The best HDMI 2.1 audio extractor depends on whether you need audio breakout, TV ARC/eARC support, or a switch for multiple sources. The OREI 8K extractor is best for a single source with optical or stereo output, while the ROFAVEZCO 2-in-1 switch suits two consoles. For TV audio return, consider the avedio links eARC model; for a simpler 4K 120Hz path, the ROFAVEZCO 1-in-1 model is a match. The OREI 2-port switch combines source switching with audio extraction.
| Product | Best For | Notable Feature |
|---|---|---|
| OREI 8K Audio Extractor | Single-source systems | Optical and 3.5mm outputs |
| ROFAVEZCO 2-in-1 Switch | Two HDMI sources | Source switching and extraction |
| avedio links eARC Extractor | TV ARC/eARC audio | Three operating modes |
| ROFAVEZCO 1-in-1 Extractor | 4K 120Hz setups | Optical output and eARC |
| OREI 2-Port Switch | Two HDMI 2.1 devices | EDID and audio extraction |
OREI 8K Audio Extractor
Best for: A single HDMI source that needs optical or analog stereo audio while sending video to a display. The OREI provides one HDMI input, an HDMI output with ARC support, an optical S/PDIF output, and a 3.5mm stereo output.
Its listed video pass-through includes up to 8K at 50/60Hz and 4K at 120Hz, with 48Gbps FRL support. Supported audio formats include LPCM, Dolby Digital, DTS, Dolby TrueHD, DTS-HD Master Audio, Dolby Atmos, and DTS:X. It also lists HDR formats and HDMI 2.1 features such as ALLM and QMS.
Why it was selected: It combines high-bandwidth video pass-through with separate optical and stereo outputs. Limitation: It does not support eARC, and the TV remote cannot control its volume.
ROFAVEZCO 2-in-1 HDMI Switch
Best for: A setup with two HDMI sources, such as consoles, connected to one display. This unit switches between two inputs and offers audio extraction through HDMI, optical S/PDIF, or 3.5mm stereo.
The feature list specifies video support up to 8K at 60Hz and 4K at 120Hz. Optical output is listed for 5.1-channel audio, analog output for stereo, and HDMI output for digital 7.1-channel formats including DTS:X and TrueHD. It uses a Type-C power connection and is described as plug and play.
Why it was selected: It adds source switching to audio extraction, reducing the need for a separate switch. Limitation: The listing warns that an HDMI cable that does not meet the required specifications can cause unstable or missing video.
avedio links eARC Audio Extractor
Best for: Routing audio from a TV’s ARC/eARC port to external audio equipment. In eARC mode, the product connects its HDMI OUT port to the TV’s ARC/eARC port; the instructions also call for enabling CEC and selecting TV mode.
Outputs include optical, left/right stereo, and 3.5mm AUX. Its three modes handle audio differently: PASS mirrors the TV’s native audio, R/L converts formats to 2.0 PCM, and SPDIF provides a multichannel optical mode. A Type-C 5V power connection is required.
Why it was selected: The operating modes give buyers a way to choose between pass-through, stereo downmix, and optical surround. Limitation: Analog outputs require PCM for supported operation; non-PCM audio can create noise. The listing also says not to connect a TV directly as the HDMI input source.
ROFAVEZCO 4K 120Hz Extractor
Best for: Buyers seeking a 1-in-1 extractor for a 4K 120Hz setup with optical audio extraction. Its listed HDMI 2.1 features include VRR, ALLM, HDR, HDCP 2.3, and support for 4K at 120Hz. The listing also describes eARC output and compatibility with ARC/eARC soundbars.
Optical S/PDIF is specified for digital 5.1-channel audio. The listing says HDMI output supports digital 7.1-channel formats such as DTS:X, TrueHD, and DTS-HD Master Audio. It calls for a 5V/2A power supply.
Why it was selected: It is a focused option for high-refresh video and optical audio, without a multi-input switch. Limitation: The listed optical output does not provide the same format support as the HDMI output.
OREI 8K 2-Port Switch
Best for: Switching between two HDMI 2.1 sources while extracting audio to optical or left/right outputs. It sends one selected input to one display and lists support up to 8K at 60Hz or 4K at 120Hz, along with HDR, Dolby Vision, and HDCP 2.3.
The supported audio list includes LPCM, Dolby Digital, Dolby TrueHD, DTS, DTS-HD Master Audio, and DSD. EDID is included in the product name and feature list.
Why it was selected: It combines two-source switching, high-resolution pass-through, and optical or analog extraction. Limitation: It does not support CEC and is listed as incompatible with capture cards.
Buying Guide: How to Choose an HDMI 2.1 Audio Extractor
Do you need ARC or eARC?
Choose an ARC/eARC-capable model if you need audio to travel from a TV back to an external audio system. Check the connection directions and mode settings carefully. ARC and eARC are not interchangeable with ordinary audio extraction from a source device, and the OREI single-source model above explicitly does not support eARC.
Which audio output fits your equipment?
Optical S/PDIF is useful for digital audio connections, while 3.5mm and left/right outputs serve stereo equipment. Confirm the formats each output supports: a product may pass multichannel audio through HDMI while limiting optical or analog output to fewer channels. Some models require PCM for analog outputs.
Do you need a switch as well as an extractor?
For two sources and one display, select a model with two HDMI inputs. A one-input extractor is better suited to a single source. Check power requirements, HDMI cable specifications, and whether the device supports the video resolution and refresh rate you intend to use.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does an HDMI audio extractor do?
It takes audio from an HDMI signal and sends it to a separate output, such as optical, analog stereo, or another HDMI connection, while video continues to a display.
Can an HDMI 2.1 extractor support 4K at 120Hz?
Some models list 4K at 120Hz support, but verify the exact product’s pass-through specifications and use HDMI cables suitable for the required signal.
Does optical output support Dolby Atmos or DTS:X?
It depends on the extractor and the audio format. Check the specifications for optical output specifically; formats supported over HDMI may not be supported over optical.
Should I choose an ARC or eARC extractor for a TV?
Choose based on the TV connection and audio system. Confirm the device supports the required ARC or eARC mode and follow its setup instructions, including any CEC or mode-switch settings.