eARC

enhanced Audio Return Channel

A significant improvement over the original Audio Return Channel (ARC) feature. It’s part of the HDMI 2.1 specification. eARC was designed to address the limitations of the original ARC by providing a much higher bandwidth connection. This upgrade allows it to support all current audio formats, including Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, high-bitrate, lossless surround sound formats that provide an immersive audio experience.

Here are some key advantages of eARC:

1. Higher Bandwidth: Supports full-resolution audio signals, ensuring the highest audio fidelity, particularly for high-definition audio tracks found on Blu-ray discs and some streaming services.
2. More Advanced Audio Formats: Compatibility with advanced audio formats like Dolby TrueHD, DTS-HD Master Audio, Dolby Atmos, and DTS:X.
3. Improved Lip Sync: eARC has mandatory support for Lip Sync Correction, ensuring the audio matches the video.
4. Enhanced CEC Functionality: eARC works with HDMI CEC to allow for seamless control and connectivity between devices.

One of the benefits of eARC is that it can be used with the same HDMI cables that support HDMI 2.0b, meaning that many users won’t need to purchase new cables to take advantage of eARC; however, for the best performance, especially with higher bandwidth content, newer HDMI cables designed for HDMI 2.1 might be required.

• Abbreviation: eARC