HDA-915 Overview and Use Cases

What Is the HDA-915?

The HDA-915 is a compact audio extraction and decoding device made by OREI that separates and processes audio signals from an HDMI input while preserving high-quality video output. It supports 4K video pass-through, allowing users to send video directly to a display while routing audio to external systems without loss in visual performance.

In addition to extracting audio, the HDA-915 functions as a decoder. It can take digital audio formats from an HDMI source (or an ARC TV) such as Dolby Digital or DTS 5.1 and convert them into Stereo analog (L/R) or optical signals. This decoding capability makes it especially useful for connecting modern HDMI devices to older receivers, speakers, or sound systems that may not support newer digital audio formats.

Overall, the HDA-915 offers a versatile solution for managing both audio extraction and decoding in home entertainment setups. With features like ARC (Audio Return Channel) support and multiple output options, it bridges compatibility gaps between modern and legacy equipment, simplifying how audio and video components work together.

Ports and Panel Layout

TV/Bitstream/2CH Switch Explanation

Use Bitstream if you want 5.1 audio through the Optical port and your audio device supports Dolby Digital or DTS.
Use 2CH if you want stereo audio through the 3.5mm L/R port.
Use TV if you want the audio format to follow the connected display’s audio capability.

Step-by-Step Setup

1. Start by plugging your HDMI source device such as a streaming box, game console, or Blu-ray player into the HDMI input port on the HDA-915. This is the main signal the device will process for both video and audio.
2. Use another HDMI cable to connect the HDMI output of the HDA-915 to your TV or monitor. This allows the video signal to pass through unchanged while the unit handles the audio separately.
3. Decide whether you want to use analog stereo (L/R) or digital optical audio. Connect the appropriate cable from the HDA-915 to your sound system, receiver, or speakers based on what inputs your audio equipment supports.
4. Adjust the audio settings on the HDA-915 (via its switch) to match your setup, such as 2-channel stereo or surround sound pass-through. This ensures proper decoding or downmixing depending on your audio system’s capabilities.
5. Plug in the included power adapter and turn on the HDA-915. Make sure all connected devices are powered on so the HDMI signal can be detected correctly.
6. If you want to extract audio from your TV’s built-in apps, connect the HDA-915 to the TV’s ARC-enabled HDMI port. Then enable ARC and, if needed, CEC in your TV’s settings so audio can be sent back to the extractor.
7. Play content from your source and confirm that video appears on your display and audio is coming through your chosen output. If needed, adjust volume levels or audio settings on both the HDA-915 and your connected devices for the best performance.

What Sound Bars or AVRs is the HDA-915 Compatible with?

The OREI HDA-915 is broadly compatible with a wide range of audio equipment, but its effectiveness depends on the types of inputs available on your sound system. It works best with AV receivers from brands like Yamaha, Denon, Sony, and Onkyo, as these typically support optical (SPDIF), and analog RCA connections, allowing full use of the device’s audio extraction and pass-through capabilities. It is also compatible with many soundbars that include optical or RCA inputs, though these connections usually limit audio to stereo or compressed surround formats. However, it is not compatible with newer, high-end soundbars that rely exclusively on HDMI ARC or eARC such as premium models from Sonos or Bose.

What source devices is the HDA-915 Compatible with?

The OREI HDA-915 is compatible with virtually any HDMI source device, since it is designed to accept a standard HDMI input and extract both audio and video signals. This includes popular devices like Apple TV 4K, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, NVIDIA Shield TV, and most Blu-ray players or PCs with HDMI output.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does the HDA-915 do?

A: The HDA-915 is an HDMI audio extractor and decoder that separates audio from an HDMI signal while sending video to your display. It also converts or downmixes audio so it can work with both modern and older sound systems.

Q: Can it decode surround sound formats?

A: It can process formats like Dolby Digital and DTS, and it can downmix them into 2-channel stereo for analog outputs. For full surround sound, it can pass audio through HDMI or optical to a compatible receiver. However, it cannot downmix high-end formats like Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Atmos, DTS-HD Master Audio or DTS:X.

Q: Is it compatible with soundbars and AV receivers?

A: Yes, it works with most AV receivers and with soundbars that have optical or RCA inputs. It’s not compatible with soundbars that rely only on HDMI ARC/eARC connections.

Q: Can I use it with my TV’s built-in apps?

A: Yes, using the ARC (Audio Return Channel) feature, the HDA-915 can extract audio from your TV and send it to external speakers. You’ll need to connect it to your TV’s ARC-enabled HDMI port and enable ARC in the settings.

Q: Will it improve audio quality?

A: No, the HDA-915 does not enhance audio quality. It simply routes, converts, and makes audio compatible between different devices.

Q: Does the HDA-915 support eARC?

A: No. The HDA-915 supports ARC, not eARC. It will not provide full eARC bandwidth or eARC-only audio features.

Q: Can I use Optical and RCA outputs at the same time?

A: You can connect both outputs at the same time. If the audio format from the media source or the ARC TV is set to Dolby Digital or DTS 5.1, the Optical output would receive 5.1 surround sound while the HDA-915 Downmixes the audio to stereo to send to the RCA output at the same time.

Q: Does the TV still output audio when using the HDA-915?

A: Yes, the TV will continue to receive an audio video signal like usual and output audio through its built-in speakers, except when ARC is enabled on the TV. TV speakers are muted when ARC is enabled.