Key Digital is offering its second-generation modular AV over IP systems, the KD-IP922-II and KD-IP1022-II encoders and decoders, with full-featured 4K performance now at reduced pricing.
The KD-IP922ENC-II encoder has an MSRP of $960 (reduced from $1,283 for its predecessor), while the KD-IP922DEC-II has an MSRP of $833 (previously $1,166) – a modest amount more than the KD-IP822 encoders and decoders.
Key Digital does note the KD-IP822 encoders and decoders will now be discontinued. However, the company states that the KD-IP922-II series maintains full backwards compatibility with legacy IP822/IP922 hardware.
The KD-IP2022ENC-II encoder has an MSRP of $1,152 (reduced from $1,457), while the KD-IP1022DEC-II has an MSRP of $1060 (previously $1,340).
Key Digital AV over IP systems are scalable for use in large enterprise installations to mid-to-large-sized residential projects. Integrated with managed gigabit network switches, the systems enable video/audio distribution, matrix switching, video wall management and signal/control/KVM extension.
The key addition to the KD-IP922-II and KD-IP1022-II encoder feature sets, Key notes, is digital audio de-embedding via a provided TOSLink optical output with support for Dolby® TrueHD, Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby Atmos®, and DTS-HD Master Audio™ multichannel audio protocols.
In addition, the company states the encoders retain an HDMI pass through, which can be used as a local audio source as well as providing a local video source. The encoders provide HDMI extension up to 330 ft / 100 m @ 4K 24/25/30(4:4:4) into the network switch or point-to-point.
Multichannel audio at the decoders can typically be de-embedded and delivered by the destination monitor.
Additional cost savings in the -II models result from the removal of a second network port on both encoders and decoders and the local HDMI input on the decoders—all, which Key noted, were rarely used.
Key Digital also highlights the encoders’ UHDoTP (Ultra High Definition over Twisted Pair) 4K-to-1080p/720p down-convert feature, which allows integrators to mix display models and capability within a system.
All Key Digital AV over IP system specifications include 4K resolution support up to 4096×2160/30Hz/12-bit at 4:4:4; lossless transmission to 10.2Gbps bandwidth and visually lossless compression to 18Gbps; selectable 4K to 1080p/720P down conversion; EDID display identification handshaking (with an internal library featuring 15 default EDID configurations); HDR10 and fully licensed HDCP 2.2 support and compliancy; full support of the latest HDMI capabilities; and a Full Buffer System™, which manages TMDS re-clocking / signal re-generation, HDCP authentication with source & display, EDID control handshaking, and hot plug control that enables an integrator to choose if active signal voltage is forced to connected input devices.
