Blackmagic ATEM Talkback Converter 4K

The Blackmagic ATEM Talkback Converter 4K is a high-performance unit that accepts high-resolution video from up to eight studio cameras or ATEM Camera Converters using its 12G-SDI connections. These connections support video resolutions up to $4096 \times 2160$ at 60 fps. The converter efficiently manages and routes these signals, sending individual camera feeds to a switcher, a program monitor via its own dedicated SDI output, and back to the camera operator, all while carrying talkback audio over a single cable. Talkback audio is captured directly via a microphone plugged into the XLR jack or a headset mic using the front panel jacks.

For expanded capability, this unit can be upgraded to accept fiber optic connections, which are capable of carrying bidirectional 4K video, audio, and talkback for distances up to 28 miles without signal degradation. The Talkback Converter 4K is designed for professional environments, featuring a compact 1 RU size that allows it to easily fit into industry-standard rack-mount equipment and furniture, making it a powerful and efficient solution for controlling and communicating with remote camera crews.

Product Features in Detail

Optional Ultra-Long Distance Fiber Upgrade

The ATEM Talkback Converter 4K offers an optional upgrade to utilize standard single-mode optical fiber cable with LC connectors. This conversion allows for the transmission of SD and HD video signals over extreme distances, supporting cable runs up to 28 miles. This capability dramatically overcomes the signal degradation limit of traditional copper SDI cables, which typically fail after only several hundred feet.

Integrated Two-Way Talkback System

The unit provides a professional talkback system featuring a built-in speaker, microphone inputs, and a headphone jack for private monitoring. This system enables seamless communication with camera operators, using audio channels 15 and 16 of the SDI stream. Communication is flexible, allowing operators to be selected individually and controlled by a push button or locked open, with front-panel mute and unmute buttons for full control.

SDI Tally and Program Feed Integration

The converter efficiently manages crucial production signals, specifically passing SDI Tally signal information back to the cameras. It also transmits the SDI Program signal from switchers back to the connected cameras, ensuring that camera operators are aware of their on-air status and have the main program reference feed.

Professional 10-bit Signal Processing

The unit is engineered for high-quality video handling, featuring internal chips that utilize 10-bit processing for a clean and pristine signal. The processing is format-agnostic, allowing the converters to be switchable between SD and HD formats to accommodate various production standards.

High-Density Bidirectional Conversion

With the optional fiber terminals installed, the unit features eight independent simultaneous SDI-to-optical and optical-to-SDI converters. This high density allows the unit to manage a large number of camera inputs. When paired with the ATEM Camera Converter, the system can also be configured to function as four independent SDI or Fiber to HDMI converters.

Eliminates Separate Communication Gear

By embedding talkback audio directly within the SDI stream, the system eliminates the need for separate communication equipment, such as walkie-talkies. This streamlines the production workflow and ensures clear, reliable communication between the control room and camera operators, regardless of their distance from the studio.