Magewell has launched its first self-contained, full-featured production solution, Director Mini. Combining multi-input switching, graphics, streaming, recording and monitoring in one compact device, Director Mini enables a single operator to easily create productions for live event coverage, remote production feeds and more.

Director Mini allows users can switch between two HDMI inputs and two USB AV inputs as well as three simultaneous live IP sources, including SRT streams, RTMP streams or up to two NDI HX sources. File-based media assets, including video, audio and images, can also be combined with live sources. Embedded audio is supported on the HDMI and USB inputs alongside a 3.5mm analog audio input.

Director Mini’s user interface is accessed through an integrated 5.44″ AMOLED touchscreen. You can define multiple scenes that combine live HDMI, USB and audio inputs with network streams, media sources and graphics, then switch or transition between these scenes on the fly. Chroma keying enables virtual backgrounds, while telestration enables real-time on-screen drawing and combines with built-in scoreboard functionality to support sports productions. PTZ camera control is also available through the touchscreen, simplifying single-operator productions.

Director Mini can encode video up to 1080p at 60 frames per second and bitrates up to 30Mbps, with a flexible array of output possibilities. Productions can be streamed using the RTMP protocol to popular platforms such as YouTube Live, Facebook Live or custom destinations. Live comments can be displayed while streaming to YouTube, Facebook or Twitch. The ability to output an SRT stream makes Director Mini a tool for contributing high-quality feeds to an off-site location for remote production. Alternatively, the device can create one NDI HX output to serve as a source for additional IP-based production tools. Its USB-C port can be configured to display the program output, user interface or a loop-through of either HDMI input on a connected USB-C display. Lastly, content can be recorded to an SD card, USB flash drive, or internal storage.

The compact Director Mini hardware features a 1/4″-20 thread for use with standard camera-mounting accessories and can be operated in a horizontal or vertical orientation. The device can be powered with the included power adapter but also supports two NP-F hot-swappable external batteries (not included), enabling power for long productions.