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VT[4], the latest television studio in a box from NewTek, retains many of the staples of the PC-based system and adds some impressive bells and whistles. You've still got real-time switching and effects, as well as the expected refinements to existing software components, including the latest versions of Aura Video Paint and Lightwave. VT[4] adds streaming capabilities and some upgraded hardware that, among other things, doubles the number of audio inputs to four. We reviewed VT[3] last year, but VT[4] has enough new features to warrant a closer look.
BUTTONS AND CONNECTIONS
Before I get into program operation, let me tell you about the hardware additions to VT[4], The SX-84, an upgrade from the SX8 switcher expansion unit that's been around for a few years, is essentially the rack-mountable back of a standard video switcher with S-Video, BNC (eight component or 24 composite) and XLR inputs. Your video sources are connected to any one of the inputs, and the SX-84 also functions as your audio mixer's input and output board. The SX-84 talks to your host computer via three RS-422 cables. When you activate inputs on the VT[4], a red LED illuminates next to the input you have selected.
NewTek also provided me with the RS-8 Hardware Switcher Control Module, which was introduced in 2003, for this review. Connected to the computer via a USB cable, this neat unit is a tactile switcher with backlit buttons and a fader bar for "old school" users...