HDMI ARC (Audio Return Channel) and HDMI eARC (Enhanced Audio Return Channel) are protocols that sit within the HDMI standard and are used to simplify audio connections in home entertainment systems. HDMI ARC allows audio to be sent from a TV to an audio device, such as a soundbar, through an HDMI cable, reducing the need for multiple cables. It can handle formats like Dolby Atmos. On the other hand, HDMI eARC is an advancement over ARC and is implemented in the latest HDMI 2.1 specification. It supports higher bandwidth and speed, allowing the transmission of high-quality audio, including formats like Dolby Atmos and DTS, from the TV to the audio device. eARC also makes the handshake between compatible devices much smoother and negates the need to activate HDMI CEC. To use eARC, compatible devices with HDMI eARC sockets are required. It's important to note that not all HDMI cables support the full capacity of eARC, so using the right cable is essential
. For more detailed information, you can watch a video explanation on YouTube titled "HDMI ARC and eARC Explained | Simplify Your System!"