The Blackmagic ATEM Television Studio HD8 is an all-in-one HD production switcher designed for live events, conferences, broadcasts and live streaming. It combines an 8-input 3G-SDI vision mixer, Fairlight audio mixer, multiview, built-in streaming, USB recording and hardware control panel in a single compact unit, making it ideal for productions that need professional broadcast features without a rack full of equipment.
Video switching
The HD8 provides 8 standards-converted 3G-SDI inputs, allowing cameras and other video sources using different HD formats to be connected without external converters. Each input includes its own frame synchroniser, so cameras do not all have to be running in exactly the same video standard.
Video outputs are provided via 12 3G-SDI outputs, alongside an HDMI output for multiview monitoring. For many productions, this provides enough outputs for programme, multiview and auxiliary feeds directly from the switcher without requiring additional SDI distribution.
The switcher also includes 4 upstream chroma keyers, making it suitable for green screen presentations, virtual sets and live graphics.
Audio
Built into the HD8 is a Fairlight audio mixer, allowing embedded SDI audio, analogue XLR inputs and MADI audio to be mixed within the switcher. This makes it straightforward to combine camera audio, microphones and feeds from an external sound desk into a single programme output for streaming or recording.
For larger productions, the integrated MADI interface allows direct connection to compatible digital audio systems without requiring additional hardware.
Streaming and recording
The HD8 includes built-in live streaming and USB recording, removing the need for a separate streaming encoder or external recorder on many productions. Content can be streamed directly over the network while simultaneously recording to an external USB-C storage device.
A built-in USB webcam output also allows the programme feed to appear as a standard webcam on Windows and macOS computers, making it compatible with applications such as Microsoft Teams, Zoom and other conferencing platforms without requiring a separate capture device.
Size and power
The switcher measures 430 × 300 × 88 mm and has a maximum power consumption of 100 W, allowing it to operate from a standard 13 A mains supply alongside monitors and other control equipment.
Every hire includes the switcher in its dedicated flight case for safe transport.
Accessories
We can supply everything needed to build a complete production system alongside the switcher, including:
- 75 Ω SDI video cables in a range of lengths
- Broadcast monitors for programme and multiview
- Video distribution amplifiers
- Mains distribution and power leads
- Flight-cased control racks
- Additional Blackmagic converters and accessories
Whether you’re building a simple conference setup or a multi-camera broadcast system, we can supply the complete signal chain.
Information we’ll need
To prepare your hire, let us know:
- Number of video sources and whether they are all HD SDI.
- Programme destinations, such as streaming, recording, projection, LED screens or broadcast.
- Audio sources, including embedded SDI audio, analogue XLR or MADI.
- Cable distances between cameras, the switcher and display locations.
- Any additional equipment required, such as monitors, converters or distribution.
If you’re unsure whether the ATEM Television Studio HD8 is the right switcher for your production, send us your equipment list and we’ll recommend the most suitable solution.
