Best DACs With HDMI Arc for Seamless TV to Audio Integration
The right DAC with HDMI ARC bridges your TV’s audio to your soundbar or stereo system, delivering cleaner, richer sound. This guide highlights five top options suited for different setups—perfect for movie lovers, gamers, and music enthusiasts who want a simple, PCM/LPCM-centric solution. Below you’ll find quick comparisons, clear pros and cons, and practical buying tips to help you choose the best fit for your home theater or gaming rig.
Buying quick pick: The following table summarizes key details for the five selected DACs with HDMI ARC, including input/output options and best-use cases.
| Product | Main Use | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Avedio Links HDMI ARC Audio Extractor | All-in-one TV audio extractor | HDMI ARC, Optical, Coaxial input; Optical/Coaxial/L/R/3.5mm outputs | Good balance of features and compatibility for PCM audio, multi-output |
| Fosi Audio ZD3 | High-fidelity desktop DAC with HDMI ARC | HDMI ARC, USB, Optical, Coax, Bluetooth; XLR/RCA outputs | Premium DAC chipset for detailed sound and flexible connections |
| Tihokile HDMI ARC Audio Extractor | Versatile ARC to multi-link outputs | HDMI ARC, Optical, Coaxial inputs; Optical/Coaxial/RCA/3.5mm outputs | Smart matching and PCM/LPCM focus for broad device support |
| DOREWINAUD HDMI ARC Audio Extractor | Simple, PCM-focused ARC to analog bridge | HDMI ARC, Optical, Coaxial inputs; Optical/Coaxial/RCA/3.5mm outputs | Clear PCM/LPCM performance with straightforward operation |
| AMANKA HDMI ARC DAC | Compact, multi-interface ARC converter | HDMI ARC, Optical, Coaxial inputs; Optical/Coaxial/3.5mm outputs | Good value with multiple interface options and PCM output |
Avedio Links HDMI ARC Audio Extractor
Best for: TV-first setups that need simultaneous outputs. The device accepts HDMI ARC input and provides optical, coaxial, and analog outputs, including a 3.5mm jack. It excels when you want to feed multiple audio routes from a single HDMI source. It notes that Dolby formats are not supported and requires PCM/LPCM for accurate output. The built-in input switch helps quick changes between optical and coaxial signals.
Why selected: It combines ARC extraction with broad multi-output options, making it a solid all-around choice for mixed audio systems.
Caution: Not compatible with Dolby or other surround formats; ensure TV ARC is active and PCM is set on the source.
Fosi Audio ZD3 Desktop DAC Preamp
Best for: Enthusiasts seeking high-fidelity sound with HDMI ARC integration. The ZD3 uses the ES9039Q2M DAC and supports PCM up to 32bit/768kHz, plus DSD512. It offers flexible inputs (Bluetooth, USB, Optical, Coax, HDMI ARC) and premium XLR/RCA outputs for a refined desktop system.
Why selected: Engineered for clarity and dynamic range, with a strong feature set that suits serious audio setups while remaining compact.
Caution: More feature-rich units may require careful setup to optimize the HDMI ARC path and delays between devices.
Tihokile HDMI ARC Audio Extractor
Best for: Multi-port versatility when you want to route ARC from TV to several outputs. It supports simultaneous optical, coaxial, RCA, and 3.5mm outputs, with an emphasis on automatic signal format matching and PCM/LPCM operation. The device requires ARC-enabled TV with HDMI ARC and PCM output to function best.
Why selected: Strong compatibility with a wide range of devices and straightforward operation for expanding an audio system.
Caution: Not compatible with Dolby or other encoded surround formats; ensure proper TV settings for PCM output.
DOREWINAUD HDMI ARC Audio Extractor Converter
Best for: TV-based audio bridging to older or simpler sound systems. The converter handles PCM/LPCM with optical, coaxial, and RCA outputs, and includes a 3.5mm headphone jack. It focuses on a straightforward PCM path and keeps setup lightweight.
Why selected: Clear PCM-focused performance in a compact package, making it accessible for basic home theaters or dorm setups.
Caution: Not compatible with Dolby formats; ensure PCM/LPCM mode is selected on the source.
AMANKA HDMI ARC DAC
Best for: Value-conscious buyers who want multiple input options and reliable PCM output. The AMANKA unit supports Optical/Coaxial/HDMI ARC inputs with Optical/Coaxial/3.5mm outputs, and emphasizes PCM/LPCM compatibility for easy integration with TVs and sound systems.
Why selected: It balances cost and features, offering a practical route to connect modern TVs to older audio gear without overpaying.
Caution: Like others, it does not support Dolby formats; confirm PCM output on your source device for best results.
Buying Guide
What is HDMI ARC and why do you need a DAC with ARC?
HDMI ARC (Audio Return Channel) lets a TV send audio signals back to a connected audio device. A DAC with HDMI ARC takes that digital signal, converts it to analog, and distributes it to multiple outputs. This is ideal when your TV’s built-in speakers are weak, or when you want to drive a separate soundbar, amplifier, or home theater system with high-fidelity sound.
What to look for when choosing
- Input/output options: Ensure the unit has HDMI ARC input and the analog outputs you need (RCA, 3.5mm, etc.).
- PCM/LPCM support: Most ARC devices output PCM or LPCM. Dolby/DTS are usually not decoded by these adapters.
- Output flexibility: Multi-output capability helps you drive several devices at once.
- Channel compatibility: If you need stereo only, confirm there is no unintended downmixing; for surround sounds, consider devices that support your format within PCM constraints.
- Ease of use: Look for plug-and-play operation with clear switching between input sources.
Setup tips for best results
- Set your TV audio output to PCM/LPCM. Turn on HDMI ARC/eARC on the TV if required.
- Test sequentially: TV → DAC → soundbar or receiver, then add additional outputs if needed.
- Check sampling rates: Some DACs support up to 192kHz; ensure your content and TV support the chosen rate.
Who should buy these
- Casual viewers: Avedio Links, DOREWINAUD, and AMANKA offer solid value with multiple outputs for simple setups.
- Audiophiles: Fosi ZD3 provides premium DAC technology and diverse outputs for refined listening.
- Gamers and home theater fans: Tihokile and DOREWINAUD help bridge HDMI ARC to other audio systems with PCM focus.
FAQ
- Q: Do these DACs decode Dolby or DTS? A: Most DACs listed do not decode Dolby or DTS; they output PCM/LPCM. Check your TV’s audio settings to ensure PCM output.
- Q: Can I use HDMI ARC and still bypass the TV speakers? A: Yes. Enable ARC on the TV and route audio to the DAC or receiver as designed.
- Q: Will these work with older stereo systems? A: Yes, via RCA or 3.5mm outputs; ensure the outputs match your amplifier’s inputs.
- Q: Is a separate amplifier required? A: For best effect, an external amp or receiver is recommended if you seek higher volume or true multi-channel performance.
- Q: Do these support 24-bit/192kHz? A: Some models advertise 192kHz support; verify the exact capabilities in the product specs before purchase.