Blackmagic Design ATEM Television Studio HD8
Best for: Live event and studio production
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Price: see current price on Amazon
Overview
Key specifications
| Type | Live production switcher · 8-input SDI |
|---|---|
| Connectivity | 3G-SDI, reference, MADI, Ethernet |
| Inputs | 8 x standards-converted 3G-SDI |
| Aux outputs | 2 |
| Reference | Reference input and output |
| Audio | MADI input and output |
| Chroma keyers | 4 |
| Downstream keyers | 2 |
| SuperSource | Yes |
| Media players | 2 |
| Item model number | OB03540 |
| Weight | 9.1 kg (about 20 lb) |
| Warranty | 2 year manufacturer (per Amazon UK listing) |
| Dimensions | To be verified |
| Power consumption | To be verified |
| Program output | To be verified |
| Multiview output | To be verified |
What we like
- All-in-one switcher and control panel in a single portable unit
- 8 standards-converted 3G-SDI inputs
- 4 chroma keyers for green-screen work
- 2 downstream keyers and SuperSource for graphics and picture-in-picture layouts
- 2 media players for stills and graphics
- Reference and MADI audio connections for larger productions
- Fits small venues without racks or a broadcast van
- Buyers have reviewed it well (4.4 out of 5 on Amazon, from a small number of reviews)
What to consider
- Priced for professional use (about £3,130 or €3,444 on Amazon listings)
- Inputs are SDI, so HDMI cameras need converters
- Heavy and bulky for a switcher, at about 9.1 kg
- More features than a small stream or a beginner setup needs
- Stock can be limited, with some listings showing 2 to 3 weeks dispatch
- Check the Amazon listing for the current price, as it varies by region
Who should buy it?
Event crews, houses of worship, studios and small broadcasters who run several SDI cameras. It also suits anyone who wants a hardware control panel with keyers, graphics and SuperSource built in.
Who should avoid it?
Beginners and small streamers using HDMI cameras. A smaller, cheaper HDMI switcher will do the job for less.
Alternatives
- Black Magic MultiView 16 · Best for: Live production and control-room monitoring
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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