Do I need new HDMI cables to use eARC? According to HDMI.org, if you currently use a standard HDMI cable with Ethernet, or a High-Speed HDMI cable with Ethernet, you should be fine.

There are different HDMI versions: 2.1 is most common, but 2.2 is coming soon. Check for an eARC port on your TV to connect a high-end audio device.

It also supports features such as variable refresh rate (VRR). To fully utilize the capabilities of HDMI 2.1, a special high-speed HDMI cable must be used in addition to the standard HDMI cable.

HDMI cables are backward-compatible -- old cables can still be used, so there's no need to throw them away.

Today, we're taking a look at two innovations in the HDMI cable connection standard: HDMI ARC and HDMI eARC. ARC stands for Audio Return Channel, and eARC stands for Enhanced Audio Return Channel.

Note that eARC requires using an HDMI cable that supports Ethernet. The bottom line on HDMI 2.1 Right-click on this image to open a larger image in a new window or tab.

If you're wanting to up your home theater audio game, then understanding HDMI ARC and HDMI eARC can help you on that journey.

The Enhanced Audio Return channel delivers higher-quality movie soundtracks and music, too—and you won't need a new cable. What's not to like?

The HDMI forum has announced a new HDMI standard, dubbed 2.1. The new protocol will have some interesting features including higher display resolutions, among them 4K 120Hz, 8K 60hz, Dynamic HDR ...

And if you're using an older HDMI port or cable, ARC might not even work reliably. So, if your TV has one HDMI port labeled "ARC" or "eARC," that's the one you should be using for your home ...

The Ultra High Speed HDMI Cable supports the complete HDMI 2.1 specification which includes support for eARC (enhanced Audio Return Channel) along with a wealth of video features.