Hisense TV eARC Not Working (Why It’s Not Working and How to Fix It)

Hisense TVs with enhanced Audio Return Channel (eARC) technology offer superior audio quality when connected to compatible soundbars and audio systems. However, many users experience frustrating connectivity issues that prevent eARC from functioning properly.

The most common solution for Hisense TV eARC not working is performing a power cycle by unplugging the TV for 30 seconds, checking HDMI port compatibility, and ensuring the correct audio output settings are enabled in the TV menu. Most eARC issues stem from handshake problems between devices, incorrect port usage, or software glitches that can be resolved through systematic troubleshooting.

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Reasons Why Hisense TV eARC Stops Working

Incorrect HDMI Port Usage – Many users connect their soundbar to any HDMI port without realizing that eARC functionality requires a specific port. Hisense TVs typically designate HDMI port 3 or 4 as the eARC-enabled connection.
Handshake Communication Failures – The HDMI eARC protocol relies on proper communication between your TV and audio device. When this “handshake” fails, the connection may appear physical but audio won’t transmit correctly.

Outdated Firmware Issues – Hisense regularly releases firmware updates that address eARC compatibility problems. Running outdated software can cause persistent connectivity issues with newer soundbars and audio equipment.
CEC Control Conflicts – HDMI-CEC (Consumer Electronics Control) settings sometimes interfere with eARC functionality. Incompatible CEC configurations between devices can prevent proper audio transmission.
Audio Output Setting Problems – The TV’s audio output may default to internal speakers rather than HDMI eARC after power cycles or software updates. This setting requires manual adjustment in most cases.

Most eARC problems are software-related rather than hardware failures. A systematic approach to troubleshooting resolves 90% of connection issues. – Audio Engineer, Michael Chen

Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Solutions

Power Cycle Both Devices

Turn off your Hisense TV and soundbar completely
Unplug both devices from power for exactly 30 seconds

Reconnect the TV first and wait for complete bootup
Power on the soundbar and allow device recognition
Test audio playback from streaming content

Verify HDMI Port and Cable

Locate the HDMI port labeled “ARC” or “eARC” on your TV
Ensure you’re using a high-speed HDMI 2.1 cable rated for eARC

Connect the cable firmly to both the TV’s eARC port and soundbar’s eARC output
Check for any visible damage to cable connectors
Try a different certified eARC cable if available

Configure Audio Output Settings

Press the Home button on your Hisense remote
Navigate to Settings > Sound > Audio Output

Select “HDMI (eARC)” from the available options
Change Digital Audio Output to “Passthrough” mode
Enable “HDMI Control” in the HDMI-CEC settings menu

Reset HDMI-CEC Configuration

Access Settings > System > HDMI-CEC Control
Turn off HDMI-CEC completely

Restart both TV and soundbar
Re-enable HDMI-CEC after both devices fully boot
Test eARC functionality with different content sources

Update Device Firmware

Connect your Hisense TV to Wi-Fi network
Go to Settings > System > About > System Update

Download and install any available updates
Check your soundbar manufacturer’s website for firmware updates
Restart both devices after updating

Advanced eARC Configuration Options

Audio Format Compatibility

Different Hisense models support varying audio formats through eARC. The U7K and U8N series handle Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and PCM audio signals effectively.

Check your soundbar’s supported formats and match them with your TV’s capabilities. Mismatched audio formats can cause connection failures or audio dropouts.

Gaming Mode Considerations

When using gaming consoles with Hisense TVs, enable “Game Mode” in picture settings. This reduces input lag but may affect eARC audio processing.

Some users report better eARC stability when disabling Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) temporarily during initial setup.

Multiple Source Management

Hisense TVs can struggle with eARC when multiple HDMI sources are connected simultaneously. Disconnect unused devices during troubleshooting to isolate the problem.

Built-in streaming apps often work more reliably with eARC than external devices. Test with Netflix or Disney+ before troubleshooting external source connections.

Professional Audio Calibration

For audiophiles seeking optimal performance, consider professional calibration services. Expert technicians can optimize eARC settings for your specific room acoustics and equipment combination.

The key to reliable eARC performance is patience during setup and understanding your specific model’s limitations. – Home Theater Specialist Sarah Rodriguez

Compatible HDMI Cables and Equipment

Certified HDMI 2.1 Cables

High-quality eARC connections require certified Ultra High Speed HDMI cables. Standard HDMI cables lack the bandwidth for advanced audio formats.

The Silkland 8K HDMI ARC/eARC Cable offers 48Gbps bandwidth and supports Dolby Atmos transmission at 6.6 feet length.

Soundbar Compatibility

Not all soundbars support eARC functionality. Verify your audio device specifications before assuming compatibility issues are TV-related.

Popular brands like Sonos, Samsung, and LG offer excellent eARC integration with Hisense TVs when properly configured.

Gaming Console Integration

PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X consoles work seamlessly with Hisense eARC when connected to HDMI 2.1 ports. Enable “HDMI Device Link” for automatic audio switching.

PC graphics cards require specific driver updates to support eARC audio output. Check manufacturer websites for the latest audio drivers.

Model-Specific eARC Features

Hisense U7K Series

The U7K models feature two HDMI 2.1 ports, with the eARC connection being one of them. However, users report that audio output settings don’t retain after power cycles.

This series requires manual audio output selection each time the TV powers on. Consider this limitation when planning your setup.

Hisense U8N Series

The newer U8N models offer improved eARC stability compared to previous generations. These TVs support full HDMI 2.1 bandwidth on multiple ports.

Some users report better eARC performance when disabling Dolby Vision for external devices while keeping it enabled for streaming apps.

Google TV vs VIDAA Platform

Hisense TVs running Google TV generally offer more stable eARC connections than VIDAA-based models. The Google TV platform receives more frequent audio driver updates.

Video Credit: HiFi Audios / YouTube

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my Hisense TV eARC setting keep resetting to TV speakers?
This is a known issue with certain Hisense models, particularly the U7K series. The TV doesn’t retain the eARC audio output setting after power cycles.

You’ll need to manually select “HDMI (eARC)” in audio settings each time you turn on the TV. Some users have found success by enabling “Quick Start” mode in power settings, which maintains certain configurations during standby.

Can I use regular HDMI cables for eARC connections?
No, eARC requires High Speed HDMI cables or Ultra High Speed HDMI 2.1 cables to function properly. Regular HDMI cables lack the bandwidth needed for advanced audio formats like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X.

Using incompatible cables often results in no audio output or frequent disconnections. Always verify your cable is rated for eARC before troubleshooting other components.

Does eARC work with all Hisense TV models?
eARC support varies by model and year. Most 2023 and newer Hisense ULED TVs include eARC functionality, while older or budget models may only support standard ARC.

Check your TV’s specifications or look for “eARC” labeling near the HDMI ports. Models without eARC can still use standard ARC connections, but with limited audio format support compared to eARC capabilities.

Sources

Hisense U8N Review – RTINGS

Hisense TV Keeps Changing Picture Mode (Full Guide to Stop It)