Decimator Design MD-HX HDMI/SDI Cross Converter

What the Decimator MD-HX Actually Does and Why It Matters

The Decimator MD-HX is a compact, portable HDMI/SDI cross converter that handles bidirectional signal conversion between HDMI and SDI formats while simultaneously scaling, frame rate converting, and routing video in professional broadcast and production environments. Whether you need to get an HDMI camera signal onto an SDI broadcast chain, convert 3G-SDI to HDMI for a monitor, or distribute a single source to four SDI outputs at once, this one device replaces what would otherwise require several separate pieces of gear. It runs fanless in a solid aluminum chassis, draws minimal power, and is built to work in the field, on a cart, in a truck, or in a rack without complaint.

HDMI to SDI and SDI to HDMI Conversion in One Box

At its core, the MD-HX accepts either an HDMI or SDI input and can route that signal simultaneously to both HDMI and SDI outputs — in either direction. This makes it immediately useful for situations where you're bridging consumer or prosumer HDMI gear with professional SDI infrastructure. The unit supports SD-SDI, HD-SDI, and 3G-SDI (Level A and B), and handles the conversion between Level A and B on both input and output, which is a common pain point in mixed-format SDI workflows. On the HDMI side, it supports 204 VESA formats via HDMI input, expanding compatibility far beyond standard broadcast resolutions.

2K Motion Adaptive Scaling Engine with Up, Down, and Cross Conversion

The real horsepower inside the MD-HX comes from its 2K Motion Adaptive Scaling Engine, which can be driven by either the HDMI or SDI input and supports scaling and/or frame rate conversion across 245 input formats and 41 output formats — a total of 10,045 possible format conversions. This covers everything from 720x480i59.94 (NTSC) and 720x576i50 (PAL) all the way up to 2048x1080p60 via 3G-SDI or HDMI. Supported formats include 1920x1080i, 1920x1080p, 2048x1080p, 1280x720p at various frame rates including 23.98, 24, 25, 29.97, 30, 50, 59.94, and 60 fps, plus PSF formats on HD-SDI. Internal processing precision scales dynamically — from 32 to 40 bits or greater — during scaling and color conversion operations to maintain accuracy throughout. The engine also supports horizontal and vertical image flipping, useful for mirror-rig and periscope lens setups.

Proprietary Scaling Technology That Outperforms Standard Polyphase Methods

Decimator Design built their own advanced scaling algorithms rather than relying on conventional polyphase approaches. The result is noticeably improved sharpness, reduced aliasing artifacts, and better overall image quality when upscaling, downscaling, or cross-converting between formats. If you've used lower-cost converters and noticed soft edges or moiré patterns after scaling, this is specifically the problem the MD-HX is designed to solve. The technology inside this unit is the same lineage as Decimator's multi-award-winning MD-DUCC, which established the benchmark for compact professional conversion quality.

14 Selectable Routing Modes and 4-Output SDI Distribution

The MD-HX ships with 14 distinct operating modes that define how its inputs are routed, scaled, and assigned to its outputs. You can run straight-through SDI-in to SDI-out while simultaneously converting HDMI-in to HDMI-out, or you can scale either input to either output, or cross-route SDI to HDMI and HDMI to SDI at the same time. One of the most practical features for broadcast use: the four 3G/HD/SD-SDI outputs allow the unit to function as a 1-to-4 SDI distribution amplifier. Output pair 1 can default to a clean copy of the SDI input or be configured to mirror pair 2. Audio pairs across both SDI and HDMI outputs can be rearranged as needed for routing flexibility.

Built-In Test Pattern Generator, Audio Metering, and On-Screen Overlays

For broadcast engineers and technical directors, the MD-HX includes a professional 3G/HD/SD test pattern generator with 41 selectable output formats and 58 test patterns — including Luma and Chroma Zone-Plates, which are critical for precision display calibration and signal chain verification. Overlays available on-screen include 16-channel audio metering, adjustable Safe Title and Safe Action areas, Center Cross, UMD text, and format status readouts. An audio tone generator is also built in. These tools make the MD-HX a capable signal testing and monitoring device in addition to its conversion functions, eliminating the need for a dedicated pattern generator in many workflows.

Portable, Field-Ready Design with LCD Control and USB Firmware Updates

The MD-HX is built for hands-on use without a laptop nearby. Its LCD screen and button control interface give direct access to all settings and modes without needing dip switches, multi-function button combos, or proprietary software. The aluminum enclosure is fanless, keeping it silent and reliable in noise-sensitive environments like live broadcast studios, ENG setups, and production vehicles. A metal thread-locking DC power socket prevents accidental disconnection in mobile setups. A USB port handles both control and firmware updates. The unit ships with a power supply, HDMI cable, and USB cable included.