PRONEWS AWARD Vol. 06 – Video Transmission and Broadcasting

Roland “V-80HD”

Release date: Late August 2024

The V-80HD is, as its name suggests, an 8-input video switcher. As is typical of Roland products, its major feature is its multi-format support. It has four SDI inputs and four HDMI inputs, two of which support 4K. In addition, the built-in downscaler makes it highly convenient for e-sports events that use 4K sources.

Additionally, the motion graphics software “Graphics Presenter” is also attracting attention. It is particularly praised for its freedom in producing subtitles, making it an attractive option for creators who have traditionally used PowerPoint and other tools to create designs.

The software will initially come with approximately 120 designs, and the company plans to gradually expand the designs offered on the cloud service based on feedback from users.

RØDE “RØDECaster Video”

Release date: December 20, 2024

RØDECaster Video is an all-in-one video and audio production console. This unit is highly functional and features a wide range of video and audio input terminals, including four HDMI input terminals, two USB-C ports that can support a variety of input sources such as webcams, two HDMI output terminals that support multi-view, and two XLR combo jacks.

This switcher also has the audio mixer function that is well-known in the RODE Caster series, and covers almost all the necessary input and output terminals. In particular, the audio function surpasses that of competing products.

Furthermore, not only does it support ISO recording, but it is also possible to stream directly from the main unit. It is an excellent product that packs a wide range of functions into a small body.

Blackmagic Design “ATEM Micro Panel”

Release date: September 2024

It has the same professional design as the ATEM Advanced Panel series, and many people have commented, “I’ve been waiting for a product of this size.” This unit is characterized by its compact size while still providing the same operability as the ATEM Advanced Panel series. Connection is supported by Bluetooth or USB-C. With high-end backlit buttons and a slim transition fader, the ATEM Micro Panel has an extremely portable design.

Although the number of buttons is reduced compared to the ATEM Mini Extreme, operation is simpler and easier to use.

AD TECHNO “Dante AV Ultra Encoder/Decoder”

Among the “Video Over IP” standards, the “Dante AV” standard is gaining attention as more manufacturers support it. The “Dante AV Ultra Encoder & Decoder” series supports Dante AV. This encoder/decoder is capable of high-quality 4K60P distribution via 1GbE and is characterised by low latency. It achieves synchronization of less than a microsecond.

Magewell “Modator 2U”

The Modator 2U decoder and encoder are customizable solutions for conversion processing. The chassis is designed to fit standard rack mounts and has slots for up to 10 modules. Status can be monitored via the built-in 4.8-inch LED touchscreen or browser-based web interface. Dual power supplies and optimized heat dissipation enable continuous operation 24/7, providing stable low-latency encoding and decoding performance even in 24/7 operation.

Matrox “Vion”

“Vion” is a 4K IP-to-IP video gateway ideal for live production, supporting multi-channel encoding, decoding, and transcoding. It can convert various IP video formats, such as H.264/HEVC, ST 2110-22, IPMX, JPEG-XS, and NDI, to each other with low latency. The Vion also supports a wide range of protocols, such as ST 2110-22, SRT, RTSP, RTP, and MPEG-2 TS, and realizes flexible routing workflows, such as converting and forwarding NDI to SRT. It can also be used for next-generation workflows via cloud connection.

Sony “BRC-AM7”

Release date: November 28, 2024

Sony, the company that pioneered the world of high-precision automatic photography using AI, has released a flagship model of a “camera that takes pictures for you.” The combination of the 1.0-inch 4K-compatible stacked CMOS image sensor Exmor RS and the image processing engine BIONZ XR enables high-resolution 4K60p shooting with low noise. It is equipped with a unique electronic variable ND filter and an advanced “PTZ autoframing” function. It also has a TC terminal and an XLR terminal, making it an undisputed flagship PTZ camera.

ZOOM “LiveTrak L6”

Release date: Late September 2024

This 10-channel mixer and recorder supports 32-bit float and is attractive for its compactness and light weight. It makes effective use of desk space, which is very convenient. In addition, the terminals and knobs are located on the top surface, making it easy to use. It supports 10 inputs/4 outputs, and is equipped with MIDI IN/OUT terminals, microSDHC/microSDXC card recording, parallel recording function, etc., and its price of 36,900 yen including tax is very attractive.

The following products are nominated in the video transmission and distribution category.

PRONEWS AWARD 2024 Video Transmission and Broadcasting Category Gold Award

Roland “VR-80HD”

The Gold Award went to the V-80HD. Compared to the V-160HD, the number of video inputs has been reduced, but the on-board functions have been significantly expanded. In particular, the inclusion of “assignable pads” allows for quick access to frequently used functions, dramatically improving operability. These pads have been enlarged on the V-80HD. This allows for much more customization and use cases.

Furthermore, it is equipped with a high-quality 28-channel digital audio mixer and a maximum 5-layer video compositing function, so it is attractive that a wide range of tasks can be completed with just this one unit. It is a piece of equipment that will serve as a reliable companion even over the long term.

PRONEWS AWARD 2024 Video Transmission and Broadcasting Category Silver Award

Sony “BRC-AM7”

Sony released a number of cameras in 2024. However, this one stands out. In particular, the AI ​​autoframing function realizes natural images that look as if a human was shooting, expanding the possibilities of shooting. It will be a strong choice for a variety of shooting scenes, including long shooting. In addition, it supports professional video expression such as S-Log3 and S-Cinetone, and allows seamless editing with footage shot with other Sony cameras. This camera’s design allows for a variety of usages.