The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Some links on this page are affiliate links: if you buy through them we may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you.
Use HDMI ARC when both your TV and receiver or amplifier have matching ARC/eARC ports. It carries the TV’s sound over one HDMI cable and may also enable linked volume and power control. If ARC is unavailable or incompatible, use optical digital audio. If neither digital method is possible, connect the TV’s analog audio output to a matching analog input on the receiver. The correct setup depends on the labels and settings on your exact models, so verify the port direction, select the corresponding receiver input, and set the TV to send sound to the external audio system.
Which connection should you use?
The practical order is HDMI ARC first, optical second, and analog third. ARC is the only option here that can combine TV audio with HDMI-linked control features, but it requires compatible ports and settings on both devices. Optical is a dependable digital fallback when ARC cannot be used. Analog works with older or simpler equipment when the TV provides an audio output and the receiver provides a compatible input.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
| Method | Use it when | What it provides | What to verify |
|---|---|---|---|
| HDMI ARC or eARC/ARC | Both devices have ports explicitly labeled ARC or eARC/ARC | TV audio over one HDMI cable; compatible control features may allow TV-remote volume or power coordination | Matching ARC-capable ports, a High Speed HDMI cable, HDMI Control/CEC and ARC settings, and the correct receiver input |
| Optical digital | ARC is missing or incompatible, but both devices have optical ports | Dedicated digital audio from the TV to the receiver | TV OPTICAL DIGITAL AUDIO OUT, receiver OPTICAL IN or DIGITAL AUDIO IN, optical input selection, and a supported digital format |
| Analog stereo | Digital connections are unavailable and matching analog ports exist | Two-channel analog TV audio | That the TV jack is an output and the receiver jack is an input; cable ends must match the actual ports |
How do you identify the right ports?
Before connecting anything, inspect the labels printed beside every relevant socket. The label matters more than the connector’s shape: an ordinary HDMI input is not automatically an ARC connection, and an RCA socket may be an input rather than an output.
Look for HDMI ARC labels
On the TV, find an HDMI input labeled ARC or eARC/ARC. On the receiver, find the HDMI connector labeled HDMI OUT (ARC) or HDMI OUT eARC/ARC. ARC sends audio in the reverse direction through the HDMI link, so the receiver connection uses its HDMI output, not one of its ordinary HDMI inputs.
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
Look for optical labels
The TV port may be marked OPTICAL DIGITAL AUDIO OUT, Digital Audio Out (Optical), or similar. The receiver side must be an OPTICAL IN or a digital audio input that explicitly accepts optical. A square optical connector is not interchangeable with an analog RCA connector.
Look for analog outputs and inputs
Common TV analog outputs include a stereo mini or headphone jack and, on some models, a pair of RCA sockets. The receiver may provide RCA inputs or another clearly labeled analog input. Confirm the direction before plugging in: the TV jack must say or function as an output, while the receiver jack must be an input.
How do you connect a TV and receiver with HDMI ARC?
ARC setup uses one HDMI cable between the TV’s ARC-labeled HDMI socket and the receiver’s ARC-labeled HDMI output. Sony Support states, “A High Speed HDMI Cable is needed to enable the ARC function.”
- Turn both devices off. This makes it easier to reseat the cable and avoids confusing an old HDMI handshake with the new connection.
- Connect the cable at the TV. Plug one end into the HDMI input explicitly labeled ARC or eARC/ARC.
- Connect the other end at the receiver. Use the HDMI OUT port labeled ARC or eARC/ARC. Do not use a regular receiver HDMI input for the ARC return path.
- Power on the TV and receiver. Allow a few seconds for the devices to detect each other.
- Choose the external speaker option on the TV. In the TV’s sound or audio menu, select Audio System, External Speakers, Receiver, or the equivalent label supplied by that model.
- Select the TV/ARC input on the receiver. Receiver labels vary; select the input dedicated to TV audio or ARC rather than an unrelated HDMI source.
- Enable HDMI Control or CEC and ARC if the menus require it. HDMI Control/CEC may have a manufacturer-specific name. ARC and CEC settings can be separate switches, so check both devices’ manuals.
- Play a source from the TV. Test a built-in TV app or broadcast, then raise the receiver’s volume. If you hear sound, test standby and volume control to see whether linked functions are available on your models.
ARC and eARC labels indicate the return-audio connection, but compatibility still depends on both devices and their enabled settings. One ARC-capable device alone cannot create an ARC link.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
What HDMI control features can ARC provide?
When both products support the required HDMI control functions, ARC wiring may let the TV remote adjust receiver volume and may coordinate power behavior. These features are not guaranteed merely because an HDMI cable is connected: the devices must support the functions and have HDMI Control/CEC enabled.
If audio works but the TV remote does not change the receiver’s volume, treat sound and control as separate troubleshooting targets. Confirm HDMI Control/CEC on both units, keep the receiver on its TV/ARC input, and consult each model’s manual for its exact setting name.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesHow do you connect the TV by optical digital audio?
Optical is the recommended fallback when either device lacks compatible ARC/eARC support. Denon’s AVR-S760H manual, for example, directs owners of TVs without ARC/eARC compatibility to use an optical connection for TV audio.
- Locate the TV’s optical output. Verify that the port is labeled OPTICAL DIGITAL AUDIO OUT or an equivalent output label.
- Locate the receiver’s optical input. Use the socket labeled OPTICAL IN or DIGITAL AUDIO IN that accepts an optical cable.
- Insert an optical digital audio cable. Remove any protective caps from the cable ends, align the connector, and push it straight into each port without forcing it.
- Select the optical input on the receiver. The front-panel source name may be Optical, TV Audio, or a user-assigned label.
- Set the TV to use the external audio output. Choose the TV’s Audio System or external-speaker option if its menu requires one, then configure Digital Audio Out when prompted.
- Test playback. Start TV content and confirm that the receiver is on the optical source rather than an HDMI or analog source.
Optical carries digital audio but does not carry HDMI control functions. With optical-only wiring, do not expect HDMI-linked TV-remote volume control or power interlock through that cable.
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
How do you connect analog stereo audio?
Use analog only when the TV and receiver expose matching analog ports or when the digital choices cannot be used. The cable must match the connectors on both ends, and the connection must run from the TV’s output to the receiver’s input.
Stereo mini or headphone output to RCA input
A stereo-mini-to-RCA cable is one documented arrangement. Insert the 3.5 mm stereo plug into the TV’s audio output and connect the left and right RCA plugs to a matching analog input on the receiver. Select that receiver input and set the TV to external audio if necessary.
Recommended Free Tools
RCA output to RCA input
If the TV provides left and right RCA audio outputs and the receiver provides a corresponding pair of RCA inputs, use an RCA-to-RCA stereo cable. Match left to left and right to right, then select the receiver input associated with those jacks.
Check the TV jack’s behavior
A headphone jack may mute the TV’s built-in speakers when a plug is inserted. That behavior is normal for some models. If the receiver remains silent, verify that the jack is an audio output, that the TV volume is not muted, and that the receiver is set to the analog input used for the cable.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
What should you do when ARC produces no sound?
Work through the checks in order. ARC failures are often caused by one incompatible device, a cable in the wrong HDMI socket, disabled control settings, or a receiver set to a different source.
- Confirm compatibility on both devices. Check the port labels and model manuals. Both the TV and receiver must support ARC; one ARC-capable device is not enough.
- Verify the cable route. The cable must run from the TV HDMI ARC/eARC socket to the receiver HDMI OUT ARC/eARC socket. A connection from the TV to a normal receiver HDMI input will not provide the ARC return path.
- Use a known-good High Speed HDMI cable. Reseat both ends firmly. Sony advises avoiding adapters, extenders, and long cables while troubleshooting.
- Enable HDMI Control/CEC and ARC. Some models require both switches, and the labels differ by manufacturer. Use each manual’s instructions rather than assuming the setting is enabled.
- Choose the correct audio destinations. Set the TV speaker output to Audio System or external speakers, and set the receiver to its TV/ARC source.
- Power-reset the connection. Turn both units off, disconnect power briefly, reconnect them, and try ARC again. During this test, isolate the TV and receiver from other HDMI devices so another device cannot interfere with the handshake.
- Check the TV’s digital audio format. If the receiver does not support the selected DTS or Dolby Digital format, change Digital Audio Out to PCM and test again. The exact menu path varies by TV.
What should you do when optical audio is silent?
- Check the port type. The TV must use an optical output and the receiver an optical input; two digital-looking sockets are not necessarily compatible.
- Confirm the receiver source. Select the optical input assigned to the cable. Receivers can retain a previous HDMI, tuner, or analog source selection.
- Check the TV’s external-audio setting. Some televisions continue using internal speakers until Audio System or an equivalent option is selected.
- Try PCM for Digital Audio Out. PCM can resolve a format mismatch when the receiver cannot decode the TV’s selected DTS or Dolby Digital output.
- Reseat the optical cable. Remove protective caps, align the plug, and ensure it is fully inserted at both ends. Avoid sharp bends that put stress on the cable.
Unlike ARC, optical does not rely on HDMI Control/CEC. Do not spend time enabling HDMI control to fix an optical-only signal; concentrate on the optical source selection and the TV’s digital-output format.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
What should you do when analog audio is silent or distorted?
- Confirm output-to-input direction. A receiver’s analog output cannot accept the TV signal, and a TV analog input cannot send sound to the receiver.
- Match the cable ends. Stereo mini-to-RCA and RCA-to-RCA serve different port combinations. A physically similar plug can still be the wrong cable.
- Select the exact receiver input. Choose the analog input whose jacks contain the RCA plugs, not a similarly named digital or HDMI source.
- Check TV mute and volume. Raise the TV output level if the model uses a variable headphone output, and confirm that inserting the plug has not left the TV muted.
- Check left and right channels. Push both RCA plugs fully home and keep the left and right connections matched. A loose plug can produce one-sided or noisy sound.
How do you choose the right cable?
Choose the cable only after identifying the ports. For ARC, use a High Speed HDMI cable; Sony explicitly identifies that cable category as required for ARC. For optical, use an optical digital audio cable with connectors that fit the TV and receiver. For analog, select the termination that matches the actual jacks, such as stereo mini-to-RCA or RCA-to-RCA.
Many setups already include a suitable HDMI cable, so buying another cable should not be the first troubleshooting step. Replace it when the existing cable is damaged, its connectors do not fit securely, or a known-good High Speed cable is needed to isolate an ARC fault. Avoid adapters and extenders while diagnosing ARC because they add another possible failure point.
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
How can you verify the installation?
Use this short acceptance checklist after making a connection:
- The cable runs from a confirmed TV output or ARC socket to the receiver input or ARC output specified for that method.
- The receiver is set to the source associated with the cable.
- The TV is set to Audio System, External Speakers, or the equivalent output mode.
- For ARC, both devices support ARC/eARC, HDMI Control/CEC and ARC are enabled when required, and a High Speed HDMI cable is installed.
- For optical or ARC digital audio, the TV’s Digital Audio Out format is supported by the receiver; PCM is the compatibility test when the selected DTS or Dolby Digital format fails.
- TV content produces sound from the receiver, and the receiver’s volume indicator changes when you use its own controls.
Can you switch from ARC to optical later?
Yes. Disconnect or leave the HDMI ARC cable aside, connect the TV optical output to the receiver optical input, select the receiver’s optical source, and change the TV’s audio-output setting as needed. The two methods should not be treated as one combined signal path; troubleshoot and select the source for the connection you are actively testing.
Windows Errors? Fix Them Before They Spread
Repair common Windows errors and clear accumulated junk for a smoother, more stable PC - no reinstall needed.Free scan · no reinstallOutdated Drivers Are Slowing You Down
One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchWhat are the practical trade-offs?
| Consideration | HDMI ARC | Optical | Analog |
|---|---|---|---|
| Connection count | One HDMI cable | One optical cable | One stereo analog cable |
| Digital audio | Yes, subject to device support and format settings | Yes, subject to device support and format settings | No; it is an analog connection |
| TV-remote volume or power linking | May work when compatible HDMI control features are enabled on both devices | Not provided by an optical-only connection | Not provided through the analog cable |
| Most common limitation | Requires matching ARC capability, correct HDMI ports, and enabled settings | Requires optical ports and may need a compatible digital-output format | Requires matching analog ports and correct output/input direction |
The best connection is therefore not determined by the cable you happen to own. Start with the labels on both devices, use ARC when both sides support it, move to optical when ARC is unavailable or incompatible, and use analog when matching analog ports are the available option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does an eARC label work with an older ARC receiver?
Compatibility depends on the capabilities of both devices and the settings they expose. Treat the connection as an ARC setup only when the TV and receiver manuals confirm that their labeled ports can exchange audio; if they cannot, use optical instead.
Why does the receiver show an ARC source but remain quiet?
The receiver can display the source name even when the TV is still using its internal speakers or sending an unsupported digital format. Set the TV to its external audio system, then try PCM for Digital Audio Out if the receiver cannot handle the selected DTS or Dolby Digital format.
Can I use an ordinary HDMI input on the receiver for TV sound?
No. ARC returns audio through the receiver’s HDMI output specifically labeled ARC or eARC/ARC. A regular HDMI input is intended to receive a source from another device and is not the ARC return path.
Will an optical cable let my TV remote control receiver volume?
Not through the optical connection itself. HDMI-linked control functions such as TV-remote volume and power interlock require a compatible HDMI ARC/CEC connection, whereas optical-only wiring carries audio without those HDMI controls.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
