HDMI ARC

High-Definition Multimedia Interface Audio Return Channel

A feature that simplifies the use of audio systems with a television, allowing for the audio signal to travel both to and from a TV and a connected audio device, like a soundbar or AV receiver, over a single HDMI cable. This feature negates the need for separate audio cables, such as digital optical or coaxial cables, for transmitting audio from the TV back to the sound system.

The ARC feature is handy when the TV is the source of the content. For example, if you use the TV’s built-in tuner or streaming applications, the ARC allows the TV to send audio back to the sound system without additional cabling. It’s also helpful when using devices connected directly to the TV’s other HDMI inputs, as it allows the sound from those devices to be played through your superior sound system.

ARC has been part of the HDMI specification since version 1.4. With the release of HDMI 2.1, an enhancement to ARC called eARC (enhanced Audio Return Channel) has been introduced, which offers increased bandwidth and support for high-bitrate audio formats like Dolby TrueHD and DTS:X. These are essential features for achieving a high-quality sound that matches the capabilities of 4K and 8K video.

• Abbreviation: HDMI ARC