Blackmagic ATEM SDI Switchers are now in stock with three new models to choose from. This is great news for content creators that live stream or work with recorded content. A Blackmagic ATEM SDI Switcher — as well as the software that comes with it — gives you an extra layer of customization and control over your content. These products make it easier to switch between numerous layouts and multiple DSLR cameras. This is all while having complete power over sounds, audio, and scenes before you even launch them. Having these features for both live and recorded content can only level up your setup. Let’s take a look at what we know about these new Blackmagic ATEM SDI Switchers.
What Makes the ATEM SDI Stand Out?
SDI stands for Serial Digital Interface and it is the standard for high-end video equipment.
What makes Blackmagic ATEM SDI switches stand out is the ability to maintain multiple high-end cameras at one time. Also, you can switch between them at will and be able to record each camera simultaneously. You can have up to eight cameras recording and broadcasting live, and preview them from the provided software. This gives you complete control over what you want your audience to see at any given time.
The Black Magic ATEM SDI is even built for live streaming for various platforms via ethernet cable. If that isn’t available, you can connect your Apple or Android phone to use mobile data instead. This opens the possibility to live stream at events, outside, and other venues even if a dedicated ethernet or hotspot is not available.
The switchers are a compact size and can easily be placed in a backpack and moved around while containing all the functionality and features. You can connect various USB webcams and high-quality cameras while also having control over your audio mixer. Add in the various effects from the software, and the ATEM SDI Switcher is a must-have for live streams and recorded content.
Find more to outfit your setup at Streaming Setup: How to Set Up Your Live Stream Equipment.
Types of ATEM SDI Switchers
There were three types of SDI switchers launched on July 20th. Let’s break down the benefits, usages, and features of each one so you can know which is ideal for you.
Blackmagic Design ATEM SDI
The Blackmagic Design ATEM SD has four SDI inputs. This means it can take four high-quality broadcast cameras connected to it. You can add a USB webcam, and output to two screens. It comes with the standard Fairlight audio mixer, transition and green screen features, and has all the features to control four cameras. It is priced at $345 and serves as the base version of the Black Magic ATEM SDI switchers.
Blackmagic Design ATEM SDI Pro ISO
The Blackmagic Design ATEM SDI Pro ISO contains all the previous features mentioned, but it can record up to five video streams in real time. It also has the ability to conduct multi-camera editing. This is ideal for conducting live streams and storing the recorded footage from each camera for future use. This is priced at $795, serving as the step above the base ATEM SDI switcher.
Blackmagic Design ATEM SDI Extreme ISO
The Blackmagic Design ATEM SDI Extreme ISO contains all the previously mentioned features but increases the inputs to having eight SDI inputs. This is optimal for high-quality broadcast cameras and the need to output to four SDI output screens. It can record up to nine separate H.264 video streams in real time while being able to display eight camera inputs for multi-camera editing. You can cover many different areas, angles, and more while being able to live stream, control, and record a production. The ATEM SDI Extreme ISO Live Production Switcher is priced at $1,495, being the ATEM SDI switcher with the most features and functionality.
Who Should Use an ATEM SDI Switcher?
The Blackmagic Design ATEM Switchers are a great tool for content creators to take both live and recorded content. Having various angles, cameras zoomed into various aspects, and multiple viewpoints can also assist with audience engagement. Your productions are bound to look more dynamic.
For content creators focused on live productions — whether you’re an individual streamer who wants to add more dynamics to their live streams, or a tabletop broadcaster who wants more control over their camera angles — the ATEM SDI Switcher can assist whether you stream on Twitch, YouTube, Facebook Live, and other platforms.
For more advice, check out 10 Tips for Starting a YouTube Channel.
Being able to live stream, recording simultaneously, and have professional-looking content makes the purchase of an ATEM SDI switchers totally worth it.