Matrix switchers are perfect devices to handle multiple video and audio input signals and route them to several output peripherals. Such an outstanding feature is a must for professional conference room AV installations. But if you want to take your conference room to the next level, you should consider investing in a high-end matrix switcher. Capable of routing audio and video signals from different input sources to multiple output devices all at once, they allow conference speakers to incorporate additional media into their presentations and make them more memorable.
However, it is advised that you don’t opt for a matrix switcher that is more inexpensive than it is efficient. To make the most of the money you spend, aim to purchase a product that is reliable, durable, and has the right features to meet your needs.
What to Look for In a Matrix Switcher
If you want to make an impact in your conference room, you’ll need a matrix switcher that is powerful, easy to use, and capable of supporting several key functions. The three most crucial functions and features you should look out for when shopping for your ideal product include:
The ability to seamlessly switch between input signals in real-time and with little to no latency.
The ability to incorporate on-screen displays over any of your input signals.
A versatile user interface that allows you to easily manage and customize layouts.
Beyond that, you’ll have to make up your own mind as to which matrix switcher is best-suited to your conference space. Check out this round-up of four different products on the market today, and you’ll be sure to find something that fits the bill.
Different Matrix Switchers for Your Conference Room.
1. Extron DTP CrossPoint 108 4K Matrix Switcher
If you’re after something heavy-duty for a larger conference space, then this offering from Extron could be just the thing you need. The DTP CrossPoint is a 10×8 matrix switcher, which means it is capable of supporting 10 different input sources and routing them to four separate output devices. It is, in other words, the ideal hub for any conference room with demanding AV requirements.
Whether connected via one of six HDMI or four DTP input ports, the output quality is guaranteed to be superior. For one thing, with exclusive Vector 4K scaling, the signals from your source devices will always be scaled up or scaled down to fit the size of any of your output screens. This will be performed in real-time, as will any switching transitions that are needed to cut from one source to another.
So, while Extron cannot guarantee zero latency, it can promise exceptional speed and reliability across all of the DTP CrossPoint’s many functions. And, if that wasn’t enough, the product’s impressive functionality is all contained within a single 3U chassis, making it ideal for conferences that are technologically demanding but hosted in rooms that have limited space.
2. Crestron DM-MD8X8-CPU3
Crestron’s matrix switchers are all completely configurable, so you can make sure yours fits your needs exactly, thanks to its range of individual input and output cards. As such, it is possible to get a matrix switcher like their DM-MD128X128 model, which is capable of supporting an incredible 128 input sources and routing them to 128 output devices. However, for a conference space, perhaps their DM-MD8X8-CPU3 would be better suited.
With the capacity for ultra-fast switching and lossless distribution of its eight input signals to support cameras, computers, digital media players, and more, any resulting display is sure to be seamless. In addition, everything routed through the switcher will be displayed in the highest possible quality, with signals up to 4K and Ultra HD capable of being supported.
One of the most impressive benefits of the DM-MD8X8-CPU3 is the fact that it can be expanded so that it can, effectively, grow as a company’s conference space is scaled up to meet demand. Thanks to Crestron’s innovative input cards and their HDMI pass through outputs, up to five switchers can be connected to each card, making them perfect for growing businesses and their ambitious undertakings.
3. Kramer VP-772
Another product that can support eight inputs is Kramer’s VP-772 model of matrix switcher. Designed specifically for presentation environments, this device comes equipped with capabilities that are sure to make any conference presentation far more visually appealing to viewers.
For one thing, it offers a wide range of transition effects in FX mode, including horizontal, vertical, cross-fading effects, and many more. Plus, with fast switching, the jump from one display to another will be as seamless as it is eye-catching. Not to mention the fact that it’s sure to be high-quality, too, as Kramer’s VP-722 can support output resolutions up to 4K and includes additional visual enhancement functions including color correction.
4. DEXON DMX302-Pro Matrix Switcher 4K60 4:4:4
If you want an all-in-one solution for your conference space or other AV project, then look no further than DEXON’s DMX302-Pro Matrix Switcher. Able to support between four and 32 input signals and route them to up to 16 output devices, it’s an ideal option for companies of all sizes looking to scale up their conference rooms. This is the real modular product to process 4K60 4:4:4 inputs and drive 4K60 4:4:4 outputs with perfect visual quality.
As well as to the impressive choice buyers are offered at the point of purchase, this product from DEXON Systems comes with a wide variety of other desirable benefits. For starters, it offers real-time transition effects when switching between two input signals. And, whether you opt to use transitions or not, you can expect zero latency and no loss of frames when switching
between sources.
Users of this product can also enjoy a versatile layout management system, picture-in-picture display, and fully independent audio matrix switching. In other words, it’s a great all-rounder for conference spaces of variable sizes.
Why Do I Need a Matrix Switcher?
With a high-quality matrix switcher, you can turn your conference room into a space that sparks peoples’ interest and imagination. Giving you the ability to make your audiovisual displays look effortless, the information you use look exciting, and the quality of your picture look as vibrant as possible, they play an integral role in any successful conference space.
Fail to invest in a matrix switcher that’s up to scratch, and you could find yourself dealing with painfully slow systems that are hard to manage and even harder for viewers to engage with. So, do the relevant research and find the product that’s right for you. As you can see, there are plenty of great solutions out there for you to choose from.