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The Decimator MD-HX is a compact HDMI/SDI cross converter with a scaler and frame-rate conversion—not just a passive adapter. Its key setup choice is the source for each output: route an input directly, or choose the Scaler path when you need format conversion. Before relying on V2 features such as 2K, VESA input support, overlays, or test patterns, check the unit’s serial family; Decimator identifies CLD, CLE, and CLF units as the newer group and lists CLA, CLB, and CLC as legacy families.
What the MD-HX does
The MD-HX converts between HDMI and 3G/HD/SD-SDI, and its scaler can change format and frame rate. Decimator’s current product page lists 245 input formats and 41 output formats across supported conversion paths. Those counts describe the manufacturer’s supported formats; they do not mean every source timing can be converted to every output. Confirm the exact input, output, and frame rate your chain needs.
Each of the four SDI outputs can feed an SDI destination. The unit also provides configurable audio-pair rearrangement, local LCD-and-button control, and USB for control and firmware updates. Decimator describes the enclosure as solid aluminium and fanless on its MD-HX product page. The V2 brochure lists a +5 V to +32 V DC supply range and dimensions of 79.5 × 123 × 29.5 mm; confirm the included power supply and cables with the seller because packaging can vary.
Which features depend on the hardware revision?
Decimator’s current V2 feature set is associated with serial numbers beginning CLD, CLE, and CLF. The manufacturer separately identifies CLA, CLB, and CLC as legacy units, so do not assume a legacy unit has the expanded feature set. Check the serial number and the applicable documentation before buying or planning a workflow around a specific feature.
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
| Feature | What Decimator lists for V2 units |
|---|---|
| HDMI computer-format input | 204 VESA formats over HDMI |
| 2K | 2K formats supported; check the exact mode required |
| Monitoring overlays | 16-channel audio meters, safe-action and safe-title graticules, center cross, customizable UMD text, and input/output format status |
| Test patterns | 58 patterns; the test-pattern generator supports 41 selectable output formats across 3G/HD/SD |
| Audio tone | Tone generation on SDI and/or HDMI |
Decimator’s product page describes its scaler as proprietary and claims improved sharpness, reduced aliasing, and superior image quality compared with conventional polyphase approaches. That is the manufacturer’s performance claim, not an independent comparative test result.
Check compatibility before you connect it
Write down the source and destination requirements first, then compare them with Decimator’s format information and V2 brochure. In particular, verify:
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
- Input and output formats, including resolution and frame rate.
- Whether the SDI connection requires 3G level A or level B. Decimator lists support for both and conversion between them on its product page; check the exact route and format in the documentation.
- Whether the conversion you need is supported on the specific input/output path. The published format counts are not a guarantee of universal compatibility with every computer HDMI timing or every 2K mode.
- The serial family if VESA input, 2K, overlays, test patterns, or tone generation is essential.
- What is included in the box and whether the seller has the revision you need.
Decimator lists a US$295 MSRP on its product page. That is the manufacturer’s MSRP, not a confirmation of current street price, stock, or retailer availability. Its reseller directory can help locate sellers; verify price and inventory with the seller.
How to set up the MD-HX
The steps below follow Decimator’s version 1.5 operating manual, copyright 2015–2023. That manual predates the current V2 feature set, so menu details for newer firmware may differ. On power-up, the LCD opens at Input Status, showing detected SDI and HDMI inputs and the scaler/DUC output format. Left and right move across the top-level menus—Input Status, Control, Scaling, Audio, and Setup—ENTER opens a menu or toggles a parameter, and BACK returns to the previous level.
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Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
- Connect power and the source. Connect the source to HDMI IN or SDI IN. Use a power supply within the brochure’s +5 V to +32 V DC range.
- Connect the destination. Connect the display, switcher, or other destination to the intended HDMI or SDI output. The unit has four SDI outputs for distribution to SDI destinations.
- Choose the output source in Control. Set SDI OUT SOURCE and/or HDMI OUT SOURCE to SDI IN, HDMI IN, or Scaler, as appropriate. The two outputs can be assigned independently.
- Use Scaler when conversion is required. A direct SDI IN or HDMI IN assignment routes that input to the output; it does not put the scaler in the signal path. To scale or use the scaler’s format conversion, select Scaler for the relevant output.
- Set the scaler in Scaling. Select the scaler source, reference, output format, and aspect controls required by the signal chain. Confirm the chosen output format against the destination’s supported formats.
- Verify status and save changes. Check Input Status for detected input and scaler/DUC output format. The manual says changes apply immediately and are saved after 10 seconds; do not power down during that save interval.
For current V2 menu behavior, consult the documentation applicable to the unit’s revision and firmware. Decimator’s Downloads page is the starting point for firmware and related files; confirm update compatibility before installing anything.
How to convert HDMI to SDI
- Connect the HDMI source to HDMI IN and the SDI destination to an SDI output.
- In Control, set SDI OUT SOURCE to HDMI IN for a direct route, or to Scaler if the required SDI output format differs and is supported by the scaler.
- If using Scaler, open Scaling and select the scaler source and output format, then check Input Status to confirm the detected input and output format.
Use the same routing principle in the opposite direction for SDI-to-HDMI: connect SDI IN, connect the HDMI destination, and select SDI IN for HDMI OUT SOURCE for a direct route or Scaler when conversion is needed. Confirm format and frame-rate compatibility before the production session.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
Or let it run in the cloud
StreamNeo is a separate service for keeping an uploaded video or playlist live on YouTube; it does not replace the MD-HX for HDMI/SDI signal conversion, and it does not go live from a camera. To use it, upload a recording, add your YouTube stream key, and go live. The cloud loops the video, so nothing has to stay on at home. It streams the upload as made, up to 4K 60fps, at one price per slot; it can automatically recover if YouTube drops the stream. The first day is free with no card. Monthly billing is $9.99 per month. See StreamNeo, then start the free day.
Who should consider the MD-HX?
The MD-HX is worth considering when a production chain needs HDMI/SDI cross conversion, format scaling or frame-rate conversion, independent output routing, or several SDI feeds from one compact device. If your workflow depends on monitoring overlays or test patterns, confirm the serial family before purchase. No independent bench comparison or rival-product assessment is available here, so the practical buying decision should rest on your required formats, routing, outputs, and revision-specific features.
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Quick Recap
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
