Essential Install | Wyrestorm
WyreStorm’s latest
modular HDBaseT
matrix supports
remote sources
and separate
audio and video
zone expansion
True Custom Install
When it comes to AV distribution, WyreStorm has a long history of
giving integrators options. The company’s product manager, Dave
Schorah, explains why the company’s latest H2X Series matrix is pure
custom install from chip to chassis.
You can’t cookie-cutter CI; it’s called ‘Custom Install’ for
a reason.
Each project has its own unique set of requirements
that means trying to force a fi xed number and
specifi cation of audio and video I/O contradicts the very
word ‘custom.’
WyreStorm has never been about one-size-fi ts-all.
From our previous 2K modular matrixes, to our recent
H2C Series modular 4K matrixes, the three HD and 4K
over IP technologies in our NetworkHD line, and now the
H2X Series – we’re all about offering something over and
above fi xed confi guration platforms.
Available in 16x16 and 10x10, the H2X Series 4K
HDR HDBaseT 5Play with 48x16 (or 30x10) audio DSP
matrix switchers were developed as a step forward in
understanding market demands by offering a common-
sense solution that improves end-user experience and
simplifi es product integration challenges.
The H2X matrix platform is a single solution, replacing
what would have been several before, such as video
matrix, audio matrix, audio processor or DSP, as well as
audio baluns to handle ARC back to an audio system,
and, coming in early 2018, optical transmission for longer
runs that would have necessitated an expensive separate
extender solution before.
Modular in nature, the H2X offers the ability
to customise build and specifi cation using a
selection of multi-format transmission cards
for distribution completely tailored to the
needs of the application.
Currently available cards include
the TX-H2X-HDMI, a HDBaseT and
mirrored HDMI output card, including
HDMI input, analogue stereo audio
out, digital audio out, digital audio
line in, IR to zone for source control.
The TX-H2X-HDBT card adds an
HDBaseT Input, which is a fantastic
method of decentralising a device like
a Blu-ray player, which would naturally
18 | October 2017
have its library somewhere convenient
like the living room, rather than in
a basement or cupboard where
the rack is. Increasingly, games
consoles are also being used not
just for gaming, but as advanced
media servers and streamers.
Using a TX-H2X-HDBT card to
decentralise a PS4 or Xbox
One is an excellent way of
remotely accessing Netfl ix or any
VoD streaming service and account,
as well as playing back locally stored
content, such as family photos and home videos, in
any room in the house via the H2X HDBaseT distribution.
Addressing another key characteristic of what makes
custom install ‘custom’, H2X zone-expansion cards allow
an installer to skew the number of audio and video inputs
and outputs to fi t the project. The TX-H2X-VDZ card offers
additional video sources and zones via HDMI In to HDBT and
mirrored HDMI outputs, for instances where audio is handled
by a local AVR or soundbar, or where a user is streaming
audio direct from a mobile device, in which case card audio
connectivity or matrix audio capability isn’t as important.
On the other hand, there will be other instances where
you need that large audio capability – an important factor
in residential installs where more audio zones than video
are common.
The TX-H2X-ADZ audio expansion card features
analogue stereo out, digital audio out and digital audio
in and removes the expense of an HDBaseT transmission
to better cater for audio-only zones, such as communal
areas, outdoor zones or fi tness rooms.
As with anything, you should use the best tool for
the application. The H2X Series allows you to build your
AV system as you want it – and keep the cookie-cutter
for cookies.
More information: WyreStorm +44 (0) 1793 230343,
wyrestorm.com