Blackmagic Design ATEM Mini Extreme ISO
Professional Live Production Switcher with ISO Recording
The Blackmagic Design ATEM Mini Extreme ISO is a powerful and versatile live production switcher tailored for professional content creators, broadcasters, and multi-camera streamers. It builds upon the already feature-rich ATEM Mini Extreme, adding one of its most valuable features: ISO recording, which allows simultaneous recording of multiple inputs and the program output for enhanced post-production flexibility.
Multi-Camera Switching and HDMI Inputs
The ATEM Mini Extreme ISO features eight full HD HDMI inputs, supporting up to 1080p at 60 frames per second. Each input has frame rate and format converters that synchronize signals from different sources, including professional broadcast cameras, consumer video devices, computers, and gaming systems. This ensures seamless switching between all inputs with zero lag or signal degradation.
ISO Recording Capability
The standout feature of this model is the ability to record up to nine separate H.264 video streams simultaneously—eight ISO inputs and one program output—creating individual MP4 files for each camera feed alongside the live switched feed. This innovative ISO recording empowers producers to capture every camera angle independently, providing extensive creative control during post-production.
Additionally, the ATEM Mini Extreme ISO automatically generates a DaVinci Resolve project file, linking all ISO streams and the live program. This integration dramatically speeds editing workflows, allowing editors to make precise adjustments, fix errors, or remix productions with full creative freedom.
Audio Mixing and Inputs
Audio is handled by an 11-input, 2-channel Fairlight audio mixer featuring selectable routing options per input (On, Off, or Audio-Follow-Video), and independent gain controls. The mixer includes professional audio tools such as compressor, gate, limiter, and a 6-band parametric equalizer, offering broad control to create pristine live audio mixes suited for broadcast.
Two XLR Combo inputs with phantom power support professional microphones and line-level inputs, enhancing flexibility for capturing live sound or connecting external audio gear. Unbalanced stereo analog inputs with adjustable delay add further versatility.
Video Layers and Effects
The ATEM Mini Extreme ISO provides nine layers of video compositing:
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Four advanced upstream keyers: supporting up to four chroma and linear/luma keys, perfect for green screen or graphic overlays.
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Two downstream keyers for additional layering effects.
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Two DVEs with borders and drop shadows add dynamic picture-in-picture effects or smooth transitions.
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Five pattern generators and two color generators offer technical and creative opportunities.
Multiview Monitoring
With four 3G-SDI outputs, the switcher supports a configurable multiview that can display up to 16 views on a single monitor. Views include all HDMI inputs, program and preview feeds, CleanFeed, media player previews, streaming/recording status, and audio levels. This comprehensive monitoring setup is essential for live productions with multiple feeds and stakeholders.
Streaming and Recording
The switcher supports direct live streaming using RTMP or SRT protocols over Ethernet or USB-C. It seamlessly streams the program feed to platforms such as YouTube, Facebook, and Twitch without extra hardware.
Recording is managed through USB-C 3.1 Gen 1 expansion ports, enabling direct recording to external flash drives or storage arrays. The switcher can record multiple video streams simultaneously (ISO inputs and program feed) as separate H.264 MP4 files with AAC audio, facilitating immediate online upload or detailed post-production.
Control and Compatibility
Users can operate the ATEM Mini Extreme ISO through:
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The built-in hardware control panel, offering tactile controls and instant access.
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The ATEM Software Control application (Mac and Windows), providing advanced customization, media management, and camera control features.
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Compatibility with Blackmagic’s advanced hardware control panels for extended professional workflows.
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Remote control over Ethernet for multi-user environments or networked setups.
It also supports Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera’s remote control features through HDMI, allowing operators to adjust focus, iris, gain, color balance, and apply DaVinci Resolve primary color grading in real time.
Technical Specifications Snapshot
Feature | Details |
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HDMI Inputs | 8 (type A, 10-bit HD switchable, 2-channel audio) |
Video Output | 2 x HDMI, 4 x 3G-SDI |
Audio Mixer | 11 input x 2 channel Fairlight mixer with compressor, gate, limiter, EQ |
Keyers | 4 upstream, 2 downstream, chroma, luma keys |
Video Effects | 2 DVEs, 5 pattern generators, 2 color generators |
ISO Recording | 8 x HDMI inputs + 1 program output recorded as MP4 H.264 files with AAC audio |
Streaming | RTMP and SRT over Ethernet or USB-C |
Recording Ports | USB-C 3.1 Gen 1 expansion |
Multiview | Up to 16 views on four 3G-SDI outputs |
Camera Control | Supports Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Cameras over HDMI |
Power Supply | 12V DC |
Compatible Control Panels | ATEM Software, ATEM 1/2/4 M/E Advanced Panels |
Dimensions and Weight | Compact, portable design, easy studio/field deployment |
Use Cases
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Live multi-camera broadcasting
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Corporate and educational webinars
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Houses of worship and event streaming
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Esports and gaming tournaments
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Professional post-production workflow integration
Conclusion
The Blackmagic Design ATEM Mini Extreme ISO is a feature-packed video switcher and recorder that brings professional live production capabilities into an accessible yet advanced package. Its powerful ISO recording function redefines live editing potential by capturing each camera input independently, supported by deep integration with DaVinci Resolve for fast, seamless post-production.
Equipped with extensive audio processing, advanced multi-layer video compositing, reliable streaming and recording workflows, and intuitive control options, the switcher meets the most demanding live production requirements across a variety of professional environments.
For studios and creators devoted to quality, storytelling control, and workflow efficiency, the ATEM Mini Extreme ISO is an indispensable tool elevating live production to new heights.