ISE 2013 Preview: Atlona Converts Multichannel to Stereo, Shows HDBaseT 6x6

We’re used to hearing about audio conversion products that take stereo sound and convert them to something like multichannel surround, but Atlona does the opposite with its new AT-HD-M2C, debuting at ISE 2013.

The product converts multichannel audio—up to Dolby TrueHD or DTS-HD Master Audio signals—into a two-channel stereo format that is compatible for displays and legacy devices such as A/V receivers or distribution amplifiers.

The AT-HD-M2C’s multichannel EDID takes the guesswork out of managing audio for the sources.

A bank of LEDs indicates the native format of the multichannel audio. The appropriate light will glow if the audio signal is PCM, Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby TrueHD, DTS Digital Surround or DTS-HD Master Audio.

A variety of output ports, including S/PDIF, HDMI, and analog, allow audio to pass to amplifiers and legacy audio receivers that don’t support HDMI, while still passing both audio and video to HDMI displays.

The AT-HD-M2C will be available Q1, 2013.

HDMI and HDBaseT Matrix Switchers
In addition to the multichannel conversion product, Atlona will show at ISE 2013 a new HDBaseT matrix switcher, the 6x6 AT-PRO3HD66M.

The switcher extends HDMI from sources up to 70 meters feet over category cables, enabling control of up to 12 devices through IR, RS-232, TCP/IP, third-party IR control boxes, and the front panel.

The unit also has Power over Ethernet (PoE) capabilities, which allows for power to be carried by the category cable to the receivers. With this feature, no power supply is needed for the receivers.

Finally, Atlona will demonstrate two new traditional HDMI switchers, the AT-H2H-44M (4x4) and AT-H2H-88M (8x8).

Multiple displays can be driven simultaneously at resolutions of up to 1080p with support for 3D formats.

Built-in digital S/PDIF audio loop-outs allow audio distribution to zone amplifiers or A/V receivers.

S/PDIF outputs support digital audio signals up to Dolby Digital and DTS 5.1. The matrix switchers support all lossy and lossless formats up to Dolby TrueHD, including DTS-HD Master Audio pass-through for HDMI outputs as well as Audio Return Channel (ARC).

The units’ advanced EDID management ensures compatibility across multiple displays, while an EDID learning function can be customized for any connected component.

The switchers feature multiple control interfaces, such as RS-232, IR, and the front panel, with future updates for TCP/IP through their Ethernet ports. In addition, the AT-H2H-44M and AT-H2H-88M feature a USB firmware port that allows for quick and easy upgrades in the field.

ISE 2013: Stand 7-N200

MORE ISE 2013 COVERAGE HERE