4K HDR HDMI audio de-embedder

The Kramer FC-46H2 is a professional HDMI audio de-embedder for signals up to 4K@60Hz with 4:4:4 color sampling. It supports an 18Gbps bandwidth and is identified for HDR HDMI applications. Its primary function is to separate audio from either the HDMI input or the HDMI output’s ARC signal, then deliver that audio simultaneously through S/PDIF® and a 5-pin balanced audio output. This focused signal path makes the FC-46H2 useful when HDMI video and audio need to be directed to different parts of an AV system.

Ideal Use Cases

The FC-46H2 is suited to professional HDMI systems in which video remains on the HDMI path while audio must be routed separately. It can serve installations that need an S/PDIF connection, equipment using a 5-pin balanced audio connection, or both at the same time. It is also relevant to ARC-based configurations where audio returning from the HDMI output must be extracted for another audio device. Because the two audio output types operate simultaneously, the unit can feed separate compatible audio paths without requiring the installer to choose only one output interface.

Why Choose This Model

This model combines high-resolution HDMI signal support with two distinct audio output options. The specified video capability reaches 4K@60Hz with 4:4:4 sampling, while the listed bandwidth is 18Gbps. HDR is included in the product designation. On the audio side, the ability to de-embed from the incoming HDMI signal or from ARC provides two clearly defined source options. Simultaneous S/PDIF and 5-pin balanced output further distinguishes the signal-routing design, particularly where existing equipment uses different audio connection standards.

Installation and Integration

For HDMI-input audio extraction, connect the HDMI source to the FC-46H2 input and route the required de-embedded audio through S/PDIF, the 5-pin balanced output, or both. The HDMI output forms the downstream side of the signal path. In an ARC configuration, the unit can instead de-embed audio returned through the HDMI output’s Audio Return Channel. The source information confirms ARC but does not specify eARC, so systems requiring eARC should be evaluated separately. HDMI version, HDCP support, power requirements, dimensions, mounting provisions, and included accessories are not stated in the available data and should be confirmed before final installation planning.

Performance Highlights

The FC-46H2 supports HDMI signals up to 4K resolution at 60Hz with 4:4:4 sampling. Its stated 18Gbps bandwidth aligns with the listed maximum signal specification, while HDR support is identified by the model’s product title. The unit’s audio function does not depend on a single extraction point: audio can come from the HDMI input or from HDMI output ARC. Once extracted, the signal is made available simultaneously at both documented audio outputs. The available source data does not identify supported audio codecs, channel configurations, sampling rates, or conversion characteristics, so no assumptions are made about those details.

What Makes It Different

The defining feature is the combination of selectable HDMI-side audio sources and simultaneous output interfaces. Some systems need audio from the original HDMI source, while others depend on audio returned over ARC; the FC-46H2 addresses both documented routing scenarios. It then exposes the de-embedded audio through S/PDIF and a 5-pin balanced connection at the same time. This arrangement is valuable when one HDMI signal must support more than one compatible audio connection path. The product remains purpose-specific: no switching, scaling, wireless connectivity, built-in speaker, or additional processing capability is stated in the supplied information.

Final Assessment

The Kramer FC-46H2 is a strong match for a professional AV design that requires 4K@60Hz 4:4:4 HDMI signal handling, HDR support, 18Gbps bandwidth, and dedicated audio extraction. Its ability to de-embed from either the HDMI input or output ARC provides practical routing flexibility, while simultaneous S/PDIF and 5-pin balanced outputs accommodate two documented connection types. It is best selected when these specific capabilities match the planned system and when any unstated requirements, including audio formats, HDMI version, HDCP, physical dimensions, and power details, have been verified separately.