Last Updated on January 13, 2019
With the URSA Broadcast, Blackmagic Design has made available an affordable professional broadcast camera. In addition to being a cost-effective solution for broadcasting needs, the URSA Broadcast is also a flexible camera. It can be used as either a field camera for ENG and programming work or as a professional studio camera.
Nothing new is needed to operate the URSA Broadcast; it works with existing lenses and batteries. It doesn’t make use of other card formats, opting for regular SD cards while also supporting common file formats used on broadcast media management systems and most NLE software.
Since it works with older after market lenses as well as other inexpensive photo lenses, it is a camera that could suit the needs of web broadcasters.
Two cameras in one
The URSA Broadcast allows an easy switch between live work and field shooting. It isn’t a bulky device and as such is easy to carry around when working on breaking news stories. The controls on the camera are familiar and it also comes with the usual broadcast camera features, making it a good choice for ENG style shooting.
Thanks to a new extended video mode, the URSA Broadcast is more than capable of capturing incredible image quality, whether in studio or out in the field. The color representation even rivals that of cameras with far superior specifications. With the extended video mode, the need to color grade is eliminated, making it easier to shoot, edit, and get stories on air.
Use of standard media cards and file formats
True to the promise of being affordable, the URSA Broadcast does away with expensive media and video file formats. This is the first broadcast camera that uses standard media cards and file formats. The cards and formats used are also compatible with all broadcast systems and editing software.
URSA Broadcast records footage to standard SD cards, UHS-II cards, and CFast cards. It can record 1080i or 2160p video to standard MOV files (MXF will be added in a future update). The camera records using DNx14, DNx220X or ProRes to ensure that files work with other broadcast systems and workflows.
Use of existing and new lenses
With a B4 lens mount, the use of existing and even new lenses is supported. Users also get full electronic B4 lens control, allowing them to use the camera’s controls to adjust focus, iris, and zoom. Lens control can also be facilitated remotely through an ATEM switcher that uses the SDI camera control protocol.
Designed for both HD and Ultra HD
The URSA Broadcast’s sensor is designed to handle HD or Ultra HD production. With this camera, there is very little need for post production given the outstanding results it produces. Images feature stunning texture and detail; skin tone is captured accurately; color is presented in a rich manner; and high range video is supported.
The amount of light entering the camera can also be controlled through built-in neutral density filters. IR filters have also been designed to eliminate contamination, a usual issue linked to ND filters.
The URSA Broadcast from Blackmagic design is priced at $3,500.
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