Report ● Yasuo Onoe (Onorin)

ATEM Mini Extreme ISO G2is the ultimate all-in-one live production switcher based on the classic ATEM Mini Extreme ISO, adding broadcast-level physical control and cutting-edge connectivity for super source compositing. In addition to the generous number of 8 HDMI inputs, 10G Ethernet, Thunderbolt connection, ISO recording between CFexpress and playback from the network while recording as a NAS, professional XLR input and digital audio MADI input, it has the local power to redefine the conventional wisdom of live streaming.

We will explain five points about its main features and appeal.

1.Renovation of physical design in pursuit of broadcast quality

・Professional buttons and faders: The buttons on the front panel have been updated to high-quality buttons that are standard in the broadcast industry and are easy to touch, and the caps can be removed to change labels. In addition, the long-awaited low-cost transition feeder (which can be operated like a T-bar) is newly installed, allowing for more intuitive manual operation.

・Advanced output control:HDMI output3 systemsIt has been improved so that you can directly switch between the two output systems from the front panel, allowing you to create a flexible monitoring environment that suits your site, including multi-view, program, and new audio status displays.

2. Dramatic evolution of audio functions

・Equipped with XLR/TRS combo input:In place of the conventional 3.5mm stereo mini jack,2 full-size XLR/TRS combo inputsThis allows you to directly connect condenser microphones and professional equipment that require phantom power to ensure high quality audio.

・Unlimited scalability with MADI:MADI inputBy daisy-chaining ATEM Microphone Converters, you can capture up to 16 channels of stereo (or more) with a single BNC cable.

Now, I think it would be useful if you also remember that when you press the BNK button to the right once, the 4th input becomes MADI 1.

・fairlight audio mixer:In addition to the built-in mixer, a full-screen audio management panel can be displayed via the HDMI output, allowing you to check loudness and make advanced EQ and dynamics adjustments.

3. Ultra-fast workflow with 10G Ethernet and CFexpress

・Record directly to high-speed media: On the back sideCFexpress card slotyou can collect ISO (individually) to high-speed media without worrying about the risk of the USB-C cable falling off.

・Switcher becomes NAS:10G Ethernet portWith this feature, recorded files can be accessed from computers on the network at ultra-high speed. This enables a “network recording” workflow where you can start editing and coloring directly across the network without having to hand over the media.

By recording all inputs individually (ISO), it is possible to perform camera replays.

The ISO file being recorded can be displayed in synchronized multicam mode on DaVinciResolve.

4. New possibilities with Thunderbolt connection

・Multifunctional connection with one cable:Newly installedthunderbolt portIn addition to acting as an Ethernet connection to your computer, it also supports trickle charging of your devices.

・Video input/output conceptA single Thunderbolt cable can send up to two video inputs, including “fill and key”, from your computer to the ATEM, and can also send video back from the ATEM to your computer. This allows you to build advanced caption transmission and replay systems using DaVinci Resolve without the need for an external capture device.

5. Ultimate replay system

・Integration with DaVinci Resolve Replay: The front panel has a dedicatedreplay control buttonDaVinci Resolve has high-speed file access via 10G Ethernet, making it useful in situations where a sense of speed is required, such as sports broadcasts.

Replay operations (using physical buttons)
Once the settings are complete, you can operate it using the physical buttons on the top of the ATEM Mini Extreme ISO G2.
• queue: Move the playhead to the beginning of the timeline or the In point set in DaVinci Resolve to prepare for replay.
• run: Start replay and broadcast the video.
• garbage: Stop replay. If automatic stingers are enabled, stingers will occasionally play.

◦If you want to stop immediately, press the DUMP button twice.

This Thunderbolt-connected workflow is an extremely powerful system that allows DaVinci Resolve to display the switcher’s live video inputs, and press the POI (Points of Interest) button to select a camera from a total of 8 individual inputs for instant replay.

conclusion

ATEM Mini Extreme ISO G2 is more than just a blank switcher.A production hub that combines a powerful distribution engine, shared network storage, and replay system into oneAlthough the price is $1,995 (332,800 yen including tax in Japan), which is higher than the previous model, the expanded IO and innovative workflow make it the best value for money for professionals.

Consultation/inquiries to Onorin

Author Profile Yasuo Onoue (Onorin)

Technical evangelist, technical director of video systems. TriCaster operator, ATEM certified trainer. He is involved in the design and operation of video systems in a wide range of fields, including broadcasting, web distribution, corporate VP, and live events. His motto is to convey complex techniques in an easy-to-understand manner, and he also conducts training and writing activities.

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