Polk Audio Signa S4 Ultra-Slim EARC SoundBar
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Best EARC Soundbar Reviews and Guide

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Introduction

EARC (Enhanced Audio Return Channel) is a technology that allows for the transfer of high-resolution audio from a TV to a soundbar or other audio system without the need for an additional audio cable. This is achieved by using the HDMI cable that is already connected to the TV to transmit the audio signal in addition to the video signal. The best EARC soundbar is a soundbar that is equipped with this technology, allowing for a more convenient and streamlined setup process for users.

We’ve seen a lot of advancements in TVs in recent years, thanks to the introduction of Smart TVs and the numerous additional perks that came with them. Nowadays, you may access on-demand entertainment on a smart TV rather than relying on a cable provider as in the past.

Even while this new generation of Smart TVs appears to have it all, one thing appears to be missing from even the most costly options: outstanding sound quality. Because most TV makers place a premium on display and image quality, TV speakers fall behind in terms of performance. As a result, many consumers opt for a good soundbar to match their televisions.

Soundbars have a few advantages over standard home theater speaker setups: they take up less room, are easier to set up, and are frequently less expensive. There’s a model out there for everyone, whether you want a Dolby Atmos soundbar or something to plug your old MP3 player into. However, not all soundbars are made equal, and some offer a more enjoyable listening experience than others.

If you spend a lot of time at home watching TV or listening to music, you’ll want something that sounds excellent and is compatible with your existing devices, whether you want to connect it to your smart TV or prefer streaming directly from your smartphone. The best television soundbars replicate dialogue from your favorite shows with clarity and detail.

Power Output Capacity:

The main reason for using a soundbar instead of your TV’s built-in speaker is the lack of power capacity on the default speakers.
So, obviously, you’d want to get a soundbar with a high output capacity, assuring loud sound output without sacrificing sound quality.

Connectivity Options:

Because a soundbar is frequently coupled with a TV in the living room, it also becomes a part of your design, and you don’t want it to look cluttered with cables and plugs.
As a result, in order to build a clean setup, you must choose a soundbar with the appropriate connecting choices.
Right now, the finest options on the market are those that include HDMI eARC connectors for high-quality audio transmission.

Surround Sound Feature:

Aside from the soundbar’s output is loud and clear, you’d also like it to sound authentic to provide a flawless viewing experience, whether you’re watching a movie or an episode of a TV show. Surround sound characteristics on the soundbar are required for this. In this regard, there are various soundbar alternatives accessible, such as 2.1, 3.1, and even 5.1, each of which provides better results than the previous one.

Because a soundbar is simply a speaker, you must examine all of the elements that you would evaluate when purchasing a regular set of speakers. Aside from that, there are some more factors that affect the compatibility and installation of a soundbar that should not be overlooked while looking for the best options in your price range.

You’ve come to the right place if you’re not sure how to buy a soundbar. Following our recommendations for the best eARC soundbar, we will provide a “Buying Guide” for the best eARC soundbar to assist you in finding the correct one within your budget.

Best EARC Soundbar 2023

LG S75Q 3.1.2ch EARC Soundbar
  • It has Bluetooth, HDMI connectivity options
  • The power output capacity is 400 Watts
  • It comes with a year of warranty
  • Meridian Audio Technology for high-res sound production
Polk Audio Signa S4 Ultra-Slim EARC SoundBar
  • It has Bluetooth, Auxiliary, USB, and HDMI connectivity options
  • The power output capacity is 90 Watts
  • It comes with a year of warranty
  • Polk’s exclusive voice and bass adjustment settings
Denon DHT-S517 EARC SoundBar for TV
  • It has Bluetooth, HDMI connectivity options
  • The power output capacity is 180 Watts
  • It comes with a year of warranty
  • Denon’s exclusive Dialogue Enhancer feature
Sony ST5000 7.1.2ch 800W Dolby Atmos Soundbar
  • Dolby Atmos technology: This provides a more immersive and realistic surround sound experience
  • 7.1.2 channel audio: The soundbar has 7 channels for traditional surround sound, plus 2 additional channels for overhead sound, creating a true 3D audio experience
  • Wireless subwoofer: The subwoofer can be placed anywhere in the room and wirelessly connects to the soundbar for improved bass response
  • Compatibility: The soundbar is compatible with many popular streaming services, including Spotify, Apple Music, and Google Chromecast
  • Voice control: The soundbar can be controlled using voice commands through Alexa and Google Assistant
Bose Smart EARC Soundbar 700
  • Voice control: The Bose Smart Soundbar 700 can be controlled using voice commands through Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant
  • Adaptive Sound: The soundbar automatically adjusts the audio to match the content and the room it is in
  • Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity: The soundbar can connect to other devices wirelessly, including smartphones, tablets, and laptops
  • Multi-room audio: The soundbar can be paired with other Bose speakers to create a multi-room audio system
  • Sleek design: The soundbar has a sleek and modern design that can complement any living space
  • Bose Music app: The Bose Music app allows users to control the soundbar, adjust settings, and access music services such as Spotify, Amazon Music, and Tidal
Nakamichi Shockwafe Soundbar
  • The Nakamichi Shockwafe Soundbar is known for its immersive surround sound experience, thanks to its 9-channel soundbar and wireless subwoofer
  • It also has a variety of audio settings, including a virtual 7.1 surround sound mode and a 3D surround sound mode
  • Additionally, it is compatible with a wide range of devices, including TVs, Blu-ray players, and gaming consoles, and can be controlled with a remote or through the Shockwafe mobile app.
SENNHEISER AMBEO Soundbar Max
  • Impressive immersive sound for a stand-alone bar.
  • Good performance with the surrounding content.
  • Supports all audio formats.
  • Well-built design.

LG S75Q 3.1.2ch EARC Soundbar

We are all familiar with LG because it is one of the world’s leading companies in electrical items.

Along with a wonderful selection of TVs, LG also has a great selection of soundbars that are ideal for such TVs.

The LG S75Q 3.1.2 Channel Soundbar is our second choice from this list, and it is also one of the more affordable options we have for you today.

Nonetheless, LG has managed to add sound enhancement elements such as Dolby Atmos and DTS:X surround sound technology on the soundbar.

The LG S75Q 3.1.2 Channel Soundbar has a power capability of up to 400 Watts, which outperforms many other options in this price range.

If you already have an LG TV, this will be a fantastic match because all LG soundbars are intended to work with a wide range of LG TVs out of the box.

LG S75Q 3.1.2 Channel Soundbar includes an external front-firing subwoofer with the 3.1.2 audio channel arrangement, so you won’t have to compromise on the audio system’s bass response.

It also has Meridian Audio Technology, which produces high-resolution sound without the need for adjusting.

The LG S75Q 3.1.2 Channel Soundbar has both HDMI eARC and Bluetooth compatibility for a seamless connection.

Pros

  • It comes with an external subwoofer
  • Best option for LG TVs
  • Power output is pretty good

Cons

  • It does not have external tweeters or rear drivers

Polk Audio Signa S4 Ultra-Slim EARC SoundBar

Polk Audio is yet another well-known name in the audio industry, having produced numerous renowned sound systems and speakers.

Polk Audio is also offering the most popular and trustworthy alternative for an HDMI eARC soundbar on our list.

The Polk Audio Signa S4 is also one of the slimmest and most affordable options on our list of the top HDMI eARC soundbars.

Unlike most other options, however, this soundbar includes a 7-driver array as well as a full-range center channel driver to provide a complete 3D sound experience.

Along with the soundbar, it comes with a 5.25-inch-wide external subwoofer for improved bass output.

The Polk Audio Signa S4’s audio channel configuration comprises twin 1-inch L/R tweeters, dual Racetrack Mid drivers, and one 1-inch center driver.

All of this is crammed within the speaker’s 2 inch height, which is rather impressive.

You can use the optical port, analogue 3.5 mm port, USB-A port, HDMI port, or Bluetooth for wireless audio input.

You can also change the voice and bass levels coming from the device to tailor the setup’s performance.

Pros

  • One of the most trusted options on the market
  • Compatible with 4K as well as 8K TVs
  • External subwoofer for best bass response

Cons

  • Power capacity is quite low for the price

Denon DHT-S517 EARC SoundBar for TV

The Denon DHT-S517 Soundbar is our last recommendation for the best HDMI eARC soundbar.

This is also a low-cost choice that, thanks to its features, manages to give a premium-grade sound performance.

It includes twin 1-inch tweeters, dual 4.7-inch mid-rangers, one 1-inch center driver, and dual up-firing speakers with a total output capacity of 180 Watts.

As a result, this unit has little trouble producing authentic surround sound.

You may also use the Denon DHT-S517 Soundbar as a wireless speaker for wireless audio streaming by pairing it straight with your smartphone or laptop.

This is also a tiny unit, at only 3 inches tall.
However, even in that small package, you receive Dolby Atmos sound augmentation for 3D surround sound.

Furthermore, it includes Denon’s distinctive Dialogue Enhancer feature, which you should use while viewing a movie.

Pros

  • Great features for the price
  • It has 3 preset sound modes
  • External subwoofer to ensure the right bass output

Cons

  • Not an ideal choice for rooms above 1000 sq. ft. in area

Sony ST5000 7.1.2ch 800W Dolby Atmos Soundbar

The Sony ST5000 7.1.2ch soundbar and sub (available on Amazon) is the next step up from the Z9F.

The most noticeable distinction is the number of channels. This unit, like the Sonos Arc, features specialized upward-firing speakers capable of supporting Dolby Atmos, rather than the Z9F’s “vertical sound engine,” which tries to do so virtually.

It also includes a stand-alone bass, but it’s a little beefier than the Z9F equivalent.

Then there are the additional drivers meant to provide side and rear sound effects.

Coming from Sony, there’s little doubt this will be worth the money, and speaking of money, it’s not much more expensive than the other options we’ve examined thus far. Approximately 40-50% more.

Having said that, we are definitely moving up the pricing ladder with this model.

So, what are you getting for your extra money?
Connecting to Spotify and streaming music in almost any other method will be a breeze.

There’s Bluetooth if you want it, and there’s even Chromecast audio built in…a great touch that allows you to stream all types of material from your device quickly and simply; just look for the Chromecast sign.

This isn’t as fluid or as seamless as using the Sonos App or something similar, but it’s a little more elegant because it doesn’t require an app.

Pros

  • Chromecast built-in is a nice touch, arguably simpler to use than the Sonos app or some other dedicated app-controlled streaming solution
  • The power increase on this unit from the Z9F is massive. 400 watts up to 800 watts. You won’t struggle to fill a room with this sound, and if that means you don’t have to buy extra satellite speakers then it’s well worth it

Cons

  • No Airplay support, which we’d like to see at this price point
  • No output jack for additional speakers if you did want to add proper rear speakers and no indication that you could add them wirelessly after the fact.

Bose Smart Soundbar 700

The Bose Smart Soundbar 700 is a powerful and versatile soundbar that offers a wide range of features to enhance your listening experience.

This soundbar is designed to work seamlessly with your smart home devices, allowing you to control it with your voice or through your smartphone.

One of the key features of the Bose Smart Soundbar 700 is its ability to deliver powerful, immersive sound.

The soundbar is equipped with a 7-speaker array that includes a center speaker and left and right speakers, as well as rear surround speakers for a true surround sound experience.

The soundbar also features advanced processing technology that ensures that every detail of your music and movies is heard clearly and accurately.

Another great feature of the Bose Smart Soundbar 700 is its ability to work with your smart home devices.

The soundbar is compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, allowing you to control it with your voice. You can also use the Bose Music app to control the soundbar from your smartphone or tablet. This app allows you to adjust the volume, change the input, and even access streaming services like Spotify and Pandora.

The Bose Smart Soundbar 700 also includes a built-in microphone that allows you to make and receive calls hands-free. This feature is especially useful if you have a home office or a room where you spend a lot of time working.

The Bose Smart Soundbar 700 is also designed to look great in any room of your home. The soundbar has a sleek and modern design that will complement any décor.

The soundbar can be mounted on the wall or placed on a shelf, and it comes with a remote control for easy operation.

Overall, the Bose Smart Soundbar 700 is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a powerful and versatile soundbar that can enhance their listening experience. Whether you’re watching a movie, listening to music, or working in your home office, this soundbar will deliver the sound quality you need.

Pros

  • Great quality and value for the money
  • Still technically expandable through other Bose speakers
  • Customize the soundbar’s performance to your space with ADAPTiQ

Cons

  • Comes with a universal remote that, if you’re buying it for eARC, you may not need
  • At the same price as Sonos, struggles to set itself apart with a compelling reason to not choose the Arc

Nakamichi Shockwafe EARC Soundbar

The Nakamichi Shockwafe Soundbar is a high-performance audio system that delivers immersive and powerful sound for your home entertainment experience.

This soundbar is designed to provide a cinematic sound experience for your movies, music, and TV shows.

One of the key features of the Nakamichi Shockwafe Soundbar is its ability to deliver 7.1 channel surround sound.

This means that the soundbar includes seven speakers and one subwoofer, which work together to create a realistic and immersive surround sound experience.

The speakers are strategically placed to provide a wide and spacious sound stage, making it feel like you’re right in the middle of the action.

The soundbar’s sleek and modern design is also worth mentioning, as it will seamlessly blend into any living room or home theater setup.

The soundbar’s black finish and sleek lines make it a stylish addition to any home entertainment system.

Overall, the Nakamichi Shockwafe Soundbar is a great choice for anyone looking for a powerful and immersive surround sound experience.

Its compatibility with a variety of devices, built-in Bluetooth feature, and sleek design make it a versatile and convenient addition to any home entertainment system.

Pros

  • High-quality sound with a powerful subwoofer
  • Multiple sound modes for different listening experiences
  • Easy to set up and use with various devices
  • Sleek and modern design

Cons

  • Expensive compared to other soundbars on the market
  • Limited connectivity options (no Bluetooth or Wi-Fi)
  • May not be compatible with all TV models
  • Some users have reported issues with the remote control.

SENNHEISER AMBEO EARC Soundbar Max

Sennheiser is a well-known brand in the audio industry, and their latest offering, the AMBEO Soundbar Max, is no exception.

This soundbar is designed to deliver a truly immersive audio experience, with a focus on creating a lifelike and realistic sound stage.

The AMBEO Soundbar Max is equipped with 13 speakers, including 5 up-firing speakers, 4 mid-range drivers, and 4 bass drivers.

This combination of speakers allows the soundbar to deliver a truly 3D soundstage, creating a sense of immersion and realism that is unmatched by traditional soundbars.

The soundbar also features advanced processing technology, including Sennheiser’s proprietary AMBEO 3D Sound technology, which uses sophisticated algorithms to create an immersive and realistic soundstage. Additionally, the soundbar is compatible with Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, which provide even more advanced audio processing and immersive sound.

One of the standout features of the AMBEO Soundbar Max is its ability to adapt to the room it is in. The soundbar is equipped with a built-in microphone that can be used to create a customized sound profile for your room. This ensures that the soundbar delivers the best possible audio experience, regardless of the size or shape of the room.

Overall, the Sennheiser AMBEO Soundbar Max is a top-of-the-line soundbar that delivers an unparalleled audio experience. With its advanced processing technology, adaptable sound profile, and wide range of connectivity options, this soundbar is sure to be a hit with audiophiles and casual listeners alike.

Pros

  • High-quality sound: The Sennheiser AMBEO Soundbar Max delivers immersive, 3D sound that is rich and detailed, making it perfect for movies, music, and gaming.
  • Easy to set up: The soundbar is easy to set up and can be connected to your TV, computer, or mobile device with just a few simple steps.
  • Versatile connectivity: The soundbar supports a wide range of inputs, including HDMI, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi, making it easy to connect to a variety of devices.

Cons

  • Expensive: The Sennheiser AMBEO Soundbar Max is one of the most expensive soundbars on the market, making it out of reach for many consumers.
  • Large size: The soundbar is quite large and may not fit comfortably in smaller living spaces.
  • Limited color options: The soundbar is only available in one color, which may not match the aesthetic of some living spaces.

Buying Guide for the Best EARC Soundbar

Soundbars have been available on the market for quite some time. And, because most consumers choose to match these options with a TV rather than a set of speakers or a home theater system, practically all major electronics firms have a good selection of soundbars in their product catalogs.

As a result, when browsing for one, you will come across hundreds of possibilities, which can easily confuse you, especially if this is your first time purchasing one.

But you don’t have to worry about that because we’ve already narrowed down the top eARC soundbar alternatives for you right here. In addition, we provide this useful buying guide where you can learn everything you need to know about a soundbar and its vital elements that can affect its performance and longevity.

So, after reading our shopping advice, we are confident that you will be able to pick the ideal soundbar for your home.

Compatibility:

One of the most important things to consider when buying an EARC soundbar is compatibility with your TV or other devices. Make sure that the soundbar you choose is compatible with the devices you have, such as your TV, Blu-ray player, or streaming device.

Sound Quality:

The sound quality of an EARC soundbar is crucial, as it will determine how well you can hear and enjoy your movies, music, and TV shows. Look for a soundbar that offers a wide range of audio frequencies, such as high-quality treble and bass.

Connectivity:

Consider the connectivity options that the soundbar offers, such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and HDMI. This will allow you to easily connect your soundbar to your TV, streaming device, or other devices.

Size and Design:

The size and design of the soundbar will depend on the size of your room and the space available for the soundbar. Look for a soundbar that is the right size for your room, and that has a design that complements your home decor.

Additional Features:

Some EARC soundbars come with additional features such as built-in microphones for voice control, or the ability to connect to multiple devices at once. Consider what additional features you would like your soundbar to have before making your purchase.

Price:

EARC soundbars can vary greatly in price, so it’s important to determine your budget before making a purchase. Look for a soundbar that offers the features and quality you need, while staying within your budget.

FAQs

What is an EARC soundbar?

EARC stands for Enhanced Audio Return Channel and is a feature that allows for higher-quality audio transmission between a TV and a soundbar. This technology allows for lossless audio transmission and improved audio sync.

What are the benefits of having an EARC soundbar?

The main benefit of an EARC soundbar is the ability to transmit high-quality audio from a TV to the soundbar without any loss in sound quality. This technology also allows for improved audio sync, so there is no lag or delay between the audio and video.

How do I know if my TV supports EARC?

Many newer TV models support EARC, but you can check the specifications of your TV to see if it has this feature. You can also check the TV’s manual or contact the manufacturer for more information.

Can I use an EARC soundbar with a non-EARC TV?

Yes, you can still use an EARC soundbar with a non-EARC TV, but the soundbar will not be able to take advantage of the enhanced audio capabilities. The soundbar will still work, but the audio quality may not be as high.

Are all EARC soundbars the same?

No, not all EARC soundbars are the same. Some may have additional features such as built-in Alexa or Google Assistant, while others may have a different number of speakers or a different design. It’s important to compare different EARC soundbars and choose one that best fits your needs and preferences.

Conclusion

If you’re bored of listening to the bland sound from your TV’s default speakers and want something more powerful and adaptable, check out our list of the finest HDMI eARC soundbars offered here. We have selected these solutions by weighing different factors such as brand, audio quality, affordability, technical specifications, compatibility, and so on. As a result, our list has at least one excellent option for an HDMI eARC soundbar. We’ve also included all of the relevant information with each of our recommendations to make your task even easier.

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