HDMI audio extractors can feed soundbars through digital optical (Toslink), coaxial digital, analog RCA or 3.5 mm connections, and, on some models, an HDMI output with audio pass-through or downmixed audio. Choose an extractor with an output that matches the soundbar’s available input, then configure the extractor’s audio format to support the soundbar and source.

Compare support for the formats used by your source and soundbar, such as 2-channel PCM, Dolby Digital, DTS, Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Atmos, DTS-HD Master Audio, and DTS:X. Also check whether the extractor passes multichannel audio through HDMI, downmixes it to stereo for analog or optical output, or supports both options for your soundbar connection.

Downmixing converts compatible multichannel audio into two-channel stereo, which can help a soundbar receive audio through analog, optical, or HDMI outputs when it does not decode the original surround format. EDID settings communicate or select the audio format the connected display and soundbar can use, with options such as two-channel, 5.1-channel, or pass-through helping manage format negotiation and reduce audio compatibility issues.

For HDMI audio extractor installations, check that the unit supports the source and display’s video resolution, such as 4K at 60 Hz with 4:4:4 chroma, along with the required HDR formats. Also verify the supported HDCP version, HDMI specification, and bandwidth, since many current systems call for HDCP 2.2, HDMI 2.0 or 2.0b, and up to 18 Gbps for high-resolution HDR pass-through.