How to select best HDMI Audio Extractor?

Today entertainment content is delivered digitally. The new standard of connection is HDMI which delivers sharper images, rich colors, and crystal-clear sound. But not all devices support HDMI. If your home entertainment system does not have an HDMI audio input, you will need an HDMI audio extractor to extract the sound from the HDMI video signal and deliver it to your speakers.

With the availability of so many brands of HDMI audio extractors and little knowledge of HDMI technology, selecting the best HDMI audio extractor can be a daunting task. To make things easy for you, we are sharing some tips and tricks to find the best device.

Features To Look for

Hassle Free Integration

The HDMI audio extractor should have the smallest footprint and blend easily with your existing AV system and hardware setup for a uniform look. The device you select should offer multiple audio connectivity options that match your AV system. The best HDMI audio extractor would offer hassle-free integration even with your computer system.

Versatile Connection Options

Not all home entertainment systems have digital audio inputs. Hence it is necessary the HDMI audio extractor you select offer both analog and digital audio connectivity outputs. The device should offer connectivity options like 3.5mm audio output and TOSLINK adapter along with SPDIF output and HDMI output. This will ensure you can stream audio output to any non-HDMI equipment.

Maximum Compatibility

The HDMI audio extractor should be HDCP enabled, and HDMI 1.3b compliant. The device should also support resolutions up to 1920x1080 (1080p) at 60Hz to ensure it works with an HDMI compliant device.

Another thing you need to understand is the technology used in the HDMI Audio extractor devices. If you look closely to the specification of the HDMI device, you can see HDMI pass-through feature mentioned on the device specifications.

As advanced features affect the price of the device, you need to ensure you want the HDMI pass-through integrated into the device.

What Is HDMI Pass-Through and Do You Need It?

An HDMI audio extractor with the HDMI pass-through feature ensures the HD video signals are transmitted to the video output devices without any changes, compression, alteration, or loss of quality. Some devices mention HDMI pass-through in standby mode, which means that the video signal will be transmitted uninterrupted through the device even when the HDMI audio extractor is not switched on.

In some scenarios, like playing games you would only want to enjoy the HD content on the screen and not worry about sound. In such cases, an HDMI audio extractor with HDMI pass-through would be helpful as you need not switch on the device when you don’t need audio.

Don’t forget to match the analog and digital inputs and output of your home theatre system and TV with the HDMI audio extractor before purchasing the device. The above tips will help you find the best HDMI Audio extractor that satisfies your needs and also offers the best value for the price.

AVI Shop is an online retailer of quality audio video electronic accessories such as HDMI audio extractor, extender, splitter, auto switch, and HDMI matrix for both residential and commercial markets. To know more, visit AVIShop.com/About-Us.

I'm a freelance copywriter and I write on a variety of topics.