Live Video Presentation -> Switching & Mixing

F

filmguy123

Veteran
We are preparing for a live show, in which we will have three projectors and three cameras. Each camera would cover something different - one in a different room, to be displayed on one projector; another camera for stage coverage, and another camera for audience/other coverage. We would want each projector to be able to either show each seperate camera, or to all show the same camera, or some combination of that.

Our organization purchased an Edirol V-440HD Multi-Format Video Mixer; however, we discovered that while we can input all three cameras and output to multiple projectors, every projector shows the same mix (for example, Projector 1 cannot show camera 1 while projector 2 shows camera 2... all projectors must show the same thing).

We are new to live show production... what is the best solution that we could use to achieve the desired effect? We are thinking of returning the video mixer and purchasing something else... I know we could achieve the desired effect with 3 of these mixers, but that is way out of budget. What could we do without spending more?
 
We do this once in a while and yes you would need three switchers. Each video source would pass through a 1 in 4 out video DA then each output from the DA would feed into an input on each of your switchers. The output of each switcher would then go to one of your three projectors. I think I saw an article on a switcher that could do the job you require, but if three switchers are too heavy for your budget, then this baby would send your cash flow back to the stone age! I'm not sure what device it was but it came up during an investigation of doing multiple projector slide shows using data projectors and was clearly out of range budget wise as I recall.
 
Great, ok, thanks for the help. Arges - we would, but we're doing these weekly for the next few years :)

We'll probably start w/everything on the same screen, then in the future upgrade our setup.
 
You will need something with 3 outputs. Or 3 units with one output.

At very simplest, you need a "Matrix switcher" or "Video router" - but that would only give you cuts switching - and you'd need synchronized cameras to do it cleanly.

Other options include a proper 3M/E video mixer/production switcher. But that is PRICY.

And then of course there's the (cheapest flexible) multiple mixers approach. It might be your best option for this, and rental a realistic way to do it financially for short term stuff.


- Mikko
 
Matrix Switcher

Matrix Switcher

You need some sort of Matrix Switcher. As long as you don't need transitions or effects it should do the job. Be careful on the unit you pick and it might help to ask a sales person. A standard 4x4 matrix switcher should do for your 3 Camera X 3 Projector setup and you will be able to add both a camera and projector later. Most come in 2x2 or 4x4 or 8x8 so a 3 cam one might be hard to find. As far as price if you can return the other one (don't do it, that is a cool unit) the matrix switcher should be cheaper. If you need fancy effects and complex transitions your best bet is a Video Toaster, pricey but you can stream all 3 cameras live.


UPDATE: Of course I post without realizing Mikko had it on lock down. Also is HD a must because you can get 3 Edirol V-4's for about $3000US.
 
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