[TheBoyGUK]

I'm in the market for a HDMI 4x4 matrix unit.

I've seen references to others which can be expensive, and also limitations on "2 active sources" - although I cant find any more info on exactly what this means.

Any wise old wizards out there with recomendations and suggestions ? I have a 1.3 and 1.1 compliant source at the moment, and will be distributing to a Panny PHD8 plasma, a projector via a HDFury, and a soon to be delivered LCD TV which has HDMI.

RS232 would be a bonus so each room can select their inputs instead of using a remote (or infrared as an alternative).

Many thanks

[TheBoyGUK]

Found this 4x4 - price a bit steep from the 4x2

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.d...m=120271710896

Any comments ?

[Joe Fernand]

Hello TheBoyGUK

A Full 'Non Blocking' Matrix will enable Any Source to Any Display with no restrictions.

Some HDMI units that are billed as a 'Matrix' will only offer up to Two Source selections at any one time - so not a 'True' Matrix.

HDMI 'version' compliance is not the main problem when using a Matrix - what you need to be clear about is how your system will operate when you have a mix of Displays that can support different video signal formats - mostly a problem when folk have one or more Sources that support 1080p60/50/24 Output and often only the 'main' Display in the system can support 1080p.

The Grandbeing MX0404-HH1 is very New so not many folk will have had a chance to try them out as yet.

HDMI/HDCP can be fun at the best of times so integrating a Matrix can be interesting.

The Gefen EXT-HDMI-444 is probably the most Tried and Tested RS232 enabled solution - see http://www.gefen.com/kvm/product.jsp?prod_id=3331

Joe

[TheBoyGUK]

I would just match the outputs to the highest common denominator. The goal here isnt the very highest quality, its the highest flexibility.

RS232 is not essential as the HA system can control via IR itself.

£1000 is not an option - £400 would be a stretch. It's a new market, and will get better. I just need to establish whats out there right now thats feasable.

2 inputs is ok for now - it's more than 2 Outputs that I need. Ive not seen a 2x4 matrix tho.

[Joe Fernand]

Hello TheBoyGUK

If you can forgo 1.3 compliance then CYP have a few 'low cost' units (Inc. 2x4) - see http://www.cypress.com.tw/product.ph...qualizers&SR=0

We've had relatively good results with the CYP units - though like any of these devices they can cause you to tear your hair out with certain kit combinations.

How soon do you require a Matrix?

Joe

[TheBoyGUK]

2 sources are Popcorn player and FreeSat HD PVR (its not avail. yet - so will be a month)

3 destinations are a Panny PHD8 (but not audio goes direct to amp), Projector (via HDFury - again no audio), and a bedroom LCD (which will take audio 0- need to purchase to replace old LCD with no DVI/HDMI)

I dont think I need anything beyond 1.1 spec at this time based on that ?

As for CYP - any pricing ?

[Joe Fernand]

Hello TheBoyGUK

You can drop me a PM if you require further info on CYP.

Joe