Lightware HDMI-4K De-embedder - 91330008

Product Overview

The Lightware HDMI-4K De-embedder extracts embedded audio from an HDMI 4K signal and outputs it as discrete analog and digital audio — while simultaneously passing the HDMI video signal through unmodified. Designed for professional AV installations where audio must be routed independently of the video path — such as feeding an audio system, DSP processor, or amplifier from an HDMI source that would otherwise bypass the audio infrastructure. Available from Creation Networks.

Product Description

Modern AV sources — PCs, media players, Blu-ray players, cable boxes — embed audio in the HDMI stream. When these sources feed a display directly, audio is handled by the display. But in professional AV installations, audio must be routed separately to a DSP processor, audio matrix, amplifier, or assistive listening system. The HDMI-4K De-embedder solves this by tapping the HDMI signal, extracting the embedded audio, and outputting it on analog (balanced or unbalanced) and digital (S/PDIF or AES/EBU) connectors — while the HDMI output continues the video (and audio) to the display. This allows the same HDMI source to simultaneously feed the display and the building audio system without requiring a separate audio connection from the source device or AV control system intervention.

Key Features

• HDMI loop-through output — video and embedded audio continue to the display unaffected
• Extracts embedded audio from HDMI 4K sources
• Analog audio output — balanced and/or unbalanced
• Digital audio output — S/PDIF (optical and/or coaxial) and AES/EBU
• Supports LPCM 2.0 audio extraction
• Compact form factor for rack shelf or surface mounting
• No signal processing on the HDMI video path — transparent pass-through
• No configuration software required for basic operation

Typical Applications

• Conference rooms — extracting HDMI audio from a presentation laptop to feed the room's installed audio system
• Lecture halls — routing HDMI source audio to the assistive listening system and DSP processor independently
• Boardrooms with separate video display and audio systems requiring a common HDMI source
• Hospitality AV — routing in-room HDMI content audio to the installed ceiling speaker system
• Broadcast and production — splitting HDMI program audio for monitoring, recording, or IFB systems
• Digital signage with audio — sending media player audio to a separate amplifier or zone

Technical Specifications

Competitor Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the HDMI output continue carrying audio after de-embedding?

Yes. The HDMI loop-through output carries the original HDMI signal including the embedded audio, so the connected display receives both video and audio normally. The de-embedder extracts a copy of the audio — it does not remove it from the HDMI stream.

What audio formats does the de-embedder support?

The unit extracts LPCM 2-channel (stereo) audio. Bitstream formats (Dolby Digital, DTS, Dolby TrueHD, DTS-HD MA) are not extracted as discrete audio — the source must be set to output LPCM if discrete analog or digital audio extraction is required.

Can it de-embed audio from a 4K HDR source?

Yes. The HDMI input and output support 4K. The de-embedder does not process or modify the video signal — it passes through transparently regardless of HDR, resolution, or color space.

Is any configuration required?

No configuration is required for basic audio de-embedding and HDMI pass-through. Power on the unit and connect the HDMI source, HDMI display, and audio system.

What is the difference between using a de-embedder versus taking audio from the source device?

Many source devices (PCs, media players) have separate audio outputs, but in AV installations the source is often wall-plate or rack-mounted without convenient access to its audio outputs, or the source may not have analog audio outputs at all. A de-embedder provides a standardized extraction point on the HDMI signal path, independent of the source device type. Contact Creation Networks for system design guidance.