SUMMARY: If you need a perfect multi-format capture and playback tool, the latest version of Multibridge Pro (sometimes referred to as Multibridge Pro 2) is the ticket.
TARGET APPS
Editors using Final Cut Studio or Adobe Production Studio CS4 will be extremely pleased to add this baby to their workflow. The speed, real-time playback and ability to mix and match formats are worth their weight in gold.
WHAT IT COSTS YOU $1,595
WHAT’S COOL
The ability to work with multiple formats with ease.
WHAT’S MISSING
4K, which I’m sure is coming very soon
Smart Advice
The Multibridge houses all electronics in an external chassis connected to your computer via an included PCI Express cable and plug-in board. This lets you use it as a video converter when not connected to your computer.
The Multibridge package includes DeckLink software, which, when connected to a host computer via PCIe, gives you a wide range of free software utilities, such as Photoshop plug-ins for capture and output of still frames. FrameLink also lets you access QuickTime and AVI media as DPX files instantly.
Specs
SDI Video Input 2 x 10 bit SD, HD, 3Gb/s HD and 2K switchable. Usable as Dual Link HD-SDI for 4:2:2 or 4:4:4 connection or 3 Gb/s for HD-SDI 4:4:4 or SDI Video Output 2 x 10 bit SD, HD, 3Gb/s HD and 2K switchable. Usable as Dual Link HD-SDI for 4:2:2 or 4:4:4 connection or 3 Gb/s for HD-SDI 4:4:4 or 2K.
Supported SDI Formats 525 NTSC, 625 PAL, 720HD, 1080HD and 2K 2048 x 1556 switchable.
Analog Video Input Component YUV, NTSC, PAL and S-Video switchable between SD and HD in Component.
Analog Video Output Component YUV, NTSC, PAL and S-Video switchable between SD and HD in Component.
Supported Analog Formats 525 NTSC, 625 PAL, 720HD and 1080HD switchable.
Being a content provider these days means wearing several different hats and being ready for anything. When working with digital assets, such as high-definition video, it is important to find a workflow that, well, works.
In my regular content creation work, I always look for products that are efficient for my workflow. Capturing, editing and exporting footage from dailies to final renders is my lifeblood. This means that I need rock – solid and extremely dependable hardware and software. On the NLE front, my editing applications are Apple Final Cut Pro and Adobe Premiere Pro CS4. I began my search for a tool that would import uncompressed footage no matter the format.
Much to my surprise, I didn’t have to venture out into the abyss too long. A visit to Blackmagic Design’s Web site proved fulfilling. I was well aware of the company and its much – heralded products, and I found what I was looking for: the Multibridge Pro. The latest version of the product, sometimes referred to and sold as Multibridge Pro 2, is a majestic metal monolith that not only will add speed and quality to your editing capabilities, but will keep a lid on your post production budget.
The Format Acrobat
The Multibridge Pro offers editors a way to get uncompressed 2K, HD, SD video captured playback in real time and to switch between formats with ease. Editors who have captured footage via FireWire will deeply appreciate the ability to use PCIe. At 10 Gbps latency was virtually nonexistent. The Multibridge Pro even ships with a PCIe card. Just plug the card in to your Mac or PC, connect it to the Multibridge Pro, and off you go.
One of the greatest features for me was the ability to use the Multibridge Pro with FCP and Premiere Pro CS4. Since I work in both applications extensively, I really wanted something that worked with both. I tested the Multibridge Pro on my MacPro 8 Core running Leopard. Besides supporting FCP and Premiere Pro CS4, it was also compatible with After Effects, Photoshop and Combustion. This makes the Multibridge Pro a terrific all – around addition to any NLE setup. CS4 currently only works for PC. Photoshop and AE plugins are coming very soon.
A feature of the Multibridge Pro that really stood out for me was that it let me work in real time when adding effects in Premiere Pro, FCP, After Effects and Motion. Blackmagic advertised "real time, RAM previews in After Effects," and they are right.
Stay Connected
The Multibridge Pro comes packed with options for connections. The HDMI out was a huge plus for me. Not only could I capture from my camera via the HDMI in port but I could also connect my 42-inch HD television for previewing work. It’s always great to have a client come in and see their project plastered on the wall.
Also in the mix are:
SD/HD SDI In/Out
Two channels of Analog Audio In/Out
Eight channels of AES/EBU Digital Audio In and Out
An RS-422 port for broadcast decks
Two channel unbalanced audio outputs for low – cost HiFi
NTSC/PAL Composite video out
Genlock and HD tri-sync input
Testing Capacity
Let’s discuss the SDI connection for a second. With a 3 Gbps connection speed, real – time 2K capture and playback is truly real time. My tests were with a 2K image sequence and the Multibridge Pro performed amazingly well.
Along with the ability to capture/playback multiple formats, the Multibridge Pro offers another feature called Converter Mode. This mode, used via USB connection, allows the user to update firmware, set video levels and select audio embedding.
For content providers looking to add video game or machinima – type capability, the Multibridge Pro is great for capturing. Plug in your console of choice via HDMI or component and off you go.
Final Thoughts
I found using the Blackmagic Design Multibridge Pro very satisfying, and setting it up was simple and quick. The uncompressed footage, from several source types, is fantastic to work with. The fact that I could use it with both of my favorite editing applications was a huge point for me. It’s easy to move between my PC and Mac as well. The unit is extremely compact and portable if need be. It is a cost effective and highly usable addition to any toolbox.
Comments (5) for "ROI Reviews: Blackmagic Design Multibridge Pro"
1.
Wy no embedded link to blackmagic website?
Posted by Mark on Friday, April 3, 2009 @ 10:19 AM
2.
Sounds like a dream come true.
What are the negatives like cost and
'do I need extra ram etc
The glow was almost too good to be true.
Posted by annie on Friday, April 3, 2009 @ 12:37 PM
3.
i have the same system and setup like yours , never being able to use it. got the feeling i wasted my money. the mac pro, premiere, and final cut, multibridge pro, exactly the same!!!
Posted by w ramirez on Friday, April 3, 2009 @ 08:10 PM
4.
First of all. i have too the same configuration. working with mac pro only., but seems that this post is "booked Article" - but maybe i'm wrong. (its my own impression).
Secondary as "CHEAP" card, i mean inexpensive - BIG greetings for blackmagic as well - very good product, works and everything is ok.
BUT... if you working in analog - lets say betacam - everyone please check orange colour (make nice orange - like mobile network) -on monitor wil be ok, but when recording in BTC tape - it newer will be as orange - like overexposed yellow. with oscilograph when transfering footage to btc. the levels are different. .. of course everything is pretty well with SDI connection (but YUV "su**s"). My verdict - if i could have some extra $k money. i buy Aja. TRUE colours. for bigger price. but. aja is expensive for me.
Posted by ramiz on Sunday, April 5, 2009 @ 05:10 PM
5.
I have multibrige eclipse with Premier Pro CS 4 but I can't see transitions in reel time, you know why? could you help me on this matter. tks in advance
Posted by Ray Juarez on Thursday, October 21, 2010 @ 01:21 PM
