Video Switcher – BROADFIELD NEWS https://news.broadfield.com Distributor of Live Production Equipment for Resellers Only Thu, 09 Apr 2026 19:45:11 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.4 https://news.broadfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/bdi-square-logo-150x150.png Video Switcher – BROADFIELD NEWS https://news.broadfield.com 32 32 New Product Alert: Roland V-1-4K Video Switcher https://news.broadfield.com/new-product-alert-roland-v-1-4k-video-switcher/ Fri, 10 Apr 2026 15:00:00 +0000 https://news.broadfield.com/?p=35321

The New Benchmark in Compact 4K Switching for Live Event Production

The V-1-4K Video Switcher delivers a complete 4K 60p switching solution in a streamlined and easy-to-operate package. HDMI, USB 3.0, and LAN connections provide flexible I/O, while multi-channel mixing and effects bring high-end audio polish to every production. You also get integrated control for PTZ cameras, plus remote operation via dedicated control apps. And with our powerful Graphics Presenter software, it’s simple to enhance productions with impressive titles, motion graphics, and more.

Powerful 4K Switching and Streaming in a Portable, All-in-One Design

Roland V-1-4K Video Switcher
The V-1-4K sets a new benchmark, offering comprehensive support for today’s 4K 60p workflows in a compact, accessible, and user-friendly hub for live events, houses of worship, conference rooms, livestreaming, and more.
Expected June 2026
SKU: V14K
MPN: V-1-4K
$1,899.99 MSRP

HDMI Connectivity with Input Scaling
The V-1-4K features five HDMI inputs with scalers on every channel, enabling seamless switching between HD and 4K 60p HDR video sources. Five HDMI output channels include multi-viewer functionality, allowing independent video signals to be fed to a main monitor, a confidence monitor, and other destinations without a distribution amplifier.

Flexible Routing
The five video inputs and six total outputs (HDMI plus USB streaming) offer flexibility for a wide range of production needs. In addition to program, preview, and multi-view outputs, output channels 3 and 4 can be assigned to any output bus and any input signal via 4K-to-HD downscalers.

Video Composition Tools
The V-1-4K makes it simple to keep audiences engaged with layered graphics and visual effects. Three composition layers allow you to use scalable picture-in-picture images and add titles, logos, social media comments, and more.

Efficient Multi-Angle Shots with ROI
The ROI (Region of Interest) processor lets you compose up to four shots from a single 4K camera image, such as a wide shot of the stage, a medium shot of a speaking panel, and close-ups of each speaker. This powerful feature elevates your production value without increasing camera count, complexity, or costs.

Professional 4K Graphics
Graphics Presenter software for Windows allows you to create stunning titles and graphics without the need for expensive third-party graphic presentation solutions. V-1-4K setup is quick and straightforward, requiring only a single HDMI connection to send fill and key signals from the computer to the switcher.

Graphics Presenter Version 3.0 and later supports 4K and HD workflows with a wide selection of ready-to-edit templates, including animated title text, sports scores, motion graphics, and more. The software and templates are available free of charge, and additional content is periodically provided for download on Roland Cloud.

Plug-And-Play Streaming Up to 4K60p
The V-1-4K uses the same connection technology as webcams for a plug-and-play streaming experience. Simply connect the USB-C output to a computer and start streaming with Zoom, Microsoft Teams, or any streaming platform that supports a standard webcam connection.

PTZ Camera Integration
Robotic PTZ (pan-tilt-zoom) cameras greatly expand your production capabilities, thanks to their small size and remote-controlled positioning. The V-1-4K includes built-in control support for select Canon, JVC, Panasonic, Sony, PTZOptics, Avonic, and VISCA-compatible PTZ LAN cameras. Mix and match different brands and operate up to five PTZ cameras simultaneously. The V-1-4K Remote app for iPad is an ideal companion for PTZ operation, providing remote camera controls from the tablet.

High-Quality Audio Mixing and Effects
The V-1-4K features 14 channels of audio mixing and a wide selection of processing tools, including equalizers and compressors. There are also sync delays on all input and output busses to align audio with video if needed. I/O routing options include main, monitor, and two aux buses supporting complex audio configurations for hybrid events.

Customizable Control
Eight user-assignable pads provide instant control of many functions during live events. The pads are organized into four banks, providing direct access to 32 operations, including video input routing, audio muting, system configuration access, and more. It’s also possible to control functions in the Graphics Presenter software when the host computer is connected via USB.


Roland IN STOCK at Broadfield

V-1HD Video Switcher
The V-1HD makes it easy to connect and switch video cameras, smartphones, computers, tablets, Blu-ray players, and other HDMI video sources with a simple push of a button or slide of the T-Fader.
IN STOCK!
SKU: V1HD
MPN: V-1HD
$659.99 MSRP

V-1HD+ Video Switcher
The V-1HD+ is the ultimate compact A/V switching solution for serious visual storytellers. Elevate your creative production process with versatile I/O, a familiar user interface, deep control, and essential monitoring tools.
IN STOCK!
SKU: V1HDPLUS
MPN: V-1HD+
$769.99 MSRP

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First Impression: JVC KM-HD6 Mini 6-Channel Multi-format Streaming Video Switcher https://news.broadfield.com/first-impression-jvc-km-hd6-mini-6-channel-multi-format-streaming-video-switcher/ Mon, 31 Jul 2023 14:00:00 +0000 https://news.broadfield.com/?p=26168 Mark Hanna recently posted his first impressions of the new JVC KM-HD6 mini 6-channel multi-format streaming video switcher. With that price point and a no-frills approach to what the switcher can do, this system was built with churches in mind: built for volunteers with limited training and churches with limited resources.

When Mark first started in church production, video switchers were large, expensive pieces of equipment; the term “small switcher” was an oxymoron. There are now software solutions that are essentially free, and hardware solutions that are so inexpensive that they are a consumer product that people like me buy “just in case.” JVC’s new KM-HD6 sits right in the middle of the large switchers and consumer products, threading the needle between the two. It has all the essential features and nothing extra, which means it checks the two big boxes for churches: it’s volunteer-friendly and priced appropriately for the church market.

In February, Joseph D’Amico, Vice President of JVCKenwood USA Corporation, visited the Triangle area of North Carolina and met with representatives from a variety of congregational sizes and technology use levels to better understand the needs of the house of worship market. One of the outcomes of that trip was the JVC KM-HD6, a small-form-factor video switcher designed specifically for churches.

JVC recognizes the need for organizations of all sizes to expand their video production capabilities. The addition of these affordable new production tools will enable budget-conscious studios, venues, and arenas to have high-quality, glass-to-glass workflow solutions. It is our hope that in offering these products, JVC can provide a wider scope of users with price-effective, easy-to-configure equipment and support from a single manufacturer.

Joseph D’Amico, Vice President of JVCKenwood USA Corporation

This small switcher has several significant advantages. First, there are six inputs with various connection types, including four SDI and two HDMI. There is no need for genlock because all of the inputs re-clock, and it can handle HD format conversion, so there is no problem with mixed frame rates, and it will cross convert between 920 and 1080. It has 3.5mm and RCA audio inputs, as well as embedded audio on all video inputs, making it ideal for getting a house mix directly from your audio console.

The KM-HD6 has several output options, including two SDI and one HDMI program. There is also an SDI aux output that can be set as preview out or program out via the menu, as well as one HDMI and one SDI multi-viewer. There is no need to choose between these outputs because they are all active at the same time. There’s also a USB-C program out for streaming to YouTube, Facebook, or any other streaming platform. There are 3.5 and RCA audio outputs, so there are several ways to get audio and video into and out of this switcher. There is also a GPIO port for tally integration if that is important to you.

Internally, the switcher includes all of the standard mix, fade, and wipe effects, as well as a T-bar in the form of a slider for granular transition control. It also includes an adjustable PiP/PoP window. The most important feature of this switcher is the power button, which is sadly missing from other switchers and was clearly inspired by listening to end users.

Finally, because the HM-HD6 is part of the Connected Cam family, it can be bundled with the RM-LP5G Connected Cam PTZ Joystick Controller and a few PTZs at a discounted bundled price determined by the cameras selected. Everything in the Connected Cam family is designed from the ground up to work well together, allowing users to evolve their workflows as their needs change. For example, you can replace the KM-HD6 with something like the KM-IP8S4 while keeping everything else the same, and the system will still work properly.

The ability to bundle the KM-HD6 with other Connected Cam devices makes it a cost-effective and appealing option. With that price point and a no-frills approach to what the switcher can do, this system was built with churches in mind: built for volunteers with limited training and churches with limited resources. JVC did its research to understand what churches require and delivered a product to meet that specific need.

Read the full article from ChurchProduction HERE

Learn more about JVC KM-HD6 HERE

Learn more about JVC HERE

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The Wirecast Show – Episode 7 https://news.broadfield.com/the-wirecast-show-episode-7/ Wed, 15 Mar 2023 14:00:00 +0000 https://news.broadfield.com/?p=24755 Learn all about the pros/cons of hardware and software switchers – plus a special offer on Wirecast Gear – in the recent episode of The Wirecast Show!

Wirecast Gear 3 is a family of turnkey live video streaming and broadcast production appliances. Fully integrated into a single device, Gear 3 provides plug-in-and-go live-streaming and video production for up to five HD or 4K SDI, or four HDMI, sources. Live sports, news broadcasting, worship streaming, and live/ virtual event production is now available in one ready-to-go, convenient, rack-mountable unit.

Watch the full video HERE:

Learn more about Telestream Wirecast Gear 3 HERE

Learn more about Telestream HERE

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Roland 4K Video Switcher w/ PTZ Camera Controls https://news.broadfield.com/roland-4k-video-switcher-w-ptz-camera-controls/ Tue, 31 Jan 2023 16:52:00 +0000 https://news.broadfield.com/?p=24377 The Roland V-600UHD 4K video switcher pairs well with the new PTZOptics Move 4K PTZ cameras series. Watch below to see Paul Richards of PTZOptics demonstrate how they work together.

The Roland V-600UHD 4K HDR Multi-Format Video Switcher is an ideal choice for those looking to create high-quality video productions. It features four HDMI 2.0 and two 12G SDI inputs, perfect for events needing several computer and video playback sources complete with IMAG camera support. What sets the V-600UHD apart from other switchers is its ability to control PTZOptics cameras, allowing you to easily adjust the angle of your shots without having to manually move the camera itself. With its intuitive user interface, it’s easy to switch between different sources quickly and seamlessly, making it a great choice for any live event or production.

PTZOptics

Learn more about Roland here!

Leanr more about PTZOptics here!

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A Wireless Video Switcher? The Roland Aerocaster https://news.broadfield.com/a-wireless-video-switcher-the-roland-aerocaster/ Mon, 09 Jan 2023 20:09:42 +0000 https://news.broadfield.com/?p=24253 Check out the Roland Aerocaster live from the CES 2023 show room floor. The Aerocaster is a wireless video switcher that works with smartphones to produce live video productions. This new video switcher from Roland costs only $279 MSRP and it provides a complete video-switching solution that allows creators the ability to leverage their smartphones to produce a live production.

AeroCaster makes it easy and affordable for anyone to create a wireless multi-camera setup with pro-level production quality. Leveraging the A/V power of the mobile devices that everyone carries, our breakthrough system opens up a new world of creative possibilities for any livestreaming application, from online talk shows and music performances to live commerce, remote education, and beyond.

Watch the full video from StreamGeeks HERE:

Learn more about Roland AeroCaster HERE

Learn more about Roland HERE

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Introducing the Roland V-02HD MK II Streaming Video Mixer https://news.broadfield.com/introducing-the-roland-v-02hd-mk-ii-streaming-video-mixer/ Fri, 24 Sep 2021 19:47:00 +0000 https://news.broadfield.com/?p=19661 The new Roland V-02HD MK II is the latest from Roland, which improves greatly on the already popular and powerful V-02HD mixer. This mixer is great for small productions, and with the added power of the MK II, it now fits great into a direct streaming workflow as well!

Check out this video from Roland on this switcher, below.

Ditch your webcam and upgrade your livestreams with the new V-02HD MK II Streaming Video Mixer. Just connect two HDMI cameras and livestream on your favorite online platform or computer-based software including Facebook Live, Twitch, OBS Studio, and Zoom.

The V-02HD MK II is the world’s easiest two-camera livestreaming solution. With its intuitive layout, large controls, and T-bar fader, it’s incredibly simple to operate, even if you have no broadcasting experience.

Go live in three quick steps:

  1. Plug in up to two sources via HDMI, including cameras, computers, mobile devices, and gaming consoles.
  2. Connect the USB-C output to your computer.
  3. Launch your streaming software and select the V-02HD MK II as the camera source.

Check out the video on YouTube HERE.

Learn more about Roland HERE.

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Introducing the Roland V-160HD Streaming Video Switcher https://news.broadfield.com/introducing-the-roland-v-160hd-streaming-video-switcher/ Mon, 21 Jun 2021 17:45:00 +0000 https://news.broadfield.com/?p=18882

The Roland V-160HD Streaming Video Switcher is the first hybrid event solution that empowers single operators to seamlessly produce event presentations for in-person and online attendees. Hybrid events require custom content displays with the ability to tailor the experience to each audience. The V-160HD allows in-person audience members to see a presentation on in-room displays, while online attendees view the presenter and their content layered on the screen simultaneously. Meanwhile, traditional automation tools—like presets, macros, and robotic PTZ (pan-tilt-zoom) camera control are unified with a sequencer—allowing operators to multi-task with confidence, reducing missed cues, poor audio, or delayed video switching issues.

Watch the full video from Roland HERE:

Main Features:

  • Ability to mix eight HDMI and eight SDI sources in full HD, working with everything from cameras, computers, tablets, smartphones to gaming consoles and even legacy 4:3 devices.
  • Record up to 1000 steps in the sequencer, each of which can include presets, macros, video effect layers, audio mixing, and PTZ cameras. Simply set up your cues ahead of time in the sequence list and trigger them in order using the Next button on the panel.
  • Switch inputs, configure settings, and recall presets remotely with wireless Bluetooth connectivity and an iPad app.
  • Engage your audience with unique picture in picture for up to four people.
  • Directly control a range of compatible robotic PTZ cameras. Mix and match various brands and operate up to 16 PTZ cameras simultaneously.

Learn more about the Roland V-160HD here!

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KAIROS: How Panasonic’s IT/IP platform could be the “Photoshop” for video https://news.broadfield.com/kairos-how-panasonics-it-ip-platform-could-be-the-photoshop-for-video/ Mon, 07 Jun 2021 15:18:36 +0000 https://news.broadfield.com/?p=18714 Make sure to read the original article by Panasonic here!

KAIROS is Panasonic’s IT/IP platform that gives you unlimited control by fully utilizing the power and flexibility of its CPU and GPU, offering unrestricted flexibility of input, output and operation for a more efficient live workflow. We caught up with Panasonic Engineering Manager Harry Patel to talk all things KAIROS, including its origins, the state of SMPTE 2110, KAIROS’ configuration and components and how it can be the “Photoshop” for video.

QUESTION: What is KAIROS and how is it different from a traditional switcher?

HARRY PATEL: Overall, the way I like to think about KAIROS is in two different components. The first is in IT/IP input/output source management. By using high-speed Ethernet networks utilizing SMPTE 2110 protocols, we’re able to bring in any source that is on a network, potentially replacing a need for a router that will typically be there. That’s because any ST 2110 stream has multi-casting enabled by default so you can send one input to as many outputs as you like. That is really powerful.

The second component to KAIROS is utilizing CPU/GPU-based processing for video switching and video processing, giving the user complete flexibility on how they want to use the product compared to traditional FPGA-based hardware. You have predefined the use case of what an M/E is and how many keyers it has, but when it comes to a switcher application the resources cannot be dynamically changed to do something else. With KAIROS, due to CPU/GPU-based technology and the evolution in the technology, we are able to change the horsepower of the system for a user who may not need a lot of M/Es and needs to have multiple outputs, versus a user that needs so many layers and multi-viewers. So for CPU/GPU based technology, it’s quite flexible compared to FPGA systems where you are completely locked in.

QUESTION: What is the origin of KAIROS and what went into the development of the system?

PATEL: Panasonic has been in the switcher business for many years and we were also active in developing the SMPTE 2110 protocol for the broadcast industry. This basically allowed video over IP transmission and solved scalability and flexibility issues that traditional switchers can’t offer. We also saw the advancements in CPU/GPU based technologies that could be applied to broadcast or live event production. The word KAIROS means that the you’ve been contemplating on doing something over and over again. The moment you decide you have the clarity on doing something, that is the KAIROS moment.

QUESTION: You mentioned SMPTE 2110. Has the standard been widely adopted in the industry?

PATEL: SMPTE 2110 as an IP standard is currently being utilized by several larger broadcast stations for flexibility and scalability. For large scale live productions, there are often too many inputs and outputs that traditional routers cannot handle. We see an opportunity where ST 2110 can move down the stream and be applied into products like studio cameras or live production switchers where connectivity between the devices could be 100% IP. Overall, ST 2110 is commonly accepted in the broadcast space right now but we also see an opportunity where we can use it on mid-tier applications. This would be not only for broadcast applications, but for live events like Houses of Worship and corporate A/V.

In addition, you’re also managing your iMAG, remote feeds and more. To be able to manage all of your displays, regardless of the resolution, you want to have a single platform. Ultimately, the single platform is benefiting in your total aggregated latency from camera to display. Having one platform processing all your outputs and sharing all your sources that are available on the network makes it a very streamlined production. And you do not have to worry about latencies that are aggregated because of multiple devices that you may have to put into the pipe to run that workflow. So with this platform, you can now process your non-standard resolution LED boards, iMAG and remote feed – all from a single platform.

QUESTION: What sort of bandwidth do you need for a KAIROS live production in HD? For 4K

PATEL: Typical network switches that are utilized in this scenario are high-speed network switches and the connectivity that you provide between the network switch and the server is 100Gbs. For a typical 3G signal, you need roughly about 3Gbs of bandwidth. For 4K, that is four times larger so roughly 12Gbs of bandwidth is needed. Also, it’s important to know that there is no compression in processing the IP video stream, so ST 2110 is natively uncompressed. In terms of 4K HDR, bringing that video stream into the KAIROS switcher is currently within that 100Gb pipe that’s going to the switcher.

If I’m a switcher operator who wants to run a show in 3G, I can bring in 32 inputs, which is no problem within that 100Gb pipe. When I go 4K, that’s now divided by four, so I can only bring in eight 4K signals. Now, it is true also that these are concurrent signals. So let’s say on the network switch, you could have a hundred inputs. And from those hundred inputs, you can choose either 32-3g or 8-4K. (16-3G & 4-4K can come into the switcher at the same time.) Also, you’re not locked into those 32 inputs and you can change between them. That 100Gb pipe is currently what we have available. Eventually on the PCI bus, when that grows to let’s say, 200Gb or 400Gb, our ability to accept more inputs would also grow.

QUESTION: KAIROS has been described as sort of a Photoshop for video production. What is the comparison?

PATEL: The user interface of KAIROS has been designed for the operator with minimal experience who wants to do a small show, as well as the experienced operator who wants to do a large show. The UI can adapt to both. It is layer based processing system so that you don’t necessarily have to think about where you’re going to get the resource to do something. If you want to add a Picture-in-Picture, you don’t have to worry about which keyer you are going to use. That is really the power of CPU/GPU based live production switcher, which allows you to not worry about what resource you’re going to use for that particular effect, or how you’re going to manage your effects. The user interface makes it extremely easy for you to track all your processing and allows a tremendous amount of flexibility in terms of composing your scenes.

QUESTION: What does KAIROS look like in terms of the configuration, and what components are available?

PATEL: First, you have the KAIROS Core (AT-KC100), which is the actual processing core. Accompanied with that is the user interface called the KAIROS Creator (AT-SFC10). KAIROS Control (AT-KC10C1) is the control panel that is a physical hard panel – a two M/E style control panel that gives you control at your fingertips.

Within the ecosystem, you have the KAIROS Core at the center, which is connected to the network switch, and the network switch has the IP inputs. For any of those traditional users who do not have IP outputs, they can use gateways, which are available from providers like Riedel or Imagine who can take an SDI source and convert it to IP and make it available on the network switch. For those who may not want to follow the IP path, there are modules available from Deltacast, which will allow you to take an SDI and make it available directly to the server bypassing the network switch. For a user who doesn’t need the flexibility of IP and wants to have the flexibility of the user experience and the software defined video switching, they can still utilize Deltacast modules to bring sources in and out. Going back to the IP side, to synchronize all the video sources that are coming in, you need a PTP (Precision Time Protocol) clock, which is a mandatory sync signal to work in ST 2110 networking (slide 21:33).

Many switchers are adapting to ST 2110 but KAIROS is doing it differently. Many switchers accept ST 2110 as an input, but in reality they are accepting an SDI input and then pushing it to an FPGA based core. We are taking an IP input natively and sending it to a CPU/GPU based platform. Our approach is completely flexible and scalable.

QUESTION: In our current situation with the pandemic, is KAIROS a good solution for remote production?

PATEL: In today’s environment, a TD might not be there in person to operate a show, but with KAIROS the TD can have the UI and control panel at home while the Core can be at the venue where it can be controlled remotely. From the remote production side, KAIROS still accepts uncompressed signals meaning you would have to figure out a way of getting your remote locations connected. You would need to use technology like SRT (Secure Reliable Transport). An example would be a camera with built-in SRT on the remote presenter. The cameras capturing the video sending it on the other side, you put an SRT decoder, convert that into an IP stream, or an SDI stream, and then bring it into KAIROS. So from the operation side of remote production, we have solved it but from the video side KAIROS is mainly an uncompressed video switcher. Hence, any compressed feeds would need to be handled externally.

QUESTION: Has KAIROS been used on any productions yet? What has the feedback been like?

PATEL: We ran the Panasonic ISE (Integrated Systems Europe) booth in Amsterdam with KAIROS and we were planning on running NAB 2020 with KAIROS before it got cancelled due to the pandemic. In terms of feedback, for the people who have seen or received demos, they really like the flexibility of the UI. It allows for them to operate it much easier. They can now be more focused on creative side of things, as well as the operation.

KAIROS is available now from your local reseller, including KAIROS hardware, software and third party hardware/software that is necessary to configure a system.

Learn more about Panasonic here!

Read the original article here!

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YoloLiv YoloBox is Your Best Friends https://news.broadfield.com/yololiv-yolobox-is-your-best-friends/ Fri, 07 May 2021 16:10:16 +0000 https://news.broadfield.com/?p=18481 Recently, EDM Sauce wrote up a FANTASTIC ARTICLE going over the steps and importance of multi camera live streaming. They give a step by step tips for those looking to stream and tell their story!

But one thing that stood out to us was their mentioning of using the amazing YoloLiv YoloBox.

Mixers and switchers are crucial in multi-camera streaming setups. These devices are what you’ll use to independently control your video’s audio and camera feed from multiple sources, along with live multi-camera switching. 

There are two types of mixers and switchers available on the market today: hardware and software.

When it comes to hardware, my personal favorite is the Yololiv YoloBox Live Stream Studio Equipment. This portable switcher comes with an encoder, a monitor, a recorder, and a playback studio that allows you to stream in full HD.

Its multi-camera capture gives you the opportunity to switch up to five video sources simultaneously. You can also add custom graphic layers if you wish.

If that’s not enough, the YoloBox has a cross-platform streaming selection that gives you the chance to stream in three separate destinations with just a click of a button, including YouTube, Facebook Live, and Twitch. So, if you have dedicated audiences on YouTube who don’t have a Twitch account, you can stream your live event on both platforms using the YoloBox.

The YoloBox is compatible with every type of device imaginable. This includes DSLRs, drones, GoPros, USB cameras, DV, SD cards, and Android and iOS products.

The software interface is simple and straightforward. Plug in your camera equipment, add a prerecorded video from your SD card, and press “Go Live.” That’s it! You can then use the touch interface to switch from one video to another.

More importantly, the YoloBox is supremely portable. It’s about an inch thick and just over three pounds. It has a three-hour battery when not plugged in.

If you’re searching for a professional switcher for your live streams, you can’t go wrong with the YoloBox. It’s great for beginners and professionals alike.

Read the original article here!

Learn more about the YoloLiv YoloBox here!

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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.

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