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Multiview

A multiviewer lets you watch several video sources on a single screen, so you don't need a separate monitor for every camera or feed. It takes inputs such as SDI or HDMI and tiles them into a grid, usually 2x2, 3x3 or 4x4. Many models also add labels, audio meters, tally indicators and alarms. Multiviewers are used in live production, broadcast control rooms, houses of worship, event streaming, post-production and on-set monitoring. Choosing one mostly comes down to three things: how many sources you need to watch, which connection type your gear uses (SDI or HDMI), and what resolution your display can show. This section covers multiviewers for small streaming setups and for full broadcast facilities.

Types of multiview

SDI multiviewer
Takes SDI inputs for professional cameras and broadcast gear, often with loop-through outputs
HDMI multiviewer
Takes HDMI inputs for consumer cameras, laptops and streaming setups
Hybrid multiviewer
Accepts both SDI and HDMI inputs, or converts between them
Switcher with built-in multiview
A video switcher that shows all inputs on a multiview output while you cut between them
Software multiviewer
Runs on a computer, using capture devices or network streams as inputs

Buying advice

  • Count your sources first, then add a few spare inputs for growth
  • Match the input type to your gear: SDI for professional cameras, HDMI for consumer and streaming gear
  • Check the maximum input resolution (HD, 4K or 6G-SDI) against your cameras
  • Check the output resolution: a UHD display shows more detail per view than 1080p
  • Look for loop-through outputs if you also need to send each source to another device
  • Check whether the unit re-syncs each input, so mixed or unsynced sources display without glitches
  • Confirm what the layouts are (2x2, 3x3, 4x4) and whether you can customize them
  • Look for on-screen labels, audio meters and tally support if you run live shows
  • Consider a reference input (Black Burst or Tri-Sync) if your facility uses sync
  • Compare against a switcher with built-in multiview, which may do the job for less

Specifications to understand

SDI
Serial Digital Interface, a professional video connection that carries video over BNC cable
HDMI
A consumer video connection found on cameras, laptops, monitors and TVs
SD-SDI / HD-SDI / 3G-SDI / 6G-SDI
SDI speed grades, supporting standard definition, HD, 1080p60 and Ultra HD respectively
Input
A connector that receives one video source
Loop-through output
A connector that passes each input signal on unchanged to another device
Multiview output
The connector that sends the combined grid of sources to your monitor
Layout
How the sources are arranged on screen, such as 2x2 (4 views) or 4x4 (16 views)
Resolution per view
The pixel size of each tile, which depends on output resolution and layout
Re-sync / frame synchronizer
Aligns the timing of each input so unsynced sources can be shown together
Reference input
Takes a sync signal (such as Black Burst or Tri-Level Sync) to lock the unit to your facility's timing
Tally
An indicator showing which source is live or on air
Audio meters
On-screen level bars for the audio carried in each source
EDID
Information the monitor sends so the multiviewer can match the correct output resolution

Recommended multiview

Best for: Live production and control-room monitoring

Black Magic MultiView 16

Type
SDI multiviewer · 16-input
Connection
SDI video inputs
16 x 10-bit SD-SDI, HD-SDI and 6G-SDI
SDI video outputs
16 x 10-bit SD-SDI, HD-SDI and 6G-SDI (loop output)

Pros

  • Monitors up to 16 SDI sources on one Ultra HD display
  • Mix SD, HD and Ultra HD sources in any combination and order

Cons

  • SDI-only inputs, so HDMI sources need converters
  • Priced for professional use (about US$1,899 on Blackmagic's site)

Price: see current price on Amazon

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Best for: Live event and studio production

Blackmagic Design ATEM Television Studio HD8

Type
Live production switcher · 8-input SDI
Connection
3G-SDI, reference, MADI, Ethernet
Inputs
8 x standards-converted 3G-SDI
Aux outputs
2

Pros

  • All-in-one switcher and control panel in a single portable unit
  • 8 standards-converted 3G-SDI inputs

Cons

  • Priced for professional use (about £3,130 or €3,444 on Amazon listings)
  • Inputs are SDI, so HDMI cameras need converters

Price: see current price on Amazon

Check Price on Amazon →

Comparison table

ProductBest forTypeConnectivityKey featureAmazon
Black Magic MultiView 16 Live production and control-room monitoring SDI multiviewer · 16-input See current price →
Blackmagic Design ATEM Television Studio HD8 Live event and studio production Live production switcher · 8-input SDI 3G-SDI, reference, MADI, Ethernet 8 standards-converted 3G-SDI inputs in a portable all-in-one control panel See current price →

View equipment on Amazon →

Frequently asked questions

What is a multiviewer?

A device that shows several video sources on one screen in a grid, so you can monitor them all at once.

Do I need a multiviewer for a small stream?

Not always. With only two or three sources, a switcher with a multiview output may be enough.

SDI or HDMI multiviewer?

Choose SDI if your cameras and cabling are professional, with long runs or locking connectors. Choose HDMI for consumer cameras and short cable runs.

Can I mix SD, HD and 4K sources?

Some units can, if each input auto-detects its format. Check the product specifications.

Do I need a 4K monitor?

Not required, but a UHD display gives more resolution per view, especially in a 16-view layout.

Can a multiviewer record or switch video?

Generally no. A multiviewer is for monitoring only. Use a switcher or recorder for production and recording.

What does loop-through mean?

It sends a copy of each input signal out to another device, such as a recorder or switcher, while you monitor it.