Roland Professional AV has introduced the V-02HD multi-format video mixer, which combines a switcher, scaler, input expander, and inline video effects/composition and audio system in one portable unit. Dubbed a 'micro-switcher,' by the manufacturers, it is designed for solving challenges in livestreaming and video production workflows,and will fit into most equipment cases and camera bags.
As a switcher, Roland’s V-02HD can provide a professional cross-dissolve switchover between sources while maintaining hi-res “pixel-accurate” display resolution with deep 10-bit 4:4:4 colour space. It can also transform a two-camera shoot into an easily managed one-person production for livestreaming.
The unit accepts the outputs from two HDMI cameras and enables switching to a connected recorder or livestreaming encoder. Two-button operation means that even a first-time user can accomplish professional switching of multiple sources, and hands-free switching is possible using an optional footswitch.
Not all HDMI-equipped devices are compatible, but the V-02HD matches them to the resolution of the receiving device and then resizes them to fit the associated display by offering both input and output scalers as well as HDCP/Multi-format support. The V-02HD accepts SD, HD and computer resolutions ranging from 1080/59.94p down to 640 x 480/ 60 Hz VGA.
Transition, composition and visual effects tools may be applied in real time from the intuitive front panel controls. Fourteen visual effects and five composition effects are included, with adjustable parameters to fine-tune the results. Operators can use the onboard composition effects to add titles, apply the Key effect for green screen work or create a separate inset window with the PinP capability. In case of an input source problem or if content is not yet ready or able to be shared, the V-02HD can store a still image for immediate display.
The V-02HD mixes 2-channel audio from sources with HDMI de-embedding along with one stereo analog input for external sources via a 3.5mm jack. The unit supports analog and 24-bit/48 kHz Linear PCM digital audio with embedding to the HDMI outputs for recording or livestreaming as well as analog output to a dedicated audio mixer or other device, or for headphone monitoring, through a second 3.5mm jack.
Onboard audio processing includes three-band EQ, high-pass filter, compressor, noise gate, multi-band compressor, limiter and delay, and there is a test tone output. A built-in effects library offers presets for managing common production scenarios such as interviews, ambient sound recording and the elimination of wind noise when filming outdoors. These tools even work with inline HDMI signals, allowing audio issues to be addressed without leaving the digital domain.
The V-02HD measures 6 5/16 (W) x 4 1/4 (D) x 2 1/16 (H) inches (160 x 108 x 54 mm), weighs just 1 lb 6 oz (.6 kg), and ships with an AC adaptor.
Roland Professional’s V-02HD Multi-format Video Switcher will ship December 2018 at a price of 529 Euros.