Roland VR-6HD Direct Streaming AV Mixer

Description

Ultra-compact audio/video mixer with direct streaming encoders
Ultra-compact and filled with innovative Roland AV technologies, the VR-6HD is the ultimate all-in-one solution for everyday business livestreaming events. 

Offering advanced features and versatile connectivity in a portable, go-everywhere format, the VR-6HD is ideal for corporate meetings, online sales presentations, worship services, and other professional streaming and video capture applications.

Video switching, audio mixing, and LAN/USB streaming encoders are integrated into a single streamlined unit, eliminating the hassle and frustration that comes with connecting multiple devices. And one operator can easily handle all production tasks with minimal study, thanks to the smart interface, deep automation tools, one-touch macro sequencing, PTZ camera control, and more

• Powerful live production automation with sequencing, macros, and scene memories
• Built-in streaming encoders for transmitting two livestreams at rates up to 1080p/60 FPS
• Record streams directly to an SDXC card for archiving, editing, and distribution
• Six 1080p HDMI inputs with frame rate converters and scalers
• Support for cinema and broadcast frame rates
• Five-layer video effects engine
• Five total outputs: three HDMI, USB-C streaming, and a dedicated direct streaming output
• Six selectable output modes: Program, Sub-Program, Aux, Preview, Multi-View, and Still-View
• 28-channel digital audio mixer with advanced effects and processing
• 16-slot still store function supports screen capture or uploaded BMP, JPEG, and PNG images with alpha channel in the internal non-volatile memory
• Enhance your livestreams with sound effects, still images, and video sources stored on an SDXC card
• Audio Player function with six trigger pads and onboard storage for 12 audio files
• Control six PTZ cameras with support for multiple brands and mixed protocols
• 4.3-inch touch screen with graphical menu
• Extensive device control with Bluetooth®, USB, RS-232, and LAN
• Remote control software available for iPad, macOS, and Windows*
• Wireless and wired camera tally support 

*Remote PC and iOS app available in Q4 2023

High-Quality Presentations Made Easy
The powerful video capabilities in the VR-6HD make it simple to bring professional production values to business streaming productions. Connect multiple cameras and computers via HDMI for different views, and incorporate robotic PTZ cameras to change angles at the touch of a button. Quickly assign and switch among sources on the fly, including live HDMI inputs, presentation decks, still images, and video clips. You can also create custom feeds for live and online viewers by assigning composition layers to multiple busses.

Multiple HDMI Inputs
The VR-6HD supports HDMI—the most common video connector in the world—and you can seamlessly combine six HDMI sources in Full HD with a range of broadcast and cinematic frame rates and color spaces. Built-in scalers with EDID and HDCP support provide easy integration with sources like computers, tablets, smartphones, gaming consoles, and legacy 4:3 devices.  

Integrated Playback of Stills and Video Clips
Enhance events with onboard support for graphics and video playback. Call up still images during transitions between presenters, display graphics, and use PNGs to create dynamic lower thirds. The integrated video player lets you trigger video clips directly from the SDXC card, with no need to connect an external playback device.

Layers and Keyers
Video effects and graphics are must-haves to bring polish and excitement to productions. The VR-6HD’s effects engine features five composition layers that can be assigned to the Program, Sub-Program, and Aux outs, so you’ll always keep audiences engaged. With up to two picture-in-picture windows and one downstream key layer with transparent PNG and external key support, you can manage any creative need. For example: 

• Layers 1-2—Start with mixable live background video layers. 
• Layers 3-4—Place two picture-in-picture layers or chroma/luminance key effects. 
• Layer 5—Add a downstream keyer with support for fill and key inputs. 

Assignable Video Outputs
The VR-6HD puts a high-end video matrix at your fingers with three HDMI outputs, a USB-C streaming output, and an ethernet streaming output. Feed program displays, auxiliary monitors, multi-view producer displays, and the online audiences at once, complete with a clean output left over for recording the presentation to an SDXC card. 

Professional-Class Digital Audio Mixing
The VR-6HD delivers world-class audio quality with 28 simultaneous channels and Roland’s acclaimed sound mixing features. Comprehensive EQ and dynamics processing is provided on every channel, complete with convenient preset libraries for achieving pro results instantly. Powerful problem-solving tools are on hand, including audio sync alignment, de-essing, noise suppression, and more. It’s also possible to play back stored audio during streams with quick touches on the panel.        

Multi-Channel Audio Inputs and Bluetooth  
The VR-6HD offers professional analog audio connectivity with six balanced XLR/TRS combination jacks, high-quality mic preamps, and phantom power. Stereo RCA inputs are available for audio players, electronic instruments, and other line-level devices, and you can mix the embedded digital audio from sources connected to the HDMI and USB inputs. And with onboard Bluetooth, it’s easy to stream wireless audio from any mobile device. 

Powerful Mixing Tools 
Set up direct control for your most important sound feeds with seven assignable faders. And when you have multiple presenters to deal with, engage Auto Mixing to lighten your load and ensure that the mix between microphones remains balanced. You can set specific inputs to take priority when someone starts to speak, and other audio levels are automatically reduced as needed.

A Mix for Each Audience
Two auxiliary audio busses let you set up unique mixes for a variety of applications. For example, you can feed a monitor system for presenters while livestreaming a specialized mix that’s independent of the in-person program. Versatile routing allows you to freely assign the mix and aux busses to the two stereo XLR outputs, RCA stereo output, USB and stream/record outs, or HDMI outputs. 

Shape Your Sound
The VR-6HD combines the full power of the latest digital audio consoles with expansive Roland effects. Four-band EQs and dynamics processing are provided for every input and output, and high-quality reverb is available for music applications and special effects. You also get specialized tools to quickly handle audio issues, like automatic anti-feedback for stage mics and adaptive noise reduction to suppress background noise and hum.

Audio On Demand
With the VR-6HD’s unique Audio Player section and six assignable pads, it’s simple to enhance events with custom sounds. With a quick press, you can trigger sound effects, event announcements, countdowns for e-sports, or theme songs for presenters—the sky’s the limit.

Ethernet/USB Streaming and Onboard Recording 
The VR-6HD’s advanced technology makes livestreaming to the most popular platforms smooth and worry-free. With direct streaming over ethernet, computer streaming over USB, and Adaptive Bitrate support, you can deliver high-quality presentations to any audience. And with simultaneous SDXC recording, it’s easy to capture presentations for archiving and distribution.  

Secure and Reliable Streaming Over LAN 
The VR-6HD’s powerful LAN streaming capabilities allow you to directly connect with Twitch, Facebook, and other platforms without the need for a computer. The Adaptive Bitrate function monitors the quality of the network connection and automatically adjusts the streaming rate to reduce interruptions due to bandwidth issues. An adjustable Safety Delay is also available, allowing you to confidently stream unscripted events and prevent offensive content from being broadcast.
    
Dual LAN Streaming Destinations 
Reach a wider audience by broadcasting to two different livestream channels at once. You can also use a mobile phone with a 4G or 5G data plan as the primary streaming connection or a redundant backup.

USB-C Streaming Up to 60 FPS 
Stream to any audience in Full HD to a computer via USB. The USB-C connection offers the same plug-and-play technology as webcams,* so you can begin streaming immediately with Zoom, Microsoft Teams, or any platform that can use a webcam as its source. 
*USB video class (UVC) and USB audio class (UAC) compliant. YUY2 (uncompressed) and Motion JPEG (compressed) formats supported. 

SDXC Card Recording
With the onboard recorder, you can easily record an event to an SDXC card and provide your client with an H.264 MP4 video file* for their editing and distribution needs. Stereo WAV audio can also be recorded independently for podcasts and other audio-driven media. It’s even possible to capture still images to internal memory from any video output bus and save them to the card for later use.
*The recording bitrate is the same as the livestream encoding bitrate.

Take Full Control of Your Productions
Thanks to its well-organized panel and intuitive workflow, even novice operators will feel comfortable using the VR-6HD. Hardware knobs, faders, and buttons offer direct control for essential functions, while the 4.3-inch touch display provides smooth access to deeper parameters and settings. Scene memory, macro, and sequencing features simplify operation even more, letting you pre-program complicated actions and fire them off with simple actions.

Fast Recall of Complex Compositions
Storing and recalling custom looks can be accomplished with just a few button presses. The 32 scene memories and advanced effects engine work together to provide seamless changes, including synchronizing the transition of all composition layers at the program output. The 100 macros go even deeper, allowing you to build and execute complex action lists that include switching, DSK on/off, audio mixing adjustments, PTZ camera movements, and much more.  
 
Sequencing Magic
The VR-6HD’s sequencer makes scene memories and macros even more powerful, letting you perform perfectly timed cues with ease. Up to 1000 steps can be recorded in the sequencer, and each step can include both presets and macros. Set up your cues ahead of time in the sequence list and trigger them in order for a stress-free production.  
 
Automated Switching and Mixing 
When there are many presenters, you need to follow the action and switch audio and video together. The automated video switching and audio mixing features in the VR-6HD make this complicated task simple, greatly easing your workload and creating a smooth experience for the audience. 

PTZ Camera Support
Robotic PTZ (pan-tilt-zoom) cameras eliminate the need for multiple operators, provide enhanced broadcast-quality coverage, and can be placed in discreet locations thanks to their small size. The VR-6HD features integrated support for select Canon, JVC, Panasonic, Sony, PTZOptics, Avonic, and VISCA-compatible PTZ LAN cameras. Mix and match different brands as you like and operate up to six PTZ cameras simultaneously. 

Deep Remote-Control Options
The VR-6HD supports extended workflows with dedicated software apps and a variety of remote devices. 

• The free VR-6HD Remote app for iPad connects via Bluetooth, allowing you to wirelessly operate functions at events via a portable touch interface.*
• Use the free VR-6HD Remote Control Software to operate the switcher from a Mac or Windows computer.* 
• Connect footswitches or expression pedals to execute over 100 different switcher commands.  
• Trigger start/stop on select third-party recorders over HDMI. 
• Set up a tally light with Roland’s Smart Tally or the rear-panel hardware connector. 
• Seamlessly integrate with system installations via the RS-232 and TALLY/GPIO D-Sub connectors.

*Coming in Q4 2023.

Specifications

[Video]
-Video Processing
4:2:2 (Y/Pb/Pr), 8-bit

-Number of Video Channels
6 channels

-Video Input Formats
VIDEO IN 1--6
480/59.94i, 480/59.94p, 720/59.94p, 1080/59.94i, 1080/59.94p, 1080/60p, 1080/29.97p, 1080/30p *1
576/50i, 576/50p, 720/50p, 1080/50i, 1080/50p, 1080/25p *2
1080/23.98p, 1080/24p
VGA (640 x 480/60 Hz), SVGA (800 x 600/60 Hz), XGA (1024 x 768/60 Hz)
WXGA (1280 x 800/60 Hz), SXGA (1280 x 1024/60 Hz)
FWXGA (1366 x 768/60 Hz), SXGA (1400 x 1050/60 Hz)
UXGA (1600 x 1200/60 Hz), WUXGA (1920 x 1200/60 Hz)
* The refresh rate is the maximum value of each resolution.
* Conforms to CEA-861-E,VESA DMT Version 1.0 Revision 11.
* 1920 x 1200/60 Hz: Reduced blanking
* The input interlaced video signal is converted to progressive video signal by internal processing.
*1 Frame Rate = 59.94 Hz, 60 Hz
*2 Frame Rate = 50 Hz


-Video Output Formats
VIDEO OUT 1--3:
720/59.94p *1, *4
720/60p *1, *5
720/50p *1, *8
1080/59.94i *2, *4
1080/60i *2, *5
1080/50i *2, *8
1080/59.94p *3, *4
1080/60p *3, *5
1080/29.97p *3, *6
1080/30p *3, *7
1080/50p *3, *8
1080/25p *3, *9
1080/23.98p *3, *10
1080/24p *3, *11
*1 Output Format = 720p
*2 Output Format = 1080i
*3 Output Format = 1080p
*4 Frame Rate = 59.94 Hz
*5 Frame Rate = 60 Hz
*6 Frame Rate = 29.97 Hz
*7 Frame Rate = 30 Hz
*8 Frame Rate = 50 Hz
*9 Frame Rate = 25 Hz
*10 Frame Rate = 23.98 Hz
*11 Frame Rate = 24 Hz

USB STREAM:
1080/59.94p, 720/59.94p, 640 x 480/59.94p *1
1080/60p, 720/60p, 640 x 480/60p *2
1080/29.97p, 720/29.97p, 640 x 480/29.97p *3
1080/30p, 720/30p, 640 x 480/30p *4
1080/50p, 720/50p, 640 x 480/50p *5
1080/25p, 720/25p､640 x 480/25p *6
1080/23.98p, 720/23.98p､640 x 480/23.98p *7
1080/24p, 720/24p､640 x 480/24p *8
* Uncompressed format (YUY2) and Compressed format (Motion JPEG) supported.
*1 Frame Rate(USB Out) = 59.94 Hz
*2 Frame Rate(USB Out) = 60 Hz
*3 Frame Rate(USB Out) = 29.97 Hz
*4 Frame Rate(USB Out) = 30 Hz
*5 Frame Rate(USB Out) = 50 Hz
*6 Frame Rate(USB Out) = 25 Hz
*7 Frame Rate(USB Out) = 23.98 Hz
*8 Frame Rate(USB Out) = 24 Hz

-Stream and Record formats
720/59.94p *1, *3
720/60p *1, *4
720/29.97p *1, *5
720/30p *1, *6
720/50p *1, *7
720/25p *1, *8
1080/59.94p *2, *3
1080/60p *2, *4
1080/29.97p *2, *5
1080/30p *2, *6
1080/50p *2, *7
1080/25p *2, *8
1080/23.98p *2, *9
1080/24p *2, *10
*1 Output Format = 720p
*2 Output Format = 1080p
*3 Frame Rate (Stream/Record) = 59.94 Hz
*4 Frame Rate (Stream/Record) = 60 Hz
*5 Frame Rate (Stream/Record) = 29.97 Hz
*6 Frame Rate (Stream/Record) = 30 Hz
*7 Frame Rate (Stream/Record) = 50 Hz
*8 Frame Rate (Stream/Record) = 25 Hz
*9 Frame Rate (Stream/Record) = 23.98 Hz
*10 Frame Rate (Stream/Record) = 24 Hz

File Format: MP4
Codec:
H.264, target bitrate up to 20,000 kbps
AAC LC, 16 bits, 48 kHz, stereo, target bitrate up to 384 kbps

File Format: WAV
Codec:
Linear PCM, 16 bits, 48 kHz, stereo
* If either the streaming and recording format or the file played by the video player exceeds 1080/30p, the streaming and recording and video player functions cannot be used simultaneously.
* If the bitrate setting for Streaming and Recording and the bitrate of the file played on Video Player exceeds 20,000 kbps, Streaming and Recording and Video player cannot be used simultaneously.

-Video Player
File Format: MP4 (H.264, AAC), Average bit rate of 20,000 kbps or less, Maximum 1080/60p
* If either the streaming and recording format or the file played by the video player exceeds 1080/30p, the streaming and recording and video player functions cannot be used simultaneously.
* If the bitrate setting for Streaming and Recording and the bitrate of the file played on Video Player exceeds 20,000 kbps, Streaming and Recording and Video player cannot be used simultaneously.

-Still Image:
Bitmap File (.bmp) Maximum 1920 x 1080 pixels, 24-bit color, uncompressed.
PNG File (.png) Maximum 1920 x 1080 pixels, 24-bit color
JPEG File (.jpg, .jpeg) Maximum 1920 x 1080 pixels, 24-bit color
* It can be stored up to 16 files in the internal memory.
* It can be exported in the SD Card and USB flash drive.
* PNG alpha channel supported.

-Video Effects
Transition: Cut, Mix (Dissolve/Fam/Nam), WIPE (8 types), SPLIT (2 types)
Composition: PinP x 2 (Square, Circle, Diamond), Keyer x 2 (Luminance Key, Chroma Key), DSK (Luminance Key, Chroma Key, Alpha Key, External Key)
Others: Multi-View (3 types), Flip horizontal, Flip vertical, Still Image capture, Still Image playback, Output fade (Audio, Video: White or Black), Test pattern output, Stream Delay


[Audio]
-Audio Processing
Sample rate: 24 bits, 48 kHz

-Number of Audio Channels
28 channels

-Audio Formats
USB STREAM (input/output): Linear PCM, 24 bits, 48 kHz, 2 ch
Bluetooth (input): Linear PCM, 24 bits, 48 kHz, 2 ch
VIDEO IN: Linear PCM, 24 bits, 48 kHz, 2 ch
VIDEO OUT: Linear PCM, 24 bits, 48 kHz, 8 ch

-Audio Player
File format: WAV (Linear PCM, 16 bits, 48 kHz/44.1 kHz, stereo)
* It can be stored up to 16 tracks in the internal memory.

-Audio Effects
Channel Effects: High pass filter, Echo canceller, Anti-feedback, Noise gate, De-esser, Compressor, 4-Band equalizer, Voice changer, Delay, Auto mixing
Master Effects: Reverb, 4-Band equalizer, Compressor/Limiter, Loudness Auto Gain Control, Adaptive Noise Reduction, Low Frequency Cut, 15-Band GEQ, Delay
Others: Output fade, Test tone output


[Common Section]
-Recording Media
SDHC/SDXC card (sold separately)
USB flash drive (sold separately)
* SDXC card is required for video recording.

-Other Functions
Scene Memory (32 types)
Macro Control (100 types)
Sequencer Control (1000 types)
Panel lock function
EDID Emulator
Auto Switching
Auto Input Detect
Smart Tally
Remote Camera Control (Up to 6 units)
External Rec Control


[Connectors]
-Video Input Connectors
VIDEO IN 1--6: HDMI type A x 6
* HDCP Supported
* Multi-format Supported

-Video Output Connectors
VIDEO OUT 1--3: HDMI type A x 3
* HDCP Supported

USB STREAM: USB Type-C (TM)

-Audio Input Connectors
Analog:
AUDIO IN 1--6: Combo type (XLR, 1/4-inch TRS phone), phantom power DC 48 V (unloaded maximum), 14 mA (maximum load)
AUDIO IN 7/L, 8/R: RCA phono type

Digital:
USB STREAM: USB Type-C (TM)
Bluetooth
VIDEO IN 1--6: HDMI type A x 6

-Audio Output Connectors
Analog:
AUDIO OUT 1/L, 2/R: XLR type
AUDIO OUT 3/L, 4/R: RCA phono type
PHONES: Stereo miniature phone type

Digital:
USB STREAM: USB Type-C (TM)
VIDEO OUT 1--3: HDMI type A x 3

-Other Connectors
USB HOST: USB A type (for USB flash drive)
USB STREAM: USB Type-C (TM) (for remote control from PC and iPad)
Bluetooth: for remote control from iPad
CTL/EXP 1, 2:1/4-inch TRS phone type (for remote control from foot switch and expression pedal)
TALLY/GPIO: DB-25 type (Female)(Tally/GPO: 16, GPI: 8)
RS-232: DB-9 type (Male) (for Remote Control)
DIRECT STREAM: RJ45, 1000BASE-T (for Live Streaming and Remote Control)

[Audio Input/Output Characteristics]
-Input Level
AUDIO IN 1--6: -64-- 4 dBu (Maximum: 24 dBu)
AUDIO IN 7/L, 8/R: -10 dBu (Maximum: 10 dBu)

-Input Impedance
AUDIO IN 1--6: 8.4 k ohms
AUDIO IN 7/L, 8/R: 10 k ohms

-Output Level
AUDIO OUT 1/L, 2/R (XLR): 4 dBu (Maximum: 24 dBu)
AUDIO OUT 3/L, 4/R (RCA): -10 dBu (Maximum: 10 dBu)
PHONES: 92 mW 92 mW (32 ohms)

-Output Impedance
AUDIO OUT 1/L, 2/R (XLR): 600 ohms
AUDIO OUT 3/L, 4/R (RCA): 1 k ohm
PHONES: 33 ohms


[Others]
-Bluetooth
Ver 5.0
Profile Support: A2DP (Audio), GATT (MIDI over Bluetooth Low Energy)
Codec: SBC (Support to the content protection of the SCMS-T method)

-Display
Graphic Type, 4.3", Wide QVGA (480 x 272 dots), backlite LCD (Color/Touch screen)

-Power Supply
AC adaptor

-Current Draw
2.3 A

-Power Consumption
55 W

-Operation Temperature
0 to 40 degrees Celsius
32 to 104 degrees Fahrenheit

-Dimensions
370 (W) x 242 (D) x 100 (H) mm
14-5/8 (W) x 9-9/16 (D) x 3-15/16 (H) inches

-Weight (excluding AC adaptor)
3.4 kg
7 lbs 8 oz

-Accessories
Startup Guide
Leaflet "USING THE UNIT SAFELY"
AC adaptor
Power cord

-Options (sold separately)
Footswitch: BOSS FS-5U, FS-6, FS-7
Expression Pedal: EV-5, EV-30, BOSS FV-500L, FV-500H

* 0 dBu = 0.775 Vrms

• Availability: In Stock
• Model: VR-6HD
• Manufacturer: