Why Your TV's Sound Isn't as Good as It Should Be

Have you ever wondered why your TV's sound isn't as good as it could be? The answer might be simpler than you think—it could be the HDMI port you're using. The HDMI eARC port is the key to achieving the best audio experience, especially if you have a soundbar or a home theater system.

What is eARC?

eARC stands for enhanced Audio Return Channel. It offers a higher bandwidth and bitrate compared to standard HDMI ports, allowing it to send and receive more data faster. If you're using advanced audio formats like DTS:X and Dolby Atmos, eARC is the way to go.

The Catch

However, your audio device must also be compatible with eARC. If it only supports the older ARC port, it will still work, but you won't get the best sound quality.

When Was eARC Introduced?

eARC was introduced in 2017 as part of the HDMI 2.1 standard. It is an improvement over the original ARC feature, which couldn't deliver high-quality uncompressed audio. eARC made this possible, allowing the transfer of premium audio formats like Dolby TrueHD.

Who Benefits from eARC?

Not all devices benefit from eARC. Blu-Ray players, gaming consoles, PCs, and streaming sticks won't see much of a difference because eARC is designed to send audio out from the TV. However, if you're using a gaming console like the PS5, HDMI 2.1 is the preferred connection for 4K resolution and less lag.

How to Identify the Right HDMI Port

If you're unsure about which HDMI port to use, consult your user manual. The ports should be clearly labeled, but if they're not, the manual should have the information you need.