Projectors, receivers & remotes

eARC connection between TV and receiver isn't working

eARC failures usually come down to cable quality, port labeling, or firmware, since eARC has stricter requirements than standard ARC.

Difficulty
Easy
Time
15–30 minutes
DIY cost
$10–$25

Symptoms

  • High-quality audio formats (Dolby Atmos, DTS:X) don't pass through
  • Sound cuts out or drops intermittently over eARC
  • eARC works with some content but not others
  • Receiver shows a lower-quality audio format than expected

Likely causes

  • CommonCable not rated for eARC bandwidtheARC needs an 'Ultra High Speed' or 18Gbps+ certified HDMI cable; older ARC-only cables can bottleneck it.
  • CommoneARC not enabled in TV or receiver settingsSome TVs default to legacy ARC mode even on an eARC-labeled port.
  • PossibleOutdated firmware on TV or receivereARC compatibility has been refined through firmware updates on many devices.
  • PossibleSource content or app doesn't support eARC passthroughNot every app or source bitstreams the highest audio formats.

What to do

  1. Confirm the HDMI cable is labeled 'Ultra High Speed' or rated 18Gbps/48Gbps; replace it if unsure of its rating.
  2. Verify both the TV and receiver ports used are specifically labeled eARC, not just ARC.
  3. In the TV's sound settings, look for and enable an eARC-specific toggle, separate from basic ARC/CEC.
  4. Check for and install any pending firmware updates on both the TV and the receiver.
  5. In the source app or device, enable 'bitstream' or 'passthrough' audio output instead of a fixed PCM/stereo format.
  6. Restart both devices after changes so they renegotiate the eARC handshake.

Tools and parts

  • Ultra High Speed HDMI cable
Ultra High Speed HDMI cableSearch: “48Gbps Ultra High Speed HDMI eARC cable”

When to call a pro

Not typically needed; persistent eARC issues after a certified cable and firmware updates are usually a compatibility quirk worth reporting to the manufacturer.

Safety

Generally low risk

Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.

Related guides

Operator provides AI-generated troubleshooting information. It can be wrong. For safety-critical, electrical, gas, structural, medical, automotive safety, or other high-risk problems, consult a qualified professional.