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Black Magic MultiView 16
Best for: Live production and control-room monitoring
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Overview
Key specifications
| Type | SDI multiviewer · 16-input |
|---|---|
| Connectivity | |
| 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) |
| SDI rates | 270Mb, 1.5G, 3G, 6G |
| SDI multiview outputs | 2 x 10-bit HD-SDI, 2 x 10-bit 6G-SDI |
| HDMI multiview output | 1 x HDMI Type A (supports the monitor's EDID) |
| Reference input | Black Burst and Tri-Sync for SD, HD and 4K |
| Layouts | 4, 9 or 16 views (2x2, 3x3, 4x4) |
| Resolution per view (16-up) | 960 x 540 pixels |
| Multi-rate support | Auto-detects SD, HD and 6G-SDI; mixed formats at the same time |
| Front panel control | 16 source-routing buttons, 5 menu buttons and a scroll wheel |
| Power consumption | 16 Watts |
| Settings retention | Preserved and restored at power on |
What we like
- Monitors up to 16 SDI sources on one Ultra HD display
- Mix SD, HD and Ultra HD sources in any combination and order
- Full-frame re-sync on every input
- Loop-through SDI outputs on all 16 inputs
- Selectable 2x2, 3x3 or 4x4 layouts from the front panel
- Black Burst and Tri-Sync reference input for studio sync
- Front-panel buttons and scroll wheel for local control
- Settings are restored automatically after a power loss
- Low 16 W power draw
What to consider
- SDI-only inputs, so HDMI sources need converters
- Priced for professional use (about US$1,899 on Blackmagic's site)
- Needs an Ultra HD display to get the full resolution per view
- Overkill if you only monitor a few sources
- Check the Amazon listing for the current price and stock, as it may differ from Blackmagic's
Who should buy it?
Broadcast, live-event and studio teams that run many SDI cameras and feeds. It also suits control rooms, post facilities and on-set monitoring, where one screen needs to show every source.
Who should avoid it?
Anyone with only HDMI or a few sources, such as a streamer or podcaster. A smaller multiviewer or a switcher with built-in multiview will be cheaper and simpler.
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.
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