Blackmagic Design ATEM Mini Extreme
Advanced Live Production Switcher
The Blackmagic Design ATEM Mini Extreme is a powerhouse live streaming switcher designed for professional broadcasters, content creators, and event producers looking for sophisticated features and extensive input options within a compact form factor. It elevates live production workflows by providing eight HDMI inputs, comprehensive audio mixing capabilities, advanced chroma keying, and multiple video effects, all aimed at seamless live streaming, recording, and control.
Comprehensive Inputs and Switching
The ATEM Mini Extreme features eight HDMI inputs capable of supporting full HD 1080p video at up to 60 frames per second. This allows users to connect multiple cameras, computers, game consoles, or other HDMI sources simultaneously for live event productions, webcasts, or multi-camera streaming setups. The switcher performs real-time switching among these sources with ultra-low latency, maintaining broadcast-quality video fidelity.
Advanced Audio Mixer
Audio is a critical component in any production, and the ATEM Mini Extreme excels with its built-in Fairlight audio mixer. It offers an 11-input by 2-channel mixer with selectable audio per input—On, Off, or Audio-Follow-Video—and independent gain controls. The mixer incorporates professional-grade effects like compressors, gates, limiters, and a 6-band parametric EQ to fine-tune sound quality and dynamics live. It also supports balanced XLR inputs with phantom power, allowing connection of professional microphones and audio equipment.
Multiview Output and Monitoring
Efficient monitoring is essential during complex live productions. The ATEM Mini Extreme supports a flexible multiview output that can display up to 16 different views simultaneously on a single HD monitor. This includes all HDMI inputs, preview and program feeds, media player previews, streaming and recording status, audio levels, and SuperSource video layers—giving operators a complete overview of the production in real-time, helping them stay in control and detect issues instantly.
Advanced Video Effects and Keying
For enhanced visual storytelling, the switcher includes four upstream chroma keyers allowing for professional green screen effects—ideal for virtual sets or overlaying graphics. Two downstream keyers are present for further compositing, such as adding logos or lower-thirds. It features two digital video effects (DVE) for picture-in-picture compositions with full control over borders and drop shadows, adding dynamism to live streams.
Media Playback and Graphics
The ATEM Mini Extreme is equipped with two independent media players that allow playback of high-resolution images, logos, lower-thirds, and animated effects. Users can store up to 20 still images in formats including PNG, TGA, BMP, GIF, JPEG, and TIFF, and display customized graphics seamlessly during live broadcasts.
Streaming and Recording Capabilities
This switcher supports direct live streaming via RTMP over Ethernet or USB-C, enabling immediate content delivery to platforms like YouTube, Facebook Live, and Twitch, without requiring additional equipment. It can also record H.264 MP4 files directly to USB-C connected external drives, making it easy to archive or post-produce content later.
Recording supports both the program feed and individual ISO inputs, capturing separate recordings of each connected source for ultimate post-production flexibility—a vital tool for professional editors.
Control and Connectivity
Users enjoy multiple control options: built-in hardware control buttons offer intuitive operation on-set, while the ATEM Software Control application provides advanced customization, effects control, and multi-operator collaboration from Mac or Windows computers. The switcher also supports popular Blackmagic hardware panels for tactile control experiences.
Connectivity includes:
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8 HDMI inputs (HDMI type-A)
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2 HDMI outputs
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USB-C webcam output for simplified streaming on platforms
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2 balanced XLR combo mic/line inputs with phantom power
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Ethernet port for streaming and software control
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USB-C port for recording and control
Additional Features
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Support for camera control of Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Cameras over HDMI, enabling control of focus, zoom, iris, gain, and color from the switcher interface
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Built-in color generators and pattern generators for creative and technical testing purposes
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Transition effect options including cuts, dissolves, dips, and wipes
Power and Physical Dimensions
The ATEM Mini Extreme is powered by a 12V DC adapter, ensuring stable operation in studio or field environments. Its compact, durable chassis is designed for ease of transport and integration into professional production racks or desktop setups.
Ideal Use Cases
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Professional live multi-camera broadcasts
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Corporate meetings and webinars with dynamic visual presentations
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Houses of worship live streaming
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eSports and gaming streaming events
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Educational and training content requiring multi-source video and audio input
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Independent content creators and digital studios needing high production value
Summary
The Blackmagic Design ATEM Mini Extreme is a professional-grade live streaming switcher that offers unparalleled input flexibility, powerful audio mixing, advanced video compositing, and streamlined recording and streaming capabilities. Offering a complete end-to-end live production solution in a compact, portable form factor, it enables creative professionals to produce broadcast-quality content with ease and confidence.
The switcher’s robust feature set, combined with its intuitive interface and extensive compatibility with Blackmagic accessories and cameras, makes it a versatile choice for broadcasters, event producers, and streamers who demand high performance without compromise.
