Roland has announced the V-8HD HD Video Switcher. It claims to be the only portable switcher offering up to 8 HDMI audio/video sources with resolutions up to 1080p.
According to Roland, the switcher has a toolset that “streamlines production, increases creativity, reduces on-site stress, and reduces total system costs.” It cuts costs by supporting HDMI instead of more expensive SDI-based sources. It’s also made to be portable and carried around in a backpack.
“V-8HD is easily today’s most versatile and efficient HDMI switcher, satisfying business and creative needs for a wide variety of applications such as live events, education, worship, live streaming, corporate presentations, esports, and more,” says Roland.
V-8HD overview
The V-8HD has a 5-layer effects engine and built-in 18-channel audio mixer with effects. It also claims to eliminate computer stress and crashes that often happen with software-based switchers. Additionally, the switcher can mix eight HDMI sources with Full HD support. Also, there are built-in scalers on two of the HDMI inputs.
The V-8HD features assignment buttons that can send any connected input devices to a dedicated aux output without affecting the main feed. You can also synchronize the aux output with the program output, creating a built-in 3x distribution amp. As for the switcher’s display, it is a 4.3-inch multiviewer display. You don’t have to buy a monitor to monitor video inputs, PGM, and PVW. Plus, the display can show the status of a connected camcorder on a single screen.
Furthermore, the V-8HD offers technology-assisted automatic switching modes. You can trigger Atomos recorders to start and stop recording through HDMI. You can also use a remote-control app that turns an iPad into a V-8HD touch interface, and optional Hands-Free Switching & Control using a BOSS single or double footswitch.
Pricing and availability
The Roland V-8HD HD Video Switcher is available now for $1,995. You can learn more at Roland’s website.
