Connections

The ATEM Television Studio HD8 comes equipped with 8 SDI video inputs and 12 SDI video outputs, supporting 1.5G and 3G SDI rates. It also includes 1 HDMI video output, 2 SDI Aux outputs, and 1 SDI program output. For audio, it offers multiple input options, including 2 XLR balanced analog audio ports, 1 BNC 32-channel MADI digital audio input, 2 RCA stereo analog audio inputs, and a 5-pin XLR talkback input. Audio outputs include 4 analog 1/4-inch jacks, 1 BNC 64-channel MADI digital audio output (with up to 50 active channels), and a 5-pin XLR talkback output. All SDI inputs support 4-channel embedded audio, while SDI outputs support 2-channel embedded audio. Additional connectivity includes 2 USB-C ports for webcam output, software updates, external drive recording, and switcher control, alongside 4 RJ45 Ethernet connections with integrated switch support.

Video Standards and Processing

The switcher supports HD input formats up to 1080p60, including interlaced and progressive formats such as 720p50/59.94/60 and 1080i50/59.94/60. Progressive standards include 1080p23.98 through 1080p60. The ATEM HD8 complies with SMPTE standards including 292M, 296M, 424M, and 425M levels A and B. It provides 10-bit 4:2:2 video sampling, Rec.709 color space, and automatic SDI switching between 1.5G and 3G-SDI. Video input re-sync and frame rate/format conversion are available on all 8 inputs, ensuring seamless switching between sources.

Control and Operation

The ATEM Television Studio HD8 features a built-in control panel with full switching capabilities. It includes 1 mix effects row, 10 direct cross points with 20 shifted cross points, and tri-color LED buttons with 6-row LCD labeling. Dedicated macro buttons (10+shift), 8 key buttons, 12 AUX buttons, and transition type selectors provide flexible workflows. It supports 4 upstream keyers, 2 downstream keyers, 4 advanced chroma keyers, 2 DVEs, 7 linear/luma keyers, and a SuperSource with multi-layer composition. Transitions include stinger and DVE options, while a dedicated fader bar, record/stream buttons, numeric keypad, and 3-axis joystick enhance control precision.

Streaming and Recording

The switcher supports direct live streaming using RTMP protocols via Ethernet or USB-C shared connections. Recording can be performed directly to external drives through the USB-C ports, with video stored as H.264 .mp4 files at the streaming quality and ATEM video standard, accompanied by AAC audio. The system supports ExFAT, APFS, and HFS+ formatted media, enabling wide compatibility with storage solutions.

Multiview Monitoring

The ATEM Television Studio HD8 includes powerful multiview monitoring via both SDI and HDMI outputs, supporting layouts of 16, 13, 10, 7, or 4 views. Users can monitor Program, Preview, Inputs, Media Players, DSKs, SuperSource, and Clean Feed, with optional labels and audio meters. Multiview operates in HD, with a minimum display resolution of 1366 x 768.

Media Players and Pool

Two media players are included, each supporting fill and key channels. The media pool can store up to 20 still images in formats such as PNG, TGA, BMP, GIF, JPEG, and TIFF. Additionally, 2 media clips can be stored, each supporting up to 1080p60 resolution, with clip lengths of 200 frames in 1080 HD and 400 frames in 720 HD. Supported audio formats include WAV, MP3, and AIFF, while video playback is supported through TGA sequences.

Audio and Camera Control

The built-in 58-channel Fairlight audio mixer supports on/off/AFV modes, master gain control, 6-band parametric EQ, and dynamics processing including expander, gate, compressor, and limiter. The system also allows tally, talkback, and mix-minus functionality. When paired with compatible Blackmagic cameras, the switcher enables remote control of focus, iris, zoom, gain, shutter, white balance, color correction, and tally, along with record start/stop.

Software and Updates

The ATEM Software Control Panel is included free of charge and compatible with macOS (Monterey 12.0, Ventura 13.0, Sonoma 14.0, Sequoia 15.0 or later) and Windows 10/11. Updates and configuration can be managed via USB or Ethernet using the ATEM Setup Utility.

Power and Environmental Specifications

The unit features an internal 100–240V AC power supply with IEC C14 connector, as well as a 12V DC input via 4-pin XLR for external power or battery operation. Maximum power usage is 100W. It operates in temperatures ranging from 0° to 40°C (32°–104°F) and can be stored between -20° and 60°C (-4°–140°F), with humidity tolerance of up to 90% non-condensing.

Physical Installation

The ATEM Television Studio HD8 is designed for desktop or in-desk mounting. It includes routable windows, tally indicators, and a fully integrated panel for streamlined operation.

What’s Included and Warranty

In the box, you’ll find the ATEM Television Studio HD8 unit and a welcome wallet with QR code for software download. The product is backed by a 1-year limited manufacturer’s warranty.