Name: 8K 2×1 HDMI 2.1 Switcher with Audio De-Embedding
Brand: KanexPro
SKU: SW-2X1A8K

Overview

Switch between two 8K HDMI 2.1 sources on a single display while independently routing audio to optical or analog outputs — without upgrading your AV receiver. The KanexPro SW-2X1A8K is a compact 2×1 HDMI switcher with built-in audio de-embedding that resolves a common integration pain point: connecting next-generation 8K and 4K@120Hz sources to a display while simultaneously extracting audio for a separate sound system. Its 8-position EDID DIP switch ensures reliable handshake with virtually any source/display combination.

Compliant with HDMI 2.1 and HDCP 2.3, the switcher delivers up to 8K@60Hz 4:2:0 and 4K@120Hz 4:4:4 at 40Gbps bandwidth. Full HDR pass-through — HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, and HLG — preserves cinematic image quality. VRR, ALLM, and FVA support optimize gaming performance. Audio de-embedding outputs via S/PDIF optical (LPCM/Dolby/DTS 5.1) and 3.5mm analog (PCM 2.0). Control via IR remote, front-panel button, or auto-switch. Housed in a compact metal enclosure drawing just 5.25W.

Key features

HDMI 2.1 and HDCP 2.3 compliant
Support 40Gbps video bandwidth
Support video resolution up to 8K@60Hz 4:2:0 10bit, 8K@30Hz 4:4:4 10bit, 4K@120Hz 4:4:4 10bit
VRR, FVA, ALLM supported
Support HDR, HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, HLG pass through
Support HDMI audio formats: LPCM, Dolby Digital/Plus/EX, Dolby True HD, DTS, DTS-EX, DTS-96/24, DTS High Res, DTS-HD Master Audio, DSD
Built-in Equalizer, Retiming and Driver
Advanced EDID management
Support audio de-embedding function (output through the optical and analog port)
Support IR remote control and front panel button switching
Compact design for easy and flexible installation

Technical
HDMI Compliance	HDMI 2.1
HDCP Compliance	HDCP 2.3
Video Bandwidth	40Gbps
Video Resolution	Up to 8K@60Hz 4:2:0 10bit, 8K@30Hz 4:4:4 10bit, 4K@120Hz 4:4:4 10bit
Color Depth	8/10/12-bit
Color Space	RGB, YCbCr 4:4:4, YCbCr 4:2:2, YCbCr 4:2:0
Audio Formats	HDMI input/output: LPCM, Dolby Digital/Plus/EX, Dolby True HD, DTS, DTS-EX, DTS-96/24, DTS High Res, DTS-HD Master Audio, DSD Audio de-embedding output: Optical: LPCM 2/5.1 CH, Dolby Digital 2/5.1 CH, DTS 2/5.1 CH Audio output: PCM 2.0
ESD Protection	Human body model — ±8kV (Air-gap discharge) & ±4kV (Contact discharge)
Connection
Input	2 × HDMI IN [Type A, 19-pin female]
Output	1 × HDMI OUT [Type A, 19-pin female] 1 × OPTICAL OUTPUT [S/PDIF] 1 × L/R [3.5mm Stereo Mini-jack]
Control Ports	1 × SERVICE [Micro USB, Update port]
Mechanical
Housing	Metal Enclosure
Color	Black
Dimensions	145mm (W) × 68mm (D) × 17mm (H)
Weight	268g
Power Supply	Input: AC 100–240V 50/60Hz Output: DC 5V/2A (US/EU standard, CE/FCC/UL certified)
Power Consumption	5.25W (Max)
Operating Temperature	0°C – 40°C / 32°F – 104°F
Storage Temperature	−20°C – 60°C / −4°F – 140°F
Relative Humidity	20–90% RH (Non-condensing)
Recommended HDMI Cable
8K	Ultra HDMI 2.1, 3m/10ft
4K@60Hz	HDMI 2.0, 8m/26ft
4K@24Hz	HDMI 1.4, 12m/39ft
1080p	HDMI 1.4, 15m/49ft
Certifications
Certifications	CE, FCC, UL
Package Contents
Included	1 × 8K HDMI 2×1 Switcher, 1 × IR Remote, 1 × 5V/2A Multinational Power Supply, 1 × User Manual

8K 2×1 HDMI 2.1 Switcher with Audio De-Embedding panel drawing

8K 2×1 HDMI 2.1 Switcher with Audio De-Embedding system diagram

8K 2×1 HDMI 2.1 Switcher with Audio De-Embedding applications

Manual~~Installation and operation~~

Spec sheet~~Full specification~~

Sales sheet~~For bid packages~~

What HDMI version and HDCP level does this switcher support?

HDMI 2.1 and HDCP 2.3, ensuring compatibility with the latest sources and protected content.

What is the maximum supported video resolution?

8K@60Hz 4:2:0 10-bit, 8K@30Hz 4:4:4 10-bit, and 4K@120Hz 4:4:4 10-bit at 40Gbps bandwidth.

How do I connect this switcher to an existing AV system with a separate sound system?

Connect two HDMI sources to IN 1 and IN 2, HDMI OUT to the display, optical to a soundbar or AVR optical input, and/or 3.5mm to powered speakers or an amplifier.

Can I use this with a 4K TV and 8K sources?

Yes. Set the EDID DIP switch to a 4K preset (e.g., 101 for 4K@60Hz 4:4:4) and the switcher will negotiate the correct resolution with your display.

How do I set the EDID mode?

Use the 3-position DIP switch on the front panel. There are 8 presets from 1080p to 8K@60Hz. Default (111) copies the connected display's EDID.

What power supply is required?

Included: multinational 5V/2A adapter (US/EU standard, CE/FCC/UL certified). Maximum power consumption is 5.25W.

No signal on the display after switching sources.

1) Verify HDMI cables are Premium High Speed or Ultra High Speed rated. 2) Try a different EDID DIP switch setting. 3) Power-cycle the switcher. 4) Ensure the source is outputting a resolution supported by your display.

Audio is not coming through the optical or analog output.

1) Confirm the source is outputting a compatible audio format. 2) Check that the EDID DIP switch includes audio channels (not all presets include 5.1/7.1). 3) Verify cable connections to the audio device.

Is RS-232 or IP control available?

Not on this model. Control is via IR remote, front-panel button, or auto-switch. For RS-232/IP, refer to the KanexPro 4x1 models.

What audio formats pass through on the HDMI output?

LPCM, Dolby Digital/Plus/EX, Dolby TrueHD, DTS, DTS-EX, DTS-96/24, DTS High Res, DTS-HD Master Audio, and DSD.

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