Blackmagic Design ATEM 2 M/E Constellation HD Live Production Switcher | 1 RU

The Blackmagic Design ATEM 2 M/E Constellation HD Live Production Switcher offers robust live event HD switching capabilities, accommodating up to 20 individual 3G/HD-SDI inputs within a compact 1 RU chassis. This switcher is compatible with both 3G-SDI and HD-SDI signals, allowing connections to a diverse array of cameras and sources. It provides program output through 12 3G-SDI BNC outputs or via USB-C for webcam output. Furthermore, the device features two multiview outputs, each capable of displaying up to 16 routable windows that can showcase inputs, keyed video, graphics, and still images from the media pool, in addition to the program output. Each input is linked to an integrated Fairlight audio mixer, which supports up to 48 audio channels.

The switcher is equipped with a reference video input, and each input is provided with a frame synchronizer, frame rate converter, and format converter. This functionality enables the integration of various cameras and formats, including those without genlock, as well as video inputs from computer sources. It supports both upstream and downstream keyers and effects. All operations are performed live and in real time, eliminating the need for rendering. Control of the switcher can be achieved through the built-in front panel, optional Blackmagic ATEM panels, or the downloadable control software.

Broadcast-Quality Transitions

The ATEM Constellation HD offers an extensive selection of broadcast-quality native transitions, including mix, dip, wipe, and additional options. Each transition can be tailored through the system control menus, allowing for modifications in border color, border width, position, direction, and various other parameters. This switcher is equipped with a robust digital video effects processor that facilitates DVE transitions, enabling the current image to be pushed offscreen to unveil a new video beneath. Additionally, the DVE can be utilized to produce graphic wipe transitions. To prevent mistakes, the ATEM Constellation HD incorporates a preview transition feature, allowing users to configure their transitions prior to broadcasting.

Built-In DVE

The ATEM Constellation is equipped with two independent Digital Video Effects (DVE) units, allowing for the repositioning of graphics and the creation of picture-in-picture layouts. It delivers exceptional quality, with real-time support for positioning, resizing, and scaling. The DVE enables the production of professional-grade picture-in-picture effects, complete with customizable 3D borders, shadows, and lighting effects. Additionally, DVEs can be utilized to craft impressive transitions featuring squeeze and swoosh effects, enhancing the dynamism of your programming. Furthermore, it is possible to merge DVE transitions with custom graphics to develop unique graphic wipe transitions. The 2 M/E model is enhanced with SuperSource processors, accommodating six DVEs.

SuperSource

In addition to the DVEs located in the M/E rows, the 2 M/E model is equipped with advanced SuperSource multilayer processors that feature four additional DVE layers along with a background layer. These layers are recognized by the ATEM Constellation HD as an extra input source. Each SuperSource DVE can utilize any switcher video input, which is then combined with a custom background from the media pool. Essentially, SuperSource functions as an integrated multi-layer VFX switcher. This capability is particularly advantageous for creating picture-in-picture displays during interviews, as it allows for the setup of effects while keeping the primary DVEs available for other functions.

Multiview

Configurable to 16, 13, 10, 7, or 4 up view. It includes monitoring of program, preview, inputs, media players, DSK, and clean feed with optional labels and audio meters. The 2 M/E model features two multiview outputs.

Professional Broadcast Talkback

To ensure that teams operate cohesively as a unified creative unit, the ATEM Constellation is equipped with integrated talkback functionality. This feature accommodates a 5-pin XLR headset connector and includes a rear-mounted RJ12 connector, allowing compatibility with industry-standard talkback systems such as ClearCom or RTS. Users benefit from comprehensive talkback management, which encompasses program and engineering loops, sidetone control for monitoring the headset microphone through the headphones, and program mix capabilities. Additionally, the ATEM Constellation HD offers SDI talkback, utilizing SDI channels 15 and 16 for bidirectional communication with Blackmagic Design cameras, while channels 13 and 14 can be designated for engineering talkback. Furthermore, it is feasible to incorporate the talkback microphone into the program audio for voiceover applications.

Media Pool

The integrated media pool is designed to store broadcast-quality RGBA graphics and animations, which can be played back immediately by either two or four media players. These media players function as supplementary input sources on the ATEM Constellation HD, eliminating the need for additional SDI inputs for graphics. The media pool is specifically intended for graphics utilized by the media players. The 2 M/E model is capable of accommodating 40 still images and 400 frame animations. Media management is straightforward with the provided ATEM Software Control, or you can directly download content from Photoshop using the ATEM Photoshop plug-in.

Chroma Keyers

For news broadcasting or virtual set applications, the ATEM Constellation HD is an excellent choice, as it is equipped with numerous advanced keyers that ensure high-quality chroma and luminance keying. The chroma keyer is exceptionally robust and includes a color picker that allows users to sample background colors, facilitating the automatic generation of key parameters. Users benefit from precise controls for edge and flare adjustments, and a foreground color corrector is also available, enabling the foreground layer to be matched seamlessly with the background layer for cohesive compositions. Additionally, the keyer supports pattern and DVE keying. The 2 M/E model provides eight ATEM Advanced Keyers.

Upstream Chroma Keyers

The presence of four upstream chroma keyers for each M/E row provides an ideal solution for constructing virtual sets. With an abundance of ATEM Advanced chroma keyers available, it is possible to assign one keyer to each camera, facilitating a flawless integration of the camera feed with a customized background. The 2 M/E model is equipped with sufficient keyers to support a virtual set featuring four cameras. Additionally, external image processors can be utilized for virtual sets, or a fixed camera virtual set can be created by loading pre-rendered still image backgrounds from the media players and media pool. Macros can be configured to switch between cameras and load the appropriate background into the media players. This level of flexibility allows for extensive experimentation with various studio configurations.

Multi-Rate 3G-SDI Input

The ATEM Constellation HD features up to 20 multi-rate 3G-SDI input connections, varying by model, making it compatible with a wide range of HD video sources. It supports all HD television standards, including 720p, 1080i, and 1080p formats. The multi-rate 3G-SDI capability enables seamless switching between HD formats, allowing for immediate adaptation to the specific requirements of any project worldwide. Additionally, the SDI inputs are capable of handling embedded audio and mixing audio from all video sources. Furthermore, the program outputs provide talkback, tally, and camera control information, facilitating the connection of any switcher SDI outputs back to the camera for program return, camera control, and talkback functionalities.

Audio

ATEM Constellation HD fully embraces live professional audio production. All SDI inputs are connected to a built-in Fairlight audio mixer that features a 6-band parametric EQ, compressor, limiter, noise gate, and expander on each input.

ATEM Software Control Panel

The ATEM Software Control Panel provides comprehensive management of your switcher and is available at no cost. It boasts an elegantly designed interface that includes a visual switcher and parameter palettes for efficient adjustments. Multiple users can connect to the switcher through Ethernet, allowing them to collaborate on various aspects of the event simultaneously. Additionally, the ATEM Software Control enables access to camera management, audio mixing, media handling, macro programming, and control of HyperDeck disk recorders. Users can save the complete configuration of the switcher as XML files, and all media is securely backed up from the media pool. The software is compatible with both Mac and Windows operating systems.

Supports Optional Control Panels

Three models of ATEM Advanced Panels are available. ATEM Advanced Panels feature an industry-standard, familiar M/E style layout. Each panel has built-in LCDs for menus, high-quality buttons with customizable illumination color, a DVE joystick, and a T-bar fader. You can even set up and trigger macros. All rows of M/E buttons include integrated LCDs for dynamic input button labeling. The 1 M/E model features a single M/E row with 10 input buttons. The 2 M/E model features 2 M/E rows with 20 input buttons. The massive 4 M/E model features four M/E rows with 40 input buttons per row and four independent system control LCD screens.