1. J-Tech Digital Premium Quality 1080P HDMI to HDMI + Audio Extractor
2. Proster 3×1 HDMI Switch with Audio Extractor HDMI Switcher
3. Musou 1080P HDMI Audio Extractor
4. J-Tech Digital HDMI Audio Extractor Switcher 4×1
5. Avedio Links 4K HDMI Audio Extractor Spiltter
Looking for the best HDMI audio extractor can be a nightmare due to the sheer range of options you have available to you on both the physical and digital marketplaces right now. Today’s post aims to turn that nightmare into a dream by giving you every ounce of knowledge you need to make an effective choice and start to enjoy better quality audio and video in your living room (or anywhere you want it, really!).
We’re going to tell you exactly why these extractors are useful if you want the best listening and visual experience, while also highlighting the key areas you need to compare when looking at different products. After all of that, we’ll tell you what the five best options on the market are. There’s no need to go anywhere else. Everything you need to know about HDMI audio extractors is available right here, right now. Simply read on.
What Is an HDMI Audio Extractor?
We’ve all been there. If you’re a fan of excellent quality audio and video then you’ll want to make the absolute most of your home setup for listening to music and watching movies. There’s a slight problem with this though as modern technology is complicated. Making it all work together effectively without losing any audio or visual quality can lead to enormous headaches.
What makes an extractor unit useful, in a nutshell, is that they take HDMI audio and video sources and convert them into a signal that other technology can make use of. This means that HDMI can be accessed by equipment that otherwise wouldn’t be able to use it. It’s also an effective way to feed all of your HDMI powered technology into one box that can then send either one or multiple signals to your chosen devices. Usually, this would be a combination of a high-quality sound system and some form of a screen for viewing.
You could view an extractor as being like a control box for electronic signals. It takes an HDMI signal or signals from either one or more sources (depending on the model), then “regulates” it to ensure that no quality is lost, before allowing you to playback the original audio and video content. Why this is of enormous benefit is that it allows you to expand your options when it comes to playback. You’re not stuck with HDMI only devices, and you can instead make use of the best premium sound systems purely for audio, or for combining premium audio with screen technology.
Extractors accommodate higher quality viewing and listening. They’re also a good way of condensing and combining inputs from several HDMI pieces of technology at once and feeding them into one place where HDMI ports may be limited. All while preserving signal quality.
How to Pick the Right HDMI Audio Extractor
In this section, we’re going to explore all of the key features that go into making HDMI audio extractors so that you know precisely what to compare when looking for the right product for your audio pleasure. If you weigh these areas up based on your individual preferences, circumstances, and requirements. You’ll end up walking away with the perfect extractor to suit your needs.
Installation
You might love great quality audio, but that doesn’t mean that you’re necessarily very technologically minded. If this is the case, then you need to make sure that your chosen extractor is easy to install.
Try to view the instructions online ahead of making a purchase so that you know what you’re in for. If it looks too complicated for you then try and get something that you can just plug in and start playing audio with straight out of the box.
Signal Quality
You need a product that can take the HDMI source signal, make it smaller, and then send it to your chosen device for playback without any of the quality on offer being lost in the process. Make sure that no matter which option you go for, your original source audio is going to come through intact. This means that you’ll be able to listen to it in higher quality without any of the content being degraded after the conversion from HDMI.
Is It Compatible?
If your HDMI to audio extractor isn’t compatible with the technology that you want to use it with, then it’s going to be completely useless to you. An easy way to identify whether or not your chosen extractor is going to work with your intended output is simply by reading the manufacturer’s guidelines. You should be able to find a list of compatible output sources for your intended model. Provided your audio technology is on the list, then you’re good to go.
Additional Features
In conjunction with being able to send HDMI audio and, potentially, video signals to other devices, there are a host of additional bonus features that some extractors offer to further enhance the signal conversion experience on offer and give your home entertainment system a boost.
Some additional features enhance compatibility by way of allowing for SPDIF conversion and multiple pixel resolution capacities for use with the most up-to-date technology, including 1080, 720, and 480. There are also signal splitters to send signals to two different outputs and LED indicators among other beneficial additional features to look out for.
Number of Inputs
This is important if you’re trying to condense your HDMI technology into a single unit that can then be fed into a screen, or a combination of a screen and some form of premium audio. Some TVs, for instance, have a limited number of HDMI ports, making an extractor crucial.
If condensing signals is the aim of your game, then be completely sure that your preferred box has the right number of input channels available. Otherwise one of your pieces of technology is going to be left out of the mix.
Durability
In an ideal world, your purchase is going to last for years at a time, providing you with sustained enjoyment of your favorite audio tracks. With this in mind, you should select an item that has a durable, long-lasting housing that’ll last as long as your sound system/source technology does. Quality guarantees and warranties are a great way of ensuring that your item is built to last.
Brands
Choosing an item that has been engineered by a highly reputable manufacturer is a great way to ensure that your product is going to do the job you want it to. After all, thousands of satisfied customers will already be making use of the same item.
It’s important to shop based on your individual requirements and circumstances, but the following brands are definitely producing some of the best HDMI audio extractor solutions available at the moment: Amazon, Musou, Sgeyr, Udigital, Tendak, LVY, iArkPower, J-Tech. Any item purchased from one of these manufacturers will absolutely meet all of your satisfaction requirements.
Top 5 Best HDMI Audio Extractors
In this section, we’re going to list the five best HDMI extractors on the market, so that not a penny of your hard-earned money is wasted when making a purchase. They’re all great for different reasons but rest assured, by the time you reach the end of the list you’ll have chosen a totally viable option to work with.
1. Our Pick: J-Tech Digital Premium Quality 1080P HDMI to HDMI + Audio Extractor
Features:
- Provides great flexibility through three new audio EDID settings
- Supports the highest video resolution to 1080p
- Supports 12bit per channel deep color
- Convert the HDMI signal to 2 channel analog stereo output or 5.1 channel audio output
For those looking for a simple and effective option that’ll convert the signal effectively without breaking the bank, this is definitely the best all-round extractor for meeting those ends. You can convert high-quality audio and video with this device. It supports top-end video resolutions (1080p) for use with the latest technology and has a high level of flexibility with variable EDID settings to accommodate use with some of the best high-end audio equipment, including premium surround sound systems.
Pros
Pros
- Incredibly robust and durable unit housing means it’ll last for years
- A really easy to use option straight out of the box
- Does everything you need it to effectively and in an uncomplicated manner
- Great value due to some additional features that are great for a basic model
Cons
Cons
- Though it’s cheap, it’s still more expensive than some of the other basic models out there
- It might be a little complicated for those who just want HDMI audio-only conversion without the extras
It’s even possible to support 3D video conversion too, meaning that there’s maximum compatibility with cutting edge gaming systems on offer as well. Combine it all with a robustly built unit that’s durable and hard-wearing, and you’re getting a lot for your money. The downside? It doesn’t offer anywhere near as many additional features as other products. But that’s not the point here. This is supposed to be a basic but high-quality offering, and it achieves that with ease.
Public Review Summary: This device provides great sound and video quality. It works perfectly and is so easy to connect that you don’t need to read the enclosed instructions. Supporting 4k resolution at 60 Hz makes this extractor very useful. Also, it is made of high-quality materials and feels really solid. But you need to be aware that it doesn’t work on all devices. So, before buying, check if it is suitable for you.
2. Best for Convenience: Proster 3×1 HDMI Switch with Audio Extractor HDMI Switcher
Features:
- 3×1 hemi-switch with audio extractor
- High quality plastic casing
- Features three HDMI input converter to one HDMI displays mode
- Supports HDMI version 1.4
For those looking for a simple solution to combine all of their HDMI signals into one box in order to send them to a single output when HDMI ports are perhaps limited, then we feel that this is the easiest and best to work with if you want to preserve quality in the process. This is not only a great HDMI audio extractor but also a great video extractor too.
Pros
Pros
- Excellent offering for those who want to combine several signals for use with limited HDMI port space
- A fantastic option for gamers who want to optimize the latest 4k and 3D technology
- High-quality housing is very durable
- Accessible and easy to use out of the box
Cons
Cons
- Doesn’t have as many additional features as more premium offerings
- No guarantee or warranty in case of breakage or dissatisfaction
With its massive range of compatibility with everything from 3D to 4K HD outputs, including being diverse enough to effectively work with the latest digital streaming platforms. You’ve got everything you need here for high-quality playback when combining up to three pieces of technology at once. It’s possible to use this box for effective premium audio playback too, but we feel that this box is best served as a utility tool for convenience. For the space-conscious gamer or movie fanatic struggling for HDMI ports on their output device, this is the perfect “feeder” box for you.
Public Review Summary: This extractor is very useful and it works independently of the TV volume control. Also, it has a metal housing for toughness. What is also a plus is that this device supports 4k resolution and 1080p. The main negative point of this device is the poorly made cables which come with it and, in some cases, it can stop working very soon.
3. Best Budget: Musou 1080P HDMI Audio Extractor
Features:
- One HDMI input to one HDMI + Audio
- SPDIF supports up to DD and DTS 5.1CH audio
- Supports 24 bit / deep color 30 bit
- Provides the best flexibility
You’re not going to get all of the fancy bells and whistles that come with some of the more expensive options available. But this is hands down the best choice for those on a budget or those who just want a very simple but still highly functional HDMI audio extractor. We don’t all have a million pieces of technology, and there are some people out there that simply want to focus on converting the signal from one HDMI source and sending it into something else. Be it another screen or a high-quality sound system.
Pros
Pros
- Incredibly cheap versus other options
- Compatible with the latest and greatest audio systems for excellent quality playback
- Good for those who don’t want a wealth of additional features
- Simple and easy to use
Cons
Cons
- Not the most convenient of products due to only having one input and output
- Build quality isn’t as durable as other options
If this sounds like you, then this offering from Musou is likely to meet your every need, thanks to its ability to condense and channel 1080P 3D resolutions at the utmost quality while supporting everything up to the best 5.1CH and SPDIF surround sound systems. It’s simple; it’s effective and the best part is that it’s incredibly cheap when compared to every other available option. And it’s well built. If you need a “box-ticking” solution that’ll simply extract, and extract well into one channel, this is completely for you.
Public Review Summary: This extractor works really well, especially with projectors. The audio signal is excellent, and there’s no degradation of the video. The installation process is also very fast, just 5 minutes is all it needs to be ready for use. On the other hand, it has quite similar problems as all products in this category and doesn’t work with all devices.
4. Best Premium: J-Tech Digital HDMI Audio Extractor Switcher 4×1
Features:
- Connect 4 HDMI inputs to 1 display
- Switch inputs via remote or auto switch
- Free lifetime support
- Audio extraction and manage EDID settings
This one does it all, and does it better than almost any other product on the market. For those looking for the best premium extractor then this mighty 4 input unit from J-Tech digital is 100% the direction you need to head in. The 4 HDMI inputs sockets mean that you can feed pretty much all of your technology through this box to be output to one place. This makes it a super convenient solution if you’re struggling for ports, or you want to reduce clutter.
Pros
Pros
- Premium build quality will last for years and is supported by a warranty
- Will work with all of the latest technology to an unparalleled degree of quality
- Switchable remote and auto functionality maximizes convenience
- 4 ports mean you can channel all of your technology at once
Cons
Cons
- An expensive option compared to others
- Offers far more features than some people are going to need
Where this item really shines is through is its ability to automatically detect which port is in use and divert power accordingly. It’s compatible with the most cutting-edge sound and optical technology, whether its 4k ultra HD or 7.1CH surround sound is also a big plus. It’s incredibly well made, and it’ll last for years. The manufacturers are so confident in the quality on offer that they’ve included free lifetime support and a 1-year warranty for total peace of mind. The downside? It’s much more expensive than anything else out there, but its quality commands its price.
Public Review Summary: This extractor has an auto switch feature included. It also features full IR functionality and the signal quality is of a really high level. Also, 1 HDMI input is MHL supported HDMI. One product drawback is that the digital audio output is on the front of the unit which makes the cabling a bit awkward.
5. Best for Easy Usage: Avedio Links 4K HDMI Audio Extractor Spiltter
Features:
- Widely compatible
- Included 1-year warranty
- 4k HDMI to HDMI audio extractor
- Three audio mode
A lot of the people making use of extractor technology are doing so purely out of necessity because they can’t access their favorite audio or video in the way that they’d prefer through their desired sound or projection system. These people usually aren’t the most tech-savvy audio or visual gurus. This is where a super-simple option that’s really self-explanatory straight out of the box comes in. One that offers plug-in-and-use accessibility. That’s precisely what you’re getting with this product.
Pros
Pros
- Unbelievably easy to use straight out of the box
- Included warranty is a real standout for a cheaper product
- Supports the majority of the latest technology which will suit most people’s needs
- Splits the signal so that you can benefit from premium video and audio at once
Cons
Cons
- Doesn’t have many features for those who need more functionality
- Won’t support the highest end, most cutting-edge technology
This extractor can split an HDMI signal so that you can make use of a premium quality sound system and display at the same time. It supports the vast majority of the latest audio and visual technology for convenience. Basically, it caters for the needs of most people. It’s incredibly easy to use and one of the lowest cost options out there, meaning that it’s absolutely the best choice for those who don’t want to go through a stressful setup process. Unlike other budget options, it also comes complete with a 1-year warranty too which will be music to some people’s ears.
Public Review Summary: This device is helpful if you search extractor for your old devices. It allows users to receive high-quality audio and video. It works well with high-resolution videos and can extract audio from an HDMI source while allowing it to pass thru simultaneously. But sometimes it can stop working so read the instructions carefully.
Benefits and Uses of HDMI Audio Extractors
We’re now going to summarize the main benefits on offer when making use of extractor technology so that you’re completely reassured about your decision to purchase an effective HDMI conversion product. Despite the positive benefits you’ve read about up to now while scrolling through this post, there are others that you might not have known about.
- Superior to ARC
An Audio Return Channel has been included for years by manufacturers as a replacement for headphone or SPDIF output sockets. The only problem is, these channels aren’t compatible with several of the latest pieces of technology.
If you’re in the unfortunate position of having to make use of this channel, then introducing an extractor is going to allow you to properly convert the signal and send it to absolutely any piece of audio or visual equipment no matter how modern it is.
- Compatible with Apple TV boxes
One of the major benefits of an Apple TV is the included 4K box that allows you to stream audio at an incredibly high quality. With the inclusion of an extractor box unit, you can send the signal from the Apple box directly to the latest and greatest sound systems.
This means that you can use your Apple music with top-end surround sound systems.
- Preserves signal quality
The quality of an HDMI signal is determined by something known as a sample rate. While some of the first audio extractors were limited by the sample rate of the weakest item they were connected tom but this simply isn’t the case anymore.
You can now connect several items to one extractor and enjoy the full audio or visual experience without the signal being diminished in any way. This makes extractors superior to other conversion technologies that can’t preserve signal quality in the same way.
- Highly convenient
This might seem a little less important than the ability to convert a signal itself, but extractors offer an amazing solution for those who want to reduce wire clutter in their living room by feeding all of their technology into one location.
Gone are the days where you have to plug and unplug items depending on use. They can all sit in one place by allowing you to easily select which one you want to use at any one time, or potentially a combination at once with signal splitting.
Best HDMI Audio Extractor FAQ
We’re now going to address the five main questions that get asked by people about this technology before they make a purchase. Our answers will give you all of the peace of mind you need to be able to move forwards and make a product selection with utmost confidence.
Will the signal be degraded if I use an extractor?
Provided you select a high-quality audio extractor, the original HDMI signal will not be affected during the conversion process whatsoever. Always select a product that preserves the sample rate of your technology for the best quality signal.
Can I use a HDMI audio extractor with two items at once?
As long as you select a product that can split the signal and send it to more than one output source at once, then you can make use of two pieces of technology at the same time. A common example of this would be a high-quality sound system being used with a video system.
Do I need a HDMI audio extractor?
If you’re trying to use more technology than you have HDMI ports for on your output source, then yes you will need to use an extractor unless you want to keep on plugging in and unplugging these items.
You’ll also need to use an extractor if your preferred sound system doesn’t support direct HDMI connections. Anything that isn’t directly compatible with HDMI signals will require an audio / video extractor to take the HDMI signal and make it usable with your preferred listening or video source.
Is it safe to plug in several items at once with an audio extractor?
Yes, it is. This is because audio extractors actually take the original signal and compress it (make it smaller) while still preserving all of the content it has to offer. This means that at any one time, there is never any excess current running through the unit surplus to its capacity.
What’s the best way to use an audio extractor?
This isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer, but the two most common usage scenarios see users making use of audio extractors to send an HDMI signal to a premium quality sound system, or to combine several HDMI sources together for maximum convenience.
Conclusion
For those who are only just discovering the world of audio extractors, it can be an incredibly confusing topic that leads to no small amount of head-scratching. But once you understand what all of the features are and what they do, it’s quite easy to understand why you need one. Today we’ve given you all of the information you could ever need to effectively select an audio extractor to suit your personal requirements.
Whether you simply want the ability to benefit from better quality audio playback, you want to be able to combine a video and audio source, or you’re looking for something that’ll merge all of your living room technology together for convenience and safety. There’s something here for you. Select one of the top five audio extractors from our list now and start enjoying HDMI entertainment in the way it was meant to be enjoyed. Say goodbye to inbuilt speakers and a lack of playback options. The world of HDMI is now yours to command through any device of your choosing.