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To connect a TV to a soundbar or receiver, use HDMI ARC/eARC if both devices have matching ARC/eARC ports; otherwise, use optical audio if both have optical ports. Then select the matching input on the audio system and the external audio output on the TV. eARC supports more audio formats than optical in Samsung’s comparison, but the exact formats depend on every device and the content.
Choose HDMI ARC/eARC or optical audio
Check the labels on your TV and audio system before connecting anything. HDMI audio return works only through the HDMI ports labeled ARC or eARC; a regular HDMI port may not return TV audio. Optical requires an optical output on the TV and an optical input on the soundbar or receiver.
| Connection | What you need | Format support in Samsung’s comparison |
|---|---|---|
| HDMI eARC | ARC/eARC-labeled HDMI ports on both devices and an eARC-compatible HDMI cable | Dolby TrueHD, including uncompressed Dolby Atmos; Dolby Digital Plus, including compressed Dolby Atmos; and Dolby Digital 5.1 |
| HDMI ARC (not eARC) | ARC-labeled HDMI ports on both devices and an HDMI cable | Dolby Digital Plus, including compressed Dolby Atmos; and Dolby Digital 5.1. Dolby TrueHD is listed as unsupported. |
| Optical | Optical output on the TV, optical input on the audio system, and a digital optical/TOSLINK cable | Dolby Digital 5.1. Dolby Digital Plus and Dolby TrueHD are listed as unsupported. |
These format classifications come from Samsung UK’s soundbar setup guide; they are not a guarantee for every TV, receiver, soundbar, app, or source. Playback depends on the capabilities and settings of the entire chain, as well as the content. Check the manuals for your exact models. A cable connection alone does not guarantee Dolby Atmos.
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Connect with HDMI ARC or eARC
- Find the matching ports. Locate the TV’s HDMI IN port labeled ARC or eARC and the audio system’s corresponding HDMI port, which may be labeled TV eARC/ARC, HDMI ARC, or similarly. Confirm the labels in each device’s manual.
- Connect the HDMI cable. Connect the TV’s ARC/eARC port to the audio system’s ARC/eARC port. For eARC, use an eARC-compatible HDMI cable.
- Select the audio-system input. Turn on both devices and set the soundbar or receiver source to HDMI ARC/eARC or the corresponding TV input.
- Set the TV’s sound output. In the TV sound settings, choose the external audio system or HDMI ARC/eARC. If both devices support eARC, enable eARC in the TV settings.
- Check for sound. Play audio and confirm it comes from the soundbar or receiver. If the TV offers audio-format or pass-through options, consult both manuals for settings supported by your devices.
Menu names differ by manufacturer and model. LG’s ARC connection guide likewise directs users to connect the soundbar’s TV eARC/ARC port to the TV’s HDMI IN (ARC), select the soundbar function, and choose HDMI ARC as the TV output.
#1 Best Overall
ULTIMEA 5.1CH Surround Sound Bar System with Dolby Atmos, Poseidon M60
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- HDMI eARC for True Dolby Atmos: HDMI eARC supports up to 37 Mbps of bandwidth, unlocking the full potential of lossless Dolby Atmos 5.1-channel audio. Compared to standard ARC, eARC delivers richer surround effects and greater detail. CEC integration allows the TV and soundbar to work together with unified control.
Connect with optical audio
- Check for optical ports. The TV needs a digital optical audio output, and the soundbar or receiver needs an optical input.
- Connect the cable. Run a digital optical/TOSLINK cable from the TV’s Digital Audio Out (optical) to the audio system’s optical input.
- Select the optical source. Choose Optical, D.IN., or the equivalent input on the soundbar or receiver. If required, set the TV’s audio output to external or digital optical audio.
- Choose a supported format if needed. If the TV provides digital audio format choices, check the TV, source-device, and audio-system manuals and select a format all support.
Samsung’s setup guidance notes that optical does not transmit some higher-bitrate formats, including Dolby Digital Plus. It can still be a practical fallback when both devices have optical ports and the required audio format is supported.
If there is no sound over eARC
Start with the connection and settings before changing advanced audio options. Samsung Canada’s troubleshooting guidance is specific to its devices, and screens may differ by region; use your model manuals for exact menu names.
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- Verify ports and cable. Make sure the cable connects the TV’s ARC/eARC port to the soundbar’s ARC/eARC port and is eARC-compatible when using eARC.
- Reduce the setup temporarily. Disconnect other HDMI devices and test with only the TV and soundbar connected. This can help isolate the connection.
- Check relevant settings. Confirm HDMI eARC mode is enabled. Enable Dolby Atmos only when the connected devices and content support it.
- Update software. If the connection still fails, check for TV software and soundbar firmware updates.
See Samsung Canada’s eARC troubleshooting guide for its model-specific instructions.
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Quick Recap
Bestseller No. 3
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Samsung B-Series Soundbar HW B400F 2.0 ch Soundbar with Built in Subwoofer (2025 Model) One Remote Control, Surround Sound Expansion, Voice Enhance Mode
- FULL, BALANCED SOUND WITH A SUBWOOFER INCLUDED: Immerse yourself in your favorite content with perfectly balanced sound and rich bass from the built-in woofer.
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- SEAMLESSLY CONNECTS TO YOUR TV: Connects to your TV without cable clutter. Just pair and play your favorite content.
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ULTIMEA 5.1.2ch Sound Bar with Dolby Atmos, Surround Sound System for TV
- 5.1.2ch Surround Sound System: A 5.1.2-channel system featuring up-firing speakers, surround sound, and a powerful subwoofer creates lifelike, multidimensional audio. Feel the Sky Around You—raindrops falling from above, helicopters circling overhead, thunder rumbling in all directions. Sound isn’t just around you, it engulfs you, as if the ceiling disappeared. This is Dolby Atmos: not just heard, but felt.
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- Lossless Audio Transmission: Unlock full Dolby Atmos performance with HDMI eARC, supporting up to 37Mbps bandwidth for lossless 5.1.2-channel audio. Compared to regular ARC, eARC delivers richer detail and better surround effects with no compression. With CEC, your TV and soundbar work as one—power, volume, and input sync automatically for effortless control.
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Rank #3
Amazon Fire TV Soundbar, 2.0 speaker with DTS Virtual:X and Dolby Audio, Bluetooth connectivity
- Amp up your audio - Fire TV Soundbar enhances TV audio with dual speakers for fuller sound, clearer dialogue, and deeper bass—all in a compact design.
- Immersive sound - Enjoy a three-dimensional virtual surround sound experience with DTS Virtual:X and more detail with Dolby Audio.
- Easy setup - Just plug in the included HDMI cable to the HDMI eARC/ARC port on your TV to instantly enjoy audio that's always in sync.
- Compact design - With a length of 24“ and a height of just 2.5", Fire TV Soundbar fits most entertainment consoles and TV stands.
- Stream audio with Bluetooth - Connect your phone or tablet via Bluetooth to fill the room with your favorite music.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
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