4k Is the Be-All. HDCP 2.2 Compatibility Can Be the End-All
So, a few months ago you invested a bundle in your dream 4k TV. And now you want to add a 4k receiver. Great idea, but the reality is that soon, neither one may be able to receive that UltraHD content 4k content you’re so excited about.
How is that even possible? All my devices say they’re 4k compatible.
Look to HDCP 2.2 – the latest technology developed by the big studios to protect their 4k content from piracy. It stands for High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection and it’s about to make you crazy. Even though you think you’re prepared, unfortunately just because they’re 4k compatible, doesn’t mean they’re HDCP 2.2 compatible. Every single component – every UHD, Blue-ray, Apple TV, UHD TV Display, 4k-Ready AV Receiver, Cable box and device – in your AV system will have to be HDCP 2.2 certified. If not, and you hope to receive the latest hi-def offerings on any of them, you’ll be out of pocket and out of luck.
We’re talking every link in the chain, and that’s a problem.
If the 4k signal goes through anything at all, it has to support HDCP 2.2. That means if you’re connecting your brand new 4k TV or home theatre to a receiver or soundbar, both it and the cable will have to be compatible too. And, odds are, you planned to keep your high-end receiver around for a lot longer.
Just to complicate things further, not only is HDCP 2.2 not backwards compatible, you have to have the last rendition – HDMI 2.0 – as well!
We counsel our clients all the time to not be in a rush. Make sure you know and understand what you’re buying, how it will (or will not) work with everything else and what is coming down the pipes that might affect your decisions.
Done right and planned properly based on some sound home automation advice will ensure you have great picture, great sound, fewer headaches and an investment that’s both lasting and supported.