Using 8K equipment to improve 4K content

Are you hesitant to upgrade to an 8K system? Many people feel that way, believing it's too early for 8K technology. However, even though "8K" products are marketed as such, they offer a lot of advantages for your 4K devices. How is this possible? It's thanks to their compatibility with HDMI 2.1, which is the necessary standard for transmitting 8K resolutions. We can save the 8K experience for later, but let’s take a look at how these 8K supported devices can improve your everyday 4K products: 

Increased Bandwidth

HDMI 2.1 offers higher bandwidths than previous versions, allowing for the transmission of more data per second. This means that it can handle higher resolutions and frame rates, resulting in a smoother, more immersive viewing experience. 

Enhanced Audio Support 

HDMI 2.1 also supports high-quality audio formats such as DTS:X and Dolby Atmos, providing a more realistic and immersive sound. This is especially important for 4K content, which requires high-quality audio to match the stunning visuals. Whether you’re playing video games on the PS5 or watching an exhilarating action movie, the enhanced audio feature can provide drastic improvements to your experience. 

Dynamic HDR

HDMI 2.1 introduces Dynamic HDR, which transmits dynamic metadata alongside the video signal. This can result in more accurate and vibrant colors, better contrast, and a more realistic image. 

Some popular dynamic HDR technologies include Dolby Vision, HDR10+, and HLG (Hybrid Log-Gamma). These technologies are used in many TVs, streaming services, and content platforms to provide a better viewing experience to users.

Gaming Support

HDMI 2.1 includes features specifically designed for gaming, such as Variable Refresh Rate (VRR), Quick Frame Transport (QFT), and Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM). These features can reduce input lag, improve responsiveness, and create a smoother gaming experience. If you like to blame the lag when you’re taken out early in the game, maybe this feature isn’t for you. All jokes aside, these added features can significantly affect how you perform and stream gameplay!

But before you get started 

To maximize your 4K devices using HDMI 2.1-compatible video distribution equipment, make sure all your components are HDMI 2.1-compliant, including your TV, AV receiver, and any other devices you may be using. This way, you can take full advantage of the benefits of HDMI 2.1, such as higher resolutions, enhanced audio, dynamic HDR, and gaming support, and create a stunning and immersive viewing experience. If you have a component in your system that does not support HDMI 2.1, you may not be able to experience these amazing features. 

All-in-all, even if you don't plan to upgrade to an 8K system (yet), the benefits of HDMI 2.1 are still available to you. Upgrade your components and experience the incredible quality that HDMI 2.1 offers.

Take a look at our extensive line of 8K equipment!