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Trending Lyricist I
June 1, 2026
Answered

Adding Arc Ultra to cinema system

  • June 1, 2026
  • 23 replies
  • 224 views

My Samsung TV eARC hdmi connection is currently in my cinema processor, allowing theatre sound.

I don’t use it all the time and I’m not happy with the standalone TV sound so I want to add an Arc Ultra.

To get Atmos from the Arc I need to use a eARC connection from the TV.

How do I get my TV eARC connection to feed BOTH the cinema processor and the Arc soundbar?

Looking for solutions that work for others who have encountered this type of issue.

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23 replies

jgatie
June 1, 2026

In my opinion, adding a $2000 soundbar to a system already fitted with a cinema processor is overkill, especially as an alternative to the TV speakers.  But if you are dead set on buying an Arc Ultra and do not wish to use it for actual surround sound, connect it via the optical adapter instead of HDMI-ARC and use it that way. 

sheridd2Author
Trending Lyricist I
June 1, 2026

As mentioned, I don’t want to be using the full cinema system every time I have the TV on. 

Forgot to mention my hearing is diminishing and can be difficult to pick up dialogue correctly, which is where the Arc Ultra excels.

jgatie
June 1, 2026

Personally, I’ve never understood why one wouldn’t want the best level of sound at all times, so any advice I give will be tainted by that lack of understanding.  But my advice from above, Re using the optical adapter for the Arc Ultra, still stands.

sheridd2Author
Trending Lyricist I
June 1, 2026

Sorry, that option only give dolby digital 5.1.

I’d like to get full atmos, which requires the eARC hdmi being used.

If I’m watching Netflix or Disney on the TV the majority of content is atmos.

AjTrek1
June 1, 2026

Cinema Processor? Are you referring to an AV receiver?

Together Everyone Achieves More = T.E.A.M.
sheridd2Author
Trending Lyricist I
June 1, 2026

No, just a processor, I have 4 separate amplifiers powering a 9 speaker system, (plus subs), which is sometimes why I don’t always want to run the entire system.

So I’m looking for a splitter or switch that will accept the hdmi earc input from the TV and outputs two full earc streams, one to the Sonos Arc and the other to the AV processor, thus allowing me to choose whichever option I want. For big movies the full system, for casual Netflix viewing the Arc soundbar.

I’ve already checked with Sonos support and they don’t recommend anything.

jgatie
June 1, 2026

Sorry, that option only give dolby digital 5.1.

I’d like to get full atmos, which requires the eARC hdmi being used.

If I’m watching Netflix or Disney on the TV the majority of content is atmos.

 

Again, this make it even harder to understand you not wanting the “cinema processor” running at all times than simply having the choice between TV speakers and full surround (something most reasonable users question in the first place).  What gains are you going to get from Atmos through a single soundbar that you cannot equal or better by using your cinema processor?  Spending $2000 on this option when a better option already exists is baffling.  

AjTrek1
June 1, 2026

You’re hoping someone has a similar setup in this community. You’ll have to wait to see if someone responds. Otherwise you might check Amazon for a selector/switch. Just make sure it’s capable of HDMI eARC CEC communication. 

Together Everyone Achieves More = T.E.A.M.
sheridd2Author
Trending Lyricist I
June 1, 2026

For casual viewing I don’t want to run processor, 4 amplifiers and subwoofers …… the Arc Ultra has great dialogue quality as I’m struggling with my hearing as I get older.