AVPro Edge Encoder; HDMI, HDMI Loop, USB, IR, RS232, Fiber & RJ45 with audio downmixing (7.1 ch)--Not Compatible with V1 Systems

Product Overview

The AVPro Edge MXNet 1G Evolution II Encoder with Audio Downmixing (AC-MXNET-1G-AVDM-EV2) is a feature-rich AV-over-IP encoder built for complex commercial AV rack installations requiring dense connectivity, local monitoring, and advanced audio handling in a single unit. It combines HDMI input, HDMI loop output, dual network ports (fiber and RJ45), USB, IR, and RS232 pass-through, and 7.1-channel audio downmixing — eliminating the need for separate audio processors in mixed-format sound environments. Designed exclusively for the MXNet 1G Evolution II platform, it is not compatible with V1 systems, and is the preferred encoder choice when integrating Dolby or DTS 7.1 surround sources into a distributed AV system that requires stereo or downmixed audio at display zones.

Product Description

This encoder addresses one of the most common pain points in distributed AV: managing multi-channel audio from Blu-ray players, cable boxes, and media servers alongside 4K video distribution. The built-in 7.1-channel downmix engine converts surround audio to a stereo or lower-channel-count output without requiring an external audio matrix or DSP, reducing rack space and system complexity. The HDMI loop output allows the source to simultaneously feed a local display or confidence monitor at the rack, enabling technician verification without interrupting the distributed signal. Dual network connectivity — RJ45 for standard copper runs and a fiber port for longer distances or electrically isolated runs — gives integrators infrastructure flexibility without adding separate media converters. USB, IR, and RS232 pass-through extend device control from any decoder endpoint back to the source, supporting full control system integration for the connected source device.

Key Features

• 7.1-Channel Audio Downmixing — Converts Dolby, DTS, and PCM 7.1 surround audio to stereo or multi-channel outputs without an external audio processor.
• HDMI Loop Output — Mirrors the HDMI input signal to a local display for rack-level monitoring while the source distributes across the network.
• Dual Network Ports (Fiber + RJ45) — Provides flexibility for copper or fiber network infrastructure in a single encoder, eliminating the need for separate media converters.
• 4K60 4:4:4 HDR Encoding — Full-bandwidth 4K encoding with HDR10 and HLG support over a 1G managed Ethernet network.
• USB Pass-Through — Extends USB connectivity from the decoder endpoint to the source device for peripheral sharing or HID control.
• IR Pass-Through — Routes infrared control signals between encoder and decoder locations for remote source control.
• RS232 Pass-Through — Extends serial control from any decoder back to the source encoder location for control system integration.
• MXNet EV2 Exclusive — Operates only within the MXNet 1G Evolution II ecosystem; not compatible with any V1 MXNet hardware.
• PoE Powered — Draws power from the network switch port, reducing rack power supply requirements.
• Software-Defined Routing — Any source can be routed to any display zone via the MXNet management platform without rewiring.

Typical Applications

• Luxury residential installations distributing Blu-ray and streaming audio/video to multiple rooms with per-zone stereo audio
• Corporate AV racks encoding 7.1 sources (media players, cable boxes) for multi-room conference and lobby distribution
• Houses of worship distributing surround-sound service content to overflow and lobby zones in downmixed stereo
• Hospitality AV systems routing in-room entertainment to bar, restaurant, and common area displays with independent audio handling
• Broadcast monitoring setups requiring local HDMI loop for confidence monitoring alongside network distribution
• Complex AV racks where fiber network segments isolate ground loops between buildings or floors

Technical Specifications

Competitor Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the 7.1-channel audio downmix actually do?

The built-in downmix engine takes a Dolby, DTS, or PCM 7.1 surround audio signal from the HDMI source and converts it to a stereo (2-channel) or lower-channel-count output. This allows zones receiving the distributed signal — such as lobby or overflow screens — to play audio through a standard stereo amplifier without requiring a separate DSP or audio matrix.

What is the HDMI loop output used for?

The HDMI loop output mirrors the incoming HDMI source signal to a local display connected directly to the encoder. This is typically used in equipment rack installations to provide a confidence monitor or local preview screen without interrupting or degrading the signal being distributed across the network.

Why are there both fiber and RJ45 network ports?

The dual network ports offer infrastructure flexibility. The RJ45 port connects to standard copper Cat5e/Cat6 switch runs. The fiber port supports longer network runs (beyond copper distance limits) or provides electrical isolation between buildings or floors — common in campus AV and multi-building installations — without requiring a separate media converter.

Is this encoder compatible with V1 MXNet systems?

No. The AC-MXNET-1G-AVDM-EV2 is exclusively compatible with the MXNet 1G Evolution II platform. It will not operate with first-generation MXNet V1 encoders, decoders, or controllers under any configuration.

Can I use this encoder without the audio downmix feature?

Yes. The encoder passes audio normally when downmixing is not required. The downmix function is applied selectively based on system configuration, so it does not affect installations distributing stereo or standard LPCM audio sources.