So set up is pretty simple. But now onto the part where Control4 users can rejoice. The points where the magic happens.

The first piece of the magic is the analog audio matrix side. The guys at Hydra listened and noted a major request of most Control4 users. This independant 8×8 audio matrix also provides the 1:1 ratio volume control. This has become pretty common for full analog switches but not so in HDMI switches. Those of us that have been using HDMI switching have been forced to use a 3rd party switch or an amp with built in switching at high price. Finally a company that understands flexibility.

The next trick is the use of CEC in a control system. Most of us integrators make sure CEC is turned off on EVERY device in an HDMI distribution system because of the havoc it can create. Well not so much now. The use of CEC will in a distibution/control system will allow integrators the ability to scrap ugly IR emitters, toss cumbersome RS232, and save a few ports on their network switch by controlling devices with CEC.

Hydra accomplished this by creating some “genric drivers” for Tv, dvd, and Avr. Inside the Switch driver is the ability to create a number of “virtual ir” ports. So the Control4 system thinks it it using IR. All the CEC logic is actually contained in the Hydra switch. Here are my thoughts on each driver type.

Tv Control: Tv Control is a no brainer. In most case we only need on and off. If this is your scenario you are in luck…. go ahead and yack the emitter now. However if you need volume control and mute be care. Currently tested Toshiba sets are one of the few that support volume control and mute over CEC. I have found that the new Sharp 70″ and 80″ also support these functions. So check out the compatibility chart.

DVD /BluRay players: Another good one. Who hates to see those ugly emitters in your high end finished rack? All standard commands are present in most of todays BluRay players. One less connection, One less wire, One cleaner looking rack!

AVR’s: Now here’s where I have a personal opinion. While Some if not most of today’s Avr’s support CEC I do not think it is a viable solution if RS232 or IP control is available. If either of these are available for 2way control there is just to much to lose going the CEC route. Direct commands to specific surround modes is lost, direct jumps to specific types of streaming media as in the new Sony 5700es will be lost, and well true volume feed back to navigation is gone also. So on the Avr side I would have to say CEC is just not ready for the big show. This is not the switched fault, just a limitation of CEC in it’s current state.

So to introduce this awesome new product to the masses has been a privilidge and an honor. This is definately one of the few products I was excited about at Cedia this year. I am also happy to announce that while this product won’t ship till Christmas time an Exculsive Pre-Order can be found at store.thesohoshop.com. This Preorder will run until Christmas and will come with a special holiday 400.00 off!