HDTV Forum

How can I hook up an LCD TV and Projector off of this receiver at the same time? I will have them both in the same room, LCD for TV, computer, etc... Projector for movies. Both have HDMI input but this reciever only has on HDMI output...

HDMI from a receiver has to "talk" with the HDMI in the display device. (this maybe less true for non HD video). With that protocol conversation there is no ability for it to talk to two devices - this based on the HDCP content protocol.

I think the only choice you have is to go HDMI to one device and Component to the other.

I do not think there is a smart box out there that can receive-split-retransmit to two HDMIs. Though I would imagine it could be done, but may not be legal under HDMI - HDCP licensing.

There are a few hdmi splitters out there (as well as a 4x4 matrix version that I have my eye on for the future), though the cost may not be worth it to you.

Check out http://www.gefen.com/kvm/product.jsp?prod_id=2514

What you need is an HDMI 1:2 splitter. Gefen makes such a device (see http://www.gefen.com/kvm/product.jsp?prod_id=2514). HDMI-HDCP can be legally split - just so long as both down-stream receiver keys are passed-on to the up-stream source. Gefen's website says that their unit is HDCP compliant, but my personal experience with similar Gefen products would suggest otherwise. That doesn't mean that the Gefen product won't work for you - it'll probably work fine - just that it may not follow the HDCP rules.

There is another thing that you need to consider when using an HDMI or DVI splitter. In DVI and HDMI systems, there is a handshaking procedure, where the source device reads information from the display and selects an appropriate signal for the display. If you have two displays, the source has to choose which display it will optimize the signal for. In the case of the Gefen unit, I think the source only "sees" one of the two displays and optimizes for that. So your second display needs to accept the signal "suggested" by the first.

Is it known if the Geffen can feed two AV receivers?

I have a cousin who has an Toshiba HD-DVD and wants to use it alternately for two systems - a living room and bedroom. All the equipment for both sytems will be in one rack with the displays driven by loooong HDMI cables.

And I wouldn't mind doing the same with my systems.

Theoretically, that should work. Maybe you can talk Gefen into allowing you to return product if it doesn't.

I have a Gefen 2x4 switcher/splitter, but haven't tried to driving two repeaters yet. If I get a chance, I'll try a hook-up like yours and let you know.

Check out www.monoprice.com for their HDMI splitters -- some powered with remote control, and very good price points.

They also sell long HDMI cables, again at very good prices.

I'm going to order and try the monoprice splitter. It's back ordered but so's the project. I have a feeling it will not work for HDCP video or would need to be used carefully - power up sequence sensitive.

As for the Geffen, it get's close to why bother $ wise. If it's $300 and a player is $399 for the HD-XA1 and surely to fall. But then again, knowning my cousin who has more money than brains He'll want a remote controlled 2x2 and to get a BR player as well. Thanks...