Roland’s Professional AV Division announces the VR-6HD Direct Streaming AV Mixer, a “compact all-in-one hub for business livestreaming.” Offering core features from the flagship VR-120HD in a portable format, the VR-6HD is intended for corporate meetings, online sales presentations, worship services and other professional applications. Video switching, audio mixing and LAN/USB streaming encoders are integrated into a single streamlined unit — Roland says one operator can handle all production tasks with minimal study thanks to the smart interface, deep automation tools, one-touch macro sequencing, PTZ camera control, and more.

Users can connect multiple cameras and computers via six HDMI inputs for different views and incorporate robotic PTZ cameras to change angles. Sources can be assigned and switched on the fly, including camera inputs, presentation decks, still images and video clips. Custom feeds for live and online viewers can also be created by assigning composition layers to multiple busses.

The VR-6HD features a high-end video matrix with three HDMI outputs, a USB-C streaming output and an Ethernet streaming output.

With direct streaming over Ethernet, computer streaming over USB and Adaptive Bitrate support, users can deliver high-quality presentations to any audience. And with simultaneous SDXC recording, it’s easy to capture presentations for archiving and distribution.

The VR-6HD also claims to deliver “world-class audio quality” with 28 simultaneous channels and Roland’s sound mixing and effects. Six balanced XLR/TRS combination jacks feature high-quality mic preamps and phantom power, while stereo RCA inputs are available for line-level devices. Users can mix the embedded digital audio from sources connected to the HDMI and USB inputs and stream wireless audio from any mobile device with onboard Bluetooth audio support.

The unique Audio Player section on the VR-6HD panel allows users to enhance streams with custom sounds. Six assignable pads are available to trigger sound effects, theme songs, event announcements, and more.

Thanks to its well-organized interface and intuitive workflow, even novice operators will feel comfortable using the VR-6HD. Hardware knobs, faders and buttons offer direct control for essential functions, while the 4.3-inch touch display provides smooth access to deeper parameters and settings. Scene memory, macro, and sequencing features simplify operation even more, providing the ability to pre-program complicated actions and fire them off with simple actions.

The VR-6HD features extensive PTZ (pan-tilt-zoom) camera integration with native support for select Canon, JVC, Panasonic, Sony, PTZOptics, Avonic, and VISCA-compatible PTZ LAN cameras. Different brands can be mixed and matched, and up to six PTZ cameras can be operated simultaneously.

The VR-6HD includes tally light support, external control via footswitches and expression pedals, RS-232 and GPIO ports and more. Free remote-control software coming in Q4 2023 will allow users to enhance production workflows via an iPad or Mac/Windows computer.

The Roland VR-6HD Direct Streaming AV Mixer will be available in May for $2,995.