ARC vs. eARC: What you need to know

ARC and eARC: What are they? What do they each do? And do you need it?

If you're setting up a home theatre system or looking to improve your audio setup, you may have come across two terms: ARC and eARC. These two technologies relate to how audio is transmitted between your TV and external audio devices such as soundbars and AV receivers. In this post, we'll take a closer look at what ARC and eARC are, how they differ, and which one may be right for you.

What is ARC?

Audio Return Channel (ARC) is a feature that allows audio to be sent from a TV to an external audio system using a single HDMI cable. With ARC, you can connect your TV to a soundbar or AV receiver and enjoy high-quality audio without needing separate audio leads. ARC also allows you to control the volume of your external audio system with your TV remote, eliminating the need for multiple remote controls.

Many TVs and audio devices support ARC, which has been around for a while. However, there are some limitations to ARC. For example, ARC has limited bandwidth, so it can’t support high-resolution audio formats such as Dolby Atmos and DTS:X. ARC also doesn’t support some advanced audio features such as auto lip-sync and multi-channel PCM audio.

What is eARC?

Enhanced Audio Return Channel (eARC) is an advanced version of ARC that overcomes many of the limitations of ARC. eARC supports higher bandwidth and can transmit high-resolution audio formats such as Dolby Atmos and DTS:X. eARC also supports advanced audio features such as auto lip-sync and multi-channel PCM audio.
One of the significant benefits of eARC is that it delivers a more immersive sound experience. With eARC, you can enjoy high-quality audio that matches the picture quality of your TV. eARC also allows for greater control over audio devices, enabling you to adjust volume, select inputs, and control playback from a single remote control.

eARC Pros & Cons

The benefits of eARC are numerous.

  1. Improved Audio Quality: eARC supports high-resolution audio formats such as Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, which deliver a more immersive sound experience.
  2. Greater Bandwidth: eARC has a significantly higher bandwidth than ARC, allowing for higher quality audio transmission and improved synchronization between audio and video.
  3. Better Control: eARC allows for greater control over audio devices, enabling you to adjust volume, select inputs, and control playback from a single remote control.

However, there are some potential pitfalls to consider as well:

  1. Compatibility: eARC requires the TV, the HDMI lead, and the connected audio device to support the technology. If either device is not compatible with eARC, the benefits of the technology will not be realized.
  2. Cost: eARC-compatible devices are typically more expensive than non-eARC devices, so upgrading to eARC may come at a higher cost.
  3. Complexity: Setting up an eARC connection can be more complex than setting up a traditional audio connection. This may require more technical knowledge and time to set up properly.

Which one is right for you?

If you’re setting up a basic home theatre system and don’t need advanced audio features, ARC may be sufficient for your needs. Many TVs and audio devices widely support ARC, and it is a convenient way to connect your TV to a soundbar or AV receiver.
However, if you want the best audio quality and advanced audio features, eARC may be a better choice. eARC delivers a more immersive sound experience and supports higher bandwidth, enabling you to enjoy high-resolution audio formats.
It’s important to note that not all TVs and audio devices support eARC, and eARC-compatible devices are typically more expensive than non-eARC devices. So, if you’re considering using eARC, check whether your TV and audio system support it and whether the added benefits are worth the extra cost.

Conclusion

ARC and eARC are two technologies that allow audio to be transmitted between your TV and external audio devices using a single HDMI cable. While ARC is a convenient way to connect your TV to a soundbar or AV receiver, eARC offers higher bandwidth and advanced audio features for a more immersive sound experience.

Credits

Images from Sony UK https://www.sony.co.uk/electronics/support/articles/00227116

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