tatalisa
tatalisa Aug. 30, 2024, 4:41 p.m.

What’s the best digital hdmi modulator for streaming several channels simultaneously?

I’m setting up a multi-channel streaming system and could really use some advice. I need a reliable digital HDMI modulator that can handle streaming several channels simultaneously without any drop in quality. The goal is to broadcast to multiple TVs across different rooms, so having strong signal strength and minimal latency is key.

I’ve come across a few options online, but it’s hard to know what’s truly the best based on specs alone. I’m looking for something that’s easy to set up, supports high resolution (preferably 1080p or higher), and can maintain consistent performance over time. Ideally, it should also be compatible with a range of input devices (set-top boxes, media players, etc.).

If anyone has experience with a specific model or brand, I’d love to hear your thoughts. I’m also curious about price ranges - what's reasonable for the best quality modulator?

morfi
morfi Aug. 31, 2024, 10:56 a.m.

Just a heads up, make sure your existing cable infrastructure can handle the bandwidth if you're going the RF route. I learned that the hard way when I tried to set up a similar system last year.

GRANDISON7261
GRANDISON7261 Aug. 31, 2024, 7:16 p.m.

Have you looked into DIY solutions? With a Raspberry Pi and some open-source software, you can create a pretty decent HDMI to RF modulator setup for much less.

Keq_1
Keq_1 Sept. 1, 2024, 8:46 a.m.

Absolutely! I've built several Pi-based HDMI to RF setups. You'll need a Raspberry Pi, HDMI capture device, and RF modulator. Use FFmpeg for encoding and DVB utils for modulation. It's cost-effective (about $100-$150 per channel) and scalable, but expect some tinkering. Limitations include one channel per Pi, potential latency, and slightly lower quality than high-end commercial solutions. However, it's a great learning experience and solid budget option. Happy to provide more details if anyone's interested!

wrestling team
wrestling team Sept. 2, 2024, 11:16 a.m.

I’ve been using the Thor Broadcast H-HDMI-RF-PETIT modulator for a while now, and it’s been great for streaming multiple channels. It’s definitely one of the top digital HDMI modulators I’ve come across. It handles 1080p perfectly, and the signal strength is solid across multiple TVs. Price-wise, it’s a bit up there, but worth the investment if you need consistent performance.

py_g
py_g Sept. 2, 2024, 7:17 p.m.

One thing to keep in mind when picking the optimal HDMI modulator is the range you’re working with. I had issues with cheaper modulators when trying to cover larger areas, so if you’re broadcasting to multiple rooms or floors, definitely check the signal strength specs.

Tse Bella
Tse Bella Sept. 3, 2024, 11:22 a.m.

Forget the modulator - just get a really long HDMI cable and run it through the entire house. x:DD) TOP solution, 10/10 would recommend*)

dipper07
dipper07 Sept. 3, 2024, 4:57 p.m.

LOL, while a long HDMI cable might sound like a 'creative' solution, it’s definitely not practical for multi-room setups! HDMI cables lose signal quality over long distances, and you'd be dealing with a mess of wires. For distributing content across several TVs in different rooms, the best approach is using an HDMI RF modulator.

I'd recommend the ZeeVee ZvPro 820 - it's one of the best HDMI RF modulators for handling multiple channels simultaneously with minimal loss in signal quality. It converts HDMI to RF, which can easily be sent through your existing coaxial cables, eliminating the need for multiple long HDMI cables. It’s easy to set up, supports up to 1080p, and is great for larger setups like yours. Definitely a more reliable (and tidy) option!

0LEGarh
0LEGarh Sept. 4, 2024, 6:28 a.m.

I haven’t used a modulator for multi-channel streaming yet, but I’ve been reading up, and the Thor Broadcast models seem to get mentioned a lot as some of the best digital HDMI modulators out there.