If you’ve ever given a presentation using a projector or own a home theater, you’ve probably heard of HDMI. The acronym stands for “High Definition Multimedia Interface” and is the most popular means of transferring high-definition video from one device to another.
They were incredibly popular when they first came out — but the problem with HDMI was that you needed to connect another cable, like an optical cable, to get clear audio.
Over the years, developers have come up with different variations of the HDMI cable — the HDMI ARC is just one of them.
Developed in 2009, the HDMI ARC cable offers better image and sound quality than traditional HDMI cables. They also offer audio output and input, which traditional HDMI cables could never do.
HDMI ARCs have become the standard AV connections for most entertainment devices, including projectors.
That being said, do all projectors have HDMI ARC? Or more specifically, do Epson projectors have HDMI ARC?
Before we answer that question, let’s first take a look at what makes HDMI ARC so important for users.
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Benefits of using an HDMI ARC cable
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The traditional HDMI cables were very limited in that they couldn’t support multiple devices, unlike the HDMI ARC cables. When you connect your audio system to an ARC-capable TV or projector, anything connected to that device (e.g., Blu-ray players, gaming consoles, and other appliances) can also connect to your designated audio system.
No more red and yellow wires snaking their way through your living room. It’s just one cable for all of your audio and video needs.
A few other benefits of HDMI ARC cables include:
High-Quality Video and Audio
Today, we’re all about image and audio quality in movies, music videos, and other media. HDMI ARC cables not only give you high-quality sound, but they also support 4K video of up to 120 frames per second.
HDMI ARC cables have also become popular for gaming.
Improved Lip Syncing
Have you ever watched a movie and noticed that the actor’s mouth movements just weren’t in sync with the audio? That can supposedly be avoided with the use of HDMI ARC cables through its Lip Sync Correction feature.
Read more about how to fix lipsync issues for details about lip-sync correction.
Consumer Electronics Control
Imagine using a single remote to control your entire entertainment system. The HDMI ARC is made to help you do exactly that. This eliminates the need for you to work with many different remotes.
Do all Epson projectors have HDMI ARC?
Epson is one of the world’s largest projector manufacturers. So, it’s no wonder they’re the number one choice when it comes to home theater setups. Not only do they offer feature-packed products for every type of buyer, but they also sell these at highly competitive prices.
If you currently own an Epson projector and are trying to connect it to an external speaker or sound system, it’s only natural to wonder if all Epson projectors have HDMI ARC capabilities.
The answer, unfortunately, is no.
Only a limited number of Epson projectors offer HDMI ARC as a feature. However, there are several models with recent HDMI that can support ARC.
Pro Tip: Try to get an Epson projector that features HDMI versions 1.4 to 2.1 to make sure it can support ARC.
Which Epson projectors have HDMI ARC?
As mentioned, only several Epson projectors have HDMI ARC features. The following are three of the most popular HDMI-ARC models:
Epson EF-12 (EpiqVision Mini)
- Stunning Picture Quality up to 150" — Delivers an immersive viewing experience for TV shows,...
- Sound by Yamaha — Custom-designed audiophile speaker system offers a powerful and emotional...
- Built-In Android TV (1) — Latest Android TV interface with a simple-to-use remote – including...
Last update on 2023-03-31 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API.
The great thing about the EpiqVision Mini is that it’s light and compact. If you ever want to watch a movie outdoors with your friends and family, this would be a great companion. The EF-12 has built-in Android TV, voice search, and Google Assistant, so you can watch your favorite shows any time.
It’s not the best option if you’re a gamer, however.
The Epson EF-12 has 120ms input lag, which could make gaming a painful and frustrating experience. However, the sound quality is good, and it supports display qualities of up to 1080p Full HD.
Epson EH-LS300B (EpiqVision Ultra)
- Stunning Picture Quality up to 120" – Delivers an immersive, bright viewing experience for TV...
- Sound by Yamaha — Custom-designed audiophile 2.1 speaker system offers a powerful and emotional...
- Built-In Android TV (2) – Latest Android TV interface with a simple-to-use remote – including...
Last update on 2023-03-31 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API.
You could say that this model is the Epson EF-12’s big brother.
Although the Epson EH-LS300B comes with a simplistic look, it’s a powerful tool to use for your home theater. It supports 4K-UHD, so you can rest assured that images are crisp and life-like. Just like the EF-12, the EH-LS300B has built-in Android TV, voice search, and Google Assistant.
It also has a top-of-the-line Yamaha sound system built-in.
The only problem with this model is that it tends to get louder the longer you use it. Not the type of projector you want if you’re binge-watching your favorite movie sagas. But considering its price point, it’s still a good deal.
Epson Home Cinema 880
- Stunning picture quality — provides stunning, detailed 1080p images and fast data processing...
- Ultra bright images — 3,300 lumens of color and white brightness deliver outstanding-quality...
- Best-in-Class Color Brightness (1) — advanced 3LCD technology displays 100% of the RGB color...
Last update on 2023-03-31 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API.
Although the Epson Home Cinema 880 technically carries the HDMI 2.0 port, it’s perfectly compatible with HDMI ARC. It’s much more expensive than the models we’ve previously mentioned. However, it offers images and sound that can more than make up for the difference.
One downside is that because the HC 880 uses DLP, it can heat up much faster than an LED projector. If you want your unit to last longer, try not to use it for longer than 1-2 hours at a time.
How do I connect a projector to a speaker without HDMI ARC?
All projectors come with their own unique set of input and output options. Depending on the audio equipment you’re using, you can connect your projector directly or indirectly into the system. Most projectors have an in-built speaker, so it’s only a matter of using a TOSLINK cable to plug it into your soundbar or sound system.
Other ways you can connect your projector to an audio system without HDMI ARC are:
Bluetooth
Most smart projectors have a Bluetooth option for users to connect their projectors to an audio or video device. Some projectors, like the NexiGo Native, for example, even offer a 5G Wi-Fi option.
3.5 mm jack
Also known as the “phone jack” format, this is typically how most projectors without an HDMI ARC port (e.g., the Epson EF-100 ) connect to an external audio system. Phone jacks are also usually used to connect headphones to mobile devices, computers, and music players.
Composite and component cables
These cables typically come in the colors red, white, and yellow. If you’ve ever tried tinkering with the cables behind your TV to connect a Blu-ray player, you’ve encountered composite and component cables. They offer better sound as opposed to the normal 3.5 mm jack. They also transfer video images well.
HDMI audio splitter
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If your projector has an HDMI port, you can always use an HDMI splitter to connect your projector to your audio system. These devices are affordable and come with a variety of features. They’re also a great way for you to lessen the number of wires running across your living room floors.
How can I tell if my Epson projector supports HDMI ARC?
HDMI ports that support HDMI ARC typically have an “ARC” label writer beside or below the port. If not, check the projector user manual to see if it supports HDMI ARC.
The bottom line
HDMI ARC is one of the best ways to get the best of both worlds in audio and video. And while not all projectors support this type of interface, several models do. Consider the two Epson projectors we mentioned above. And if you wish to get more recommendations, feel free to go to the nearest home entertainment shop in your area.
Last update on 2023-03-31 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API.
Vance is a dad, former software engineer, and tech lover. Knowing how a computer works becomes handy when he builds Pointer Clicker. His quest is to make tech more accessible for non-techie users. When not working with his team, you can find him caring for his son and gaming.