Monoprice Blackbird 4K 4x1 HDMI Switch with Audio Extractor

This compact Blackbird™ 4K 4x1 HDMI® Switch from Monoprice simplifies multi-source setups by letting you connect gaming consoles, streaming boxes, Blu‑ray players, and PCs to one 4K display. It adheres to HDMI 2.0b and HDCP 2.2 requirements, handles up to 18 Gbps bandwidth, and supports HDR and full YUV 4:4:4 chroma for crisp color reproduction. A built-in retimer and cable driver maintain signal integrity over longer runs, and the unit can extract 2‑channel analog audio for legacy speakers or an external amplifier.

How does the Blackbird handle high-resolution video and color?

The Blackbird supports resolutions up to 4K at 60Hz with YUV 4:4:4 chroma, plus 1080p at 120Hz and 3D 1080p at 60Hz, so it preserves fine detail and accurate color across modern displays. It also passes 10‑bit HDR frames to compatible screens for improved contrast and color depth.

• Supports 4K@60Hz with YUV 4:4:4 for full chroma fidelity
• Compatible with HDMI 2.0b and HDCP 2.2 protected streams
• 10‑bit HDR passthrough for wider color and contrast ranges
• Handles up to 18 Gbps bandwidth to avoid bottlenecks

Can it manage multiple audio setups and older speakers?

Yes—alongside HDMI audio passthrough, the Blackbird includes an analog stereo output (audio extractor) so you can feed powered speakers, a receiver, or an amplifier that lacks HDMI inputs. It supports High Bit Rate (HBR) audio formats via HDMI while offering convenient two‑channel analog output for simpler sound systems.

• Extracts 2‑channel analog audio for external amps or powered speakers
• Passthrough of advanced HDMI audio (HBR) when using HDMI output
• Useful when your AV receiver lacks multichannel HDMI switching

How do I switch sources and keep signal quality over distance?

The Blackbird offers fast switching between four HDMI inputs using front-panel controls or remote operation, while its built‑in retimer and cable driver reshape signals to reduce jitter and extend reliable cable length. That helps maintain stable, artifact‑free video even with longer HDMI runs.

• Front-panel controls and IR/remote-compatible switching
• Integrated retiming and cable driver for cleaner signals over distance
• Designed to reduce dropouts and maintain sync with high-bandwidth sources

What compatibility and protection standards does it meet?

The unit is compliant with HDMI 2.0b and HDCP 2.2, making it suitable for current 4K content and consumer electronics. This ensures compatibility with streaming services, UHD Blu‑ray players, and modern gaming consoles that require HDCP 2.2 authentication.

• HDMI 2.0b compatibility for modern 4K features
• HDCP 2.2 support to handle protected 4K content
• 18 Gbps maximum data throughput for bandwidth-intensive signals

Who is this for: The Monoprice Blackbird 4K 4x1 HDMI Switch is aimed at consumers and prosumers who need a reliable, compact way to connect multiple 4K sources to a single display while retaining the option to route stereo audio to legacy sound systems. It’s a practical choice for home theaters, gaming setups, conference rooms, or desktop workspaces where clear color, HDR support, and flexible audio routing matter.