What Is A Video Mixer; What Is The Mx-1 - Videonics MX-1 Instruction Manual

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What is a Video Mixer?

The Digital Video Primer explains mixer basics in detail but here is an
overview.
In the simplest form of video production, a video tape is played by one
machine ( ) and the resulting signal is recorded on a blank tape by a second
machine ( ). The player and recorder are coordinated (either manually or
automatically) so that the desired video material is recorded on a blank tape.
Note that there is only one source of incoming video and only one picture is
on the output screen at any given moment.
More advanced video productions use two sources of video ( ) and mix
them together:
With the inclusion of a video mixer ( ), a wonderful thing happens: You
can put two sources on the screen at once. For instance, you could show a
great pass on one side of the screen and the coach's reaction on the other. Or
you might begin your production with a shot of the ball and have it slowly
fade away while a long shot of the playing field fades in (a dissolve). Many
other transitions and effects are possible.
A video mixer is required to make this happen. It provides the electronics
needed to mix two signals and has controls that allow you to select which
source or sources are being sent to the recorder ( ) and which transitions are
being used.
A mixer can be used with great benefit in simple setups as well as complex
ones, but its use is required whenever two sources will share the screen.

What is the MX-1?

The MX-1 is a video mixer with many additional features. (See the Glos-
sary and Digital Video Primer for descriptions of the following functions.)
Four-Input Synchronized Switcher. The MX-1 has four inputs, not just
two, so you can leave all your sources connected. This capability is also
handy for live production settings in which up to four cameras or other
sources are available. The switcher is synchronized, which means there are no
picture disruptions when sources are switched.
Frame Synchronizer and Mixer. Any two inputs can be mixed together
using a variety of transitions (wipes, dissolves, etc.). The frame synchronizer
makes it possible to mix independent video signals.
VIDEONICS DIGITAL VIDEO MIXER
VIDEONICS DIGITAL VIDEO MIXER