By using the ARC connection for audio and the HDMI-CEC functionality (this should be enabled on your TV by default), you can reduce both the number of cables used and the number of remote controls needed for your home theater. You can also use this in conjunction with another HDMI standard, called Consumer Electronics Control (HDMI-CEC), which lets you control external devices – like Blu-ray players or satellite boxes – using you TV remote. Instead, the ARC connection lets you output that sound to your soundbar without having to connect with a dedicated audio cable. This is especially important for smart TVs, for which streaming services deliver all content via Wi-Fi, with nothing to feed into a receiver.

Audio going to the TV from an antenna, for example, can also be output over HDMI and piped through the soundbar instead of just the TV's built-in speakers. When your TV is connected to a soundbar or speaker system, you can also use the ARC connection to deliver TV audio to your speakers. If you're buying a new HDMI cable, look for the HDMI Cable Power logo that can draw power from the source device instead of requiring a separate USB cable. It also means fewer cables to install.ĭepending on how far away your streaming player is to your TV, you might need an active HDMI cables that require power from a USB-C connector.

This is especially helpful for instances in which your TV is wall mounted and you either don't have access to all of the HDMI ports or simply want a cleaner look with fewer cables running to and from the TV. Second, you can run these connections through the soundbar itself, letting you shift the multiple HDMI connections from the TV to the soundbar without requiring any additional setup.

Mac hdmi connector