Home > HDMI Switchers > HDMI Switchers with Audio De-Embedding > VLSW-4x18KA
4x1 HDMI 2.1 48Gbps Switcher with Audio De-Embedding and HDMI Regeneration
VLSW-4x18KA
4-input HDMI 2.1 switcher with full 48Gbps bandwidth, supports 8K@60Hz, 4K@120Hz, VRR, ALLM, and Dolby Vision pass-through
Simultaneous digital and analog audio de-embedding, optical S/PDIF up to Dolby/DTS 5.1 and analog L/R stereo with adjustable gain via 5-pin Phoenix connector
Professional DIP switch EDID management with built-in signal generator for rapid system diagnostics
Multi-mode control: front panel buttons, IR remote, and RS-232 API for full control system integration
Product Description
The VLSW-4x18KA is a professional 4x1 HDMI 2.1 switcher that routes any of four 8K or 4K sources to a single display while simultaneously extracting audio to a separate system — all within one unit. Supporting 48Gbps across resolutions up to 8K@60Hz (YCbCr 4:2:0 12-bit), 8K@30Hz (RGB/4:4:4 12-bit), and 4K@120Hz, it passes HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, HLG, ALLM, and VRR without modification. Simultaneous optical S/PDIF (up to Dolby/DTS 5.1) and balanced analog L/R output with adjustable gain via a 5-pin Phoenix connector eliminate the need for a standalone audio extractor in four-source installations.
Four-position DIP switch EDID management locks a stable profile to all four inputs, preventing resolution and audio format renegotiation when displays power-cycle — essential for commercial environments requiring consistent source initialization. The built-in signal generator outputs a test pattern without a connected source for commissioning verification and field troubleshooting. Input selection supports auto or manual switching via front panel buttons, IR remote, or RS-232 API through a 3-pin Phoenix connector, compatible with Crestron, AMX, Extron, Control4, and Q-SYS.
Built-in equalization, retiming, and drive circuitry maintain signal integrity up to 2m at 8K, 8m at 4K@60Hz, and 15m at 1080p using Premium High Speed HDMI cable. The unit is HDCP 2.3 compliant and ESD-protected to IEC 61000-4-2 standards (±8kV air-gap, ±4kV contact discharge).
Key Features
Full HDMI 2.1 compliance with 48Gbps video bandwidth — supports 8K@60Hz 4:2:0 12-bit, 8K@30Hz RGB/4:4:4 12-bit, 4K@120Hz RGB/4:4:4 12-bit
Built-in HDMI signal generator for rapid display and cable diagnostics
HDCP 2.3 compliant
HDR, HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, HLG, ALLM, and VRR pass-through
HDMI audio pass-through: LPCM, Dolby Digital/Plus/EX, Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Atmos, DTS, DTS-EX, DTS-96/24, DTS High Res, DTS-HD Master Audio, DSD
Simultaneous audio de-embedding: optical S/PDIF (up to LPCM/Dolby/DTS 5.1CH) and analog L/R stereo via 5-pin Phoenix connector with gain control
4-pin DIP switch for advanced EDID management
Auto and manual input switching modes
Built-in signal equalizer, retiming, and driver
Control: front panel buttons, IR remote (wideband 20K–60KHz), RS-232 API via 3-pin Phoenix connector
Firmware update via USB Type-C service port
Metal enclosure — compact form factor for shelf, furniture, or rack deployment
Included 12V/1A multinational locking power supply (CE/FCC/UL certified)
Downloads
Ideal Applications
Corporate Boardrooms & Multi-Source Conference Rooms
Four-input boardrooms with a resident PC, BYOD laptop, video conferencing system, and cable or streaming source connect through the VLSW-4x18KA to a single display or downstream distribution amplifier. RS-232 integration with room control systems automates source switching from touchpanels or scheduling triggers, while the DIP EDID lock ensures every device initializes at the correct resolution regardless of display state. Simultaneous audio de-embedding routes program audio to the room DSP or ceiling amplifier without an additional unit in the signal chain.
Higher Education Lecture Theaters & Auditoriums
Large lecture theaters with four source positions — instructor PC, document camera, Blu-ray player, and guest laptop — use the VLSW-4x18KA to select content for the main projection system while routing audio to the theatrical sound system via optical or Phoenix analog output. The signal generator allows AV staff to verify projector and cable connectivity before lectures begin, without a live source connected. RS-232 control from the lectern panel gives instructors one-touch source selection without accessing back-of-rack equipment.
Digital Signage & Multi-Source Display Networks
Four content players for different daypart schedules connect through the VLSW-4x18KA; a central control server issues RS-232 commands to switch sources throughout the day. EDID management prevents players from dropping to lower resolutions during overnight display standby periods. The built-in signal generator enables remote display diagnostics without dispatching an on-site technician when a screen reports no signal.
Broadcast Monitor Walls & Production Rooms
Broadcast environments with four source feeds — program, preview, graphics, and replay — connect to the VLSW-4x18KA for single-display monitor selection at a director or engineering position. The zero-latency signal path ensures monitoring accuracy, and audio de-embedding to the program console via optical or balanced analog output keeps the signal path consolidated. RS-232 integration with broadcast automation enables scripted source selection during live productions.
Hospitality & Hotel Meeting Room AV
Hotel meeting rooms with four input points — house video, two guest HDMI inputs, and a room PC — route through the VLSW-4x18KA to a room display while simultaneously feeding audio to the room amplifier. Front panel or IR remote control gives on-site staff simple source selection without requiring rack access. The compact 21.5mm-tall metal enclosure mounts cleanly on a rack shelf or inside AV furniture alongside other room equipment.
Specifications
| Technical | |
|---|---|
| HDMI Compliance | HDMI 2.1 |
| HDCP Compliance | HDCP 2.3 |
| Video Bandwidth | 48Gbps |
| Video Latency | No Latency |
| Audio Latency | No Latency |
| Video Resolution | Up to 8K60 YCbCr 4:2:0 12bit, 8K30 RGB/YCbCr 4:4:4 12bit or 4K120 RGB/YCbCr 4:4:4 12bit |
| Color Depth | 8/10/12-bit |
| Color Space | RGB, YCbCr 4:4:4, YCbCr 4:2:2, YCbCr 4:2:0 |
| HDR | HDR, HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, HLG |
| IR Level | 12Vp-p |
| IR Frequency | Wideband 20K–60KHz |
| Audio Formats | HDMI input/output: LPCM, Dolby Digital/Plus/EX, Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Atmos, DTS, DTS-EX, DTS-96/24, DTS High Res, DTS-HD Master Audio, DSD Audio de-embedding output: Optical: Up to LPCM/Dolby/DTS 5.1CH Analog: Only LPCM 2CH |
| ESD Protection | IEC 61000-4-2: ±8kV (Air-gap discharge) & ±4kV (Contact discharge) |
| Connection | |
| Input | 4× HDMI IN [Type A, 19-pin female] |
| Output | 1× HDMI OUT [Type A, 19-pin female] 1× OPTICAL AUDIO OUT [S/PDIF, female] 1× L/R AUDIO OUT [5-pin 3.5mm Phoenix connector] |
| Control | 1× RS-232 [3-pin 3.5mm Phoenix connector] 1× IR CTL [3.5mm stereo mini-jack] 1× SERVICE [USB Type-C, Update port] |
| Mechanical | |
| Housing | Metal Enclosure |
| Silkscreen Color | Black |
| Dimensions | 220mm (W) × 110mm (D) × 21.5mm (H) |
| Weight | 595g |
| Power Supply | Input: AC100–240V 50/60Hz; Output: DC 12V/1A (US/EU standards, CE/FCC/UL certified) |
| Power Consumption | 5.4W (Max) |
| Operating Temperature | -10°C ~ 45°C / 14°F ~ 113°F |
| Storage Temperature | -20°C ~ 60°C / -4°F ~ 140°F |
| Relative Humidity | 20–90% RH (non-condensing) |
| Recommended HDMI Cable Length (HDMI IN / OUT) | |
| 8K | 2m / 6.6ft (Ultra HDMI 2.1 cable required) |
| 4K60 | 8m / 26ft |
| 4K24 | 12m / 39ft |
| 1080P | 15m / 49ft |
| The use of "Premium High Speed HDMI" cable is highly recommended. | |
What’s in the Box
1× VLSW-4x18KA 4x1 HDMI 2.1 48Gbps Switcher
1× IR Remote
1× 5-pin 3.5mm Phoenix Connector (male) — L/R audio
1× 3-pin 3.5mm Phoenix Connector (male) — RS-232
1× IR Wideband Receiver Cable (1.5m)
2× Mounting Ears
4× Machine Screws (KM3×4)
1× 12V/1A Multinational Locking Power Supply
1× User Manual
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the VLSW-4x18KA and the VLSW-41H21A?
Both are 4x1 HDMI 2.1 48Gbps switchers with audio de-embedding, but they serve different installation profiles. The VLSW-41H21A is a compact unit with basic audio extraction and no RS-232 control interface. The VLSW-4x18KA adds RS-232 API control via a 3-pin Phoenix connector for integration with Crestron, AMX, Extron, and Q-SYS, a 5-pin Phoenix balanced analog audio output with gain control, a 4-position DIP switch for hardware EDID management, and a built-in HDMI signal generator for field diagnostics. Choose the VLSW-4x18KA when control system integration, managed EDID, or signal generator diagnostics are required.
What audio formats does the optical output support on the VLSW-4x18KA?
The optical S/PDIF output supports up to LPCM stereo, Dolby Digital 5.1, and DTS 5.1. The analog L/R output via the 5-pin Phoenix connector carries LPCM 2CH stereo only, with adjustable gain for level matching to downstream amplifiers or DSP inputs. The HDMI output passes all embedded audio formats — including Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Atmos, DTS-HD Master Audio, and DSD — without modification.
How does the DIP switch EDID management work on the VLSW-4x18KA?
The 4-position DIP switch selects from preconfigured EDID profiles, applying a fixed EDID value to all four HDMI inputs. Sources always read the same capability data regardless of display state, preventing the resolution drops and audio format mismatches common when displays power-cycle independently in commercial environments. The DIP switch is hardware-based and requires no software or PC connection to configure.
What control systems is the VLSW-4x18KA compatible with?
The VLSW-4x18KA supports RS-232 API control via the 3-pin Phoenix connector, making it compatible with any control system that issues serial commands — including Crestron, AMX, Extron, Control4, and Q-SYS. Input selection (1–4), switching mode (auto/manual), and status queries are all controllable over RS-232. The complete command set is documented in the user manual.
What is the built-in HDMI signal generator on the VLSW-4x18KA used for?
The signal generator outputs a test pattern from the HDMI output without requiring a connected source device. AV technicians use it during installation commissioning to verify that the display, output cable, and any downstream distribution equipment are functional before connecting source devices. It is also a troubleshooting tool — if the test pattern displays correctly but a source does not, the fault is upstream of the switcher.
Does the VLSW-4x18KA support auto-switching between inputs?
Yes. In auto mode, the VLSW-4x18KA monitors all four inputs and automatically selects an active source when the currently selected input loses signal — for example, if a laptop disconnects or powers off. In manual mode, the selected input is held until explicitly changed via front panel button, IR remote, or RS-232 command.
What is the difference between the VLSW-4x18KA and the VLSW-2x18KA?
The VLSW-4x18KA provides four HDMI inputs versus two on the VLSW-2x18KA. Both units share the same chassis (220mm × 110mm × 21.5mm), feature set, and control options — DIP EDID management, RS-232 control, signal generator, optical S/PDIF, and Phoenix analog audio outputs. Select the VLSW-2x18KA for two-source installations; select the VLSW-4x18KA when a third or fourth source must share the same display.
Is the VLSW-4x18KA backward compatible with HDMI 2.0 and earlier sources?
Yes. The VLSW-4x18KA is backward compatible with HDMI 2.0 (18Gbps, 4K@60Hz), HDMI 1.4, and earlier sources and displays. The unit negotiates the appropriate signal format automatically — no manual configuration is required. An HDMI 2.0 source connected to any input operates at 4K@60Hz and 18Gbps maximum; full 48Gbps is active only when both source and display are HDMI 2.1 capable.
More Product Information and Where to Purchase
Compare Similar Models
-
![VLSW-2x18KA]()
2x1 HDMI 2.1 48Gbps Switcher with Audio De-Embedding + HDMI Regeneration
-
![VLSW-4x18KA]()
2x1 HDMI 2.1 48Gbps Switcher with Audio De-Embedding + HDMI Regeneration
-
![VLSW-21H21A]()
2x1 HDMI 2.1 48Gbps Switcher with Audio De-Embedding
-
![VLSW-41H21A]()
4x1 HDMI 2.1 48Gbps Switcher with Audio De-embedding
