iTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
You can still connect a soundbar or receiver to a TV without HDMI ARC if the TV has another audio output that matches an input on the audio system. Optical audio is a common documented alternative; some TV models also provide analog audio output. An ordinary HDMI port alone does not mean it supports ARC, so check the port labels and the manuals for both devices before buying a cable.
What does it mean if your TV has no HDMI ARC?
HDMI ARC—Audio Return Channel—lets a TV send audio upstream to a soundbar or AV receiver over an HDMI connection. Not every HDMI port supports this feature. HDMI Licensing Administrator recommends labeling ARC-capable ports, but says labeling is not required, so check the TV manual or manufacturer support page if the port itself is unclear: HDMI specifications.
If the TV truly lacks ARC, it cannot use that feature to send audio to an HDMI-connected audio system. That does not rule out external speakers: you can use another compatible audio output, or route a separate source device through a soundbar or receiver with suitable HDMI inputs.
Which connection can work without ARC?
| Option | Use it when | Check first | Trade-off |
|---|---|---|---|
| Optical (TOSLINK) | The TV has Optical OUT and the audio system has Optical IN. | Confirm both port labels, choose the matching audio-system input, and check the devices’ supported audio formats. | Requires a separate audio cable; the formats available depend on the devices and signal. |
| Analog stereo to RCA | The TV has an analog audio output and the audio system accepts the corresponding connection. | Verify the actual connectors and any required TV output setting. | It is an analog connection, and its capabilities depend on the hardware. |
| Separate source routed through a soundbar or receiver | A set-top box, game console, or other HDMI source can connect to an audio system with a suitable HDMI input and video output to the TV. | Confirm support for the source’s video and audio formats, and check how the system routes the signal. | This does not send audio from the TV’s built-in apps or tuner back to the audio system. |
| Different soundbar or receiver | The existing audio system has no input that matches any available TV output. | Compare its input list and format support with the TV’s outputs and your needs. | Requires a replacement purchase; check physical space and desired features too. |
HDMI ARC and eARC are not interchangeable terms. HDMI says eARC adds higher-bandwidth audio capabilities and is not defined as backward-compatible with ARC, although individual products may support both. Check the specific devices’ documentation rather than assuming that an eARC label solves a compatibility mismatch: HDMI eARC information. Do not assume an unspecified optical or analog connection will carry a particular lossless or immersive audio format.
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
How to connect a TV to speakers using optical audio
- Check the ports. Find Optical OUT on the TV and Optical IN on the soundbar or receiver. Confirm the labels in each manual if necessary.
- Connect the cable. Run an optical cable from the TV’s Optical OUT to the audio system’s Optical IN.
- Select the input. Choose the optical input on the soundbar or receiver.
- Set a compatible TV audio format. Use the TV’s digital audio output settings and select a format supported by the receiving device. Sony advises setting the output to PCM if the audio system does not support Dolby Digital or DTS; menu names and available choices vary by model. See Sony’s optical digital audio setup guidance.
- Test playback. Play audio from the TV and confirm that it comes through the external system. If there is no sound, recheck the selected input, cable connections, and audio-format setting against both manuals.
What if the TV has no optical output?
Check whether the TV provides analog audio output and whether the soundbar or receiver accepts the same type of signal. Sony documents a stereo-to-RCA connection for applicable models, but this is model-dependent: inspect the actual connectors and confirm the setup in the TV’s manual and Sony’s audio-output guidance. Do not assume that every TV’s headphone jack, if present, behaves identically or is suitable for your audio system.
If there is no matching output and input, consider an audio system with an input that matches the TV, or route an external HDMI source through a compatible soundbar or receiver. An HDMI audio extractor is not a guaranteed fix: its direction, video passthrough, and audio-format support must match the exact equipment and signal path.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Will the TV remote control the soundbar?
ARC is an audio-return feature, so lacking it means you cannot rely on ARC for that connection. The available documentation here does not establish how volume or remote-control functions will behave for every optical or analog setup. Check the TV and audio-system manuals for the chosen connection and control method before deciding it meets your needs.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
What to check before buying anything
- Identify the TV’s actual audio outputs and the soundbar or receiver’s inputs; matching HDMI sockets are not enough to establish ARC support.
- Check that the audio system supports the audio format the TV will send over the selected connection.
- Confirm the cable type and length needed for the physical setup.
- If you use the TV’s built-in apps or tuner, make sure the chosen connection can carry their sound to the audio system.
- Consult the manuals or manufacturer support pages for the exact model numbers; the right connection cannot be guaranteed without them.
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.
