Ultra Encode family extends universal appeal

Designed for applications ranging from livestreaming and remote contribution to IP-based production and AV-over-IP, Magewell has introduced the Ultra Encode family of universal live media encoders. The flexible encoding hardware solution supports multiple encoding formats, including H.264, H.265 and NDI HX, together with a wide array of delivery protocols. Providing a balance between broader viewing device compatibility and higher quality/bitrate efficiency, Ultra Encode features H.264 and H.265 (HEVC) video compression for livestreaming delivery. The new encoder also supports a wide range of streaming protocols, including RTMP, RTMPS, RTSP, RTP, HLS and SRT (Secure Reliable Transport). Configurable presets enable streaming to YouTube Live, Facebook Live, Twitch or custom targets with select protocols allowing simultaneous streaming to multiple destinations using independent encoding parameters for each stream. Combinations such as H.265 compression and the SRT protocol provide a secure delivery of high-quality, bandwidth-efficient live streams.

For IP production workflows and AV-over-IP signal distribution architectures, Ultra Encode supports second-generation NDI|HX, the lower-bitrate mode in NewTek's NDI IP media transport technology. The bandwidth-friendliness of NDI|HX enables it to be transmitted wirelessly over Ultra Encode's integrated Wi-Fi support, maximising flexibility in onsite production and monitoring workflows. Ultra Encode units can be combined with Magewell's multi-format Pro Convert decoders for end-to-end, live media transport in either NDI|HX or streaming formats. The Ultra Encode HDMI and Ultra Encode SDI models offer a choice of HDMI 1.4a or 3G-SDI input and loop-through interfaces. Both models can encode and stream content up to 1080p60 at bitrates up to 16Mbps, although the Ultra Encode HDMI also accepts 4K HDMI inputs, down-converting them automatically to HD. Embedded audio is complemented by analogue, line-level audio input and output connections. In addition to Wi-Fi, the encoder offers an RJ45 Gigabit Ethernet port for wired networking. The encoder can be configured and controlled via a browser-based web interface or programmatically via HTTP-based APIs.