Sony introduces compact live production switcher for small studios

Sony has produced an entry-level compact live production switcher, the XVS-G1, that is targeted at small- to mid-sized studios, outside broadcast vehicles, and fly-away production units. The new robust and versatile product will be available in Asia-Pacific countries from Q3 2021.

The switcher inherits many features from Sony’s XVS high-end switchers and shares the same benefit of system status recognition, confidence in button-push accuracy, and speed in mission-critical live production scenes.

“Sony’s switchers have a long history and reputation for their reliability and robustness,” said Takuma Wada, Head of Content Creation Solutions Marketing, Professional Solutions Company (PSAP), Sony Corporation of Hong Kong.

“The new XVS-G1 is built on that legacy in a small compact and modular form and adds some must-have future-proof features such as a clip player, HDR conversion and capability, amongst many others.”

The XVS-G1 delivers high performance and reliability, with no compromise on visual processing enhancements, Sony said. Its hybrid structure combines a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), and a field-programmable gate array (FPGA).

The FPGA enables real-time processing in high resolution 4K (UHD), a wide colour gamut, high-dynamic range (HDR) imaging and ultra-low latency. High-density, high-resolution video processing using the latest software technology provides versatility and expandability.

Moreover, the graphics processing engine has been enhanced with features like a built-in clip player and 3D digital multi-effects. The improved multi-viewer enables the display of multiple types of information such as the audio level meter, and multi-layer captions overlay. Multiple HDR format conversion options are available, as well as built-in compatibility with the Sony SR live workflow.

The XVS-G1 system comes with an optional clip player, the first time this has been included in a Sony live production switcher. Four channels are available in HD and two channels in 4K (UHD), with each channel able to play back clips of up to 60 minutes.

Widely-available AVC codec files in MOV or MP4 container format are supported and backup storage of all clips is available on internal SSD storage.

A range of four control panels derived from Sony’s ICP-X7000 series ensures simple, easy, and

fast operations. The user menu is based on a newly-designed web application. Quick access to desired items is achieved with an optimised menu structure that reflect the live operation workflow and setup.