The HDMI interface, present in our homes for two decades, has undergone considerable evolution over this time. One of the most important improvements is the ARC (Audio Return Channel) standard, which has revolutionized the way of connecting audio equipment to a TV.
How does HDMI ARC work?
If you have or plan to buy a soundbar or home theater system, HDMI ARC is a must. Simply put, it allows you to send sound through the same cable that carries the image. One cable is enough and that's it – no fiddling with additional connectors. The whole philosophy is that the HDMI ARC port can work both ways. It not only accepts the signal from the console or decoder, but also sends the sound from the TV to the audio equipment. Netflix, HBOregular TV – everything streams automatically through the soundbar, without having to bother with switching sources.
HDMI ARC makes it easy to manage remote controls. The volume on the soundbar can be adjusted using the TV remote control. Moreover, the audio equipment turns itself on and off together with the TV.
First class sound
There is no need to worry about quality – HDMI ARC can handle any TV signal. Regular stereo? Bright. 5.1 surround sound? No problem. And if we have newer eARC standard is also Dolby Atmos.
One thing is important – both the TV and audio equipment must “speak the same language”, i.e. support ARC. Just look at the markings next to the HDMI ports. Virtually all newer equipment works with this port, but the problem may occur with older TV models.