Blackmagic ATEM SDI Extreme ISO

The Blackmagic Design ATEM SDI Extreme ISO is a powerful 8-input live production switcher featuring an integrated control panel and advanced broadcast capabilities. Its ISO designation signifies its ability to individually record each of the eight input videos as an MP4, along with the program output, via a USB-C port. This versatile switcher's eight independent 3G-SDI inputs accept all popular HD signals up to 1080p60, and importantly, each input includes discrete frame rate and format converters and supports re-syncing for seamless switching between diverse pro and consumer cameras or computer feeds. Furthermore, it automatically generates a DaVinci Resolve project file to allow for post-production clean-up and changes.

This switcher allows users to switch, add effects, color grade, and key in real time using either the control surface buttons or the software control panel. Built for complex productions, the ATEM SDI Extreme ISO supports extensive layering, featuring four upstream and two downstream keyers, up to four chroma keyers, and two DVEs with borders. For monitoring, it has four 3G-SDI outputs and supports up to 16-screen multiview, making it ideal for professional live streaming using RTMP protocols or simple webcam output over USB.

Product Features in Detail

Live Production Control Interface

The front panel is designed for real-time operation, featuring large, easy-to-use buttons for direct source selection, video effects, and transitions. The ATEM Extreme ISO model includes dedicated buttons for audio mixing, recording, and streaming control, as well as output selection buttons to route video to cameras, the program feed, or multiview. The rear panel provides all essential connections, including 3G-SDI inputs for cameras and computers, extra 3.5mm stereo microphone inputs, the USB Type-C webcam out, and 4 x 3G-SDI "AUX" outputs for professional monitoring.

Direct RTMP Streaming & Backup Connectivity

The switcher features a built-in hardware streaming engine for direct RTMP streaming to platforms like YouTube, Facebook Live, Skype, Twitch, Zoom, and Microsoft Teams via the Ethernet connection. For location-based productions, the ATEM Extreme models support connecting an Apple or Android phone to the USB port to use 4G or 5G mobile data. This also serves as a critical backup for the main Ethernet connection, automatically switching to the phone's primary connection and powering the phone to prevent battery drain.

Program and ISO Recording with DaVinci Resolve Integration

The ATEM Extreme models support direct program recording of the streaming data (H.264 video with AAC audio) to USB flash disks. The Mini Extreme ISO model uniquely records the main program output and the eight individual input video channels as MP4 files (ISO recording). It automatically saves a DaVinci Resolve project file so you can open your live production with all cuts, dissolves, and media pool graphics pre-loaded, allowing for comprehensive post-production editing, color correction, and remixing.

Advanced Multiview Monitoring

You can configure the 3G-SDI outputs for a comprehensive Multiview Monitoring display, offering up to 16 views on a single screen. The customizable display includes feeds for Program, Preview, all eight 3G-SDI inputs, SuperSource layers, Clean Feed, Media Player, and crucial diagnostic information like streaming status, recording status, and audio meters.

Professional Transitions and Video Effects

The switcher provides professional production values through a range of built-in video effects. Instant switching is achieved with the Cut button, while the Auto button triggers professional effect transitions with selectable durations (0.5, 1, 1.5, or 2 seconds). Available effects include the smooth Mix (dissolve), the Dip (fading via a color), and dynamic DVE effects that push, spin, or squeeze the image when transitioning between sources.

Fairlight Audio Mixer & Dual Stereo Inputs

Featuring two independent 3.5mm stereo audio inputs, you can connect desktop or lapel microphones for interviews, or a music player for introduction tracks. All audio inputs, including the embedded SDI audio, are connected to the advanced Fairlight audio mixer. This gives you powerful control with individual level and peak metering, as well as Fairlight enhancements like compressor, gate, limiter, and six bands of parametric EQ.