MuxLab IMU-500443-EU - 8x8 4K/60 HDMI Matrix with Audio Extraction
The MuxLab IMU-500443-EU is a high-performance 8x8 HDMI switching matrix designed for professional environments that demand complete flexibility and impeccable image quality. This device allows you to connect up to eight HDMI sources—such as 4K Blu-ray players, media servers, computers, set-top boxes, or cameras—and distribute them independently to eight different displays or projectors. Thanks to its 18 Gbps bandwidth, it guarantees smooth transmission of 4K Ultra HD signals at 60Hz with 4:4:4 color subsampling, delivering absolute visual fidelity without any visible compression.
Designed to simplify integration into complex audiovisual systems, this matrix stands out for its intelligent signal management capabilities. It incorporates independent port scaling technology, solving one of the most common problems in video distribution: compatibility between displays of different resolutions. This allows for mixing 4K and 1080p monitors in the same installation without the source reducing quality for all connected devices. Furthermore, its compatibility with the latest content protection standards ensures uninterrupted viewing of protected material.
The device offers versatile control and management, adaptable to any workflow. Operation ranges from manual use of the front panel buttons and included remote control to advanced integration into automation systems via RS-232, Telnet, or a web interface (TCP/IP). The unit is housed in a robust 1U metal enclosure, ready for installation in standard 19-inch racks, making it a reliable centerpiece for any AV infrastructure.
Main features
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Real 4K Resolution: Supports resolutions up to 4K at 60Hz (4:4:4) and is compatible with 3D formats, guaranteeing a state-of-the-art visual experience.
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Intelligent Video Upscaling: Each HDMI output has independent upscaling capability, allowing 4K signals to be sent to compatible displays while simultaneously reducing the signal to 1080p for older monitors.
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Professional Audio Extraction: It has 8 coaxial digital audio outputs (S/PDIF) to de-embezzle the audio from each zone and send it to external amplifiers or sound systems.
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HDR Support and Advanced Audio Formats: Compatible with High Dynamic Range (HDR) and immersive audio formats such as LPCM 7.1, Dolby Atmos, Dolby TrueHD, DTS:X and DTS-HD Master Audio.
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Advanced EDID Management: Offers powerful tools to manage display identification (EDID), ensuring a fast and stable HDMI "handshake" between sources and destinations.
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Multiple Control Channels: Manageable via front panel, infrared (IR), RS-232, and LAN (TCP/IP/Web GUI), facilitating its use with third-party controllers.
Benefits of professional installation
The MuxLab 500443 eliminates the usual technical barriers in multi-room installations. Its main benefit lies in its distribution versatility : the integrator doesn't need to worry about mixing older and newer equipment, as the matrix adjusts the signal for each destination. Furthermore, the ability to natively extract digital audio simplifies cabling to the sound systems, eliminating the need for additional external converters or extractors, thus reducing potential points of failure and project costs.
Use cases
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Sports bars and catering: Distribution of different sports channels or digital signage to multiple televisions, with centralized control from a tablet or control system.
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Conference Rooms and Auditoriums: Management of multiple speakers' computers and projection on different screens, with audio sent to the room's public address system.
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High-Level Residential Installations (Home Cinema): Centralization of video sources (Apple TV, consoles, Blu-ray) in a technical rack and distribution to all rooms of the house with 4K HDR quality.
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Control and Monitoring Centers: Critical visualization of multiple data sources or cameras on different video walls or workstations.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Can I view a 4K source on a 4K TV and the same source on a 1080p TV at the same time?
Yes, thanks to the independent upscaling function, the matrix will send the native 4K signal to the 4K TV and automatically convert the signal to 1080p for the second screen, without affecting the quality of the first.
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What type of audio cable do I need for the audio outputs?
The matrix uses RCA connectors for coaxial digital audio outputs (S/PDIF). You will need standard digital coaxial cables.
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Is it compatible with control systems like Crestron or Control4?
Yes, with RS-232 ports and IP (Telnet) control, it is fully integrable with the main home automation and audiovisual control systems on the market.
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Does it include rack-mount ears?
Yes, the unit has standard 19" width dimensions and includes the necessary accessories for mounting in a server or audiovisual rack (occupies 1U in height).
Project description
Rackmount (1U) metal chassis HDMI 8x8 switching matrix with support for HDMI 2.0 and HDCP 2.2. The unit must allow the distribution of 8 sources to 8 destinations with a bandwidth of 18 Gbps, supporting resolutions up to 4K@60Hz (4:4:4) and HDR. It must include independent video scaling functionality per port for handling mixed resolutions (4K/1080p) and 8 coaxial digital audio outputs (S/PDIF) for audio de-embedding. Control capabilities must include a front panel with status display, IR, RS-232, and TCP/IP management (Telnet/Web Interface). The power supply must be external with a locking connector.
