Pulse-Eight makes two distinct video distribution systems: the Neo Matrix (HDBaseT) and OneIP (AV-over-IP). Both distribute 4K video with full control system integration and cloud monitoring, but they work differently and suit different installation types. This guide helps you choose the right system for each job.
At a Glance
| Factor | Neo Matrix (HDBaseT) | OneIP (AV-over-IP) |
|---|---|---|
| Infrastructure | Dedicated Cat cable, matrix to receiver | Managed 1GbE network switch |
| Max zones per system | Up to 8 HDBaseT zones | up to 32 zones - scales with switch ports |
| Network dependency | Internet Connection via ethernet | Requires correctly configured managed switch |
| Video quality | Up to 4K@60Hz 4:4:4 (neo:X+, neo:XSR) | 4K@60Hz 4:4:4 on all devices |
| Max distance (Cat cable) | Up to 100m (neo:X+ with neo:Ultra) | 100m per switch hop (standard Cat) |
| Max distance (fibre) | Not applicable | Unlimited — via SFP module (Pro TZ) |
| Audio extraction | Per source (neo:6a, 8a, XSR, X+) | Optical per receiver/transceiver |
| Multi-room audio matrix | Built-in (neo:X+ only) | Not built-in — requires separate ProAudio |
| Commissioning complexity | Low — plug-and-play after cabling | Low — switch must be configured first |
| Retrofit / existing network | Not applicable | Can use existing infrastructure (VLAN) |
| Point-to-point extender use | Supported (Extender Sets) | Supported (TX + RX pair) |
| Monitoring & control | Gotomymatrix.com / cloud monitoring | Gotomymatrix.com / cloud monitoring |
Choose Neo Matrix When…
•The installation is straightforward and self-contained. Neo Matrix runs on its own dedicated Cat cabling with no dependency on a network switch configuration. It is the lower-risk choice for installers who are less network-confident.
•You need up to 10 zones from a single matrix. Neo Matrix units top out at 8 HDBaseT outputs and 2 HDMI outputs. For most residential and small commercial jobs this is sufficient.
•You need a built-in audio matrix. Only the neo:X+ includes a full 10-zone audio matrix. If the customer needs multi-room audio distributed from the same box as video, neo:X+ is the answer.
•The job includes ARC (audio from smart TV apps). ARC is supported on the neo:XSR and neo:X+. It is not available on OneIP.
•Distances are within 100m. Neo Matrix handles the vast majority of residential and commercial cable runs without any special configuration.
•The customer wants a dedicated AV infrastructure. No shared network, no IT team involvement, no VLAN management. Some customers and installers specifically prefer this.
Choose OneIP When…
•You need more than 10 zones. OneIP scales to as many zones as your switch has ports. There is no fixed upper limit per system.
•The building already has a structured network infrastructure. OneIP can run on a dedicated VLAN on an existing managed switch, avoiding the need to pull additional Cat cable to a rack-mounted matrix.
•Sources and displays are spread across a large or multi-building site. OneIP with the Pro Transceiver and SFP modules supports fibre inter-building links — distances that HDBaseT cannot reach.
•Flexibility of endpoint type is needed. The OneIP Transceiver can operate as a transmitter, receiver, or both simultaneously — a single device type covers every endpoint role.
•The installer is comfortable configuring managed switches. OneIP requires IGMP Snooping and Querier to be correctly configured on the switch before commissioning. This is straightforward but does require network knowledge.
•A monitoring station or multi-source display is needed. The OneIP Multiviewer outputs up to four sources simultaneously in a configurable layout — not possible with HDBaseT.
Quick Decision Summary
Up to 8 zones, residential or small commercial, no existing managed network?
→ Neo Matrix
Lower commissioning complexity, no network dependency, ARC support available
More than 8 zones, large site, or existing managed network infrastructure?
→ OneIP
Improved scalability, VLAN-capable, fibre extension available
Need built-in multi-room audio matrix alongside video?
→ neo:X+ (Neo Matrix)
Only the neo:X+ includes a 10-zone integrated audio matrix
Multi-building site or distances beyond 100m?
→ OneIP with Pro Transceiver + SFP
Fibre support via SFP module removes distance constraints
Not sure which system fits the job? Our pre-sales team can help design the right solution.
UK: 01202 413 610 | US: (858) 748-8250 | sales@pulse-eight.com
UK: 01202 413 610 | US: (858) 748-8250 | sales@pulse-eight.com
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