Teradek Spark 4K Released – A Powerful Wireless A/V Solution for HDMI

Wireless Video

by Olaf von VossOctober 11^th, 2021

Teradek recently announced a new solution for transmitting video and audio from any HDMI device over the air to an accompanying transmitter. Meet the Teradek Spark 4K! Both the transmitter and receiver are HDMI only, but they feature a range of up to 500ft / 152m line-of-sight transmission, up to 4Kp30 HDR 10-bit 4:2:2 and each TX can connect to two RX units.

The new Teradek Spark 4k seems to be quite a versatile set of devices (TX/RX) as they not only process video and audio, but also offer specs like 4kp30, HDR and 10-bit 4:2:2. On the audio side, the Spark 4K can handle up to 48kHz 24-bit PCM streams.

Teradek Spark 4K

The transmitter can be powered in two ways: Either via a USB-C jack or, even more versatile, via its own internal battery, which is said to last 90-120 minutes. The receiver at the other end of the chain can be powered via USB-C or 7-18 DC power input (barrel plug).

Teradek claims zero-delay transmission, and both devices offer OLED screens for a clear display of the current status of each unit. No more unreliable HDMI cable runs from camera to monitor! Once the signal is transmitted, the resulting video is visually lossless, according to Teradek.

Both devices appear to be fairly easy to attach to a camera, projector, external recording device, encoder, or monitor. Each device sports 1/4″-20 and M3 mounting threads.

Also, these Teradek Spark 4K units are quite lightweight: the TX unit is 3.44″ x 2.66″ x 1.22″ (87mm x 68mm x 31mm) and weighs only 158g (5.6 oz), while the RX unit is 4.39″ x 3.19″ x 1″ (112mm x 81mm x 25mm) and weighs 187g (6.6 oz).

Obviously, these small Spark 4K units can’t compete with their larger Bolt brothers, but for the reasonable price, I think the Teradek Spark 4K units have a lot going for them, even though they come in an ABS plastic case and not a proper metal case like the Bolts.

There’s an app for that

Operating at the 5GHz frequency, Spark 4K functions with less sensitivity to line-of-sight obstructions than 60GHz systems. Using smart frequency hopping, Spark 4K automatically finds a clear channel – ensuring you get a robust 4K transmission, even in crowded areas.

You can even keep tabs on your signal status on Launchpad: Spark 4K’s mobile and desktop app. And pair your transmitters and receivers right from your phone or tablet.

Pricing and availability

The Teradek Spark 4K is available now, and as a special treat, you can either purchase the complete set with TX and RX modules, or buy each unit separately. This could come in handy as each transmitter can be connected to up to two receivers simultaneously.

The set clocks in at $1,490 while each individual unit costs $749 each.

Link: Teradek

What do you think? Might this be a decent solution for your wireless video/audio setup? Share your thoughts in the comments below!