9
Converting HDMI to Scart is not that easy, as HDMI provides a digital image signal and Scart provides an analog image signal. A converter can help here.
Converter from HMDI to Scart
If you want to connect a device with an HDMI connection or another with a Scart connection, you will need a special adapter. There are a few important things to keep in mind to ensure that the connection actually works.
- Technical differences: HDMI transmits high-resolution digital image and sound signals, while Scart, as an analog standard, only supports low resolutions (PAL: 576i) and analog signal formats.
- A simple HDMI-to-Scart plug is therefore not sufficient, as the two interfaces are not directly compatible – an adapter would not be able to convert digital data and would not work.
- Instead, an active HDMI-to-Scart converter with integrated electronics is always required! The converter converts the digital HDMI signal into an analog composite or RGB signal so that it can be recognized and reproduced by Scart devices.
Required converter
To convert from HDMI to Scart, you need a so-called HDMI-to-Scart converter. These small boxes receive the digital HDMI signal, convert it, and transmit it as an analog output signal for the Scart connection.
- This inevitably results in a loss of quality, as the high resolution and digital clarity of HDMI is usually downsampled to PAL or SECAM standard resolution (maximum 576 lines, 4:3 or 16:9) and color information is reduced.
- The sound is usually transmitted as analog stereo; multi-channel formats such as Dolby Digital are lost during conversion.
Application scenarios, limitations, etc.
Such converters are particularly useful if you want to connect modern devices such as streaming boxes, Blu-ray players, PC graphics cards, or consoles with HDMI outputs to an older TV, VCR, or DVD player that only has Scart sockets.
- Some households use this solution to continue using high-quality CRT TVs or to transfer image signals to analog recording devices.
- Please note: UHD or Full HD content can only be transmitted in reduced resolution; lossless image quality is not possible. In the case of encrypted signals (HDCP copy protection), the converter may prevent or block the transmission.
- Modern surround sound formats cannot be used with the Scart input either; only simple stereo is available here. In addition, some converters are not compatible with every HDMI device – before purchasing, you should check whether the desired setup is supported.
- Alternatives: Alternatively, try connecting media players (such as Apple TV, Fire TV, Chromecast) or current set-top boxes directly via separate AV outputs (composite, YUV) with Scart adapters, if the device offers this option. HDMI-to-AV converters are another option if your TV has an AV or S-video input; these sometimes offer better images than Scart. For long-term use, however, it is recommended that you switch to devices with HDMI support.
Is Scart still worthwhile today?
Given the loss of quality and the growing importance of digital interfaces, Scart is becoming increasingly obsolete.
- An HDMI-to-Scart converter can be useful for occasional use of historical or special devices. If you want to enjoy the latest content or use modern audio formats on a regular basis, you’re better off with a new device or upgrade in the long run.
- Upgrading to the latest HDMI devices significantly improves picture and sound quality and prevents compatibility issues.
