Blackmagic Design Decklink Quad 2 3G-SDI Capture & Playback Card

The Blackmagic Design DeckLink Quad 2 is a professional PCIe capture and playback card that lets you work with up to eight independent SD, HD, or 3G-SDI video channels simultaneously through its Mini-BNC connectors. Whether you're running a multi-camera live production, building a broadcast playout system, or managing multiple video feeds in post-production, this card gives you the flexibility to configure each of its eight ports independently for capture or playback at resolutions up to 1080p60. It handles both compressed formats like ProRes and DNxHD alongside uncompressed 10-bit 4:2:2 and 4:4:4 video, works across Mac, Windows, and Linux systems, and integrates with everything from industry standards like Premiere Pro and DaVinci Resolve to live streaming platforms and broadcast automation software.

Independent Multi-Channel Workflow

Each of the eight SDI connections operates independently, meaning you can mix capture and playback across different video standards simultaneously. This makes the DeckLink Quad 2 ideal for complex workflows where you might be capturing multiple camera feeds while playing out graphics or pre-recorded content, all from a single card. The independent configuration also means you're not locked into using all channels the same way, giving you flexibility as production needs change.

Comprehensive Format Support

The card supports an extensive range of professional codecs and video formats, eliminating compatibility concerns across different production environments. You can work with uncompressed 10-bit 4:2:2 and 4:4:4 signals for maximum quality, or use compressed formats like ProRes, DNxHD, AVC-Intra, and XDCAM when workflow efficiency matters. Cross-conversion between 720p and 1080p happens on the card itself during capture, along with SD upconversion, reducing the processing load on your computer and streamlining multi-format productions.

Professional Audio Handling

Each input and output supports 16 channels of embedded audio, giving you plenty of headroom for complex audio routing in live production or post work. This embedded audio support means you can maintain perfect sync between video and multi-channel audio without additional hardware or complicated setups, which is essential for broadcast work or productions with elaborate audio mixes.

Software Integration

The DeckLink Quad 2 works with virtually every professional video application you're likely to use. Beyond the obvious choices like Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, Media Composer, and DaVinci Resolve, it's also supported by live production tools like vMix, Wirecast, and OBS Studio, broadcast automation systems, and even video conferencing platforms like Zoom. Blackmagic includes Media Express software for basic capture and media management, along with utilities for testing drive speeds and configuring your card.

What This Means for Your Workflow

• Run multi-camera productions without needing multiple capture cards or computers
• Build flexible playout systems that can handle live feeds and pre-recorded content simultaneously
• Eliminate format conversion headaches with hardware-based cross-conversion and upscaling
• Future-proof your setup with support for virtually every professional application and codec you might need
• Reduce system complexity by consolidating eight video channels into a single PCIe slot

System Requirements

The card requires an eight-lane PCIe slot and works across Mac, Windows, and Linux operating systems. The wide platform support means you can integrate it into existing infrastructure regardless of your preferred operating system, and the included drivers and software ensure you're ready to start capturing or playing back video immediately after installation.