Having a soundbar in your home makes it more fun to play games and watch movies. Using a soundbar is a great way to get the most out of your entertainment, particularly when it comes to dynamic sound and audio. Many soundbars may be connected to your TV through HDMI, while others have several inputs. HDMI 2.1-enabled devices may employ eARC, which stands for Enhanced Audio Return Channel. Because of this, audio from your TV may be sent directly to your soundbar with little or no compression.
eARC has now reached a point where it’s realistic to expect this technology to be included in the future of home audio standards. This is a great time to gain the best sound possible with a high-end soundbar that has eARC, which is a future-proofing feature.
HDMI eArc: All you need to know
As the name suggests, Enhanced Audio Return Channel (also known as eARC) is the next step in ARC. The most current HDMI 2.1 standard includes it as a feature.
In terms of speed and bandwidth, eARC is the most important feature. This enables you to connect a soundbar or AV receiver to your TV for better sound quality.
A total of 32 audio channels may be delivered via eARC at up to 38Mbps, including eight channels of 24-bit/192kHz uncompressed data.
High-bitrate formats such as Dolby TrueHD or DTS HD Master Audio or object-based formats such as Dolby Atmos or DTS:X will all be able to be streamed in the future.
Using multiple devices with HDMI eARC should also eliminate the requirement to enable HDMI CEC (which doesn’t always function correctly), so there should be no additional steps required to get things up and running.
Here is a comprehensive look of the best eARC soundbars.
Sonos Arc
Sonos Arc soundbar is an excellent device that packs a lot of gear into its small package. Even though this soundbar has 11 built-in amplifiers that power 11 distinct speakers, if this doesn’t fill the space, we have a list of additional fantastic soundbars. In addition, the eARC standard is pre-installed. Even if you pay more, you can be sure that you’re receiving a high-quality product from any of these companies, but Sonos stands out for a number of reasons.
Everything in the Sonos ecosystem works in a manner that some other speakers can’t even come close to. There are a variety of alternatives for connecting your home theater system (TV, projector, etc.), but few will offer the versatility of the Sonos Arc, which connects to other Sonos speakers on the fly and enables for effortless streaming via their well-polished app.
You can use your voice to operate it and even use it to play back music, making things easier and more convenient. Audiences are given an experience that is both realistic and detailed. You may use it to listen to music, too.
Product Differentiators
Comes with 3D sound with Dolby Atmos and Enhanced Trueplay tuning technology
Bose Soundbar 700
The Bose Soundbar 700 soundbar is yet another excellent option (on Amazon). After the Sound Touch 300, the Sound Touch 500 is a more sophisticated gadget that comes equipped with helpful assistant speakers like as Alexa and Google Assistant, in addition to AirPlay 2 compatibility and Bluetooth. (There are additional Google Assistant-enabled soundbars in our Top 8 list.) When you have those assistant features and, in particular, AirPlay, you won’t be missing out on the Sonos experience as much.
It’s also worth emphasizing that the gadget is equipped with an eight-microphone array, which enhances the experience of the assistants even more. Just two of the numerous features that make this a must-have for every home theater fan are the integrated universal remote and the sleek, beautiful appearance.
When it comes to aesthetics, the Soundbar 700, like the Arc, is rather pleasing to the eye, something that was certainly in mind when it was made available in both white and black. An additional benefit of the Bose system is that it contains the ADAPTiQ audio calibration capabilities of Bose, which are absent from the Arc system.
Product Differentiators
Features Bose Voice4Video technology and Bose Music app.
Sony Z9F
Adding an external speaker to the Sony Z9F 3.1ch Soundbar is the first option on our list that is less expensive than the other two alternatives. In this case, having bass that isn’t bounced off walls or mimicked would definitely enhance the experience, but it may not be worth the extra hundred or so dollars to go for the Arc or Bose 700.
This bundle, however, features eARC and more, making it a worthy addition to our list. This is a terrific everyday piece of gear, and the prominent front drivers nearly proclaim it. A detachable panel may hide them and give this soundbar the mesh grille appearance that has been a prevalent design language for soundbars owing to Sonos.
As an audiophile or minimalist, you may prefer the more honest appearance of exposing your speakers’ drivers for the sake of transparency and honesty. Once you get beyond the unusual packaging, you’ll find everything you need in this box. Exceptional acoustics. Remote included. eARC, Dolby Atmos, and Sony’s “vertical sound engine” are all features that may make those 3.1 channels seem a bit more dynamic.
It has HDMI eARC, so you can expect it to work well with the newest televisions and gaming systems. Your content watching experience will be much enhanced if you use this.
Product Differentiators
Show up with 3.1ch Dolby Atmos DTS: X as well as Vertical Sound Engine and Seven sound modes
Samsung Q60T/XL
Samsung HW-Q60T 2020 series includes a soundbar with 5.1 surround sound. This model, which is the successor to Samsung’s HW-Q60R, does not have any specialist upfiring speakers or support for Atmos content. Instead, it is equipped with a standard subwoofer.
It has a strong bass, but its overall sound may be a touch dark and muffled right out of the box due to the design. Although there is a subwoofer, the low-bass reproduction isn’t very good, and the overall sound is gloomy by default. Graphic EQ and presets such as Adaptive Sound and Game Pro are just a few of the many sound-improving choices available. Supported features include Q-Symphony, which synchronizes the sound from the bar’s speakers with compatible Samsung TVs, and Acoustic Beam, which the firm says helps to provide a more immersive sound experience.
The Samsung HW-Q60T is a fantastic choice for programs with a lot of speech, such as television shows or movies. Because it contains a dedicated center channel, the gadget is capable of reproducing the length of a discussion. Improve the clarity and crispness of the voices is also included as a conversation enhancement option as part of the dialogue development process. Although it does not support Wi-Fi, it does have an in-built Chromecast, and it does not support Apple AirPlay, so you can only listen to podcasts and audiobooks wirelessly through Bluetooth.
Product Differentiators
Has amazing offers like Acoustic Beam technology and Q-Symphony.
Sony ST5000
If you’re seeking for a better soundbar than the Sony Z9F, check out the Sony ST5000 7.1.2ch soundbar with sub (on Amazon). The channel count is the most noticeable change. Sonos Arc-like upward-firing speakers are included in this device, rather than a “vertical sound engine” in the Z9F that aims to simulate Dolby Atmos in a virtual way. It also features a separate bass, although it’s a little beefier than the Z9F’s.
Then there are the additional drivers for the side and rear sound effects, of course. It’s hard to argue with the quality of this product, especially since it’s from Sony, and it’s also not that much more costly than the other alternatives we’ve looked at so far. Approximately 40% to 50% more. However, this model is clearly a step up in price.
In return for that more money, what are you getting? That being said, connecting to Spotify and streaming music through any other method is a cinch. For those who prefer Bluetooth, there’s also Chromecast audio built in, which is a wonderful addition that allows you to stream material from your phone or tablet swiftly and conveniently. This isn’t as easy as using the Sonos Program or anything like, but it’s really a bit more elegant since it doesn’t need a separate app to be installed.
Product Differentiators
Maintains a 7.1.2 channel and Google Home compatibility.
Samsung HW-Q950T
For our list, the price of the Samsung HW-Q950T 9.1.4ch soundbar system has increased by a significant amount. The addition of two wireless back speakers makes this product more competitive with the ST5000.
Additionally, it contains all the drivers necessary to support Dolby Atmos and appropriate side-bouncing for both the right and left channels, which are all built into the rear speakers. You can get an excellent 9.1.4 channel surround effect from this equipment with the wireless sub, and there are just a few restrictions.
For the price, you’ll get a lot more than you pay for. Dolby Atmos and DTS:X playback are supported, along with Alexa’s voice-activated controls, making this a terrific all-purpose sound system capable of filling the room with everything from cinematic audio to music streaming. Streaming and remote control are made easier with the assistance of an app that connects to Wi-Fi.
At this point, this model and all that follow it are going to be slashed on the cost. Buying a product at this price means you’re certain to obtain a high-quality product. It’s time to reassess whether you truly need to spend this much money, and the previous things on the list should do just that.
Product Differentiators
Look out for their 9.1.4 channel and up-firing rear speakers.
Sony HT-G700
The Sony HT-G700 is a 2020 soundbar with a 3.1 channel system. HDMI ARC and Full HDMI In ports allow it to play all major audio formats, including Dolby Atmos material, however it must be downmixed to stereo. There are seven EQ settings to choose from, so you can fine-tune your audio to your heart’s delight despite the device’s naturally boomy sound.
The Sony HT-G700 is fine for a wide range of applications. If you’re a lover of EDM or action movies, you may be a little let down by its boomy sound profile’s lack of thumpy low-bass. Additionally, this soundbar is able to properly and clearly recreate the voices of your favorite soap operas or podcasts, allowing you to hear every single word. It may be loud enough to fill a big or busy space, too, if necessary. However, at maximum volume, there is a lot of pounding and compression problems.
Voices can still be heard clearly and precisely even if the speaker has a boomy sound profile. This device is capable of filling a whole room with sound, and there is also a function that enhances the clarity of speech. Listen to your favorite podcasts or audiobooks at the bar using Bluetooth.
Product Differentiators
Features Immersive AE and 4K HDR pass through.
Sennheiser AMBEO
The Sennheiser AMBEO Soundbar (on Amazon) is the option on the list that we’ve included simply so you know what the North Star of this category is. The price is absurd. But now you know where this end of the spectrum is. The Ambeo sports 13 drivers, packing in 5.1.4 channels to the soundbar itself, without adding anything wireless.
It’s a true standalone system with a mic for calibrating it to your space and it has a look that instantly sets it apart in a good way. It has all the input/output ports you could want, and all the wireless connections you might need too, with even Bluetooth and Chromecast. However, for some audiophiles, the lack of dedicated surround speakers is just going to feel wrong no matter the price point
The Sennheiser smart control app promises to deliver an elegant and polished management experience. You know who you are if this is starting to sound great. Sometimes you’re paying more because you want more features, and the AMBEO does have tons of features, but other times you are paying more for something none of the competitors have: Wow factor.
Product Differentiators
Shows up with fully immersive 5.1.4 channel 3D high-quality sound experience with AMBEO 3D technology modes
Bang & Olufsen Beosound Stage
When it comes to “exorbitantly costly” options, the Bang & Olufsen Beosound Stage Wireless Multiroom Soundbar (on Amazon) is at the top of our list. Keep reading if you don’t mind shelling out almost $2,000 for a soundbar. Some people may have to reassess their priorities at this pricing range.
With this kind of high-end soundbar, what do you get? Satellite speakers aren’t available, so you may be startled to learn that. Neither the base or back speakers are wireless. Dolby Atmos is included as well as 11 drivers squeezed within the Stage’s flat form. Also worth mentioning is that you can connect more speakers to this soundbar, and it’s definitely a good idea to mute the TV’s default speakers if you go this path.
Multi-room speakers from the same manufacturer may be linked together to create a surround sound system or to simply extend the Bang & Olufsen system across your house. In addition, I’m sure that all of this works wonderfully, but keep in mind that all of those additional speakers are pricey as well When it comes to the pricing of a single speaker, we’re even north of Sonos’ zone.
Product Differentiators
Features a Scandinavian inspired design and 11 different drivers and woofers.
Sonos Beam Gen 2
Sonos is recognized for its high-quality audio, and both of these speakers are no exception. In the end, the Sonos Beam comes out on top because to its unique set of features. The Sonos Beam (Gen 2) is the multi-room audio giant Sonos’ newest soundbar, adding simulated Dolby Atmos, HDMI eARC compatibility, and a revamped appearance to the company’s original tiny soundbar.
The new Sonos Beam soundbar is more costly than the original Beam, but its connectivity with the larger Sonos ecosystem allows you to extend your setup with additional speakers. In addition to utilizing the Sonos Sub or a pair of Sonos One SL speakers as your back right and left channels, the Beam (Gen 2) sounds fantastic on its own.
Using the Sonos S2 app, you can easily connect the soundbar to your Wi-Fi network and set up your preferred speech assistant with the Sonos Beam (Gen 2) soundbar. The S2 app also provides access to TruePlay technology, which uses built-in microphones to adapt the soundbar’s audio to your room’s proportions.
You may set up the Beam anywhere you choose because of its tiny size, new features, and cheap price. If your area isn’t big enough for the Sonos Beam, you can simply combine it with additional Sonos speakers to get more surround sound.
Product Differentiators
Technologies like Sonos app, and smart Trueplay tuning.
Wrapping up
The Sonos arc is the real star of the show here. It gives you an epic Dolby Atmos sound experience in a single package. A lot of clever things can be done with it, and it looks good and works well with both music and movies. The best of the best? You can’t go wrong with the Sennheiser Ambeo, but there will be a big hole in your pants pocket.
As eArc Soundbars, these are among the best things you can get on the market. They sound amazing. If you still don’t like the products, you should go to the store in person.
FAQs
If you still have some questions about the Best eArc Soundbar, here I am trying to answer some of them.
Does Dolby Atmos need eARC?
It’s possible to listen to a lot of Dolby Atmos audio through HDMI-ARC with the Dolby Digital Plus codec. In order to play lossless Dolby Atmos audio with the Dolby TrueHD codec, you need HDMI-eARC.
Is it worth to buy Dolby Atmos soundbar?
It’s worth getting Atmos soundbars if you want to listen to music in a completely immersive way. Atmos adds a vertical dimension to the sound. Extra money for an Atmos soundbar should be taken into account before you buy one.
What is TV eARC?
The eARC (Enhanced Audio Return Channel) lets you send the original full-resolution audio signal through an HDMI cable and get the best sound without having to make any compromises. So, you can send better sound from your HDTV to your sound bar or audio receiver.
Freelance tech journalist & author of soundboxlab.com …Read More
