EARC Vs PCM [Everything You Need to Know]

When installing a home theatre system or an audio system, one of the elements that one should comprehend is the difference between EARC Vs PCM, as they highly determine the sound quality. These two technologies serve different purposes.

On one hand, eARC is an advanced technology that allows the transfer of raw, uncompressed sound, whereas PCM is a sound coding technique that is characterized by smoothed-out straight-through sound.

This tutorial will navigate the inconveniences brought about by these two options, in terms of their performance and applicability, so that you will be able to achieve the sound quality that surrounds you.

EARC Vs PCM

eARC (Enhanced Audio Return Channel) is a new HDMI specification designed to transport audio data at very high bandwidth, while PCM (Pulse Code Modulation) is a way to store an audio wave in its uncompressed and linear form. eARC includes several formats, PCM included, and so both are used together in many configurations.

Is eARC PCM?

eARC and PCM are two different things.

eARC

This is an AV technology standard that is incorporated in HDMI 2.1 that allows audio contents, including imposed each channel PCM audio like Dolby Atmos and DTS, in addition to normal PCM.

PCM

A method of transmission of audio signals in the form of waves without compressing the sound data, appropriate for two or more speakers and sound systems. It also supports other formats, including PCM but is designed to do more than just transmit sound, such as in the case of surround sound formats.

Should I Be Putting Digital Output In TV To PCM, Pass-through, Or Auto?

It is all dependent on your particular audio gear as to what is the best option:

PCM

Choose this option when connecting to a stereo system or when you want the audio without any compression.

Pass-through

Use this option if your external sound reproduction device (like a soundbar or AV receiver) can decode, such as Dolby Atmos, DTS, and the like.

Auto

In this case, the format is chosen by the TV depending on the devices connected to it, providing an average mode of convenience and compatibility.

If you don’t know what to pass, begin with Auto and then change to PCM or Passthrough if the situation calls for it.

Is PCM Audio High Quality?

Of course, PCM audio will be better than most types of sound because it does not compress the audio data. Meaning, the sound will always be the same as the original recording, with all the nuances. The downside of PCM, though, is that it does not allow for spatial audio codecs like Dolby Atmos and DTS, which provide a 3D sound experience for the user.

Unable to Get Multi-Channel PCM via HDMI eARC

If you are having problems sending multi-channel PCM over eARC, please do the following:

• HDMI cable is rated as HDMI 2.1 or higher, because older versions of the cable may not have the necessary bandwidth for multi-channel PCM.
• Make sure that your audio system is capable of multi-channel PCM output. Others may differ and may only work with discrete formats such as Dolby Digital.
• These may be the causes of incompatibility firmware. Hence upgrade your TV for the new version to correct any issues that may be embedded in it.
• Check if eARC is switched on in the audio settings of the TV, as it is likely that it was set at ARC.

Multi-Channel PCM on eARC but Dolby Digital Plus on ARC on My Samsung TV & Soundbar

The dissimilarities of the Enhanced Audio Return Channel (eARC) and Audio Return Channel (ARC) features are more pronounced in the context of more advanced audio configurations, particularly those entailing multi-channel PCM or Dolby Digital Plus.

There exist clearly defined interlaced core functionalities to these two approaches in home theater solutions, with eARC proving to be the ideal technology for enthusiasts.

EARC: Unlocking Full Audio Potential

As of HDMI 2.1, eARC is the new frontier when it comes to delivering highly densely packed audio signals. It is capable of:

• This is the format that conveys audio in its original data without any compression on it. It is for those who want the best sound they can get from every channel with no compromise while at the same time providing a well-defined clear surround.
• These are next-generation audio codecs that optimize sound quality within a hair’s breadth of the original sound mixing afforded in the studio.
• With these cutting-edge audiovisual and spatial audio formats, viewers may enjoy an amazing movie experience in 3D.

ARC: Sufficient but Limited

Although Active Return Channel (ARC) introduced with Version 1.4 of the HDMI standard is a dependable means of carrying audio, it has its drawbacks that cannot be ignored:

• Audio Return Channel permits audio formats that allow the use of compression to eliminate excess bandwidth, such as Dolby Digital and Dolby Digital Plus. Such compression techniques hurt the quality of the sound particularly when compared to purely uncompressed approaches.
• The design innovation of ARC, being insufficient in carrying data for complex signals, disqualifies it from being used in modern setups where formats like Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio are available.

Why upgrade to eARC?

Should you have both a Samsung television and a soundbar that supports eARC, you should most definitely enable the eARC functionality for the following reasons:

• Multi-channel PCM and similar uncompressed formats can reproduce the entire dynamics and intricacy of sound as originally intended.
• Unlike loss-compressed audio systems that work with simple transformed audio files, there are advanced systems like Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio.
• Considering how streaming services and Blu-ray disc players are moving towards offering more and more high-definition audio content, eARC ensures that your system is future-proof.

AV Sync Issues With Passthrough or Auto, Is PCM Fine to Use?

Indeed, changing to PCM nearly always rectifies the problems of audio and video synchronization.

• The former and the latter depend on working in unison with the TV and the external device decoding the audio, and this may lead to delays.
• The latter simplifies the said process because it sends uncompressed sound, meaning that there is no processing, which in turn results in less delay or lag.

Although PCM addresses audio sync, it can limit the use of higher-end audio codecs. When choosing between audio quality and video advances such as highly synchronized viewing, one can never go wrong with PCM as the option.

Should I Use PCM on My TV?

Opting for PCM is dictated by the type of setup you possess.

Opt for PCM if

• Your audio equipment supports only two-channel audio.
• There are issues with timing or incompatibility with enhanced formats.

Avoid PCM when

• There is an installed surround sound system with Dolby Atmos and DTS format levels.

With PCM, high-quality audio output is assured but may not harness the full capabilities of sophisticated audio systems.

Should I Set My TV to PCM or Dolby Digital?

Select PCM or Dolby Digital centers based on what audio system is available for use.

• PCM: For use with a stereo system or any apparatus that does not feature compressed audio decoding. Capable of delivering uncompressed sound of superior quality.
• Dolby Digital: Provides the same in a multi-channel format with activity-based audio compressed in many channels for delivery through a surround system.

If you value ease and straightforwardness, PCM will serve you well. Should you want a thrilling experience of a home theatre, then Dolby Digital should be your choice.

Which Is Better: Dolby Atmos or PCM?

• Dolby Atmos: Best for creating the most realistic, engaging experience for the user with 3D audio in the home theatre and soundbars. It augments sound with height, creating an immersive sound experience.
• PCM: Although it reproduces sound of high quality without compression, it does not have the height sound technology advanced features that Dolby Atmos has.

PCM is okay for simple arrangements. Dolby Atmos makes a more advanced system sound better.

Is eARC for Surround Sound?

Yes, eARC is intended for surround sound formats with excellent quality. In contrast, eARC is capable of transmitting even those formats that cannot be compressed, such as:

• Dolby TrueHD
• DTS-HD Master Audio
• Multi-Channel PCM

This is one of those features that every modern home theatre system ought to have if it wants to reproduce audio that is anywhere close to a cinema.

Conclusion

To sum up, knowing the differences between eARC and PCM is essential when it comes to enhancing one’s audio experience. eARC can transfer complex, high-end technologies such as Dolby Atmos or Multi-Channel PCM without any qualms, while PCM is all about transferring simple sound without concern for quality.

The two may be used depending on one’s sound system and personal preferences. eARC is a must if you want an engaging sound environment that will not grow old anytime soon, while PCM will suit you if all you need is clear sound reproduction.

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