With the popularity of home theaters, conference systems, gaming, and live streaming, HDMI has become the mainstream interface for audio and video transmission. It can carry high-definition video and multi-channel audio through a single cable, greatly simplifying connections. However, in practice, many users face this issue: display devices output video but lack separate audio interfaces, or they need to play HDMI audio through external amplifiers or speakers. So how can we extract audio from HDMI separately? Here’s a detailed guide on how to get an audio output from HDMI.
Why Separate HDMI Audio?
Although HDMI transmits both audio and video, many scenarios require separate audio:
01. Monitors or projectors without built-in speakers need external audio.
02. Computers or set-top boxes output HDMI, but the amplifier only supports optical or coaxial audio input.
03. Some displays have built-in speakers, but audio quality is limited and needs improvement.
In these cases, a device is needed to "extract" audio from HDMI.
How HDMI Audio Extraction Works
HDMI is a digital interface where audio and video signals are transmitted together. Using an HDMI Audio Extractor, audio can be duplicated and converted into common formats without affecting video output, such as: Optical (SPDIF), Coaxial, or Analog (3.5mm or L/R RCA). This ensures high-definition video output while allowing audio to connect flexibly to amplifiers, speakers, or recording devices.
Common Methods to Extract HDMI Audio
01. Use an HDMI Audio Extractor (Recommended)
The simplest and most versatile solution.
Connection: HDMI input → Extractor → HDMI output (to display) + Audio output (Optical/Coaxial/3.5mm)
Advantages: Easy to use, plug-and-play, supports multi-channel audio, compatible with various devices.
02. Use ARC/eARC Function
ARC (Audio Return Channel) and eARC (Enhanced Audio Return Channel) are HDMI extension features.
If both the TV and audio system support ARC/eARC, audio can be sent back through the HDMI cable without extra devices.
Advantages: Reduces devices and cables, supports high-definition audio formats.
Limitations: Both TV and amplifier/speaker must support ARC or eARC.
03. Use an External Amplifier or Decoder
Some high-end amplifiers have HDMI input and can directly decode audio to output to speakers.
Advantages: Excellent sound quality, ideal for professional theaters or audiophiles.
Disadvantages: Higher cost, not suitable for typical home users.
Considerations When Choosing an Audio Extraction Solution
Resolution Support: Ensure the device supports 4K 30/60Hz, HDR, etc., to avoid limiting video quality.
Audio Modes: Some HDMI extractors have PASS, 2.1CH, 5.1CH switches—choose based on your speaker setup.
Interface Types: Common amplifier or speaker inputs include Optical, Coaxial, RCA; make sure they match the extractor output.
Stability & Compatibility: Choose reputable brands to avoid black screens, flickering, or no audio.
Although HDMI transmits both audio and video, in practical applications, audio often needs to be extracted separately. Currently, the most common method is using an HDMI audio extractor, which ensures normal video display while providing optical, coaxial, or analog audio output. This makes it a cost-effective choice for home theaters, conference rooms, live streaming, and gaming. For high-end users, ARC/eARC or professional amplifiers can also be used to achieve audio extraction.