Is the Audio Clarity of Your Soundbar in Question? Should You Get an HDMI ARC Connection Cable?
In the quest for optimal sound quality when connecting a soundbar to a 4K TV, using an HDMI ARC or eARC connection is highly recommended. This connection method allows for high-quality audio return from the TV to the soundbar over a single cable, supporting advanced audio formats and simplifying setup.
First introduced in 2009, HDMI ARC (Audio Return Channel) enables the TV to send sound to an external audio device like a soundbar using an HDMI cable. This eliminates the need for a separate audio cable, making it a convenient and clutter-free solution. The newer eARC (Enhanced Audio Return Channel), part of HDMI 2.1, significantly expands audio bandwidth and format support, allowing transmission of uncompressed 5.1, 7.1 surround sound, and immersive formats like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X in lossless quality.
Optical cables, on the other hand, cannot transmit high-bitrate audio or immersive formats, limiting sound quality. If you want to enjoy immersive audio formats like Dolby Atmos or DTS:X, an HDMI ARC cable is a must-have.
HDMI ARC also supports HDMI CEC, enabling basic control of the soundbar with the TV remote, improving user convenience. If your soundbar and TV both support eARC, using an HDMI cable connected to the eARC port is the best choice for optimal sound quality and ease of use.
When using a soundbar with multiple HDMI inputs, you may need to select the correct input on the soundbar to receive the audio signal from the TV. If your TV has limited HDMI ports, an HDMI ARC cable can free up additional ports for other devices.
However, it's important to note that not all TVs or soundbars that support HDMI ARC are created equal. Some support earlier versions that are limited to certain audio formats or resolutions. HDMI eARC, a newer technology, supports up to 7.1 channels of audio, including immersive audio formats like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X.
If your soundbar does not have an HDMI ARC port, you cannot use an HDMI ARC cable to connect it to your TV. RCA audio cables, an alternative to HDMI ARC, support only stereo audio and not multi-channel audio formats.
In summary, while not strictly mandatory, using an HDMI ARC (or preferably eARC) cable is highly advisable for achieving the best audio quality and convenience when using a soundbar with a 4K TV. HDMI ARC/eARC offers superior audio bandwidth, better audio format support, and user-friendly features, making it the ideal choice for an immersive and seamless audio experience.
Gadgets like soundbars can take advantage of technology such as HDMI ARC or eARC to deliver high-quality sound, particularly immersive formats like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, in a home theater setup. HDMI ARC, for instance, now supports HDMI CEC for remote control compatibility and bandwidth and format expansions with eARC, rendering it the preferred choice over optical cables for superior sound quality.
