Philips Hue HDMI Sync Box 8K: Immersive lighting for next-level home entertainment
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Philips Hue has released an update to the HDMI Sync Box, designed to deliver vibrant, synced lighting for home entertainment setups. With full HDMI 2.1 support, their new and updated Sync Box 8K is built for the latest consoles, supporting 4K at 120Hz and compatibility with high-refresh-rate gaming.
Philips includes the essentials in the box: the HDMI Sync Box, a power adapter, an HDMI 2.1 cable, and some basic documentation. The Sync Box has a minimalist design with a matte black finish, rounded edges, and a subtle Philips logo on the front alongside a small LED indicator. The unit is noticeably larger than the previous model but compact enough to fit easily behind or beneath a TV setup.
After connecting the power adapter, plug one end of the included HDMI cable into the Sync Box’s output port and the other into your TV. Then, connect your input devices to the Sync Box’s four HDMI 2.1 input ports. I connected an Xbox Series X, an Apple TV and the new Google Streamer 4K for testing. For those already in the Philips Hue ecosystem, the Hue Bridge, which uses Zigbee for extended range and supports up to 50 lights, is essential for full functionality.
Setting up the Sync Box with the Philips Hue app is straightforward, though you’ll need the Hue app (available on iOS and Android). After logging in, go to “Settings” in the Hue app, select Accessories, and add the Sync Box. Once the app detects the box, connect it to your Wi-Fi network and update the firmware if prompted.
With the devices paired, you can name each HDMI input to match connected devices, like Apple TV or Xbox Series X. This is handy for quick switching and a more streamlined experience. The app also allows you to assign an entertainment area for each device and configure light placement in a virtual 3D room, which helps the system accurately sync colours across all connected lights.
The Sync Box 8K provides an impressive light-syncing experience with a range of modes designed to match different viewing scenarios. The Hue app offers modes for video, music, and gaming. Video mode enhances movies by syncing lighting effects with the screen’s colours, while Music mode adjusts to the beat of your music, creating a lively atmosphere. Gaming mode is optimised for faster transitions, allowing colours to change instantly for an immersive, real-time experience.
The performance was spectacular when I tested my LG OLED TV and Xbox Series X. Colours shifted smoothly between the Hue Gradient lightstrip behind the TV, a Hue Gradient Signe LED floor lamp, and additional Philips Hue lights around my living room. Scenes with rapid colour changes, like explosions in action games, were especially impressive, with no noticeable lag in the light response. Philips has designed this system to handle high-speed scenes seamlessly and shines in fast-paced content.
The Sync Box’s HDMI 2.1 ports ensure that gamers can enjoy the full capabilities of their next-gen consoles, including 4K at 120Hz and support for Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM) and Variable Refresh Rate (VRR). It’s compatible with various devices, from game consoles to streaming sticks and laptops. However, one limitation is that the box requires HDMI inputs, so it won’t sync content from your TV’s built-in apps or aerial input.
You can fine-tune each light’s brightness through the Hue app, adjust the light intensity, and balance colour transitions for a cohesive look. You can choose from different colour palettes or go for a subtle, static ambient light if you’re watching TV or prefer a calmer vibe.
For movies, shows, and games, the Sync Box adjusts colours precisely, even in scenes with low or high brightness levels, offering a balanced experience that reduces eye strain when viewing in a dark room.
While the Sync Box 8K does an impressive job, it has some limitations. For instance, since the lighting sync relies on HDMI input, it won’t work with TV apps or aerial input, so it’s not for those who rely on smart TV applications. Additionally, the device is on the pricier side, and to get the full effect, you’ll likely need to invest in additional Philips Hue lights, which can be a significant expense.
The Philips Hue HDMI Sync Box 8K delivers a stunning, immersive experience, particularly for gamers and film lovers who want their room to light up in sync with on-screen action. The vibrant colour transitions are smooth, and the compatibility with HDMI 2.1 makes it ideal for modern gaming setups. While the price is high and additional lights add to the cost, the Sync Box’s performance and ease of use make it a solid investment for those seeking the ultimate home theatre or gaming experience.
Philips Hue Play HDMI Sync Box 8K - €350 (RRP)