Introducing the Datavideo HS-1600T MKII: A Game-Changer in Live Production

By Marcus Swales | Technical Product Specialist, Holdan

In the world of live video production, having the right tools at your disposal can make all the difference. Whether you are producing live events, conferences, educational content, or corporate presentations, having a reliable and feature-rich switcher is essential. Enter the Datavideo HS-1600T MKII - a powerful and versatile switcher that is set to revolutionise the way you handle live video production.

Unmatched Performance for Professional Productions

The Datavideo HS-1600T MKII is engineered to meet the demands of professional live video production. With its robust hardware and innovative software, this switcher offers unparalleled performance and reliability. You can confidently deliver high-quality live content without worrying about technical glitches or signal interruptions.

Seamless Switching and Effects

Switching between multiple cameras and video sources during a live production requires precision and finesse. The HS-1600T MKII makes this process seamless, thanks to its intuitive control panel and user-friendly interface. The unit features four video inputs in total, 3 RJ-45 inputs and one HDMI. Generally, camera connections require one cable for video, another for power and a third for control, thanks to the built-in HDBaseT receivers you can install each camera with one cable. Not only does this reduce setup time but it also offers flexibility when mounting cameras in challenging locations. If you do require additional audio inputs, Datavideo has included 2 balanced XLR ports, 1 stereo RCA (L/R).

Additionally, the switcher comes equipped with a wide range of real-time effects, such as wipes, dissolves, and cuts, allowing you to add a professional touch to your live video production. In addition to these great transitions, the HS-1600T MKII features luma key for graphics, perfect for Houses of Worship. These effects empower you to elevate your storytelling and captivate your viewers with captivating visual transitions.

Advanced Audio Mixing Capabilities

Great video production is incomplete without top-notch audio. The Datavideo HS-1600T MKII recognises this and incorporates a comprehensive audio mixer into its design. This built-in audio mixer enables you to adjust audio levels, apply EQ settings, and control audio outputs seamlessly.

The switcher's audio delay function ensures that your audio remains in sync with the video, eliminating any potential lip-sync issues. Whether you are capturing the audio from microphones, media players, or embedded audio in the video sources, the HS-1600T MKII gives you the tools to achieve crystal-clear audio quality.

Effortless Integration with External Devices

Flexibility is key in live video production, and the Datavideo HS-1600T MKII excels in this aspect. It seamlessly integrates with external devices, such as PTZ cameras, computers, and media players, providing you with a wide range of options to expand your production setup. With the output options of three HDMI’s, 1 HDBaseT and 1 RJ-45 stream output your options are open for the daily demands of production.

The switcher's compatibility with popular streaming platforms and video conferencing software makes it an ideal choice for hybrid events or live webcasts. Whether you're streaming to YouTube, Facebook Live, or any other platform, the HS-1600T MKII ensures that your audience can enjoy a seamless viewing experience.

Intuitive Control and Customisation

The Datavideo HS-1600T MKII puts you in the driver's seat, allowing you to have full control over your live production. Its user-friendly interface enables easy navigation and quick access to essential functions. Moreover, the switcher supports customisable presets, enabling you to save and recall your preferred settings for different events or production scenarios.

Versatility for Various Live Productions

The Datavideo HS-1600T MKII is designed to cater to a wide range of live production scenarios. Whether you're producing a corporate event, a live sports broadcast, a concert, or an educational seminar, this switcher has the features and capabilities to meet your unique requirements.

For corporate events and presentations, the HS-1600T MKII's built-in still store comes in handy for showcasing logos, graphics, or slides seamlessly. The dual PIP (Picture-in-Picture) support allows you to display two additional sources on top of the main program feed, ideal for showing supplementary content or multiple camera angles simultaneously.

In the realm of live sports production, the switcher's swift switching capabilities and advanced effects ensure that you capture all the action with precision. The intuitive control panel allows you to focus on the game without being distracted by complex operations, making it perfect for high-energy and fast-paced events.

Educators and trainers will find the Datavideo HS-1600T MKII an invaluable asset for live-streamed or recorded seminars, lectures, and workshops. The switcher's integration with various audio sources and the audio delay function guarantees that your viewers experience crystal-clear sound and lip-synced video, enhancing the overall learning experience.

Portability and On-the-Go Production

The HS-1600T MKII's compact design and portability make it an excellent choice for on-the-go video production. Thanks to the all-in-one clamshell design, everything you need is in one package. From monitor, PTZ controls, audio mixer, recorder, and streaming encoder, it covers it all and is perfect for the one-person operator. Whether you're covering live events, news, or interviews at different locations, this switcher is easy to transport and set up. Its versatility and multifunctionality eliminate the need for carrying multiple devices, streamlining your production workflow.

Cost-Effective Solution for Small to Mid-Sized Productions

While the Datavideo HS-1600T MKII offers professional-grade features and performance, it is also a cost-effective solution for small to mid-sized productions. Compared to larger and more complex production switchers, the HS-1600T MKII provides an affordable option without compromising on quality.

Its user-friendly design means you can save time during setup and focus on delivering high-quality content to your audience. The switcher's ability to integrate with various cameras and equipment further reduces the need for additional investments, making it a wise choice for budget-conscious production teams and content creators.

PTZ Control

Having full PTZ control built into a production switcher, with tactile hardware to do so, isn’t a feature too commonly seen, especially at this price point. You have everything you need at your fingertips to control up to 3 PTZ cameras connected to the switcher, and with a recent update, the HS-1600T MKII can now also control the auto-tracking capabilities of their new line of auto-tracking PTZ cameras, such as the PTC-285.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Datavideo HS-1600T MKII is a portable, easy-to-use solution at great value. For those looking to manage multiple elements of a production all through one person, this all-in-one design is perfect for you.

Its unmatched performance, seamless switching, advanced audio capabilities, and effortless integration with external devices make it a standout choice for professionals and enthusiasts alike.

By choosing the HS-1600T MKII, you equip yourself with a versatile and reliable tool that unlocks your creative potential. Whether you're producing live events, corporate presentations, educational content, or online broadcasts, this switcher ensures that your productions are executed with precision and finesse.

Embrace the power of the Datavideo HS-1600T MKII and take your live video production to new heights. Your audience deserves the best, and this switcher empowers you to deliver unforgettable experiences that leave a lasting impact. So, gear up and get ready to create compelling and immersive live content with the Datavideo HS-1600T MKII by your side.