Blackmagic Design ATEM 2 M/E Constellation 4K

Blackmagic Design ATEM 2 M/E Constellation 4K

The Blackmagic Design ATEM 2 M/E Constellation 4K is a high-density, rack-mount live production switcher designed for demanding Ultra HD workflows. It sits in the middle of the Constellation 4K lineup, offering a balanced ratio of 20 inputs and 12 outputs, making it ideal for mid-to-large-scale live events, broadcast studios, and houses of worship.

Core Functionality

• 20 Standards-Converted Inputs: Every one of the 20 12G-SDI inputs features its own dedicated standards converter. This allows you to mix and match any combination of 720p, 1080p, and 2160p sources without external scaling hardware.

• 12 Independent Aux Outputs: All 12 12G-SDI outputs are fully assignable. You can route any internal source or program feed to any output, which is essential for feeding multiple stage screens, recording decks, or overflow rooms.

• SuperSource Processor: Includes a single SuperSource engine, which is effectively an extra multi-layer switcher. It allows for complex "picture-in-picture" layouts with 4 DVE layers and a background, all without using up your main M/E effects banks.

Technical Features

• 8 ATEM Advanced Keyers: Features 4 upstream keyers per M/E row (8 total). These offer professional-grade chroma, luma, and linear keying with precise control over edges, flares, and color correction.

• Dual Multiviews: Includes two independent multiview outputs that can be configured to show 4, 7, 10, 13, or 16 views. These can display any input, media player, or program/preview bus.

• Fairlight Audio Mixer: A built-in 48-channel audio mixer provides professional tools like 6-band parametric EQ, compressor, limiter, expander, and noise gate on every input.

• USB Webcam Output: Features a USB-C connection that allows the switcher to be recognized as a standard webcam by computers. This makes it compatible with Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and Open Broadcaster Software (OBS) at 1080p or 720p.

Technical Specifications

Operational Insight

The "2 M/E" designation is the key to this unit's power. It allows an operator to build a complex composition on one M/E bank (like a sports score overlay) and then use the second M/E bank to switch the main program. It also enables "Dual Destination" switching, where one operator can provide a broadcast feed on M/E 1 while another provides a clean "no-graphics" feed for an archive or stadium screen on M/E 2.

Note: For monitoring and setup, the front panel includes a 2.2-inch LCD and a rotary knob, which can be used for emergency switching if your control software or hardware panel loses connection.