HDMI ARC sends audio from your TV to a soundbar or AV receiver over an HDMI cable; eARC is the enhanced version, built to carry higher-bitrate and uncompressed multichannel audio. Use the HDMI ports marked ARC or eARC at both ends. Whether a particular format works depends on the TV, sound system, source and settings—not just the port label.
What HDMI ARC is for
ARC stands for Audio Return Channel. It gives a TV a way to send audio back to an audio system over HDMI, so sound from the TV’s built-in streaming apps—or from devices connected to the TV—can play through a soundbar or AV receiver. The return path uses one HDMI cable between the TV and audio system. HDMI Licensing Administrator describes eARC as carrying audio originating from cable, satellite, streaming or source devices to an AVR or soundbar over a single HDMI cable.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
ARC works only through the HDMI port designated for that purpose. Look for “ARC,” “eARC” or “eARC/ARC” on the TV, and connect it to the matching ARC/eARC port on the soundbar or receiver. Other HDMI ports on the TV may not support audio return; available terminals vary by model. Sony’s connection guide and setup instructions advise checking the ports on the specific devices.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
ARC vs. eARC: what changes?
| Feature | ARC | eARC |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Returns TV audio to a soundbar or receiver over HDMI. | Provides the same audio-return function with enhanced bandwidth and capabilities. |
| Audio capabilities | Supported formats depend on the specific equipment and implementation; check device specifications. | HDMI Licensing Administrator lists support for higher-bitrate and uncompressed multichannel audio, including Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Atmos, DTS-HD Master Audio and DTS:X. |
| Technical specification | Not stated on the cited eARC specification page. | The HDMI Licensing Administrator page lists support up to 192 kHz, 24-bit audio and uncompressed 5.1-, 7.1- and 32-channel audio. The page carries a 2026 copyright year but does not give a separate publication date. |
These are capabilities, not a guarantee that every eARC setup can play every listed format. The TV must pass the format, the source must provide it, and the soundbar or receiver must support it. HDMI Licensing Administrator lists the eARC capabilities; Sony notes that supported formats differ by audio device.
#1 Best Overall
- Top Technology----8K@60HZ: This 8K Ultra High Speed HDMI Cable uses the most cutting-edge technology, is compatible with 8K@60HZ and 4K@120HZ, clearly displays every particle, and accurately processes every signal source.
- Upgrade Revolution: Highwings Ultra High Speed HDMI Cable supports 48Gbps (6GB/s) which can will no longer be stuck or dropped frames when watching video. It is also backward compatible with HDMI 2.0b/2.0a/1.4/1.3/1.2/1.1 versions.
- For Game Enthusiasts: This 8K Ultra High Speed HDMI Cable can achieve a super smooth picture of 4K@120HZ. Its latest game mode supports variable refresh rate, maximizes the value of the graphics card and CPU to obtain a smoother and more detailed picture.
- Reinforced high-quality materials: This 8K HDMI Cord uses Highwings' most popular classic style. The tail's anti-bending design has been upgraded to make it more durable. The military grade tensile nylon material also greatly extends its life.
- The ultimate perfectionist: Highwings every parts of the cable has been put through rigorous the performance tests in the laboratory. After we've combined every flawless part into a perfect 8K cable and it can be presented to you.
Do you need eARC for a soundbar?
Not necessarily. eARC matters when your TV, audio system and source can use an audio format that needs its greater capabilities. If your current ARC setup supports the formats you watch or listen to, eARC may not change your experience. The cited sources do not establish that an upgrade will be audibly noticeable in every setup.
Before choosing a soundbar or receiver, check these points:
Rank #2
- Top Technology--8K@60HZ: This 8K Ultra-High Speed 2.1 HDMI Cable uses the most cutting-edge technology, which is compatible with 8K@60HZ,4K@240HZ and 4K@120HZ clearly displays every particle, and accurately processes every signal source.
- Upgrade Revolution: Highwings Ultra High Speed HDMI Cable 2.1 8K supports 48Gbps (6GB/s) which can will no longer be stuck or dropped frames when watching video. It is also backward compatible with HDMI 2.0b/2.0a/1.4/1.3/1.2/1.1 versions.
- For Game Enthusiasts: This 8K Ultra High Speed HDMI Cable 2.1 can achieve a super smooth picture of 4K@120HZ. Its latest game mode supports variable refresh rate, maximizes the value of the graphics card and CPU to obtain a smoother and more detailed picture.
- Reinforced high-quality materials: This 8K HDMI Cord uses Highwings' most popular classic style. The tail's anti-bending design has been upgraded to make it more durable. The military grade tensile nylon material also greatly extends its life.
- The ultimate perfectionist: Highwings every parts of the cable has been put through rigorous the performance tests in the laboratory. After we've combined every flawless part into a perfect 8K cable and it can be presented to you.
- Does the TV have an ARC or eARC port, and does the audio system have a matching port?
- Do the TV, sound system and source support the exact audio formats you want to use?
- Does the soundbar have an HDMI input if you may want to connect a source directly to it?
- Do the device manuals specify particular setup steps or cable requirements?
For format support, check the specification pages or manuals for every device in the chain; the eARC label alone does not establish compatibility with every format.
How to connect and set up ARC or eARC
- Connect the return-channel ports. Run an HDMI cable from the TV’s ARC or eARC/ARC port to the soundbar or receiver’s ARC/eARC port.
- Set the TV’s audio output. Choose the external audio system as the speaker or audio output. If the TV has an eARC option, enable it or set it to Auto as directed by the manufacturer.
- Set up the audio system. Enable eARC on the soundbar or receiver if its model requires it. If it does not switch inputs automatically, select the HDMI ARC/eARC input.
- Test playback. Play audio from a known source and confirm it comes through the external system. If a high-bitrate format is unavailable, check the output-format setting and format support on the source, TV and audio system.
Menus differ by make and model. For example, Sony’s setup guide and Samsung’s instructions for compatible Samsung TVs and soundbars show brand-specific steps. Samsung’s workflow includes enabling Anynet+ (HDMI-CEC); that is model-specific guidance, not a universal requirement for every ARC/eARC connection.
Rank #3
- Step into the Future with 8K: Experience the next level of visual clarity with our HDMI cable, boasting a bandwidth of 48 Gbps. It supports 8K@60Hz and 4K@120Hz, ensuring your HDMI needs are met for years to come. This ultra-high-speed HDMI cable is future-proof, making it the ideal choice for all your high-definition multimedia interface (HDMI) devices.
- Certified by HDMI Forum: Our product is among the first to be officially certified as an Ultra High Speed HDMI cable. It has been rigorously tested to shield against electromagnetic interference, guaranteeing that your HDMI cables won't disrupt your wireless devices and networks.
- Engineered for Enhanced Gaming: Our HDMI cables are compatible with PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and any device that supports HDMI source with 4K@120Hz as specified in HDMI. This includes devices running on Sony 8K UHD TVs, Apple TV, and Roku Ultra.
- Superior Quality Materials: Crafted with carbon steel connectors, gold connector pins, and a robust double-braided nylon finish, our HDMI cables are designed to last. These premium materials ensure that you can plug and unplug your HDMI cable 10,000 times without any issues.
- Package Contents: Your purchase includes an Ultra High Speed HDMI Cable, an 18-month warranty, a welcome guide, and our dedicated customer service. Experience enhanced performance from your HDMI cables with Anker.
What if the TV does not support eARC?
When both the TV and soundbar or receiver support eARC, use their eARC ports for the return link. If either endpoint supports only ARC, the connection can use ARC, subject to the formats and limits supported by those devices. Consult both manuals rather than assuming an ARC connection will pass the same formats as eARC.
Another option may be to connect an external player to an HDMI input on the soundbar, then connect the soundbar to the TV. Sony notes that this can allow a higher-quality audio format from the player even when the TV lacks eARC, but the result depends on format support across the specific player and soundbar. The soundbar’s HDMI input also has its own video-passthrough specifications; ARC/eARC alone does not establish support for a particular resolution, refresh rate, HDR format or gaming feature.
Rank #4
- Certified HDMI Cable: The package has an official HDMI certification label. HDMI Officially Certified Fully compliant with the HDMI Forum’s strict requirements as specified in HDMI
- It supports the latest features: 0.01ms, low EMI, SBTM, 48Gbps Bandwidth, ALLM, VRR, QMS, QFT, Dynamic HDR, HDR10+, CEC, HDCP 2.2 & 2.3, VESA DSC 1.2a
- Resolution & Deep Color: 10k@60Hz 12-bit, 8K@60Hz 4:4:4 12-bit, 5k@144Hz 120Hz 90Hz 4:4:4 12-bit, 4K@240Hz 120Hz 144Hz 12-bit, 2k@360H 240Hz 165Hz,1080p@360Hz, 720p, 480p
- Digital Audio Video Format Support: The latest high-bitrate audio formats are supported including eARC, ARC, DTS Master, DTS:X, Dol-by TrueHD, Dol-by Vision, Dol-by Atmos and more
- Wide Compatibility: Gaming PC, FreeSync, G-SYNC, All GeForce RTX 40&30 series, Soundbar, PS5 PS4 PS3, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, All Apple TV+, All OLED TV, All Mac-book, laptop, Projector, Monitor, Netflix, Fi-re TV, Ro-ku TV, SHIELD TV
Which HDMI cable do you need for eARC?
Follow the manuals for the devices you own; a suitable cable you already have may work. For its example eARC setup, Sony recommends an HDMI cable supporting 18 Gbps (Premium High Speed) or an Ultra High Speed HDMI cable. Sony says a standard High Speed cable may carry audio, but a high-quality format from an eARC source may be restricted or sound quality may deteriorate. Its general connection guidance also recommends authorized Premium High Speed cables bearing the HDMI logo. These are Sony recommendations for its guidance, not a universal requirement for every device combination.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
Quick Recap
Device-specific details to keep in mind
- Samsung says eARC is implemented in its latest HDMI 2.1-compatible TVs, and that its TVs and soundbars made in 2020 and newer models support eARC. This statement applies to Samsung products covered by its support page, not all brands or every Samsung model and region. Check the exact model’s specifications. Samsung’s eARC guide
- Sony notes that eARC mode can affect system sounds and voice recognition on some TV models, and that settings or connection changes may help with audio delay. Follow the guidance for the particular TV if either issue arises. Sony’s setup guide
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.
