192KHz HDMI ARC to Optical Audio Converter for TV to review
Quick take
This HDMI ARC to optical audio converter lets you send TV sound to a soundbar or speaker system that only has an optical (SPDIF) input. It’s a straightforward, plug-and-play style solution for ARC-capable TVs, with support for PCM and setting options for Dolby 5.1 and DTS 5.1. The main catch is compatibility and setup, especially using the TV’s ARC output and using the correct PCM or Dolby/DTS audio format settings.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Designed specifically for ARC TVs to optical sound systems, bridging HDMI ARC to SPDIF optical.
- Supports PCM output, plus TV audio format options for Dolby 5.1 and DTS 5.1 (with matching soundbar support).
- Plug-and-play style installation, intended to be simple and quick.
- 192kHz / 24-bit audio sampling support for higher-resolution audio output.
Cons
- Not for TVs without an ARC interface, and setup depends on correct TV audio output selection (set audio output to ARC).
- CEC (often used for volume control via the TV remote) is limited because optical does not carry that HDMI CEC signal.
- Cable length can be tight, so placement matters (reviews mention short cable proximity needs).
What buyers think
Buyer-review evidence is generally positive for this converter’s core job: getting sound from an ARC-enabled TV to an optical-input soundbar or speaker without complicated troubleshooting. Multiple reviews describe fast installation and immediate audio output once connected. The overall tone also suggests the audio experience meets expectations for “same TV-to-soundbar” usability, especially for setups where a newer TV lacks an optical port. The main recurring limitation called out in reviews is practical setup constraints, such as short cable length and the expectation that TV remote volume control may not work over optical because that depends on HDMI CEC behavior.
Who this HDMI ARC to optical converter is for
This converter is a strong fit if you have an ARC-capable TV and want to use a soundbar or receiver that takes audio through an optical (SPDIF) input. It is commonly useful when:
- Your newer TV has HDMI ARC but no optical output, while your soundbar only accepts optical.
- You want a simple hardware bridge rather than replacing your existing sound system.
- You prefer optical audio routing for your home theater setup, while still relying on your TV’s ARC connection.
Compatibility and setup you should get right
The converter is built around ARC to optical. That means your TV selection and settings matter.
- TV must support ARC: the HDMI side is intended for TVs with an ARC interface, and the TV audio output should be set to “ARC.”
- Match the audio format: the converter supports PCM, and it also provides guidance for Dolby 5.1 or DTS 5.1 style audio output modes. If you use Dolby/DTS settings, your sound system must support Dolby Audio or DTS.
- Power via USB: it includes a USB connection for power, and reviews note the LED indicator lights when the HD interface is connected.
Audio formats, performance, and what “192kHz” means in practice
On the spec side, the converter is set up to output PCM and includes options intended for Dolby 5.1 and DTS 5.1 style streams, along with 24-bit/192kHz sampling support. For most everyday listening, the practical question is not the number on the label but whether your TV is sending the correct audio format over ARC and whether your optical-connected soundbar or receiver understands that format. If you set your TV audio format correctly and your sound system supports the selected format (Dolby/DTS where applicable), you should be able to maintain surround-style output when available.
Remote control and CEC: the usual expectation mismatch
One limitation to plan for is TV remote volume control. HDMI CEC is tied to HDMI behavior, while optical audio does not carry HDMI CEC volume commands. So, if your goal is one-remote volume control through the TV remote, you will likely need a setup where your TV and soundbar both support the relevant HDMI CEC features directly, or you may have to use the soundbar’s remote for volume. This is a common issue with ARC-to-optical style conversions, and it aligns with the guidance shared in buyer feedback.
Pros and cons in real-world use
Pros (when everything matches)
- Quick path to get sound working when the TV lacks an optical port.
- Supports multiple audio output formats you can select from your TV settings (PCM and Dolby/DTS options).
- Useful for home theater and meeting-room style setups where you want repeatable audio routing.
Cons (watch-outs before you buy)
- Short cable length may require tight placement between the TV, converter, and optical device.
- TV must be ARC-capable, and the TV must be configured correctly (audio output set to ARC, audio format set to the converter’s supported options).
- Optical does not provide the HDMI CEC behavior that many people expect for TV remote volume control.
Is it worth it?
It is worth considering if your soundbar or receiver already has an optical input and you have an ARC-enabled TV. In that situation, this converter can be a budget-friendly bridge that avoids replacing working audio hardware. It is likely not the right choice if your TV does not have ARC, if you rely heavily on TV-remote volume control through HDMI CEC, or if you cannot position the devices close enough for the included cable lengths.
Alternatives to consider
- Use a soundbar input that matches your TV: if your TV has Bluetooth audio or other audio outputs your soundbar supports, that may reduce the need for format conversion. Keep in mind Bluetooth can introduce noticeable latency for some viewers.
- Choose an HDMI ARC soundbar or receiver: if your primary goal is TV remote control and seamless HDMI integration, an HDMI ARC-capable soundbar can simplify the experience compared with ARC-to-optical conversion.
- Optical-first setups: if your TV has optical output, optical cables directly (no converter) are often simpler, with fewer settings to manage.
Price and availability
Pricing varies by retailer and can change over time. You can check the latest cost and availability here: Buy on Amazon.
FAQs
Does this work with any TV?
No. It is intended for TVs with an ARC interface. You also need to set your TV audio output to ARC and choose the correct audio format (for example, PCM, or Dolby 5.1 / DTS 5.1 where supported).
Can I control my soundbar volume with my TV remote?
Optical audio does not carry HDMI CEC volume commands, so TV-remote volume control may not work as you expect. HDMI CEC behavior depends on HDMI connections, so you may need to use the soundbar’s remote for volume.
What audio formats does it support?
It supports PCM output, and it supports setting options intended for Dolby 5.1 and DTS 5.1. If you use Dolby or DTS options, your sound system must support Dolby Audio or DTS.
Do I need to plug in the USB cable?
Yes. The converter uses USB power, and the LED indicator is designed to light when the HDMI ARC interface is connected.
Are the cables long enough for typical setups?
The cable length can be a constraint. Reviews mention that the devices may need to be kept within fairly close proximity, so measure your layout before buying.
Will it cause audio latency like Bluetooth?
Optical audio generally avoids Bluetooth-style latency. The key is correct ARC setup and using compatible audio formats between the TV and your sound system.
Specifications
| Product Title | 192KHz HDMI ARC to Optical Audio Converter for TV to Soundbar, Plug & Play 3.4ft/1.05m ARC to Optical Cable Audio Extractor Adapter Splitter for Sound System Speaker Home Theater Support Dolby/DTS 5.1 |
|---|---|
| Category | Electronics > Home Audio > Home Audio Accessories > Digital-Analog Converters |
| Brand | Unstincer |
| Manufacturer | UNSTINCER |
| Material | Plastic |
| Item Weight | 1.7 Ounces |
| Product Dimensions | 41"L x 0.3"W |
| Mounting Type | Cable Mount |
| Interface | HDMI |
| Audio Output Mode | PCM, Dolby 5.1, DTS 5.1 |
| Smart Home Compatibility | Not Smart Home Compatible |
| Item Dimensions L x W | 41"L x 0.3"W |
| Material Type | Plastic |
| Brand Name | Unstincer |
| UPC | 755824690943 |
| Compatible Devices | TVs with ARC interface, Sound systems with optical input |
| Part Number | UN-003-US |
| Model | UN-003-US |
| Included Components | HDMI ARC to Optical Audio Connector,User Manual |
| Interface Type | HDMI |
Available variants
Size
- ARC to Optical
- ARC to Coaxial
- ARC to RCA
Style
- ARC to Optical
- ARC to Coaxial
- ARC to RCA
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