How to use ARC and eARC with a soundbar on your TV
ARC and eARC let your TV send sound to a soundbar through one HDMI lead. When it is not working, the cause is usually the socket, the lead or a setting. Menu names differ by brand and year.
What it means
ARC stands for Audio Return Channel. It sends the TV's sound out to the soundbar over HDMI. eARC is a newer, better version that carries higher quality sound.
Use the right socket
On the TV, find the HDMI socket labelled ARC or eARC. Plug the soundbar into that socket. A normal HDMI socket will not work.
Use a suitable lead
Use a good HDMI cable. If eARC is not working, a newer cable labelled High Speed or Ultra High Speed may help.
Turn on the settings
- LG: Settings, All Settings, Sound, Sound Out, then choose HDMI ARC or eARC if offered.
- Sony: Look under Settings, Display and Sound for Audio output.
- Hisense and Panasonic: Look in the Sound menu for the audio output or speaker choice.
Wording varies, so look for any choice that names the soundbar or HDMI.
HDMI-CEC
Many TVs need HDMI-CEC switched on so one remote controls both. It has brand names such as Simplink on LG and Control for HDMI on Sony. Look for it in the settings menus.
Restart the order
- Switch everything off.
- Unplug the soundbar for 30 seconds.
- Switch on the TV, then the soundbar.
When to get more help
Get help if sound is still missing after the steps above, if sound cuts out, or if lip movements do not match the sound.