Gefen 4K Ultra HD 600 MHz 1:2 Scaler with EDID Detective and Audio De-Embedder

Experience cinema-grade visuals and flexible multi-display capability with the Gefen EXT-UHD600A-12-DS. This compact HDMI 2.0 scaler and splitter unlocks full-bandwidth 4K HDR signals, delivering pristine image quality to two displays while simultaneously extracting audio for your outboard system. Designed for modern home theaters, digital signage, and professional AV installations, this device combines robust video processing with smart EDID management to ensure reliable performance even in complex setups.

• Split and scale HDMI 2.0 with HDR to two displays: enjoy consistent color, contrast, and clarity across two screens from a single source.
• 1x HDMI input and 2x HDMI outputs: streamline multi-display deployments without sacrificing signal integrity or resolution.
• EDID Detective: automatic, intelligent EDID negotiation that maintains compatibility with a wide range of displays and ensures the intended resolution and refresh rate are preserved.
• Audio De-Embedder: extract high-quality audio from the HDMI stream to drive an external amplifier or audio system, simplifying AV routing in mixed setups.
• Compact, reliable form factor optimized for desktop, rack-mount, or cabinet installations, ideal for pro-grade AV racks and home theaters alike.

Technical Details of Gefen 4K Ultra HD 600 MHz 1:2 Scaler w/ EDID Detective and Audio De-Embedder

• Video bandwidth: 600 MHz TMDS, enabling full-bandwidth HDMI 2.0 performance and support for high-frame-rate, high-resolution content.
• Video input: 1x HDMI input to receive the source signal from Blu-ray players, game consoles, streaming devices, or PCs.
• Video outputs: 2x HDMI outputs to feed two displays simultaneously with independent scaling as needed.
• Resolution support: capable of delivering 4K Ultra HD content at up to 60 Hz with HDR, ensuring rich color and dynamic range.
• HDR support: includes HDR processing to preserve the enhanced highlights and details across connected displays.
• HDMI version: HDMI 2.0 compliant, enabling full 4K/60 and 18 Gbps bandwidth for high-quality video and audio.
• Color and processing: built-in scaling feature to fit output displays and maintain image quality across different panel capabilities.
• EDID Detective: advanced EDID management to automatically select the most compatible timing, reducing dropouts and handshake issues on diverse displays.
• Audio de-embedding: extracts audio from the HDMI stream for external amplification or dedicated audio systems, simplifying AV routing and enabling separate audio management.
• Compatibility: designed to work with HDR content and modern HDMI 2.0 devices, maintaining broad compatibility in mixed-use environments.
• Physical design: compact and durable enclosure suitable for desktop use or mounting in a professional AV rack with other Gefen gear.

how to install Gefen 4K Ultra HD 600 MHz 1:2 Scaler w/ EDID Detective and Audio De-Embedder

Setting up the Gefen EXT-UHD600A-12-DS is straightforward and quick, making it an excellent choice for both seasoned AV technicians and home theater enthusiasts. Follow these steps to achieve reliable multi-display output and high-quality audio de-embedding:

1) Power down all connected devices before wiring. This helps prevent EDID negotiation issues and ensures clean startup signaling.

2) Connect your HDMI source to the device's HDMI input. This is the single feed that will be split and scaled to two outputs.

3) Connect the two displays to the two HDMI outputs on the Gefen scaler. If one display supports 4K at 60 Hz and the other is a 1080p set, the EDID Detective feature will help negotiate the appropriate timing for each output while preserving the best available quality on both screens.

4) Attach your audio system to the device's de-embedded audio output. This provides clean, independent audio for an external amplifier, soundbar, or other audio equipment without relying on the display’s built-in speakers.

5) Power on the Gefen unit and all connected displays and sources. Allow a moment for EDID negotiation to complete. In many setups, the device will automatically select the most compatible resolution and refresh rate, delivering a seamless viewing experience across both outputs.

6) If needed, adjust the source device’s output resolution to a level compatible with both displays. In most cases, the EDID Detective will optimize settings automatically, but you may manually select 4K60 HDR on the source for the finest image quality on both screens.

7) Verify that both displays are actively receiving video. If one display appears dim or incorrectly scaled, revisit the EDID settings or re-seat cables to ensure clean connections. For signage or multi-display installations, confirm that the de-embedded audio is reaching the external amplifier as intended.

8) For advanced installations, you can mix and match display types (e.g., a 4K HDR display and a 1080p display) and rely on the scaler to maintain output quality on both, while EDID Detective handles timing and format negotiation behind the scenes.

9) When upgrading or changing source content, re-check the outputs. The 1:2 scaling capability remains constant, but certain high-bandwidth formats might require a moment of EDID negotiation to re-stabilize the signal path.

10) Routine maintenance and cable checks will help preserve long-term performance. Use high-quality HDMI cables rated for HDMI 2.0/HDCP to maintain signal integrity and minimize potential bandwidth bottlenecks.

In summary, the Gefen EXT-UHD600A-12-DS is designed to maximize flexibility in today’s multi-display environments. It delivers robust 4K HDR video to two displays while extracting audio for an external system, all within a compact, server-grade housing. Its EDID Detective technology reduces common headaches associated with mixed displays, ensuring a reliable, high-quality experience whether you’re building a home theater, a digital signage network, or a professional AV rack for events and conference spaces.

Frequently asked questions

Q: What resolutions can I expect when using the Gefen 4K Ultra HD 600 MHz 1:2 Scaler?

A: The device supports up to 4K Ultra HD at 60 Hz with HDR on the primary output and can scale to two displays simultaneously. HDR content is preserved where possible, and the EDID Detective helps negotiate compatible timings for each connected display.

Q: Can the scaler send different content to each display?

A: Yes. The unit is designed as a 1:2 scaler, meaning it can split the signal to two displays. Both outputs can carry the same content, while the EDID management ensures the chosen formats are presented cleanly to each screen.

Q: How does the Audio De-Embedder work?

A: The device extracts audio from the HDMI signal and routes it to an external audio system, such as an amplifier or soundbar. This lets you enjoy high-quality sound without relying on the displays’ built-in audio capabilities.

Q: Do I need software to operate this scaler?

A: No software is required. This is a hardware-based device with intuitive EDID management and on-device controls, designed for plug-and-play use in most setups. Some advanced configurations may benefit from adjusting source device settings, but software is not necessary for operation.

Q: Is HDMI 2.0 compatibility sufficient for modern devices?

A: Yes. The Gefen EXT-UHD600A-12-DS is built to work with HDMI 2.0 devices, supporting high-bandwidth 4K60 HDR content and reliable performance across a range of sources, displays, and media players.

Q: What if my displays have different maximum refresh rates?

A: The EDID Detective feature is designed to negotiate compatible formats for each connected display. In many cases, the primary output can maintain 4K60 HDR, while the second display may downscale to a compatible resolution if necessary, ensuring smooth operation without flicker or handshake issues.