PETALUMA, CALIFORNIA, October 18, 2017 – Building on its commitment to provide systems integrators with a comprehensive range of signal management solutions, Gefen from Core Brands today announced that it is now shipping the new 4K Ultra HD 600 MHz 8×8 Matrix for HDMI, which supports 18.2 Gbps of bandwidth and 600 MHz TMDS Clock frequency – the highest specified under the HDMI 2.0 standard. According to Gefen Product Manager Jason Fitzgerald, the new matrix rounds out Gefen’s line of 600 MHz routing products for commercial integrators.

“The Gefen 4K Ultra HD 600 MHz 8×8 Matrix adds to the 600 MHz signal management line of products, which now includes all of the major categories of switchers, splitters, and matrices that make up the backbone of any commercial AV installation,” Fitzgerald said. “The new 8×8 matrix provides integrators with a powerful solution for signal distribution in professional applications at a very competitive price point.”

Capable of handling the most demanding specifications of the HDMI 2.0 standard, the 4K Ultra HD 600 MHz 8×8 Matrix routes eight 4K sources to eight 4K displays, and supports resolutions up to 4K Cinema-DCI (4096 x 2160 up to 60 Hz, 4:4:4), 4K Ultra HD (3860 x 2160 up to 60 Hz, 4:4:4) with HDR, 1080p Full HD, and WUXGA (1920×1200). It also supports HDCP 2.2 and 1.4, 3DTV pass-through and Lip Sync pass-through.

“The 4K Ultra HD 600 MHz 8×8 Matrix is the largest format matrix that we offer with HDMI 2.0 capability,” Fitzgerald continued. “With eight inputs and eight outputs, it strikes a great balance between price and input/output capability.”

In addition to full HDMI 2.0 and HDR compliance, the 8×8 Matrix incorporates new audio features that help enhance the user experience. Recognizing that audio is just as important as video, the Matrix features analog and digital audio outputs that break out the audio stream (2 channel analog, 2 channel PCM, and up to 5.1 channel Bitstream) from each HDMI source, allowing the de-embedded audio content to be sent to external amplifiers and music distribution systems for added impact in bars, restaurants, clubs, venues, and corporate offices.

“All outputs are coupled with both analog and digital audio break-outs, making the connection to a centralized audio distribution system easy,” Fitzgerald added.

In addition, highest performance multichannel digital audio is passed through, including 7.1 channels of LPCM and HBR (High Bit Rate) digital audio formats, such as Dolby Atmos®, Dolby® TrueHD, DTS:X™, and DTSHD Master Audio™.

The new matrix includes a Professional API feature that provides previously unattainable data, allowing for exciting interaction with third-party control/monitoring systems. This product has also been designed to work with the Gefen Syner-G™ software to simplify initial IP configuration and EDID Management. Each source can be routed to any or all displays, using the front-panel push buttons or the included handheld IR Remote Control. An easy-to-read, super-bright OLED front panel display indicates routing status and IP settings. Control can be administered by using the IR, RS-232, IP, or web interfaces. It’s easy to install, configure, and manage.

The EXT-UHD-600A-88 matrix is housed in a 2U tall, rack mountable enclosure that can also be placed on a shelf. It accommodates Gefen locking HDMI cables to ensure secure connections.

About Gefen

Gefen® creates seamless and scalable audio/video signal processing solutions for commercial and residential applications. With a heritage of practical innovation and first-to-market products, Gefen delivers intuitive A/V distribution solutions that bridge the gap between rapidly advancing technology and real-world applications.

About Core Brands

Core Brands combines the strengths of its iconic control, audio, power management, connectivity and video distribution brands – ELAN®, SpeakerCraft®, Gefen®, Niles®, Panamax®, Proficient®, Furman®, Sunfire® and Xantech® – to deliver a portfolio of connected home and commercial solutions to its channel partners and end users. For further information, visit www.corebrands.com.