Connecting modern TV to legacy surround system

Home Theatre
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Current configuration is BD player, PS5, Freesat receiver, & Fire TV stick, all connected via HDMI to a Meridian HD621, which switches between the HDMI inputs, and then splits the video (which goes to the TV) and audio (which goes to the Meridian 568.2mm surround processor). The 20 years old Pioneer plasma is therefore nothing more than a display.

We are contemplating the purchase of a modern TV with all the bells & whistles.

The question is then how do we connect it to the legacy surround system. Options are:

  1. Easy option would be to throw away the Meridian and buy a sound bar. But that does seem a bit of a waste of what is still a fine audio system. OTOH, we would declutter the lounge!
  2. Keep the existing configuration, which retains the 621 as switcher & audio extractor, and uses the TV merely as a display. But we would not be utilising the built in functionality of the TV, including Freesat and “TV via Ethernet”. This does seem like a missed opportunity.
  3. Connect the source units individually to the TV via HDMI. The TV then takes charge of source switching duty. Also this would negate the need for separate Freesat & Fire TV stick units as their functionality is integral to the TV - a small reduction in box count :grin:. However we would then need to get the audio out from the TV to the surround system. Enter the HDMI (e)ARC interface on the TV. This will need an adaptor/converter to convert the eARC output from the TV to a standard HDMI input on the 621 - including a “dummy” video component, which the 621 requires in order to function (the 621 does not, however, require a video out connection to the TV).

So, suggestions please for an eARC to HDMI converter.

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You need a Hekla.

3

An Icelandic volcano? In my living room??

I suppose it would reduce the costs of heating!

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Some TVs only have HDMI eARC output. Some also Optical though no ATMOS or HD surround on optical. Maybe get the TV you want first; see what your connectivity options are; then revisit this topic.

A really good sound bar with matching sub usually outperforms stereo but not fully discrete surround speakers. I suggest having a listen to what’s available (after getting a new TV). While I doubt they will beat your Meridian, it’s also true that sound bars weren’t anything like like they are now back when your Meridian was new. You might be surprised and think, this will more than do.

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The one we’re considering does have an (e)ARC connector. Obviously the Meridian does not have an (e)ARC port, hence my interest is some sort of adaptor, as noted above. Found a couple of leads from “PureLink” & “Oreo” that might bear fruit.

Sound bar is an interesting idea though. EDIT: but see my comment today on another thread…..

Anyway, today’s job is a trip to JL to look at fridge-freezers!

The excitement never ends here in Hampshire!

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