PCM vs Bitstream LG TV
PCM vs Bitstream For LG TV
In our guide about the PCM vs Bitstream discussion, we recommended Auto as a sensible starting point on many LG TVs, not as a universal answer. The correct setting depends on the exact model, year, source, connection and the formats supported by the soundbar or receiver.
That argument in the guide might have sounded too simplistic because a home theater landscape can become quite complex and there are many hypotheses to consider, so let´s have a look at some scenarios.
Bitstream vs PCM For Dolby Atmos
The principles in our Bitstream vs PCM For Dolby Atmos guide apply to LG TVs with one important caveat: use the options and formats listed for your exact model.
For Atmos sent to an external sound system, Auto or Pass Through is usually the right starting point when every device supports the incoming Atmos carrier. HDMI eARC is needed for high-bitrate formats such as Dolby TrueHD and for multichannel LPCM; ordinary ARC may carry Atmos in Dolby Digital Plus.
PCM is still valid for stereo, compatibility and troubleshooting. Dolby MAT is the important exception to the simple “Atmos equals Bitstream” rule because it carries Atmos metadata with lossless PCM over HDMI.
On LG models that offer Digital Sound Output, the choices can include PCM, Auto and Pass Through. PCM makes the TV output PCM; Auto selects a compatible processed format; Pass Through attempts to forward the incoming digital audio with minimal processing. The exact result depends on the input, model and connection.
Do not reduce those choices to “PCM for 2.1” and “Auto for Dolby 5.1.” LG itself recommends Auto or Pass Through for a current compatible eARC sound system, while PCM can be useful for stereo or troubleshooting.
The statement that LG TVs before 2023 did not support DTS is false. An official 2015 LG TV manual already lists DTS input and DTS digital output. DTS support has varied across product generations, so readers must check the manual for their exact TV.
PCM vs Passthrough
I am using the PCM vs Passthrough concept here, so let me explain easily what should we understand for them in the guide through the link
In this TV menu, PCM is decoded digital sample audio; choosing it does not mean the TV is converting an analog signal to digital. Pass Through is an output behavior that forwards compatible digital audio toward the receiver or soundbar with little or no processing. It does not mean that the TV’s Digital Sound Output menu forwards video.