What are the best HDMI modulators you can buy? Many people still own and appreciate good old analog televisions. However, you cannot use them with the DVD players as they do not have a proper A/V input. What most of them don’t know is that the TVs are still usable but using a small electronic box called an RF modulator. This electronics box is designed to convert the A/V output (audio and video) of a DVD or game console into an RF signal compatible with your TV receiver.
Top 8 Best Hdmi Modulators
While there are tons of RF modulators, the following are the 8 best RF modulators on the market.
1. RadioShack 15-2526
If you want to start the long weekend with family or friends with some fun TV shows or games from your analog TV, you need an external RF modulator that does just the right job for you. And this is where the RadioShak 15-2526 comes into play.
With its compact design, this RF modulator allows you to play video games and watch your favorite DVD movies on any TV. It has the ability to convert video and stereo audio from any A/V component to a coaxial cable output.
To make sure you set it up correctly, it comes with a user manual that contains all the instructions. When you are done with the installation, turn on the modulator.
A red LED indicates that it is connected to the mains. The red LED should turn green when the modulator receives a signal from an A/V source.
Features:
- Connect game and video systems to any TV
- Convert any A/V signal to the coaxial cable output
- Scope of delivery: * RF modulator, * user manual
- You will also need: * a shielded audio/video cable, * two 75 ohm coax cables with F connectors, * a 75 ohm to 300-ohm matching transformer (only if your TV does not have a VHF 75-ohm connection), * an S- video cable (only if your video source has an S-video connector)
Pros:
- Attractively priced
- Easy to set up
- Converts the RCA input signal to a coaxial output
- Ideal for use with analog televisions
Cons:
- Does not come with cinch cables
- No remote control
2. Channel Plus 5415
Developed for residential and light commercial use, the Channel Plus 5415 is a single-channel RF modulator that can create a TV channel for a camera or other video source.
The unit sends its output via a single standard coaxial cable to any connected analog TV and has a built-in 25 dB video amplifier.
In addition, it includes digital push-button programming that allows you to easily tune to the desired channel without the need for a computer. It also has a CATV channel range of 65-15MHz and a UHF channel range of 14-64.
You can also use the Channel Plus 5415 with DA-8200 or DA550 series amplifiers.
Features:
- A modulated TV channel
- Creates a TV channel for a camera or other video source
- Digital programming of the modulated channel
- Channel Range: CATV 65-125 (except 95-99) and UHF 14-64
- Compatible with da-8200 AMD da-550 series distribution amplifiers
- Set the desired channel using the key programming
- RF output signal level of 25 dB
- Switchable 75-ohm Termination and Loop Through
- Use a Y adapter to send audio/video to a local monitor or VCR
- Can be used with infrared remote control
Pros:
- Comes with a push-button digital programming
- Integrated 25dB amplifier, therefore, requires no inline amplification
- Can be used with an infrared remote control
- Attractively priced
- Compact design
Cons:
- Not computer programmable
3. The Cimple CO RF Modulator
If you’re looking for a compact, sleek, yet affordable RF modulator that can display your DVD movies on both analog and regular TVs, the Cimple CO modulator is worth a try.
With this compact and state-of-the-art modulator, you can connect an A/V component to any TV, PS4, XBOX, camera, laptop, or Dish network. However, it is great for DVD players and games.
Unlike most RF modulators, this modulator can be cascaded and used with an HDMI to AV converter to get a coaxial signal.
The modulator supports A/V inputs from 480i to 480p and switches automatically when it detects incoming video. However, please note that this device does not support HD, 3D, or 4k.
Features:
- Very slim, small, efficient, and cheap way to display your RCA/DVD/VCR/Game-exclusive devices on regular or older TVs, record with VCRs or DVD recorders, or play them in car/boat entertainment systems, using the coax / RF connections
- Works straight out of the box, is easy to connect, and comes with all the cables you need – just plug in and play
- Wall-mounted, compact, and lightweight RF modulator
- Supports channel 3 and channel 4, NTSC
- Includes converter, power supply, and RCA/composite AV cable
Pros:
- Slim and compact
- Affordable
- Can be used with HDMI to AV converter
- Great to play with
Cons:
- Does not support HD, 3D, and 4k
4. Vecoax Minimod-2 – Best HDMI Modulator
The MINIMOD-2 is a unique and best HDMI modulator that you will want to bet your money on.
With a built-in color LCD, the MINIMOD-2 can convert an HDMI video signal to 1080p video so that it can be routed through a coaxial cable.
Unlike HDMI, this allows video signals to be transmitted over a significantly longer cable run without the need for extenders or signal boosters. Therefore, this device is designed to incorporate an HDMI source into an RF video system.
The device supports HD video signals with a resolution of up to 1080p at 60 frames per second. It is also easy to set up and compatible with any conventional digital television.
Features:
- CONNECT your HDMI video source to the Minimod-2 HDMI input
- INJECT the Minimod-2 coaxial cable output into the coaxial cable of your TV distribution
- SET CHANNEL NUMBER from the minimum color display and the desired name for this channel
- RESCAN your TVs again to find your new FULL HD 1080p and Dolby channel
- COMBINED with the antenna or cable signals so you can get TV channels and the minimod can view.
Pros:
- Great image quality; Full HD
- Easy to set up
- Connect to any HDMI source
Cons:
- Quite expensive
5. KKmoon Compact RF Modulator
The simple and compact KKmoon RF modulator is designed for use in households, schools, and commercial environments.
This best HDMI modulator can generate RF and TV signals from audio and video sources and then transmit the signal over a channel to your analog or normal television set.
The device supports a VHF / UHF frequency in the range of 47 to 868 MHz and has a powerful circuit design that ensures perfect image reproduction.
The humanized design of the device makes it easy to set up and use. It is also compatible with any CATV system.
Pros:
- Simple and compact
- Affordable
- Powerful circuit design
- Easy to set up
- Compatible with CATV system
Cons:
- Does not come in US NTSC format
6. E-SDS HDMI to RF Coaxial Converter
The E-SDS HDMI is a popular RF converter with great features and functionality.
This RF converter is a great advantage when you want to convert HDMI signals to RF signals. A perfect example is when you want to give a presentation from your laptop through a large screen projector.
Like most RF modulators, the E-SDS is compact, lightweight, and easy to set up. You don’t need any new cables to set it up, because everything you need is included in the package. All you have to do is plug and play when you want to set it up.
It also comes with a detailed menu system to help you with any format changes. If you need a longer signal transfer, just use a coaxial cable.
Note: Please check the formats supported by your TV before placing an order, as this converter will only output these four TV formats PAL-BG, PAL-1, PAL-DK, and NTSC-M if your TV does NOT support any of these 4. The inverter does not work! And this device does NOT work in that direction; Support HD MI input resolution: 480I / 480P / 576I / 576P / 720P / 720I / 1080I / 1080P.
Features:
- HD MI to Coaxial RF Converter Adapter for TV – Convert a digital HD MI signal to an RF signal, give your DVD/Blu-ray player, game consoles, set-top boxes or PC, etc HD-Mi source devices to normal old televisions with coax signal output or demonstrate your multimedia documents to your audience from your laptop via a large screen projector.
- HD MI RF Signal Transmitter – HD MI in coaxial output, long-distance signal transmission can be done through the coaxial cable of different space usage.
- RF Coax Converter – only the output signal and the picture quality is lower than the RF signal (more like 480p); NOT for ATSC format!
- HD MI RF Modulator with Remote Control – You can switch the output screen up and down as well as amplitude, brightness, contrast, and chroma with the remote control.
- Color: As the picture shows:
- Output signal frequency: 61.25MHz
- Supported Input Resolution: 480I/480P/576I/576P/720P/720I/1080I/1080P
- Supports TV format: PAL BG / PAL l / PAL DK / NTSC M
- Product Name: TV Transmitter Box
- Power: 110V-240V
Pros:
- Supports HD Input
- It is compact and light
- It’s easy to set up
- Comes with a remote control
- Affordable
Cons:
- The output image quality is not full HD
7. RCA Compact CRF907A RF Modulator
In addition to being compact, the RCA RF modulator is one of the most popular and probably cheapest RF modulators in this review. But what makes it so popular?
First, this compact modulator has a high-quality circuit design. This type of circuit design ensures that you get the perfect image display. You can also connect an A/V component such as a TV without a video connection.
In addition, this modulator is capable of converting audio and video to RF through channels 3 and 4. It is a great choice for DVD players and games, and it is easy to mount on the wall.
Features:
- Convert audio and video outputs to RF outputs for channel 3 or 4 playbacks on your TV
- The compact RF modulator features a low-loss, high-performance circuit design that ensures accurate image reproduction through the RF output
- Connect audiovisual components such as game consoles, DVD players, camcorders, VCRs, etc. to older TVs
- Product Dimensions – 1 x 1 x 1 inch
- Item weight – 6.4 grams
- Manufacturer – Audiovox Accessories Corporation
- ASIN – B0014KKV7W
- Item Model Number – CRF907A
Pros:
- Compact and light
- Powerful circuit design
- A/V component can be connected to a TV without a jack
- Amazon’s choice
- It’s cheap
Cons:
- Audio problem
8. Dynex WS-OO7 RF Modulator
If you thought your analog TV was out of use simply because it didn’t have an audio or video connection, you were wrong. With a modulator like Dynex WS-007, you can restore and run it in minutes.
The device has an S-Video input for better picture quality and a channel 3/4 output to avoid interference. There is also a power supply that amplifies the signal.
With its compact design and robust construction, you can be sure that this modulator will serve you for many years to come.
Features:
- Allows you to connect older televisions without audio/video connections to newer components
- Includes an S-Video input
- Includes channel 3/4 switch to not disturb existing devices such as a VCR
- High quality that exceeds the durability of comparable devices
- Includes power supply for high output power (signal amplification)
- Package Dimensions – 9.4 x 5.1 x 2.3 inches
- Item weight – 10.4 grams
- ASIN – B0009MCNX6
- Item number – WS-007
Pros:
- S-video input provides a better picture
- Has signal amplification
- Can be used with analog TVs
- Faster installation
- Very durable
Cons:
- It is too expensive
Best HDMI Modulator Buying Guide
What should be considered when buying an RF modulator?
Consider Price
When shopping it is important to always have a budget. You don’t want to spend your money on an RF modulator you are considering. You have to think about what it promises and how much you want to spend. RF modulators cost up to $500, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get a good one for $100 or even $20.
Consider If The Best HDMI Modulator Has Remote Control
You don’t want to hold the button on your RF modulator any longer. So when shopping, consider an RF modulator that comes with the remote. However, this shouldn’t stop you from buying a good model if you can find one.
Consider The Configuration
Consider an RF modulator that can be set up quickly and easily. You don’t need a unit to make connections for hours. Make sure there is a manual in the package.
HD input
Consider an RF modulator that can convert HDMI signals into RF signals. This not only expands your application possibilities but also ensures that you get better-quality images.
Consider Amplifier
Most RF modulators come with a distribution amplifier. The amplifier’s job is to ensure that the signal strength is not lost. The higher the gain, the stronger the signal. HF modulators from 25 dB work with little interference.
Frequently Asked Questions About HDMI to RF Modulators
What is an RF Modulator?
An RF modulator is an electronic device used to convert signals from other electronic devices, such as DVDs and VCRs, into a format compatible with the device intended to receive an RF signal. For example, a TV antenna.
In simple terms, the modulator converts the V/A signal from a VCR or DVD to an RF signal (commonly referred to as a 3/4 signal).
What is a coaxial cable?
This is a special cable developed for the transmission of HF (radio frequency) signals. It is made of copper and shielded with metal to prevent the blocking of signals.
What do UHF and VHF mean?
UHF stands for Ultra High Frequency and VHF for Very High Frequency. Both UHF and VHF are used to denote two different bandwidths and are numbered 2-13 (54-216 MHz) for VHF channels and 14-51 (470-890 MHz) for UHF channels.
What is the best RF modulator?
The best RF modulator is the one that is functional, reliable and meets your needs.
Why do you need a digital TV modulator?
Digital modulation is used to transmit a high-frequency digital bit stream over an analog channel. This allows users to transmit signals generated in a digital circuit over a physical medium. This is possible because digital signals can be processed with higher security and digital systems are widely used. The main advantages of digital modulation over analog modulation are the available bandwidth, high interference immunity, and allowed power. Digital modulation provides more information capacity, high data security, and faster system availability with first-class communication. Therefore, digital modulation techniques have a greater need for their ability to transmit larger amounts of data than analog modulation techniques.
Why do you need a demodulator?
Demodulation is the process of restoring the original signal of the modulated wave. Modulation takes place in the transmitting station to transmit the audio signal over longer distances to a receiver. When the modulated wave is captured by the radio receiver, it is necessary to restore its audio signal. This process is performed in the radio receiver and is called demodulation. The wireless signal consists of a high-frequency (high-frequency) carrier wave that is modulated by an audio frequency (low-frequency). The diaphragm of a telephone receiver or loudspeaker cannot vibrate at a high frequency. In addition, this frequency is beyond the hearing range of the human ear. It is therefore necessary to separate the audio frequencies from the high-frequency carriers.
How does a digital TV modulator work?
In digital modulation, an analog carrier signal is modulated by a discrete signal. Digital modulation methods can be thought of as digital-to-analog conversion and the associated demodulation or detection as analog-to-digital conversion.
The most basic digital modulation techniques are based on keying:
- PSK (phase-shift keying): a finite number of phases are used
- FSK (Frequency Shift Keying): A finite number of frequencies are used
- ASK (Amplitude-Shift Keying): A finite number of amplitudes are used
- QAM (Quadrature Amplitude Modulation): A finite number of at least two phases and at least two amplitudes are used
In all of the above methods, each of these phases, frequencies, or amplitudes is assigned a unique pattern of binary bits. Typically, each phase, frequency, or amplitude encodes an equal number of bits. This number of bits includes the symbol represented by the particular phase, frequency, or amplitude.
Conclusion – Best HDMI Modulator
As you can see, there are many RF modulators on the market and factors to consider when purchasing the best HDMI modulator. We hope this guide helps you make the best decision about the next step.
