The 7 Best HDMI Audio Extractors (2024)

HDMI audio extractors work by extracting the audio signal from an HDMI input and passing it on to a sound system. The video portion of the signal can sometimes also be extracted, though this is usually passed on to the TV.

Extracting audio in this way not only lets you enjoy high-resolution sound in all its quality, but it can also remove the sound lag that can occasionally plague home theater systems. 

My top recommended HDMI Audio Extractor is the J-Tech Digital 4K 60HZ HDMI Audio Extractor. This combines great quality with compatibility with a range of devices and support for video resolution up to 4K.

My second recommended HDMI Audio Extractor is the Musou 1080P HDMI Audio Extractor. Despite its low price, it has several inputs and outputs for versatile operations.

The 7 Best HDMI Audio Extractors (2024)

Top Pick - Excellent quality, wide compatibility.
Budget Pick - Unbeatable value for money, highly versatile.
Premium feel, extremely versatile.
4K video, metal case, widely compatible.
Highly advanced, support 4K and ARC.
Remote control, ease of operation.
Amazing value, durable, supports all formats.

Let’s compare these in more detail.

1. J-Tech Digital 4K 60HZ HDMI Audio Extractor

Top Pick
Excellent quality, wide compatibility.
View Price at Amazon

The J-Tech HDMI audio converter is well-built and widely compatible despite its affordable price. Its comprehensive feature count includes support for the highest video resolutions up to 4K Ultra HD along with HDMI high bit-rate (HBR) and 10-bit pass-through.

Pros

  • Well-built
  • Supports a wide variety of the latest formats
  • Warranty and lifetime technical support

Cons

  • Does not decode Dolby/DTS
  • Does not support ARC function

The J-Tech is capable of extracting the digital audio signal from the HDMI input and converting it to two-channel stereo or multi-channel SPDIF audio output for surround sound. It will support audio sample rates up to 192kHz.

Note that you will need a separate decoder for Dolby/DTS audio formats as this audio extractor does not process these formats. But, it is worth noting that it supports HDCP and you can connect headphones.

Connector TypeHDMI, SPDIF, EDID
Cable TypeHDMI
Input Voltage5V
Number of Ports3
Outputs3

The one-year replacement warranty offered by J-Tech will provide you with peace of mind while the free lifetime technical support that is also offered will enable even the non-technical to derive maximum benefits from their purchase.

2. Musou 1080P HDMI Audio Extractor

Budget Pick
Unbeatable value for money, highly versatile.
View Price at Amazon

The Musou’s low price makes it an affordable option if you want to try out the benefits of an HDMI audio extractor in your system. Despite offering great value for money, the Musou is a high-quality device with a range of advanced features.

Pros

  • Great value for money
  • Very versatile
  • Number of outputs

Cons

  • Does not support 4K, despite the advertisement
  • The power cord is fairly short

Although this HDMI audio extractor won’t work with HDMI Switch or Splitter, it does support HDCP, video pass-through, uncompressed audio as well as compressed audio such as Dolby Digital AC3. However, formats such as DTS-HD and Dolby-true HD are not supported.

The extracted audio can be transmitted in 2-channel PCM audio through the RCA outs while 5.1 multichannel sound can be accessed through the SPDIF optical audio output. 

Connector TypeHDMI, RCA, SPDIF
Cable TypeHDMI
Input Voltage5V
Number of Ports3
Outputs4

It should be noted that this device needs a power supply and the AC adapter cord is less than 3 feet, making the setup a potential challenge.

3. iArkPower HDMI Audio Extractor

Affordable
Premium feel, extremely versatile.
View Price at Amazon

Despite its low price, the iArkPower exudes a premium feel thanks to its metal case that provides excellent heat dissipation and promotes longevity. 

Pros

  • Low price
  • Metal case for longevity and durability
  • Supports a variety of devices

Cons

  • Does not support 4K
  • Has trouble with 5.1 systems

Its looks are complemented by its performance which includes support for 720P and 1080P Full HD pictures, 3D and 36-bit deep color as well as synchronized sound.

This audio extractor can extract audio from a variety of devices including Chromecast, Fire TV, Apple TV, Blu-ray player, Xbox console, and PS3/4 gaming consoles. Users can select from three audio EDID modes: 2CH (analog stereo), 5.1CH  (digital surround), and Pass (for pass-through of advanced formats not supported for decoding).

Connector TypeHDMI, SPDIF, EDID
Cable TypeHDMI
Input Voltage5V
Number of Ports3
Outputs4

The iArkPower comes with a one-year warranty and offers plug-and-play convenience. Overall, it is a great choice to consider.

4. AmazonBasics 4K HDMI Audio Extractor

Versatile
4K video, metal case, widely compatible.
View Price at Amazon

The AmazonBasics 4K audio extractor is a great choice for those who have source devices that lack a dedicated audio output. Unlike many such HDMI extractors, the AmazonBasics supports 4K video resolution at 8-bit (30 Hz).

Pros

  • Supports 4K
  • Great build
  • Value for money

Cons

  • Doesn’t come with a power adaptor, only a USB charger
  • Has trouble with Apple TV

Housed in a durable metal case, the AmazonBasics is compatible with a range of devices such as Blu-ray/DVD/DVR players, cable/satellite, Amazon Fire TV, and laptops. It also supports two-channel and SPDIF stereo, and 5.1 output.

Connector TypeRCA, HDMI, SPDIF
Cable TypeHDMI
Input Voltage5V
Number of Ports2
Outputs4

Despite its plethora of features, the AmazonBasics extractor is very compact and will fit into a variety of environments. Note that it does not come with a power adaptor, only a USB charger.

5. Avedio links 4K HDMI AudioExtractor

High-performance
Highly advanced, support 4K and ARC.
View Price at Amazon

The Avedio links HDMI audio extractor is highly advanced, as it can support the highest video resolution of 4K 60Hz video signal along with 3D, 24 bit/deep color, sync sound, and HDMI ARC. Despite its comprehensive list of features, it is attractively priced.

Pros

  • Support 4K and ARC
  • Reasonably priced
  • Compatible with PS5

Cons

  • Does not support Chromecast
  • Does not support 4K gaming consoles

Besides being able to support a variety of devices such as Blu-ray players, PS3/4/5, Apple TV, and PC/laptop, the Avedio is also able to handle Dolby TrueHD, DTS-HD, and 5.1CH Dolby Digital plus. However, it does not offer a 4K resolution for gaming consoles.

Connector TypeHDMI, SPDIF, AUX
Cable TypeHDMI
Input Voltage5V
Number of Ports2
Outputs3

This HDMI extractor comes with several connectors and an Audio Mode, including optical toslink SPDIF and 3.5 mm AUX stereo. Buyers will also get free lifetime technical support to navigate the many features of this product.

6. Proster HDMI Switch with Audio Extractor

Easy To Use
Remote control, ease of operation.
View Price at Amazon

Besides being an HDMI Switch, the Proster also works as an HDMI audio extractor. Unlike many such devices, the Proster comes with remote control, ensuring the convenience of operation. It is also capable of supporting the HDMI 1.4 version.

Pros

  • Remote control
  • Supports HDMI 1.4
  • Gold plated connectors for optimum quality

Cons

  • Doesn’t support 4K at 60Hz
  • Not compatible with PS5 and XboxOne

This device has gold-plated connectors for optimum quality and can support video resolution up to 4K at 30Hz while also offering 30bit, 36bit, and 48bit processing. It is also capable of supporting a variety of source devices such as Roku, Chromecast, and Apple TV, although it is not capable of supporting PS5 and XboxOne.

Connector TypeRCA, DVI, HDMI, 3.5mm Jack
Cable TypeUSB, HDMI
Input Voltage5V
Number of Ports3
Outputs4

Besides an IR remote controller, the Proster comes with an HDMI cable and a 3.5mm to 2 RCA Cable, for ease of operation.

7. Tendak Audio Extractor-Converter HDMI Audio Splitter

Value For Money
Amazing value, durable, supports all formats.
View Price at Amazon

The Tendak audio extractor is another great budget option. Despite its low price, it has a metal housing and can be used on a variety of source devices such as PS3, PS4, Xbox, Blu-ray/DVD players, and cable boxes.

Pros

  • Value for money
  • Sturdy metal case
  • Supports the latest formats

Cons

  • Doesn’t come with a power charger, only a USB charger
  • Does not support 4K at 60Hz

The Tendak is capable of supporting 24-bit/deep color and Video EDID pass through. It is capable of outputting Dolby True-HD, DTS-HD, and other advanced formats. The SPDIF output can also be used to output 2CH PCM stereo audio, 5. 1CH Dolby Digital, and DTS Digital.

Connector TypeHDMI
Cable TypeHDMI
Input Voltage5V
Number of Ports3
Outputs3

Unfortunately, this device doesn’t come with a charger, so you will have to use a phone adapter to charge it, or the USB charger which is included. Also, it does not support 4K at 60Hz, however, the LPCM is a great addition that is very useful.

What are HDMI Audio Extractors?

An HDMI Audio Extractor is an electronic device that splits the audio portion from the HDMI output of an HDMI source device such as a Blu-ray player. The audio portion is then typically decoded into a 2-channel RCA stereo analog or output in digital form via a SPDIF connector. Most devices are also capable of outputting multi-channel sound in a digital and analog audio format as well.

Do you need an HDMI Audio Extractor?

An HDMI Audio Extractor is useful if you want to send the audio signal of your HDMI devices to an analog device such as a stereo amplifier or an older receiver. Many new Blu-ray players also lack a digital optical output, so you may need an HDMI Audio Extractor to send audio to your soundbar or DAC. 

What is the difference between an HDMI Audio Extractor and Audio Splitter?

An HDMI Audio Extractor strips the audio portion of an HDMI signal. In contrast, an HDMI Audio Splitter sends the audio signal to multiple HDMI audio devices. There are also extractor converter types which are basically convertors.

Does an HDMI Audio Extractor affect the quality of the audio or video?

A good HDMI Audio Extractor should not affect the quality of your audio and video. The Extractor should improve the quality of the sound in some systems as you no longer have to route the signal through your TV before outputting it into an audio system. Furthermore, such an arrangement can alleviate any perceived lag between the picture and the audio.

What kind of Extractor do you need? With audio output only or with video output?

Most audio extractors have both audio and video output so that the HDMI signal can be sent to a TV, projector, or similar device. However, if you already have a direct link from your device to your TV, you may only need an extractor with an audio output. Generally, it is advisable to get one with both video and audio output as it can be used in a variety of systems.

Conclusion

HDMI Audio Extractors are used more and more as time goes by due to the availability of HDMI ports on most devices. With affordable options on the market, they are slowly but surely finding their way into homes across the globe. From the list above, you should be able to select an HDMI Audio Extractor that fits your needs.

My top HDMI Audio Extractor pick is the J-Tech Digital 4K 60HZ HDMI Audio Extractor, it will meet most people’s needs and offers excellent performance. 

My budget HDMI Audio Extractor is the Musou 1080P HDMI Audio Extractor, it has unbeatable value for money for those running on a budget.

Brian Clark

I’ve been a writer with Musician Wave for six years, turning my 17-year journey as a multi-instrumentalist and music producer into insightful news, tutorials, reviews, and features.

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