Difference between optical audio cables and HDMI ARC

[Annahmed]

Hi all!

I need to know the difference between using optical audio cables and HDMI ARC for a home theater. Which one offers better sound quality, and are there any quirks to watch out for when setting them up?

[machinist]

Hey there!

When it comes to optical audio cables vs. HDMI ARC (Audio Return Channel) for your home theater, here’s the lowdown:

Sound Quality

HDMI ARC generally wins here because it supports higher-quality audio formats like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, which optical can’t handle. Optical cables are limited to Dolby Digital and DTS, so you’re missing out on the latest surround sound tech if you go optical.
That said, if you’re just running a basic setup or your system doesn’t support those fancy formats, optical will still give you solid sound quality.

Setup Quirks

HDMI ARC can be a bit finicky during setup. You’ll need to enable CEC (Consumer Electronics Control) on both your TV and sound system, and sometimes, they just don’t play nice.
Optical cables are more of a plug-and-play solution, no settings to mess with, but they don’t carry video signals, so you’ll need separate cables for that.

Other Considerations

HDMI ARC can handle both audio and video in one cable, which simplifies things. It also lets you control your sound system volume with your TV remote, super convenient!
If your sound system is older and doesn’t have HDMI ARC, optical might be your only option.

TL;DR: If your gear supports it, go for HDMI ARC, it’s more future-proof and offers better sound quality. But if you just want something simple, optical still gets the job done.

[Annahmed]

Sounds like HDMI ARC is the way to go for better sound quality, especially with those advanced formats. Do you think it’s worth upgrading to HDMI ARC if my current setup is just a basic soundbar and TV? Or would the difference not be super noticeable in my case?

[machinist]

If you’re using a basic soundbar and TV, upgrading to HDMI ARC can still be worth it, depending on your priorities. HDMI ARC simplifies things by allowing both audio and video signals through a single cable, reducing clutter. Plus, it enables features like controlling your soundbar volume with your TV remote, which is super convenient.

That said, the difference in sound quality might not be huge if your current soundbar doesn’t support advanced formats like Dolby Atmos or DTS:X, which HDMI ARC can handle. If your setup is mainly for casual viewing and you're happy with the current sound, you might not notice much of an upgrade. But if you’re planning to expand your system in the future (like adding a better soundbar or surround sound speakers), having HDMI ARC already in place could be a great step forward.

In short, if convenience and future-proofing matter to you, it’s worth considering. If you’re okay with the sound and setup you have, you could hold off for now.

[Annahmed]

That’s helpful to know, thanks! I’ve been thinking about upgrading to a better soundbar in the future, but I’m not sure if I’d notice a huge difference unless I go for something with Dolby Atmos or DTS:X. What do you think I should prioritize when I decide to upgrade? Are formats like Dolby Atmos or DTS:X really worth it, or are there other features I should focus on instead?

[machinist]

Upgrading to a better soundbar can make a noticeable difference in your audio experience. Whether Dolby Atmos or DTS:X is worth it depends on a few factors. These formats create immersive, 3D surround sound. However, the effect relies on having the right content and a room setup that allows the sound to "breathe." If you’re watching a lot of Atmos-supported content on streaming platforms or Blu-rays, it’s definitely worth considering, but in smaller rooms or open spaces, you might not notice a dramatic difference unless the soundbar has upward-firing speakers or dedicated rear satellites.

Aside from the fancy formats, there are a few other features that can really enhance your setup. First, prioritize sound quality. Something with clear dialogue, balanced mids, and deep bass will make everything sound better. A subwoofer, whether built-in or external, is a game-changer for bass-heavy scenes. Connectivity is another big one. Look for HDMI eARC support, which is essential if you want to future-proof for high-quality audio formats, and check for Bluetooth or Wi-Fi options.

Flexibility is also worth thinking about. Some soundbars let you add rear speakers or a subwoofer later, which can be handy if you want to gradually build a surround system without committing to a big investment upfront. And if smart home integration or voice assistants matter to you, there are plenty of models that include Alexa or Google Assistant to add that extra layer of convenience.

Ultimately, if you’re mostly watching TV shows or casual content, focusing on overall sound quality and clarity might be a better use of your budget than chasing the latest formats. It really comes down to how you plan to use it. If you’d like, I can suggest some great models to consider based on your preferences!

[Annahmed]

That’s super helpful, thank you!

I’m definitely intrigued by the idea of Dolby Atmos or DTS:X for that immersive sound, but my living room is pretty open, so I’m wondering if I’d actually get the full effect. Do you think it’s worth investing in a soundbar with upward-firing speakers for a setup like that, or would something more basic still make a noticeable difference?

Also, I love the idea of being able to add rear speakers later. Any recommendations for systems that offer that flexibility without being overly complicated to set up?

[machinist]

In an open space, a soundbar with upward-firing speakers can still provide a better experience than a basic soundbar, though it may not fully recreate the overhead sound effects unless there’s some reflection from your ceiling. The upward-firing speakers are designed to bounce sound off the ceiling to create a more immersive effect. However, the results will depend on your room's ceiling height and surface. If your ceiling is low and has reflective surfaces, you might get a solid effect, but in a larger, more open area, it could be more challenging to achieve the full Dolby Atmos or DTS:X experience.

If you’re open to future upgrades, investing in a soundbar system with addable rear speakers is a great way to improve flexibility and gradually enhance your setup. Many brands offer systems that allow you to add rear speakers later without being too complicated to install. Look for systems with wireless rear speakers, which can simplify setup by avoiding the need for long cables running across the room. Brands like Samsung and LG offer soundbars with this kind of expandability, and their setups are usually pretty straightforward.

If you want to prioritize simplicity and budget, a basic soundbar with subwoofer could still offer a significant audio improvement over your TV speakers, and you could always add more components down the line when you're ready. For now, go with the soundbar system that fits your needs and gives you the option for future upgrades, making sure it’s compatible with the rear speakers you might add later.