Mixer – BROADFIELD NEWS https://news.broadfield.com Distributor of Live Production Equipment for Resellers Only Thu, 13 Apr 2023 17:23:54 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.1 https://news.broadfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/bdi-square-logo-150x150.png Mixer – BROADFIELD NEWS https://news.broadfield.com 32 32 NEW PRODUCT ALERT:Roland VR-6HD Direct Streaming AV Mixer https://news.broadfield.com/new-product-alertroland-vr-6hd-direct-streaming-av-mixer/ Thu, 13 Apr 2023 17:30:00 +0000 https://news.broadfield.com/?p=25134

Ultra-Compact Audio/Video Mixer with Direct Streaming Encoders
Ultra-compact and filled with innovative Roland AV technologies, the VR-6HD is the ultimate all-in-one solution for everyday business livestreaming events. 

Offering advanced features and versatile connectivity in a portable, go-everywhere format, the VR-6HD is ideal for corporate meetings, online sales presentations, worship services, and other professional streaming and video capture applications.

Video switching, audio mixing, and LAN/USB streaming encoders are integrated into a single streamlined unit, eliminating the hassle and frustration that comes with connecting multiple devices. And one operator can easily handle all production tasks with minimal study, thanks to the smart interface, deep automation tools, one-touch macro sequencing, PTZ camera control, and more

Roland VR-6HD Direct
Streaming AV Mixer

Pro hybrid event mixer with six HDMI inputs, three HDMI outputs, 28-channel audio mixing, direct LAN and USB-C webcam streaming outputs, advanced automation features, and more.

SKU: VR6HD
MPN: VR-6HD

$2,995.00 MSRP

  • Powerful live production automation with sequencing, macros, and scene memories
  • Built-in streaming encoders for transmitting two livestreams at rates up to 1080p/60 FPS
  • Record streams directly to an SDXC card for archiving, editing, and distribution
  • Six 1080p HDMI inputs with frame rate converters and scalers
  • Support for cinema and broadcast frame rates
  • Five-layer video effects engine
  • Five total outputs: three HDMI, USB-C streaming, and a dedicated direct streaming output
  • Six selectable output modes: Program, Sub-Program, Aux, Preview, Multi-View, and Still-View
  • 28-channel digital audio mixer with advanced effects and processing
  • 16-slot still store function supports screen capture or uploaded BMP, JPEG, and PNG images with alpha channel in the internal non-volatile memory
  • Enhance your livestreams with sound effects, still images, and video sources stored on an SDXC card
  • Audio Player function with six trigger pads and onboard storage for 12 audio files
  • Control six PTZ cameras with support for multiple brands and mixed protocols
  • 4.3-inch touch screen with graphical menu
  • Extensive device control with Bluetooth®, USB, RS-232, and LAN
  • Remote control software available for iPad, macOS, and Windows*
  • Wireless and wired camera tally support 

Broadfield is Your Source for Roland ProAV
Pre-order the new VR-6HD for Shipping Expected in June

High-Quality Presentations Made Easy
The powerful video capabilities in the VR-6HD make it simple to bring professional production values to business streaming productions. Connect multiple cameras and computers via HDMI for different views, and incorporate robotic PTZ cameras to change angles at the touch of a button. Quickly assign and switch among sources on the fly, including live HDMI inputs, presentation decks, still images, and video clips. You can also create custom feeds for live and online viewers by assigning composition layers to multiple busses.
 
Multiple HDMI Inputs
The VR-6HD supports HDMI—the most common video connector in the world—and you can seamlessly combine six HDMI sources in Full HD with a range of broadcast and cinematic frame rates and color spaces. Built-in scalers with EDID and HDCP support provide easy integration with sources like computers, tablets, smartphones, gaming consoles, and legacy 4:3 devices.  
 
Integrated Playback of Stills and Video Clips
Enhance events with onboard support for graphics and video playback. Call up still images during transitions between presenters, display graphics, and use PNGs to create dynamic lower thirds. The integrated video player lets you trigger video clips directly from the SDXC card, with no need to connect an external playback device.
 
Layers and Keyers
Video effects and graphics are must-haves to bring polish and excitement to productions. The VR-6HD’s effects engine features five composition layers that can be assigned to the Program, Sub-Program, and Aux outs, so you’ll always keep audiences engaged. With up to two picture-in-picture windows and one downstream key layer with transparent PNG and external key support, you can manage any creative need. For example: 
Layers 1-2—Start with mixable live background video layers. 
Layers 3-4—Place two picture-in-picture layers or chroma/luminance key effects. 
Layer 5—Add a downstream keyer with support for fill and key inputs. 
 
Assignable Video Outputs
The VR-6HD puts a high-end video matrix at your fingers with three HDMI outputs, a USB-C streaming output, and an ethernet streaming output. Feed program displays, auxiliary monitors, multi-view producer displays, and the online audiences at once, complete with a clean output left over for recording the presentation to an SDXC card. 

Professional-Class Digital Audio Mixing
The VR-6HD delivers world-class audio quality with 28 simultaneous channels and Roland’s acclaimed sound mixing features. Comprehensive EQ and dynamics processing is provided on every channel, complete with convenient preset libraries for achieving pro results instantly. Powerful problem-solving tools are on hand, including audio sync alignment, de-essing, noise suppression, and more. It’s also possible to play back stored audio during streams with quick touches on the panel.        
 
Multi-Channel Audio Inputs and Bluetooth 
The VR-6HD offers professional analog audio connectivity with six balanced XLR/TRS combination jacks, high-quality mic preamps, and phantom power. Stereo RCA inputs are available for audio players, electronic instruments, and other line-level devices, and you can mix the embedded digital audio from sources connected to the HDMI and USB inputs. And with onboard Bluetooth, it’s easy to stream wireless audio from any mobile device.
 
Powerful Mixing Tools
Set up direct control for your most important sound feeds with seven assignable faders. And when you have multiple presenters to deal with, engage Auto Mixing to lighten your load and ensure that the mix between microphones remains balanced. You can set specific inputs to take priority when someone starts to speak, and other audio levels are automatically reduced as needed.
 
A Mix for Each Audience
Two auxiliary audio busses let you set up unique mixes for a variety of applications. For example, you can feed a monitor system for presenters while livestreaming a specialized mix that’s independent of the in-person program. Versatile routing allows you to freely assign the mix and aux busses to the two stereo XLR outputs, RCA stereo output, USB and stream/record outs, or HDMI outputs.
 
Shape Your Sound
The VR-6HD combines the full power of the latest digital audio consoles with expansive Roland effects. Four-band EQs and dynamics processing are provided for every input and output, and high-quality reverb is available for music applications and special effects. You also get specialized tools to quickly handle audio issues, like automatic anti-feedback for stage mics and adaptive noise reduction to suppress background noise and hum.
 
Audio On Demand
With the VR-6HD’s unique Audio Player section and six assignable pads, it’s simple to enhance events with custom sounds. With a quick press, you can trigger sound effects, event announcements, countdowns for e-sports, or theme songs for presenters—the sky’s the limit.

Ethernet/USB Streaming and Onboard Recording
The VR-6HD’s advanced technology makes livestreaming to the most popular platforms smooth and worry-free. With direct streaming over ethernet, computer streaming over USB, and Adaptive Bitrate support, you can deliver high-quality presentations to any audience. And with simultaneous SDXC recording, it’s easy to capture presentations for archiving and distribution.  

Secure and Reliable Streaming Over LAN
The VR-6HD’s powerful LAN streaming capabilities allow you to directly connect with Twitch, Facebook, and other platforms without the need for a computer. The Adaptive Bitrate function monitors the quality of the network connection and automatically adjusts the streaming rate to reduce interruptions due to bandwidth issues. An adjustable Safety Delay is also available, allowing you to confidently stream unscripted events and prevent offensive content from being broadcast.

Dual LAN Streaming Destinations
Reach a wider audience by broadcasting to two different livestream channels at once. You can also use a mobile phone with a 4G or 5G data plan as the primary streaming connection or a redundant backup.

USB-C Streaming Up to 60 FPS
Stream to any audience in Full HD to a computer via USB. The USB-C connection offers the same plug-and-play technology as webcams,* so you can begin streaming immediately with Zoom, Microsoft Teams, or any platform that can use a webcam as its source. 
*USB video class (UVC) and USB audio class (UAC) compliant.YUY2 (uncompressed) and Motion JPEG (compressed) formats supported.

SDXC Card Recording
With the onboard recorder, you can easily record an event to an SDXC card and provide your client with an H.264 MP4 video file* for their editing and distribution needs. Stereo WAV audio can also be recorded independently for podcasts and other audio-driven media. It’s even possible to capture still images to internal memory from any video output bus and save them to the card for later use.
*The recording bitrate is the same as the livestream encoding bitrate.

Take Full Control of Your Productions
Thanks to its well-organized panel and intuitive workflow, even novice operators will feel comfortable using the VR-6HD. Hardware knobs, faders, and buttons offer direct control for essential functions, while the 4.3-inch touch display provides smooth access to deeper parameters and settings. Scene memory, macro, and sequencing features simplify operation even more, letting you pre-program complicated actions and fire them off with simple actions.
 
Fast Recall of Complex Compositions
Storing and recalling custom looks can be accomplished with just a few button presses. The 32 scene memories and advanced effects engine work together to provide seamless changes, including synchronizing the transition of all composition layers at the program output. The 100 macros go even deeper, allowing you to build and execute complex action lists that include switching, DSK on/off, audio mixing adjustments, PTZ camera movements, and much more.  
 
Sequencing Magic
The VR-6HD’s sequencer makes scene memories and macros even more powerful, letting you perform perfectly timed cues with ease. Up to 1000 steps can be recorded in the sequencer, and each step can include both presets and macros. Set up your cues ahead of time in the sequence list and trigger them in order for a stress-free production.  
 
Automated Switching and Mixing 
When there are many presenters, you need to follow the action and switch audio and video together. The automated video switching and audio mixing features in the VR-6HD make this complicated task simple, greatly easing your workload and creating a smooth experience for the audience. 

PTZ Camera Support
Robotic PTZ (pan-tilt-zoom) cameras eliminate the need for multiple operators, provide enhanced broadcast-quality coverage, and can be placed in discreet locations thanks to their small size. The VR-6HD features integrated support for select Canon, JVC, Panasonic, Sony, PTZOptics, Avonic, and VISCA-compatible PTZ LAN cameras. Mix and match different brands as you like and operate up to six PTZ cameras simultaneously. 

Deep Remote-Control Options
The VR-6HD supports extended workflows with dedicated software apps and a variety of remote devices. 

  • Connect footswitches or expression pedals to execute over 100 different switcher commands.  
  • Trigger start/stop on select third-party recorders over HDMI. 
  • Set up a tally light with Roland’s Smart Tally or the rear-panel hardware connector. 
  • Seamlessly integrate with system installations via the RS-232 and TALLY/GPIO D-Sub connectors.
  • The free VR-6HD Remote app for iPad connects via Bluetooth, allowing you to wirelessly operate functions at events via a portable touch interface.* (*Coming in Q4 2023)
  • Use the free VR-6HD Remote Control Software to operate the switcher from a Mac or Windows computer.* (*Coming in Q4 2023)
]]>
Roland: A Teacher’s Guide to Live Streaming your LESSONS https://news.broadfield.com/roland-a-teachers-guide-to-live-streaming-your-lessons/ Mon, 15 Mar 2021 08:34:00 +0000 https://news.broadfield.com/?p=17923 Last year, most educators were forced to jump headfirst into the world of live streaming, in order to continue their students learning, even outside of the classroom. This year, we believe that this same group of educators will be looking to perfect the live streaming process, and improve what they’ve started. We’re here to help.

Roland recently released a great guide for teachers, who are live streaming from their classrooms. We’re going to take a look at some highlights from their article, below.

1. DO I NEED A VIDEO STREAMING SOLUTION?

Many courses don’t require face-to-face teaching or the use of computer presentations. Course materials can be sent as a .pdf file via email and the student can study at home at their own pace.
That being said, there are many instances that this just doesn’t work.

The teachers I have spoken to over the past few weeks, who are now streaming their courses, include teachers from:

  • High School
  • University
  • Music schools
  • Dance Academies
  • Yoga Centres

It is interesting to see how each teacher has approached the challenges of delivering content online.

Common messages shared by all the teachers are:

  • Most courses need some restructuring to translate effectively online
  • Audio and visuals are important (lights, cameras, sound) to maintain student engagement
  • Handouts to accompany your online courses make a huge difference
  • Getting live feedback from students (via zoom chat etc) is really useful
  • The first stream is the hardest! Take your time to get everyone in your class comfortable

Some advantages of streaming live content:

  • Stream content directly to your class at any time of the day
  • With live streaming there is no post-production required
  • Your streams can be accessed/reviewed by students (anytime) – even the ones who missed the live broadcast
  • Add multi-media to your presentations including PowerPoint, videos, graphs, music etc.
  • Include chat and receive comments from your students during the class
  • Add value to your class by providing downloadable files

Live streaming your classes can be extremely effective. It is important to note that there are many levels of delivery available, depending on the needs of your students and the equipment used to stream.

2. A TYPICAL SETUP

The simplest streaming set up would involve going to Facebook on your phone, pressing ‘live video’ on your timeline and pointing your phone’s camera at either yourself or a computer.

This approach has obvious limitations.
With a single camera and no dedicated audio source (microphone) the delivery of your message is pretty ordinary. I can’t imagine that you would hold your audience’s attention for very long…

Let’s look at a much better solution
In an ideal situation, you would have:

  • One or two cameras
  • two computers
  • a microphone
  • a small vision mixer with USB 3.0 streaming built-in
  • suitable lighting.

This may sound expensive and technically challenging. I assure you it isn’t.

Roland VR-1HD Streaming Diagram

Two Cameras
Cameras these days are exceptional! You will be pleased to know that you don’t have to use expensive video cameras to create a quality stream for your classes. I have used Handy Cams, Go Pros and even Smart Phones, and they have all performed very well.

The main advantage of using two cameras is that you are able to change the view for your audience. People are used to watching TV which continually switches between camera shots. A typical ‘scene’ would be to have a close-up (personal) camera, for when you are speaking to your class, and a wider view (slightly further away) so that the audience can see more of your environment. This is obviously more important for some classes than others.

A Microphone
Poor audio is probably the most common downfall of beginner streamers. A clear voice, that is easy to understand, is key to keeping your audience engaged.

I personally prefer lapel microphones, because they are very good for cutting out room noise and they deliver a consistent audio signal for your stream. They also allow you to move around without having to carry a microphone or adjust a mic on a stand.

You can purchase a reasonable lapel mic for around $50.

Two Computers
You will need at least one computer to stream your content. You can use this same computer to share course content with your audience, but it is often the weakest link in an online performance.

I prefer to have one laptop dedicated to streaming and a second laptop with a PowerPoint presentation, titles/logos, videos and even music preloaded on it. This makes your presentation interesting and the transitions between information ‘scenes’ seamless.

Lights
The lighting of your space is important to set the mood. This can be done with a simple overhead light and a lamp or two. The main thing is to test a few things beforehand to get it right.

If you need more light you can easily purchase something suitable from the hardware store to get you started and then maybe look at other options further down the track.

A Vision Mixer
Now this is when things get interesting!

A small vision mixer is the difference between an amateur looking stream and a quality production. It’s like having a mini TV station at your fingertips!

With a vision mixer you can plug-in multiple cameras, microphones, computers, laptops, smartphones, tablets and media players (depending on the number of inputs available). They also come with great features like picture in picture, split screen, smooth transitions and many other professional effects that will bring your presentation to life.

Some vision mixers come with a USB 3.0 output, and that really simplifies streaming. All you need to do is take the USB output from the vision mixer and plug it straight into the USB input of your laptop or computer.

You then open up the platform you want to stream on (FaceBook, Zoom etc) and the vision mixer will come up as an optional camera source! See the links below for more information on this.

Check out this video to learn more:

Check out Roland’s full article, HERE.

Learn more about Roland HERE.

]]>
Sonic LAB – Roland VR1-HD Video Mixer with Webcam Output https://news.broadfield.com/sonic-lab-roland-vr1-hd-video-mixer-with-webcam-output/ Fri, 16 Oct 2020 18:05:08 +0000 https://news.broadfield.com/?p=16755 Gaz Williams takes a look at the Roland VR1-HD video switcher which offers hands on switching of up to three HDMI input sources, plus USB web cam output for local recording or streaming.

Features include:

  • High quality video processing, frame sync, scaler on each input and image processing
  • Audio input processing and mixer including audio delay function
  • PiP (picture in picture) and PbP(picture by picture) plus a key

Learn more about Roland HERE.

Check out the full video HERE

]]>
Roland VR-1HD Streaming Mixer Tutorial #1: Basic Setup https://news.broadfield.com/roland-vr-1hd-streaming-mixer-tutorial-1-basic-setup/ Fri, 15 May 2020 19:34:00 +0000 https://news.broadfield.com/?p=15498 The Roland VR-1HD is a powerful streaming and mixing device. Roland recently released a great tutorial on how to use the VR-1HD, which we’ve attached below.

The Roland VR-1HD is designed to take on the realities of any live streaming broadcast, from podcasting, multi-camera music performances, and video game streams to corporate AV productions, remote church services, and distance learning. Combining video switching, audio mixing, and streaming capabilities into one convenient device, the VR-1HD makes it easy for a single operator to manage broadcasts in real-time.

In this tutorial, you’ll learn about the VR-1HD’s input and output connections, panel functions, the USB webcam output for streaming and recording, and menu control.

The VR-1HD offers three HDMI video inputs, and one features a no-latency loop output that’s ideal for computer pass-through to a projector or gaming monitor. Two HDMI outputs are provided, one for the main program feed and one with a menu overlay to adjust settings. USB ports include a USB 3.0 SuperSpeed port for live streaming and a USB 2.0 MEMORY port for importing media.

Roland Professional AV

Check out the video on YouTube HERE.

Learn more about Roland HERE.

]]>
Valere Studios Builds an Entirely New Business – and Business Model – Around the Roland VR-4HD HD AV Mixer https://news.broadfield.com/valere-studios-builds-an-entirely-new-business-and-business-model-around-the-roland-vr-4hd-hd-av-mixer/ Mon, 04 May 2020 19:06:00 +0000 https://news.broadfield.com/?p=15342 The Roland VR-4HD is a powerful switcher device from Roland with built in streaming capability. This is a very exciting addition to the Roland catalog, so we wanted to share a case study, of some users already using this great product.

Check out some highlights from a case study on the VR-4HD from Roland, below.

As Facebook Live allows the world’s leading social-media site to evolve into a more deeply connected marketing platform for brands, the way that content is developed and produced for that live-streaming capability must evolve as well. That’s going to take new tools, and Valere Studios, a new creative company based in Cincinnati, has found the tool it needs: the Roland VR-4HD HD AV Mixer, which has become a cornerstone of the facility’s technical and creative endeavors. Valere Studios Founder Leslie Fultz came into the nascent live-streaming content development business like many in new media – from a completely different profession. Until two years ago, he was running a successful commercial cleaning business, of which he was not only the owner but also the company’s main marketer and social-media expert. He discovered he enjoyed the social media aspect so much that he started Valere Studios last year in a 700-square-foot space. His first two live-streamed productions – Music Live and More with Les, which promotes Valere Studio’s capabilities – were so successful that he moved Valere Studios into a new space more than twice as large, as studio and remote productions rapidly increased.

The cornerstone of Fultz’s new venture is the Roland VR-4HD HD AV Mixer, which provides Valere Studios with virtually everything needed, in a single and affordable unit, to create broadcast-quality live-streamed audio and video productions. “The Roland VR-4HD has made me into the kind of content creator and producer you need to be for live-streamed marketing,” he explains. “Two years ago, I had never run a camera; now, we’re doing minimum three-camera shoots for our productions, and the Roland VR-4HD is the hub for all of that production. It’s not just part of the production process – it’s been part of my entire entrepreneurial process. We’re excited about helping people and organizations broadcast their message on social media at a professional level. Using the VR-4HD, multi-camera switching, high-quality sound, and graphics can be introduced into a Facebook Live stream, or on a YouTube channel or website, with the VR-4HD providing a true turnkey broadcasting solution.”

Fultz first became acquainted with the VR-4HD merely a matter of months ago: “I discovered the Roland VR-4HD by watching a video from this year’s CES convention in January. I was immediately struck by its capability – a lot of punch in a small package. I was looking at products from other manufacturers, and they cost three times the amount to get the same types of functions, and the VR-4HD still had more options for inputs, outputs and built-in sound.”

Check out the full article from Roland, HERE.

Learn more about Roland, HERE.

]]>
Roland VR-1HD Mixer Lets You Podcast Like a Pro! https://news.broadfield.com/roland-vr-1hd-mixer-lets-you-podcast-like-a-pro/ Mon, 06 May 2019 13:21:35 +0000 https://news.broadfield.com/?p=13125 Podcasting, and video podcasting, is on the rise with close to 1 million podcasts and 30 million episodes being consumed daily. Pop Up Podcasting has taken a close look at the Roland VR-1HD Streaming Mixer and shares how the auto-switching feature (video follows audio) can easily help create professional standard videos.

Check out the video on Youtube HERE

The Roland VR-1HD AV Streaming Mixer is the perfect tool for creating video podcasts like Joe Rogan because of it’s incredible auto-switching feature (video follows audio). Connect up to 3 HDMI cameras and 2 XLR mics, then stream your content via OBS and other apps to YouTube.

Learn more about Roland HERE

]]>
The WORLD’S SMALLEST multi-camera video mixer! The Roland V-02HD https://news.broadfield.com/the-worlds-smallest-multi-camera-video-mixer-the-roland-v-02hd/ Thu, 21 Mar 2019 20:02:32 +0000 https://news.broadfield.com/?p=12392

This is such an amazing device! You can take two video sources, like cameras or computers or even an iPhone, and switch between the two with crossfades or wipes or other transitions. You can even do picture in picture effects to put a camera on top of a presenter’s presentation slides! This is the smallest video switcher on the market.

Click here to buy the Roland V-02HD

]]>
Software Update Roland V-60HD Video Switcher https://news.broadfield.com/software-update-roland-v-60hd-video-switcher/ Thu, 03 Jan 2019 17:18:41 +0000 https://news.broadfield.com/?p=11920 We are happy to announce for the Roland V-60HD HD Video Switcher, new System Update Ver2.0 and Remote Control Software (RCS) Ver2.0.

The Ver.2.0 update supports PTZ camera control, PinP cropping, audio input solo bus, and more.  Visit https://proav.roland.com/global/products/v-60hd/downloads/ for details on the update.

The Roland V-60HD is ideal for Live Streaming, Corporate Events, and Live Performances. It supports four SDI camera inputs plus two scaled HDMI inputs for data, computer, tablet and other video sources using a variety of video connections, plus a Program and independent Aux bus for confidence, downstage monitor or side screens.

Click here to watch the video on YouTube.

]]>
Roland V-02HD Multi-Format Video Mixer – Interbee 2018 https://news.broadfield.com/roland-v-02hd-multi-format-video-mixer-interbee-2018/ Sat, 08 Dec 2018 18:00:37 +0000 https://news.broadfield.com/?p=11768 From newsshooter.com

The Roland V-02HD Multi-Format Video Mixer was being shown at Interbee 2018 in Japan. If you are a solo shooter or small production team that often covers events or need to turn around material quickly, the V-02HD Multi-Format Video Mixer might be exactly what you have been looking for.

If you have ever covered events where you have been required to set up and use more than one camera by yourself you will know that it can be a daunting task. You may also have been in a position where you were required to switch a live output from two cameras to a large display at an event. Roland’s V-02HD multi-format video mixer was designed specifically to help shooters overcome these problems. It replaces several standalone units; a simple switcher, high-quality scaler, input expander, audio solution, and inline video effects/composition.

Recording or streaming with a live switcher onsite lets you present a client with an immediate deliverable. The V-02HD takes the HDMI output from two cameras and allows the operator to switch to a connected recorder or live streaming encoder…read more

]]>