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What Is HDMI ARC? eARC? Differences and How They Work

HDMI ARC Meaning Explained, ARC vs eARC for HDMI 2.1 Audio

In the previous article, we discussed the nature of ARC, its differences from Audio Extractors, and the advantages each offers in different scenarios. In this article, we will explore the technology of HDMI ARC and the differences between ARC and eARC. We also include some useful tips for using ARC audio and an introduction to other common home audio interfaces.

What is HDMI ARC or eARC? HDMI ARC meaning explained.
Read the last article: How to Connect External Speakers to TV: HDMI® ARC vs. HDMI® Audio Extractor

What is HDMI ARC?

HDMI ARC (Audio Return Channel) was introduced with HDMI 1.4. This feature allows audio to be sent back from a TV to an audio receiver or soundbar through a single HDMI cable, eliminating the need for an additional audio cable. For instance, if you are using a TV app like Netflix, ARC allows the TV's audio to be output directly to the audio system via the HDMI cable, providing better sound quality.

What is HDMI eARC?

HDMI eARC (Enhanced Audio Return Channel) is an advanced version of ARC, introduced with HDMI 2.1. eARC offers higher bandwidth and speed, supporting higher-quality audio formats, including Dolby TrueHD, DTS-HD Master Audio, and higher-resolution audio. Additionally, eARC supports automatic detection of audio sources and improved audio synchronization management. This means eARC not only provides better sound quality but also ensures more precise audio-video synchronization.

ARC vs. eARC: Supported Features

ARC and eARC differ in many features. You can find answers to questions like "Do all HDMI cables support ARC?" in the below table.

Feature ARC eARC
HDMI Version HDMI 1.4 HDMI 2.1
Audio Formats Supports basic compressed audio formats
(PCM, Dolby Digital, DTS 5.1)
Supports higher-resolution, uncompressed audio formats
(Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, Dolby TrueHD, DTS-HD Master Audio)
Audio Bandwidth 1.441 Mbps 37.1 Mbps
Audio Delay (Lip Sync) May have a significant delay Significantly reduced delay,
improved audio-video synchronization
Device Compatibility Manual setup required, possible compatibility issues Automatic detection and configuration
CEC Supported Supports a wider range of devices and control functions
Cable Standard HDMI cable High-quality HDMI cable
(e.g., HDMI High Speed with Ethernet)

Tips for Using ARC/eARC

  • Do all TVs have HDMI ARC? Not all HDMI ports support ARC. Look for labels such as "ARC" or "eARC" on HDMI ports that can be used to connect external audio equipment.
What is ARC on TV? HDMI ARC Port on TV can send TV audio to the soundbar.
ARC vs eARC: Audio Return Channel for different HDMI versions.
  • To use ARC, you may need to enable the ARC function in the settings of both your TV and receiver.
  • The method to enable ARC may vary by device. Refer to the device manual or specifications.
  • If you encounter audio issues, try using a higher-quality HDMI cable or re-enable the ARC function.
What does an HDMI Audio Extractor do?

Other Common Home Audio Interfaces

Besides ARC/eARC, there are more audio transmission technologies commonly used in home audio systems.

SPDIF

SPDIF (Sony/Philips Digital Interface Format) is a digital audio interface developed by Sony and Philips. It can transmit two channels of uncompressed PCM audio or compressed 5.1/7.1 surround sound. SPDIF can use either optical fiber or coaxial cables as transmission media.

Like eARC, SPDIF can preserve the original audio quality. If your TV has an SPDIF output, it can be connected to an amplifier.

What is SPDIF? SPDIF is a digital audio interface that can use optical fiber or coaxial cables to transmit uncompressed PCM audio or compressed 5.1/7.1 surround sound.

TOSLINK

TOSLINK (Toshiba Link) is an optical transmission technology based on the SPDIF standard, developed by Toshiba. It can also transmit two channels of uncompressed PCM audio or compressed 5.1/7.1 surround sound.

Unlike SPDIF, TOSLINK uses optical fiber cables exclusively, providing better interference resistance and longer transmission distances.

What is TOSLINK? TOSLINK is a transmission technology based on SPDIF but uses only optical fiber for better interference resistance and longer transmission distances.

Wireless Transmission

Wireless transmission is a better option when you only need to play audio through an amplifier without a TV display.

Many Bluetooth audio receivers are available in the AV market. You simply connect the receiver to the amplifier, which can then receive audio via Bluetooth and output it to the speakers. Besides, Apple's AirPlay technology is increasingly used in various smart TVs and amplifiers, offering superior uncompressed audio quality compared to Bluetooth.

Wireless audio transmission options: Bluetooth and AirPlay.
Image from: Logitech Bluetooth Audio Receiver - USB Powered
2024-06-21 3:30 pm

Cable Used

Product Name

Technology

Power Source

Signal

Type

1080p Distance

4K Distance

Optical Fiber Cable

HDMI Fiber Cable

Fiber

(Reflection of Light)

Power From Source

Video/ Audio

Cable

100M

100M

HDMI Fiber Dongle Extender

Mini USB

Dongle

300M/ 1KM

300M/ 1KM

Network Cable

HDMI CAT5e Dongle Extender

Equalizer*

Power From Source

Video/ Audio

Dongle

40M

N/A

HDMI CAT5e Extender

External Power Supply

Video/ Audio

Stand-alone

50M

N/A

HDMI over IP Extender

Internet Protocol

External Power Supply

Video/ Audio

Stand-alone

140M

140M

HDMI KVM over IP Extender*

Video/ Audio/ Keyboard/ Mouse

150M

150M

HDMI Cable

HDMI Repeater

Bypass

External Power Supply

Video/ Audio

Stand-alone

20M

10M

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