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Matrox Monarch HDX

Name: Matrox Monarch HDX
Brand: Matrox
SKU: MAMONHDX
Price: 1295.00 USD
Availability: InStock
Rating: 2.5 (6 reviews)

BH #MAMONHDX • MFR #MHDX/I

6 reviews

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Key Features

Dual-Channel H.264 Video Encoder
SDI and HDMI I/O
Supports HD and SD Resolutions
0 Frame Latency on SDI Loopthrough

Simultaneously stream and record video from SDI and HDMI sources with the Matrox Monarch HDX. Expanding on the Monarch HD, the Monarch HDX adds SDI I/O to the already available HDMI I/O and dual-channel operation with independent H.264 encoders. This functionality makes it suitable for broadcast and other professional workflows that require streaming and recording of content, such as houses of worship and universities.

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Matrox MHDX Overview

Having discrete encoders allows for each channel to function separately. You can stream to two different locations, record proxy and master files from the same input, and record two inputs simultaneously. You can also use one encoder for streaming video live while the other encoder records a high-quality copy of the broadcast for playback after the live stream. Whether you use it for live streaming or recording, the Monarch HDX can be integrated into SD or HD productions.

Features

H.264 Encoding Engine

The Monarch HDX can share 30 Mbps of encoding capacity across the two channels. Each channel benefits from a powerful scaling, de-interlacing, and noise reduction engine for improving image quality before encoding.

Dual-Channel Streaming

When used as a webcasting encoder, the Monarch HDX generates an H.264-encoded stream compliant with RTSP or RTMP protocols. Each channel is assigned separately. Each channel can stream up to 10 Mb/s, allowing you to simultaneously stream to two destinations or set the device for up to 20 Mb/s streaming quality for a single encoding destination.

Dual-Channel Recording

Content can be captured in either MOV or MP4 files to ensure that they can be played by your application of choice. Recordings can be stored locally on an SD card, a USB drive, or remotely on a network-mapped drive. Dual channel recording allows the user to simultaneously record content locally and to the network, which means files are immediately available to anybody on the network, but also provides the assurance that no action is lost even if the network goes down. Furthermore, each recording can be done at a different bitrate should there be a need to deliver the content to devices with varying decode capacities.

Simultaneous Streaming and Recording

Monarch HDX dual encoders can broadcast a live webstream at one bitrate while simultaneously recording high-quality H.264 files for immediate availability, such as post event VOD or editing with your NLE of choice.

HDMI and SDI Inputs

The Monarch HDX H.264 video recorder can accept signals from HDMI or SDI sources. The input can be selected using the web based UI, Matrox Command Center, or directly on the unit itself, allowing for a wide range of connectivity to devices such as cameras, switchers, or routers. Additionally, both inputs are complemented by internal frame synchronizers to ensure uninterrupted streaming and recording operations, regardless of the disturbance on the input. The audio is also selectable between the two channels of the embedded video signal or the analog stereo input. Audio may be dynamically muted or unmuted without affecting the video encoding operation.

Regardless of input selection, SDI video, HDMI video, and embedded and analog audio outputs are live. For SDI workflows, the Monarch HDX recorder has an extremely low pass-through latency with a built-in power-loss relay which, in case of power loss, will route the SDI input directly to the SDI output, ensuring signal path integrity.

Wowza and Flash Support

The Monarch HDX is a certified "Works with Wowza" live video streaming encoder, allowing users to benefit from enhanced integration with the Wowza streaming engine. As a certified encoder, Wowza Manager can provide an XML file which contains the credentials required for Monarch HDX to easily connect to the Wowza Streaming engine.

The Monarch HDX also supports XML files generated for use with Flash Live Media Encoder. These files are often offered by CDNs to allow their customers to easily connect to their service. Both XML files are loaded into the Monarch HDX using the Matrox Command Center, a web based UI.

Remote Control

The Monarch HDX can be controlled and configured via the Monarch HDX Command Center using any device on the network that supports a standard web browsing application such as a computer, smart phone or tablet. Designed for operator ease-of-use, master controls provide one-click operation to start streaming, recording or both from anywhere within the user interface. The device also provides convenient controls directly on the unit itself to stop/start recording or streaming, and an additional button to assign the input.

H.264 Preview Stream

The Monarch HDX H.264 encoder provides a useful low bitrate preview stream of the input directly in the Command Center UI. This same preview can be viewed using software players such as VLC or on third-party devices, such as Crestron control panels. This stream is available independently of the two encoder channels allowing you to check your video signal before your webcast goes live.

Profiles and Presets

The Monarch HDX ships with a number of typical streaming and recording presets that define all the encoding parameters including resolution and bitrate. Whether preset or custom parameters are used, they only need to be entered once and saved as a unique profile. A profile not only contains encoding parameters but also destination information detailing where the encoded video is being sent. Multiple profiles can be saved if the device is used in different environments. Each profile can be loaded instantly without having to re-enter data.

Matrox Utils Application

The Matrox Utils application allows operators to remotely scan and find all Monarch HDX's present on their network. The Utils application will also scan the attached Monarch HDX and notify the operator if the unit is up to date with its installed firmware version and will also update the device automatically to ensure that it has the latest software release installed. The Matrox Utils application can also be used to reboot Monarch HDX devices present on the network.

Closed Captioning Support

Ideal for broadcasters who require the integration of closed captioning while streaming and/or recording. Retrieving the closed captioning data from the SDI VANC or line 21 protocols, the Matrox Monarch HDX then embeds the data within the H.264 stream, as CEA-608. These caption-enhanced H.264 files can then be streamed (via RTMP) to capable media servers such as Wowza, CDNs including YouTube Live or Ustream, or recorded as MOV/MP4 files, which can then be decoded by players such as Telestream Switch, with captions intact and synced with the video - frame by frame.

Note: Requires firmware version 1.1.5.0009 or later, available as a free download from the Matrox website.

UPC: 790750247656

Matrox MHDX Specs

HDMI Video Input	1920 x 1080p 60/59.94/50/30/29.97/25/24/23.98 1920 x 1080i 29.97/25 1280 x 720p 60/59.94/50
HDMI Video Output	Preview output of video input signal 2-frame delay from input to output SD video output as windowed in an HD output
SDI Video Input	1920 x 1080p 60/59.94/50/30/29.97/25/24/23.98 1920 x 1080PsF 29.97/25 1920 x 1080i 29.97/25 1280 x 720p 60/59.94/50 720 x 576i 25 720 x 486i 29.97
SDI Video Output	Clean distribution of SDI incoming signal 0-frame latency passthrough of Input signal Hardware bypass relay present in SDI signal path is "closed" on power failure
Audio Input	Processes first two channels of audio embedded in HDMI or SDI input signals Unbalanced analog stereo input via 1/8" jack (3.5 mm) Line level
Audio Output	Pass-through of 8 embedded audio channels in HDMI and SDI signals Unbalanced analog stereo output via 1/8" jack (3.5 mm), pass-through of input Line level
Frame Synchronization	On both HDMI and SDI inputs.
Video Encoder	Built-in H.264/MPEG-4 Part 10 (AVC)
Resolutions	Selectable encoding resolutions: 128 x 128 to 1920 x 1080
Video Bit Rates	Single Encoder: Streaming mode - 20 Mbps Recording mode - 30 Mbps Dual Encoder: Maximum 10 Mbps for streaming channels Maximum 30 Mbps combining both channels
Encode Frame Rates	Encode frame rates (fps): 60/50, 30/25/24, 15/12.5 Note: The maximum encoded frame rate is 30 fps when input resolution is 1920 x 1080
Encoding Profiles	Baseline, Main, and High
Encoding Controls	2.0, 3.0, 3.1, 4.0, 4.1 level support IBP GOP size and structure Variable bit rate support Average min/max data rate controls De-blocking filter
Audio Encoder	MPEG-4 AAC
Audio Encoding	Standard: AAC-LC
Sample Frequency	32, 44.1, or 48 kHz when digitized from analog source
Channels	2 channels stereo (L/R)
Audio Bit Rates	Range from 32 kbps to 256 kbps Note: Audio codec settings are applied to streaming or files delivered by both encoders.
Scaler	High quality multi-tap 10-bit scaler and de-interlacer Available to both streaming and recording operations
Preview	Stream format: H.264 Bitrate: 300 kbps (average) Stream type: RTSP
Recording Formats	MP4 and MOV with two channels of embedded AAC audio (maximum file length of 300 minutes)
Network Interface	RJ45 connector providing 10/100/1000 Base-T Ethernet with Static or DHCP addressing Protocols: RTMP, RTSP/RTP IPv4 support Unicast and Multi Unicast (from 3 to 10 clients)
User Interface	HTTP via standard PC or Mac web browser using Monarch HDX Command Center Front panel push buttons for independent streaming and recording Start/Stop control
Recording Media Support	2x USB 2.0: Support for NTFS file system Monarch HD will support writing to USB 3.0 devices at USB 2.0 speeds 1x SD card slot: Supports SD and SDHC cards Supports SDXC cards formatted with NTFS Network mapped drive: Support for writing to Shared Folders in computers found on a network using NFS or Windows share protocols
Transport and Storage	Max operating altitude: 9,842 ft / 3,000 m Max transport altitude: 39,370 ft / 12,000 m Operating humidity: 20 to 80% relative humidity (non-condensing) Storage humidity: 5 to 95% relative humidity (non-condensing)
Regulatory	EMI: FCC Class A, CE Mark Class A, ACMA C-Tick Mark, VCCI Power Supply Safety: UL/CUL(UL60950-1), TUV-GS(EN60950-1), T-LICENSE(BS EN60950-1), CCC(GB4943.1-2011), PSE(J60950), SAA(AS/NZS60950-1), KC-MARK(K60950),S-MARK(IEC60950-1) RoHS Directive 2002/95/EC
Power	Line voltage: 100-240 VAC, 0.5 A Frequency: 50-60 Hz Input: external AC/DC adapter -- IEC320-C8 Output: 9 to 24 VDC Total power consumption: 20 to 30 W typical, 42 W max DIN4 locking power connector
Operating Temperature	32 to 104°F / 0 to 40°C
Dimensions	5.6 x 8.5 x 1.4" / 14.2 x 21.6 x 3.6 cm 6 x 8.5 x 1.5" / 15.3 x 21.6 x 3.8 cm (including pads and BNC spigots)
Weight	Not Specified by Manufacturer

Packaging Info

Package Weight	3.975 lb
Box Dimensions (LxWxH)	14.25 x 8.75 x 3.4"

Matrox MHDX Reviews

Built in frame-sync is inept

By Ben

Rated 2 out of 5

Date: 2021-02-18

Don't run this encoder off of a cross-point switcher, use a production switcher. Throwing SDI errors into it will likely break the a/v sync significantly (300-400ms range) and force you to take your stream down to reboot it or use an upstream correction while live. The built in frame sync doesn't help anything- it's useless.

Decent for utility grade streaming

By Ben

Rated 3 out of 5

Date: 2017-12-04

This encoder produces a decent stream but that's it.� The bitrates exiting this box aren't controlled by the unit's min/max settings. When you look at the real bitrate output from networking management equipment, the bitrate can be substantially higher on average than your target. Also, the frame sync function isn't good at all, you still need a decent proc amp in front of it. sending this device any form of SDI cross point switching errors is very dangerous and may in fact take you event offline which can happen in studio settings when going from an opening video to cameras.� This occurrence can also significantly knock your video and audio out of sync requiring upstream intervention or a device reboot. uncool if you're needing to be live, and have an audience already logged in.�There's no on board correction tools for a/v sync.� -Beware the RTSP uses TCP and not UDP which has advantages, and disadvantages.� -You cannot make any changes to stream parameters once one side of the dual channels are streaming, both must be offline to make any changes whatsoever. When making these changes, the unit has in the past crashed requiring a reboot but a later firmware has seemed to thwart this crashing.� there's no input preview thumbnail either, so you have no idea what the unit is really getting.� my assumption is the device is designed around some sort of GPU acceleration for it's H.264 encapsulation which at times isn't the sharpest picture there could be, unlike when comparing it to FPGA based units that look much better.� updating firmware must be done on a local lan or over VPN as the tool used to perform it scans the local subnet for units and performs it accordingly. You cannot update firmware from the control GUI over the web. this works ok for Wowza and other basic RTMP services but the upstream signal processing needs are heavy and sending it any changes in video source once it's streaming or recording is extremely dangerous.� for recording, you cannot access the assets over it's web portal and you must remove the media to retrieve it. I've found recording to servers over network CIFS shares is possible but not always error free.

Can't update firmware without filling out a bunch of forms

By Todd

Rated 2 out of 5

Date: 2017-10-05

Haven't tried the product yet but the hoops you have to jump through to download firmware was rage-inducing enough to make me leave this review. You have to: 1. Register an account (email and password) 2. Fill out required contact info (address, phone) 3. Fill out required 10 question survey about who you are and how you are using the product 4. Register the product serial number Only then may you download current firmware. What a load of garbage, Matrox. Unbelievable!

Exactly What I Wanted it to Be!!

By Anonymous

Rated 5 out of 5

Date: 2015-09-23

I am using it to record. The fact that it can record to a standard .MOV or .MP4 file allows me to hand a copy of the event on an SD card, to my customer as soon as the event it over. No transcoding, no wasted time. I love it! The best part is that I record 2 copies, one to the SD card and another to a network mapped drive. Talk about back up to my back

Outdated, low features and eas of use

By Sawyer

Rated 2 out of 5

Date: 2020-12-07

The concept for this device is great. I really needed something that was a dedicated streaming unit, but I'm not super happy with the implementation. The biggest complaint I have is that the 1080 encoding is an interlaced format, even when writing to an SD card. Pretty substandard quality for the price and year. My other complaint is the lack of audio control. You can switch between HDMI audio or mic input, but not both. And you can't adjust the audio input levels at all. If you think this is a good alternative to a PC with OBS, it's not for these reasons. All video and audio mixing has to be done up stream. This isn't really a huge negative, because it's not designed to be a video switcher. But it would be nice to have some basic audio/video input settings. I've been using this in a regular live-stream application for several months now. I've had a couple streams now interrupted by dropped frames or unexpected failures. I think the unit is overheating but it didn't give me any errors. When I contacted support they suggested regular power cycling even though the unit has no power switch. So I guess that is just one more thing I have to manage. By the way, if you can't find the reset button it is the the hole on the front between the SD card status light and the warning light (above the circle arrow symbol). It looks like just another LED but it is a hole with a button. You will need a paper clip. This is totally overlooked in the user manual. You also should be aware that you need to connect this device to a network with a PC in order to use it. This isn't a plug n play device. The manual describes how to set it up but realistically you will need some IT knowledge to get it set up. I highly recommend assigning the unit a permanent IP address otherwise you won't be able to access the menu and the only way to get it back is to hunt down its new IP address or reset the whole device. Again, IT stuff. Once it is set up, the menu is accessible by typing the IP address into a browser. You can change encoding parameters etc it's actually pretty easy to use.

Second the other 2 reviewers

By Daniel

Rated 1 out of 5

Date: 2019-02-06

I second the other 2 reviewers problems with this unit. It is a HUGE pain to update and do any kind of changes to it as you have to go through network. There is no direct way to just go directly into it like you do in the blackmagic gear for instance. The streaming is not reliable and the unit is incredibly finicky with how you format or not your USB drive or SD card - if you are a MAC user, forget it. Additionally, there is no option to format the card to the machines like on the unit itself. I unfortunately inherited this as part of an installation but I want to warn people not to spend money on this. At this price point, you can get a pretty powerful computer AND any simple streaming device (like a blackmagic intensity) and use it to go straight to OBS / do a security recording on computer or network). Lastly: it is loud, very loud. If are doing pro-audio, better be in a separe room...this is not Id have next to me on any recording situation. Really surprised the other 2 reviewers did not give it 1 start as opposed to 2 and 3 stars.

See any errors on this page? Let us know

YOUR RECENTLY VIEWED ITEMS

Does this device require any license to operate?

Asked by: BILAL ASLAM

No license is required for this device.

Answered by: Dennis A

Date published: 2021-06-15

Can this device stream 3 streams with different ...

Can this device stream 3 streams with different bitrates (1080,720,360) simultaneously and while recording the 1080 stream?

Asked by: Charles

No, The Matrox Monarch HDX will only be able to send to two locations. Another option that will record and send to 3 destinations is https://bhpho.to/3M49YMO

Answered by: Chris H

Date published: 2022-05-09

What is the return policy in case we need a ...

What is the return policy in case we need a better device?

Asked by: Peter

If you are dissatisfied with your purchase for any reason, you may return it to B&H within 30 days of the purchase date. Conditions and Exclusions: https://www.bhphotovideo.com/find/HelpCenter/ReturnExchange.jsp

Answered by: Victor

Date published: 2020-07-17

Can this unit be used to stream 24/7?

Asked by: Phillip

Yes. The following unit will allow webcasting to platforms such as YouTube, Facebook Live and wowza.

Answered by: hectorm

Date published: 2022-04-07

Can I use this to handle streaming out from OBS?

Asked by: Jyl

yes this can be be used with OBS

Answered by: Sean

Date published: 2020-06-30

question

Can this be operated as a stand alone recorder without being connected to a computer?

Asked by: al f.

Yes, that's how it's designed to operate.Each recording channel can be stored independently to a local SD card or USB drive, or remotely on a network-mapped drive so that files are immediately available to anyone on the network.

Answered by: Dan C.

Date published: 2018-08-26