HydraConnect LLC is now shipping its HM-16X16BT matrix switching processor, which is designed to resolve problematic audio mode conflicts inherent to conventional HDMI matrix switching systems, and it provides enhanced distributed video and audio capabilities.
The HydraConnect LLC HM-16x16BT is the first general purpose HDMI matrix switch to use 32 cutting edge Digital Signal Processors (DSP) to decode Dolby Digital 5.1 audio to simultaneously provide both 2-channel stereo and 5.1-channel surround sound to all remote zones from the same HDMI source. Audio data is tapped off of the HDMI inputs so no additional connections other than HDMI are required. Previously, all remote zone TVs and home theaters using the same source were forced to use the same audio mode as the lowest capability zone, even if it was incompatible.
“This represents a revolution in switch technology,” said David Schanin, president, HydraConnect LLC. “Now you can feed Dolby Digital 5.1 into a switch and it will automatically transmit multi-channel 5.1 or stereo output separately to each end point automatically as required by the end point. This means a theater can receive 5.1 multi-channel while the kitchen listens to the same soundtrack in stereo. Additionally, the HM-16X16BT can re-inject stereo into an output HDMI data stream. This means that while the theater watches a movie in Dolby 5.1, the family room can watch the same movie in stereo. Finally, each DSP driven output provides not only tone and balance control, but also individually adjustable Lip-Sync delay to ensure end user experiences are top notch.”
When this new technology is combined with HydraConnect’s automated setup, remote access, automatic cloud based updates, and CEC control (to replace IR controls for TVs), a combination of features and fast installation save the integrator time and money, according to the company.
The HM-16X16BT’s ability to re-inject stereo into the HDMI data stream to individual TVs now allows CEC control to not only support power on/off and input switching, but also volume control of TV speakers through modulation of the audio data stream delivered to the TV.
The HydraConnect LLC HM-16x16BT has 16 HDMI inputs, 16 full HDBaseT outputs with a 330-foot distribution range, plus 4 optional HDMI local outputs. The 16 analog stereo output channels are available for audio only stereo zones, and 16 SPDIF digital audio outputs provide support for an optional external audio processing system.
