Roland V

Roland has announced the V-02HD MK II Streaming Video Mixer. The whole concept behind the V-02HD MK II was to make an affordable livestreaming solution with two HDMI inputs, 10-channel audio mixing, and video effects.

This is the follow-up to the original V-02HD that we reported on back in late 2018.

The V-02HD MK II features a built-in encoder that outputs your program output via the USB Type-C port, allowing you to stream easily from a computer without needing an additional encoder. Audio from both cameras and external sources can be mixed within the V-02HD MK II and monitored through a dedicated headphone output. The switched output is embedded in real-time and output over HDMI for reliable recording or monitoring. The switcher operates with 10-bit 4:4:4 processing. Integrated scalers enable the mixing of different formats, such as HD to SD and computer resolutions. You can embed and de-embed audio, both analog and digital. The V-02HD MK II has built-in three-band EQ and dynamics

Users can connect up to two HDMI cameras to the V-02HD MK II and it does all the hard work, thus eliminating USB conflicts with multiple webcams and HDMI-to-USB encoder adaptors. Other devices with HDMI output are also supported, including computers, mobile devices, and gaming consoles.

The V-02HD MK II features a simple to use control layout and T-bar fader. The USB connection is plug-and-play, so you can stream quickly to platforms such as YouTube, Facebook, Twitch, and Zoom. It also will work well with OBS Studio, Streamlabs OBS, StreamYard, and Restream.

The V-02HD MK II also includes a 10-channel digital audio mixer. There are two audio inputs with 3.5 mm jacks. It supports lavalier mics that require plug-in power, stereo audio from smartphones, mixers, or other devices. Users can mix embedded stereo audio from HDMI sources as well, including microphones connected to cameras.

You can power the V-02HD MK II via mains power or a battery using the 1 x Barrel (7 to 17 VDC) Input. You could even buy something like the IndiPRO Tools D-Tap to 2.1mm Cable for Roland V-02HD Video Mixer (24″) and run it via any D-tap device.

On the bottom of the V-02HD MK II, there is a 1/4-20″ mounting hole for attaching it to arms, stands, etc.

The V-02HD MK II supports hands-free control with up to two optional BOSS footswitches, which is convenient for creators who perform or give demonstrations during streams. With a discrete off-camera stomp, it's possible to switch camera angles, cut to a static image, transition scene layouts, fade picture-in-picture windows, etc.

Upcoming free remote control apps will allow the V-02HD MK II to be controlled via an intuitive graphical interface on their iPad or computer. (Remote control apps for macOS and Windows will be available in late 2021.)

What is very interesting is that the V-02HD MK II also provides free access to Roland's new AeroCaster Switcher for iPad, a powerful video and media expansion solution for select Roland hardware switchers. With this unique app, users can switch wireless feeds from up to five devices, including smartphone and tablet cameras and screen shares from computers and mobile devices. You can then output a combined program feed to the V-02HD MK II or another supported Roland switcher with HDMI input.

The Roland V-02HD MK II Streaming Video Mixer is available for $395 USD.

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Matthew Allard is a multi-award-winning, ACS accredited freelance Director of Photography with over 30 years' of experience working in more than 50 countries around the world.He is the Editor of Newsshooter.com and has been writing on the site since 2010.Matthew has won 48 ACS Awards, including five prestigious Golden Tripods. In 2016 he won the Award for Best Cinematography at the 21st Asian Television Awards.Matthew is available to hire as a DP in Japan or for work anywhere else in the world.