More exciting news fresh from NAB 2025 in Las Vegas! Blackmagic Design has just announced the Blackmagic Streaming Decoder, a brand-new streaming processor designed to create robust, high-quality video links over the internet. Alongside this launch, the existing Blackmagic Web Presenter lineup is being renamed to Blackmagic Streaming Encoder for better clarity.
Together, this perfectly matched Encoder/Decoder pair empowers Australian creators to build true broadcast-quality point-to-point video links in HD or Ultra HD, complete with essential studio control features – all over standard internet connections!
And the best news? Both the Blackmagic Streaming Encoder and the new Blackmagic Streaming Decoder are available immediately from resellers like Koala Audio, priced at US$675 each (local Australian pricing TBC).
Building Broadcast Bridges: The Encoder/Decoder Workflow
Think beyond just streaming to platforms like YouTube. This duo is about sending high-quality video reliably between locations:
- The Blackmagic Streaming Encoder (formerly Web Presenter) takes your SDI or HDMI source and encodes it into an efficient H.264 or H.265 stream.
- The New Blackmagic Streaming Decoder receives that stream over the internet (or mobile network) and decodes it back to pristine SDI (up to 12G-SDI) and HDMI video at the destination.
You can also stream directly from compatible Blackmagic cameras (like the Studio Camera Pro, PYXIS, URSA Cine, and URSA Broadcast G2) straight to the Streaming Decoder, eliminating the need for an Encoder at the camera end in some setups.
The Secret Sauce: Remote Tally, Talkback & Camera Control
This is where the system truly shines for professional workflows. The Streaming Decoder isn't just receiving video; it enables crucial return communication:
- Connect the Decoder's SDI "Reference" input to an ATEM switcher's program output.
- The Decoder intelligently sends tally signals, talkback audio, and camera control data back over the internet link to the remote Blackmagic Streaming Encoder or directly to compatible Blackmagic cameras.
- Remote camera operators get tally lights indicating when they're live, can communicate via talkback, and studio operators can remotely adjust camera settings (like iris, focus, colour balance) just as if the camera were connected locally via SDI. It seamlessly integrates remote sources into your main production.
Reliable Connectivity Anywhere
Blackmagic knows remote links need reliability:
- Ethernet & Mobile Tethering: Connect via standard Ethernet, or use the front or rear USB-C ports to tether a 4G or 5G smartphone for mobile streaming or as an automatic backup if the main internet connection fails. You can even prioritise which connection to use.
- Redundant Power: Supports both AC and DC power inputs for backup and peace of mind.
Compact, Rack-Mountable Design
Both the Encoder and Decoder use the popular modular Teranex Mini design. At only 1/3rd of a rack unit wide, you can mount three units side-by-side in a single RU – perfect for building multi-channel streaming links or compact fly-packs.
Who Needs This Streaming Pair?
This Encoder/Decoder solution is ideal for Australian creators and organisations needing reliable, high-quality video transmission between sites with professional control:
- Broadcasters: For remote news contributions or linking studios.
- Live Event Producers: Connecting cameras or feeds between different venues or remote locations.
- Educational Institutions: Streaming lectures or events between campuses.
- Houses of Worship: Linking multiple locations for services or events.
- Anyone needing remote camera operation with full studio integration (tally, talkback, CCU control).
Available from Koala Audio!
As Blackmagic Design CEO Grant Petty highlighted, this simplifies building "broadcast quality video links across the world." The power to create these professional remote connections is here!
Both the Blackmagic Streaming Encoder and the new Blackmagic Streaming Decoder are available to order now through Koala Audio.
Ready to build your reliable remote video link? Contact the Koala Audio team today! We can help you design the perfect solution, incorporating these powerful streaming processors with compatible cameras, switchers, and all the necessary accessories.
Let's connect your creativity, wherever it happens!
