VidaBits #8 - HDMI 1.2 vs 1.3 vs 1.4 - What's the difference - in plain English?

[VidaBox]

Hello,


As an integrator, it's vitally important to keep up to date with the latest in AV technologies, but it can be hard to cut through the techno-babble at times. One of the most frequently asked questions we get is - what are the differences between HDMI 1.2, 1.3, and 1.4 - in plain English?

VidaBox has the answer!

In short, the differences are in the feature available and which audio-video formats can be transmitted through that connection. To start - practically ALL AV devices manufactured today (DVD players, set-top boxes, VidaBox media systems, etc.) have HDMI1.2 as the minimum standard, providing audio + video on one cable. Here's what the newer standards provide.

HDMI1.3 adds support for the 7.1 lossless HD audio formats, such as Dolby TrueHD, DTS-HD, and DTS-MA (Master Audio). This is of particular importance for Blu-ray since this is the minimum requirement to be able to enjoy to these new audio formats in a home theater. When a client is asking for the best audio quality possible, make sure your setup (source & receiver) has HDMI1.3. Systems like our VidaBox SLIMv3, LUXv2, MAGNUM, and RackClientV3 can have HDMI1.3 support included.

Another feature that HDMI1.3 adds is "Deep Color" - but at the time of this writing, there are still no sources for "Deep Color." So, if a customer asks about this, it's a somewhat moot point as there are no commercially-made Blu-ray titles taking advantage of this feature.

HDMI1.4 adds support for native 3D over HDMI, assuring a "plug-n-play" 3D experience. It also provides support for 4k x 2k resolution support, which appeals to digital signage and large multi-display installations. All VidaBox HDMI1.3 systems can be upgraded to HDMI1.4 once available, guaranteeing that your systems will not become obsolete - not matter what the latest standard is!

Other features added with 1.4 is an Ethernet and audio return channel, but in most multizone AV installations, there are other (easier) methods of carrying this out, and avoid the headaches that HDMI generally brings to installations.

Looking to learn more about HDMI and which systems to choose for your next multi-zone video distribution project? Give us a call and we'd be more than happy to assist and see how our Blu-ray, DVD, and music servers systems can fit into your installation!

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