by BassMX technology, the wired wooden subwoofer features a 18 mm high-excursion driver, a 5.3L tuned cabinet, and a high-density magnetic circuit. This design delivers deeper, tighter bass with greater air displacement and enhanced low-frequency performance—bringing more realism to every scene.
- HDMI eARC for True Dolby Atmos: HDMI eARC supports up to 37 Mbps of bandwidth, unlocking the full potential of lossless Dolby Atmos 5.1-channel audio. Compared to standard ARC, eARC delivers richer surround effects and greater detail. CEC integration allows the TV and soundbar to work together with unified control.
Rank #3
Amazon Fire TV Soundbar, 2.0 speaker with DTS Virtual:X and Dolby Audio, Bluetooth connectivity
- Amp up your audio - Fire TV Soundbar enhances TV audio with dual speakers for fuller sound, clearer dialogue, and deeper bass—all in a compact design.
- Immersive sound - Enjoy a three-dimensional virtual surround sound experience with DTS Virtual:X and more detail with Dolby Audio.
- Easy setup - Just plug in the included HDMI cable to the HDMI eARC/ARC port on your TV to instantly enjoy audio that's always in sync.
- Compact design - With a length of 24“ and a height of just 2.5", Fire TV Soundbar fits most entertainment consoles and TV stands.
- Stream audio with Bluetooth - Connect your phone or tablet via Bluetooth to fill the room with your favorite music.
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