How to Create a Multi-Room TV Setup Using an HDMI Splitter

You want to watch what you want, where you want, right? 

The problem is, so do your kids. And your spouse. And roommates. Probably even the dog.

With a multi-room TV setup, everyone can watch their preferred shows in different rooms — all from the same subscription and without having to pay for multiple cable boxes. You can also watch the same content on multiple TVs across your home, which is perfect for hosting watch parties.

Keep everybody happy, enjoy greater convenience and throw phenomenal parties —  all by sharing a cable box to multiple TVs.

Your signal distribution options

1. Send the same signal to two TVs

On the simple (and least expensive) end, you can use a basic HDMI splitter to send the same signal to two nearby TVs. This solution requires running an HDMI cable to the second room, and it works best when both TVs are close to the source.

For longer distances or older homes with coaxial wiring, a digital modulator converts HDMI to a channel that any TV can tune into. To install:

• Connect the source to the modulator

• Attach the modulator to your home’s coax network

• Tune the TV to the assigned channel

2. Send different sources to different TVs

You can also share different content to different TVs using an HDMI matrix switch, which allows multiple inputs and outputs. 

3. Go wireless

If cords aren’t your thing, consider a wireless HDMI extender. They transmit video signals through walls without using cables, though beware — they may introduce a slight lag.

Sound quality in a multi‑room TV system

Think about audio distribution as well. Your options include:

• A central receiver with speaker zones — this lets you send synchronized sound to different rooms

• Wireless systems such as Sonos, Bose SoundTouch or HEOS by Denon — these make it simple to group speakers together. You can route TV audio through the speakers, so the TV’s sound follows you throughout the house.

• For a truly seamless experience, install in-ceiling or in-wall speakers and run speaker wire through the walls.

🤔 MantelMount Pro Tip

For network streaming, connect as many devices as possible via ethernet to avoid Wi-Fi congestion. If rewiring walls isn’t an option, consider powerline adapters that transmit data over your home’s electrical wiring.

Who has the remote!?

If you use an HDMI splitter for multiple TVs, think about the remote control. With a modulator or splitter, the source box remains in one room, so you’ll need an infrared repeater or RF remote extender to change channels from another room.

Consider investing in a universal remote or smart-home hub that can command all your devices from any room. Many modern TVs and streaming boxes integrate with voice assistants like Alexa or Google Assistant. This means you can start a movie in the living room, pause it, and resume in the bedroom with a simple voice command.

One last thing: Legal considerations and ISP policies

Before you split your cable signal, review your service agreement. Providers sometimes restrict redistributing their content.

Always aim for quality

Wiring and network infrastructure are the backbone of a multi-room viewing setup. Use high-quality HDMI or coaxial cables rated for the distances you need, and keep in mind that long runs may require active cables or signal boosters.

With the right hardware and a clear understanding of your needs, you can create a multi‑room TV system that everyone loves. For more inspiration, check out the MantelMount blog.