HDMI 2.1 brings with it a number of new 4K (and 8K) TV upgrades and s, including eARC. This is an important part of the new HDMI equation as it specifically deals with one of the issues many people encounter when connecting additional audio devices to their TV - a loss of sound quality. The impact of the upgrade is so great that eARC is likely to be one of the main reasons many consumers will consider upgrading to a HDMI 2.1-enabled TV.
TV owners invested in their setup are likely already familiar with audio return channel (ARC) as this is a common feature, and typically available on at least one of the HDMI ports on most TVs. ARC can do a lot of things, including controlling other devices connected to the HDMI ARC port from the single remote control. However, where ARC has proven so useful is in how it handles and transmits audio signals. For example, HDMI ARC not only allows for audio and video to be transmitted to a TV, but it also allows for audio to be sent out from the TV as well. This makes it great for additional audio equipment as the TV’s own audio can also be sent and heard through the external audio setup, without the need for additional cables and remote controls. Enhanced audio return channel, as it is officially known, is already in the market and can be found on select TVs. However, with the newest HDMI technology ing eARC, everything changes as this allows s to connect their TV to additional home entertainment devices and make use of the advanced audio features and s.
Dolby Atmos and DTS:X. Again, as this is a single data-delivery solution, that also means there’s little to no issues with problems like lip syncing, considering the video and audio is not only being delivered via the single cable, but also together, and in sync. Put very simply, for home entertainment audio, eARC is game-changing.
Do You Need To Upgrade Your TV For eARC?
The short answer is, most likely, and probably not just your TV. To make full use of eARC, both devices connected via a HDMI 2.1 cable will need to already eARC. As mentioned, some TVs on the market already do, so unless you have one of them, then the TV (and likely the amplifier, A/V receiver, soundbar) will need to be upgraded to a version that’s eARC-enabled.
The real question is whether you should upgrade your TV just for eARC. While the advancements are worth the investment, this is still a new technology and the puzzle pieces are still being aligned. With s needing all parts of the chain, including the cable, to be eARC-enabled, there’s a lot that needs to be upgraded before the real benefits can be had. However, while this suggests there’s no reason to rush out and upgrade everything right now, that's not the same as being aware of the technology. For example, if you are currently in the market for a new 4K TV, amplifier or soundbar, and are hoping not to have to upgrade again for a few years, then eARC is something you should factor into the decision-making process.