Atlona Technologies

AMSTERDAM, Feb. 10, 2015 -- To simplify the use of HDMI sources such as Blu-ray players and set-top boxes into professional sound systems, Atlona today introduced the industry’s first 4K-compatible converter which extracts and down-mixes Dolby and DTS audio tracks and provides balanced analog audio output in stereo or mono. The new AT-UHD-M2C-BAL, which also features a web-based interface allowing remote control over mode, volume and EQ, processes audio content while allowing 4K/UHD video, in any resolution format, to pass through from the source to a display, extender, switcher, or other component. At ISE, Atlona is located in Stand 7-P180.

“It’s common for pro systems to have an audio source sending an HDMI signal to supply stereo or mono audio for house music or sound reinforcement,” said Bill Schripsema, CTS, Senior Product Manager of the Silicon Valley-based company. “Our new converter with balanced output is the first from any manufacturer that enables 4K/UHD pass-through. For major clients, like conference centers, installing our de-embedding device ensures that rooms equipped for stereo sound will work with 4K sources and be able to display 4K video.”

To meet professional standards, the analog signal output from the converter (+4dBu) is provided via a 5- wire captive-screw connector on the rear panel. Rear panel connections also include ports for IP (RJ45) and RS232, allowing control via third-party systems or its web-based GUI. In addition to volume, audio settings for mute, bass and treble can all be adjusted remotely. Audio on the converter’s HDMI output, also on the rear panel, is configurable to provide either the original multichannel content or the downmixed channels.

The front panel of the AT-UHD-M2C-BAL provides an HDMI jack for source input and a USB jack for installing firmware updates. LEDs indicate the format of the audio source (PCM, Dolby HD, DTS-HD, etc.) The device is HDCP compliant and can be switched on/off for use with non-compliant displays and devices. The device also supports EDID management.

The AT-UHD-M2C-BAL will be available in March. A 5V DC power adapter is included.