The Decimator MD-HX is a compact HDMI/SDI cross converter with a scaler and frame-rate conversion—not just an adapter. Its key setup decision is which signal feeds each output: route an input directly for pass-through, or select the Scaler path when the MD-HX needs to convert the signal. Before relying on newer features such as 2K or VESA input support, check the unit’s serial family.
What the Decimator MD-HX does
The MD-HX converts between HDMI and 3G/HD/SD-SDI. It can also scale and convert frame rates, with Decimator describing its newer engine as motion-adaptive and usable from either input. The manufacturer lists 245 input formats and 41 output formats for supported conversion paths. Those counts do not mean every source timing can be converted to every destination: check the exact formats and route required for your chain. Decimator MD-HX product page
Its four SDI outputs can feed multiple SDI destinations. The unit also supports configurable audio-pair rearrangement, local LCD-and-button control, and USB control and firmware updates. Decimator’s V2 brochure gives dimensions of 79.5 × 123 × 29.5 mm and a DC input range of +5 V to +32 V. Confirm the included power supply, cables, and revision with the seller; packaging can vary. MD-HX V2 brochure
V2 features depend on serial family
Decimator identifies units beginning CLD, CLE, and CLF as eligible for the expanded V2 feature set. These include 204 VESA formats on HDMI input, 2K formats, a 16-channel audio-meter overlay, safe-action and safe-title graticules, a center cross, customizable UMD text, input/output format status, a test-pattern generator with 58 patterns and 41 selectable output formats, and audio-tone generation on SDI and/or HDMI. Legacy CLA, CLB, and CLC serial families are listed separately; do not assume they have these V2 features. Check the serial and applicable firmware information before buying or updating. Decimator Firmware V2.0 announcement · Decimator downloads
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#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.
Decimator says its proprietary scaler improves sharpness and reduces aliasing compared with conventional polyphase approaches. That is the manufacturer’s performance claim; no independent comparative test is available here.
How to set up an MD-HX for HDMI-to-SDI or SDI-to-HDMI conversion
The following menu guidance follows Decimator’s Hardware Manual FV1.5, copyright 2015–2023. That manual predates the current V2 feature set, so consult the documentation for your unit and firmware for any newer interface details. The manual says settings take effect immediately and are saved after 10 seconds; do not disconnect power during that save interval. MD-HX Hardware Manual FV1.5
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.
- Connect power and inspect input status. Connect the source to HDMI IN or SDI IN, then power the unit. At startup, the display opens on Input Status, showing detected HDMI and SDI inputs and the scaler/DUC output format. Confirm the source is detected before changing routing.
- Connect the destination. Connect an SDI destination to an SDI output for HDMI-to-SDI conversion, or connect an HDMI destination to HDMI OUT for SDI-to-HDMI conversion. The four SDI outputs provide multiple SDI feeds.
- Choose the output source in Control. Use the left/right buttons to move through the top-level menus and ENTER to open a menu or toggle a parameter; BACK returns to the previous level. In Control, set SDI OUT SOURCE and/or HDMI OUT SOURCE to SDI IN, HDMI IN, or Scaler, according to the output you are configuring. Each output can be assigned independently.
- Select Scaler when conversion is required. A direct SDI IN or HDMI IN selection routes that input rather than using the scaler. Choose Scaler for an output that needs the MD-HX’s format or frame-rate conversion.
- Configure Scaling if needed. In Scaling, select the scaler source, reference, output format, and aspect controls to suit the source and destination. The appropriate format depends on both ends of the chain; verify the actual input and output format instead of assuming that a broad format count guarantees a match.
- Check status and allow settings to save. Return to Input Status and verify the detected input and output format. Leave the unit powered for at least 10 seconds after a change so the setting is saved.
Compatibility checks before purchase or deployment
- Match exact formats and frame rates. Check the source timing, destination timing, and whether the chosen route uses pass-through or the scaler. Broadcast formats listed include 1080p through 50/59.94/60, 1080i, 720p, and SD variants, but compatibility remains route-dependent.
- Verify 3G-SDI level. The product listing advertises 3G level A and B support and conversion between them; the brochure also identifies 3G-A and 3G-B formats. Confirm the level required by the connected equipment.
- Check the serial before counting on V2 extras. For 2K, VESA input support, overlays, test patterns, or tone generation, confirm the unit begins CLD, CLE, or CLF and verify the relevant firmware.
- Confirm the computer’s HDMI timing rather than assuming universal support. The advertised VESA and 2K coverage is extensive, not a guarantee for every computer timing or 2K mode.
- Confirm accessories and supply details. Ask the seller what is included and which revision is being supplied. The brochure specifies +5 V to +32 V DC; that range alone does not establish which power adapter comes in a particular package.
What the MD-HX is—and is not—a good fit for
The MD-HX suits a signal chain that needs HDMI/SDI cross-conversion, selectable direct or scaled outputs, multiple SDI feeds, and local configuration. Its V2 monitoring and test features can also be useful when the serial family is eligible. It is not a passive adapter: if scaling or frame-rate conversion is required, the Scaler route must be selected.
Decimator lists a US$295 MSRP on its product page. That is the manufacturer’s stated MSRP, not a verified current retail price or stock quote. Use Decimator’s reseller directory to locate sellers, then confirm current availability, revision, and package contents directly.
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.
If your separate goal is a prerecorded 24/7 YouTube stream
The MD-HX handles video signals in a production chain; it does not keep a prerecorded YouTube stream running from the cloud. For that separate use case, StreamNeo is a cloud service for looping uploaded videos on a YouTube channel: upload a recording or build a playlist, add the YouTube stream key, and go live. Nothing has to stay on at home; each slot streams the uploaded quality up to 4K 60fps at one flat price per slot, and it can automatically recover if YouTube drops the stream. Its first day is free with no card. Monthly pricing is $9.99 per month. Start the free StreamNeo day.
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.
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
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