Blackmagic Design DeckLink Quad 2

Technical Details

The Blackmagic Design DeckLink Quad 2, an 8-lane PCIe card, comes loaded with eight bidirectional 12-bit SD/HD/3G-SDI DIN (Mini-BNC) connectors. Each of these connectors can be independently configured for capture or playback at resolutions up to 1080p60. The card supports a variety of compressed formats, including ProRes and DNxHD, as well as uncompressed 10-bit 4:2:2 and 4:4:4 video. This makes it a fitting choice for live broadcasting and post-production. It's compatible across Mac, Windows, and Linux systems and is adaptable with a broad spectrum of software applications. For those applications that lack native capture functionality, Blackmagic's Media Express software is bundled in, facilitating media capture, organisation, and management.

Key Features

• Eight bidirectional 12-bit SD/HD/3G-SDI DIN (Mini-BNC) connectors
• Supports a variety of compressed formats, including ProRes and DNxHD
• Compatible across Mac, Windows, and Linux systems
• Adaptable with a broad spectrum of software applications
• Blackmagic's Media Express software is bundled in

The Quad 2 features independent SDI inputs and outputs, allowing different video standards per channel, and supports cross-conversion between 720p and 1080p, as well as SD upconversion. It also handles 16 channels of embedded audio per input/output. Included software varies by OS but typically includes Media Express, Disk Speed Test, LiveKey, and the Blackmagic Desktop Video Utility. The card supports numerous codecs, including AVC-Intra, DNxHR, ProRes, and uncompressed formats. It is compatible with leading applications like Adobe Premiere Pro, DaVinci Resolve, Avid Media Composer, and many others, making it a versatile solution for professional video workflows.

Top Three Features

Eight bidirectional 12-bit SD/HD/3G-SDI DIN (Mini-BNC) connectors: These connectors provide flexibility for both capture and playback, making the card versatile for a range of uses. With the ability to handle resolutions up to 1080p60, they ensure high-quality video output. The bidirectional feature allows for efficient data transfer, enhancing the card's performance.

Supports a variety of compressed formats: The card's support for a range of compressed formats, including ProRes and DNxHD, ensures compatibility with a wide array of video files. This feature makes it a suitable choice for professionals working with different video formats. Furthermore, it allows for efficient storage and transfer of high-quality video files.

Compatible across Mac, Windows, and Linux systems: The Blackmagic Design DeckLink Quad 2's compatibility across different operating systems makes it a versatile tool for any workspace. It allows for seamless integration into existing systems, reducing the need for additional hardware or software. This cross-platform compatibility enhances its usability, making it a valuable addition to any professional video setup.

Our expert's opinion about the Blackmagic Design DeckLink Quad 2

The Blackmagic Design DeckLink Quad 2 is a robust and versatile PCIe card that offers a wealth of features for video professionals. With eight bidirectional connectors, support for a variety of compressed formats, and compatibility across multiple operating systems, it's a fitting choice for live broadcasting and post-production. Its adaptability with a broad spectrum of software applications and the inclusion of Blackmagic's Media Express software further enhance its functionality. Whether you're working on a Mac, Windows, or Linux system, the DeckLink Quad 2 proves to be a reliable and efficient tool for your video workflows.