Blackmagic Video Assist 5″ 12G HDR

The Blackmagic Design Video Assist 5″ 12G HDR adds professional monitoring and recording to any SDI or HDMI camera in all HD, Ultra HD, 2K and 4K DCI formats! The whole new design includes innovations such as brighter screens for HDR work, tally indicator, 4 built in scopes, enhanced focus assist features, 3D LUTs and native Blackmagic RAW recording from supported cameras! With 12G-SDI and HDMI 2.0 on both 5″ and 7″ models, you get support for recording from virtually any device in all formats up to 2160p60. The brighter touch screen ensures a perfect view of your recording for HDR digital film and when shooting outdoors in sunlight. The new design also features upgraded batteries and supports two standard Sony L‑Series batteries. This means Blackmagic Video Assist 12G is incredibly versatile and is the perfect solution for the next generation of digital cinema shoots, live production mastering and, broadcast testing and measurement.

Product Features

Perfect for Digital Cinema, Live Recording and Monitoring
With its amazing versatility, Blackmagic Video Assist 12G is also great for recording from cameras, or even as a clip player! As the files are compatible with the HyperDeck disk recorders, you can even use Video Assist as a broadcast field recorder, or an ultra portable broadcast scope! Video Assist is a fantastic broadcast solution because you get both HDMI and 12G-SDI inputs plus it has built in scopes and 3D LUTs! The scopes also help you QA masters to ensure compliance with broadcast standards before streaming and broadcast

Modern Design with 12G‑SDI and Bright HDR Screens

There are two models of Blackmagic Video Assist 12G, with each model including an innovative touch screen user interface with deck controls as well as a large screen to view your recording. The Blackmagic Video Assist 7″ 12G model also includes 2 media slots, while both the 5″ and 7″ models include 12G‑SDI for high frame rate Ultra HD, analog inputs for audio, USB‑C external disk recording, plus a front panel speaker and side mounted headphone jack! You also get 2 rear battery slots for mounting Sony L‑Series batteries, so you have enough power for the brighter HDR screens and higher speed Ultra HD electronics. Plus with 2 battery slots, you can change batteries without interrupting recording! A 12v universal power supply is included for studio or on location use.

Upgrade to Better Recording for Digital Cameras

Blackmagic Video Assist 12G HDR is an ideal upgrade for cameras, as it's super bright 2500nit display is bigger than the tiny displays found on consumer cameras, plus you're also adding professional focus assist features and better quality file formats. Video Assist is also a great solution for professional cameras because you can use it to upgrade older broadcast cameras to modern file formats used on the latest editing software. No matter what editing software you use, Video Assist lets you support them all, as you can record in Apple ProRes, Avid DNx and Blackmagic RAW. With both HDMI and 12G-SDI inputs you can connect it to any consumer camera, broadcast camera or even DSLR cameras. Then, on supported cameras, you can even upgrade to RAW style workflows with Blackmagic RAW.

Large HDR Monitor with Easy Touch Controls

The innovative touchscreen LCD user interface provides incredible control. On screen, there are dedicated buttons for play, stop and record, plus a mini timeline for scrolling through your recordings. You can even image swipe to jog! The LCD includes a heads up display of timecode, video standard, media status as well as audio meters. Scopes can be enabled via the touch screen as well as focus and exposure assist. There's also an extensive range of settings all controlled from the large LCD. Plus you can load and save 3D LUTs.

Dual Media Recorders for Uninterrupted Recording

Video Assist uses commonly available SD card media, so you can record to flash memory cards that are easy to obtain. The files are small enough to allow long recordings on standard SD cards or the faster UHS-II cards. The larger Video Assist 12G 7″ model even includes 2 SD card slots so you can swap out any full cards even during recording, allowing infinite length recording. Standard SD cards or the faster UHS-II cards are perfect for broadcast because they are small, high speed and affordable.

Record Direct to External USB‑C Media Disks

If recording to other media types is required, then the USB‑C Expansion port lets you plug in an external flash disk for recording. USB‑C flash disks have massive capacity as they don't suffer from any size constraint. Plus, it's possible to record to the same disk you are using or editing, so you don't need to waste time copying files before starting post production. Flash disks are so fast they can record high data rate formats that are too big for some lower cost media cards, such as high frame rate Ultra HD. Imagine adding a Blackmagic MultiDock 10G for easy SSD compatibility with other recorders such as Blackmagic HyperDeck models. You even get on screen menus for managing external disks using the touch screen.

Advanced 12G‑SDI and HDMI 2.0 Inputs and Outputs

Video Assist features a wide range of video and audio connections such as multi‑rate 12G‑SDI for SD, HD, and Ultra HD SDI devices. HDMI is included for HDMI cameras and monitoring to consumer televisions and video projectors. The 7 inch model features Mini XLR inputs which are provided for audio input from microphones and external audio mixers. The USB‑C connection lets you plug in flash disks or disk arrays for recording, allowing extremely long record durations and because you're recording to a media disk, you can edit direct from this disk after the shoot, eliminating extra file copying work. Video Assist even includes a 12V DC power connection with locking power connector.

HDR Support with Bright Wide Gamut LCD

You'll be ready for the latest HDR workflows with support for the latest HDR standards and an extremely bright screen with a wide color gamut. Plus the high brightness screen makes outdoor shooting in bright sunlight possible! The built in scopes even change to HDR scopes when working in HDR formats! Files are tagged with the correct HDR information then SDI and HDMI inputs will also automatically detect HDR video standards. Static metadata PQ and HLG formats are handled according to the ST2084 standard. The bright LCD has a wider color gamut so it can handle both Rec. 2020 and Rec. 709 colorspaces. The built in Video Assist LCD color gamut can even handle 100% of the DCI‑P3 format.

Built In Scopes Ensure Compliance to Standards

Video Assist features full internal waveform monitoring so you can ensure compliance to broadcast standards and it also works great as a portable waveform monitoring solution! The waveform display provides a traditional luminance (brightness) levels view of your input or playback signal. The vectorscope display allows you to see the intensity of color at 100% SDI reference levels. You also get an RGB parade display which is ideal for color correction and checking for illegal levels. Histogram shows the distribution of white to black detail in your images and highlights or shadows clipping. The built in scopes can even be overlaid on live video, or as a small picture in picture view at the top right of the scope.

Latest Multi Rate 12G‑SDI for SD, HD and Ultra HD

You get full support for the most popular video standards. The SDI and HDMI connections are multi‑rate, so handle SD, HD, and Ultra HD. SD formats include NTSC and PAL. 720p HD standards include 720p50 and 59.94p. 1080i HD interlaced formats include 1080i50 and 59.94. 1080p HD formats include 1080p23.98, 24, 25, 29.97, 30, 50, 59.94 and 60p. You can even do 1080 PsF formats. Ultra HD is supported up to 2160p59.94. You can even record 2K and 4K DCI rates up to 25p for digital film work.

Load Custom 3D LUTs to Recreate Film Looks

Some cameras can output logarithmic colorspace to preserve the dynamic range, which is great for later post production, however when these files are viewed on a monitor they can look flat and washed out. 3D LUTs solve this problem because they allow you to apply a “look” to the monitor so you get an idea of how the finished images will look like when editing. LUTs can be applied temporarily for monitoring only, or they can be burned into files for use in editing when capturing Blackmagic RAW. Video Assist works with industry standard 17 and 33 point 3D LUT files, or you can work with the built in LUTs such as Extended Video, Film to Video, Film to Rec.2020 and more.

Post Production Friendly File Formats

Video Assist records using standard open file formats so you don’t have to waste time transcoding media. Files are compatible with all post production software so you can work with the software of your choice, including DaVinci Resolve Studio. Recording works in industry standard 10‑bit Apple ProRes files in all formats and from all HDMI or SDI camera, or 12‑bit Blackmagic RAW when connected to supported cameras. Blackmagic RAW is the fastest growing RAW format and developers can download and use the free Blackmagic RAW SDK to add support to their applications. Best of all, media files work on all operating systems.

The Quality of RAW and the Speed of Video

Blackmagic RAW is a revolutionary new format designed to capture and preserve the quality of the sensor data from cameras. Video Assist supports Blackmagic RAW recording from popular cameras such as Panasonic EVA1 and Canon C300 MK II. This eliminates the problems with popular camera formats such as H.264, which are highly compressed resulting in noise and processing artifacts. Blackmagic RAW eliminates this problem and gives you stunning images with incredible detail and color throughout the production pipeline from camera to edit, color and mastering. It also saves camera settings as metadata so you can set ISO, white balance and exposure, then override them later while editing, all without any loss of quality! Only Blackmagic RAW gives you the highest quality, smallest files and fastest performance.

Professional Multi Channel SDI and Analog Audio

Blackmagic Video Assist 12G includes professional audio for modern cameras or other outboard audio equipment. When working in SDI formats, you can record 2, 4, 8 or 16 channels of audio in real time. For connecting microphones the Video Assist 7″ model has two XLR analog audio inputs with phantom power that support the high definition audio sample rate of 192 kHz at uncompressed 16 and 24 bit per sample. You can monitor using on screen audio meters with user selectable VU or PPM ballistics. Blackmagic Video Assist 12G features the latest in technology, including audio, with the analog audio connections designed to low noise and low distortion digital cinema and broadcast specifications.

Localized for 11 Popular Languages

Multiple languages are fully supported so you don't need to learn another language to use it! Support is included for English, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Spanish, German, French, Russian, Italian, Portuguese and Turkish. At first start, Video Assist will display a menu for selecting a language, plus you can still use the menus to change languages any time you need. When a language is selected, the on screen text overlays will change to the selected language, as well as overlays on the video outputs when enabled. All this means Video Assist is perfect for doing international location work with different crews.

Works with the World's Most Popular Video Software

The files from Blackmagic Video Assist 12G are common and are compatible with all operating systems or in most video software. Media can be formatted using ExFAT or HFS+ so you can easily access the media on computers and access the files like regular disks. DaVinci Resolve is perfect for use with Video Assist because it features editing, color correction, audio post production and visual effects all in one software application. Plus you can download DaVinci Resolve free of charge for Mac, Windows and Linux! You can also use recorded files in other popular software such as Premiere Pro and Final Cut Pro X. With Video Assist, your media is common so your files will remain readable in the future.

Lightweight, Durable Construction

The frame of Blackmagic Video Assist 12G HDR is made from extremely durable and lightweight aircraft grade aluminum, so it’s incredibly sturdy and doesn’t add a lot of extra weight to your camera. The aluminum is precision machined into the intricate shape needed to house the connections and touchscreen display. The mounting points are designed into the strong aluminum frame for maximum durability. You get a heavy duty metal that is comfortable enough to hold in your hand and still light enough to be mounted on even the smallest rig.

Bright and Vivid 5″ or 7″ Display

The 5 inch and 7 inch Blackmagic Video Assist 12G HDR models both feature a super bright HDR monitor and built in 3D LUT processor so you can clearly evaluate every shot.The 5″ model gives you a full 1920 x 1080 display, while the 7″ model features a higher resolution 1920 x 1200 screen. That means the 7 inch model lets you see 16:9 video clearly without covering up the image with the on-screen heads up display! The fully adjustable 2500 nit screen is incredibly bright, making it perfect for shooting indoors or out. The wide 135º viewing angle makes it easy for multiple members of the crew to watch it at the same time. Image rotation can be locked or set to auto rotate, so no matter which way you set it up the picture is always displayed correctly.

Modern and Intuitive User Interface

The built in display is also an incredibly intuitive and responsive capacitive touchscreen that can be used for both monitoring and setup. Blackmagic Video Assist 12G HDR runs Blackmagic OS, which uses simple tap and swipe gestures to show or hide settings for the capture resolution and format as well as brightness and contrast of the screen. Swipe in another direction and you’ll have access to transport controls, recording status, histogram, audio level, timecode, battery status, and more. Best of all, the controls are overlaid using a semi transparent heads up display, which allows you to always keep an eye on your shot.

Plug into Cameras, Projectors and More

Video and audio are captured using multi‑rate 12G‑SDI and HDMI, allowing you to record from almost any kind of camera. You also get loop thru outputs so you can display live video or recorded clips on external screens or projectors with embedded audio. You can also monitor audio using the 3.5mm stereo headphone jack or the built in front panel speaker. For power, there’s a 12V DC input and two NP‑F battery slots. The 7 inch Blackmagic Video Assist 12G HDR also features LANC, dual SDHC card recorders and two mini XLR microphone inputs.

Down or Right Side Up

Both models of Blackmagic Video Assist 12G HDR feature a built in accelerometer, so whether you mount it right side up or upside down, the image will always auto rotate so you can see it perfectly! You can also lock the screen to a specific orientation, just in case you’re flying to Mars with no gravity or on a gimbal that’s rotating unpredictably! This flexibility means that you can mount Video Assist to the top or bottom of your rig, orienting it in whichever direction makes it easier to connect cables.

Plug It In or Go Mobile

Blackmagic Video Assist 12G HDR includes a universal 110V ‑ 240V external power supply so you can use it anywhere. When connected to the 12V DC input you get continuous power or it can be run off of dual Sony compatible NP-F rechargeable batteries. Intelligent battery management will use the battery with less charge first, ensuring one battery is drained of its power before using any of the power from the next battery.

Blackmagic OS

Blackmagic Video Assist 12G features the same advanced Blackmagic OS software as URSA Mini Pro and Pocket Cinema Camera, making it super fast to use and more intuitive than ever! The most important monitoring and recording functions can be accessed with a single tap on the heads up display, there’s an elegant digital slate that makes metadata entry a breeze and a dashboard that uses simple tap and swipe gestures for record settings, monitoring, audio, setup and 3D LUTs. Each feature runs as a separate high performance app on top of Blackmagic OS, making it incredibly stable so you can capture mission critical shoots with confidence. Best of all, it’s upgradable so we’ll be able to add even more great features in the future.

Heads Up Display

Instantly see and adjust the most important settings with a single tap.
The interactive heads up display, or HUD, lets you quickly access the most important settings, change them and see the results in realtime. The HUD displays critical information as an overlay so you can see the resolution, frame rate, codec, timecode, recording status, audio levels, battery meter and more. You can show or hide the heads up display by simply swiping up or down. For example, you can adjust settings such as the recording codec by tapping on the codec name or change the audio levels by touching the audio meters. Everything is interactive, so if you tap any item you can instantaneously change its settings without having to search through confusing menus.

On Set Monitoring

Blackmagic Video Assist lets you turn different monitoring tools on and off with a few simple taps! Tapping the monitor icon brings up an overlay for toggling between and adjusting settings. You can adjust zebra settings for checking exposure, focus assist tools, frame guides, grids, false color and more.

Digital Slate

Direct enter metadata for faster post shoot editing.
The advanced digital slate and metadata features make it extremely fast to add metadata to any shot! Simply swipe left or right from the edge of the screen to bring up the digital slate. Take numbers are automatically incremented when you start and stop recording, so you don’t have to enter them manually for each shot! You can also set reel numbers to increment each time you format a card. All metadata is saved with the files and available in post production with software such as DaVinci Resolve!

Easy to Use Menus

Incredible new dashboard gives you complete control.
Blackmagic Video Assist 12G HDR features an elegant, simple to understand dashboard interface with tabs that give you quick access and complete control over every setting and feature. Simply tap on the record, monitor, audio, setup, or LUTs tab to access everything with just a few taps. The unique design of the interface offers visual consistency that puts items in the same logical order every time so you can quickly learn where settings are and remember how to change them.

Recording Setup

Quickly check or change recording settings.
The record tab makes selecting the video input and recording format fast and easy! Simply tap SDI or HDMI to set the source input. Tapping on Blackmagic RAW, ProRes or DNx will highlight the appropriate variations below so you can make your selection. Automatic recording triggers can be set to follow video start and stop or timecode. You can also select the number of audio channels to record, LUT options and more.

Flexible Monitoring

Adjust text, overlays and other options for monitoring.
The monitor menu gives you total control over what is displayed on the built in LCD touchscreen. You can select a clean feed, zebra, focus assist, frame guides and more. You can also set rotation of the screen, making Video Assist completely flexible in a variety of mounting situations. If you’re shooting with an anamorphic lens you can also set the de-squeeze for common formats such as 1.33, 1.66, 2.0 and more.

Professional Audio

Adjust audio input and monitoring.
You can quickly adjust audio levels using the HUD, but for complete control over audio settings, you can use the audio tab on the dashboard. Tap to change source inputs for any channel from XLR mic to XLR Line or video. You also get level sliders and realtime meters, along with a pad control for reducing the level on hot sources. When adjusting audio input settings, you can also turn on 48v of phantom power so you can use microphones that are not self powered without an external pre‑amp.

Fast Setup

Fast and easy set up for any job!
Blackmagic Video Assist 12G HDR makes it super fast to get set up and ready for your shoot. The setup tab on the dashboard lets you enter a name for your Video Assist, set the date and time, select the language, turn on tally and adjust the tally light brightness. You can also adjust timecode preferences for drop or non-drop frame timecode and more. The settings tab also features options for setting audio metering ballistics, file naming conventions, 3G SDI Level A and B options, and more.

Built in 3D LUTs

Monitor with different color profiles or film looks.
3D color lookup tables (LUTs) are used to adjust the color of the output so the director or cinematographer can see a certain “look” as they’re shooting. LUTs are extremely useful when shooting RAW or when using “film” dynamic range, both of which generally look flat when they’re shot. LUTs are used to give you a better idea of what the footage will look like after it has been color corrected in post production. Blackmagic Video Assist 12G HDR can apply 3D LUTs for viewing on the LCD touchscreen, making them ideal for high end feature film and television production. In addition to the built in LUTs, you can also load and store your own 33‑point 3D LUTs, up to a total of 25 on the 7” model and 20 on the 5” model.

Professional Scopes

Built in HDR waveform, parade, histogram and vectorscope with on screen overlays for technical monitoring.
Blackmagic Video Assist 12G HDR features 4 different types of professional scopes for technical monitoring and signal evaluation. You get full waveform monitoring, an RGB parade, vectorscope and histogram. The scopes support both standard and high dynamic range signals and will automatically change their graticule when an HDR input format is detected. Blackmagic Video Assist 12G HDR displays the scopes as an overlay on top of your video or you can tap the picture in picture in icon to move the video into a separate, smaller floating window on top of the scopes.

RGB Parade

RGB parade displays are perfect for color correction and checking for illegal colors within a 100% RGB color space. RGB parade view displays the full height of the individual red, green and blue color channels. Monitoring the levels of each color channel makes color correction straightforward as it's easy to view color balance in the blacks, mids and whites of the video signal. RGB parade lets you identify details common to the red, green and blue channels, making it simple to color balance and remove unwanted color tints. It’s important when color correcting to make sure the video levels are full but not clipped. Some equipment can easily generate illegal 100% RGB levels.

Waveform Monitor

The waveform display provides a digitally encoded waveform that shows the luma (brightness) levels of your video signal. Luma levels on the scope will be in roughly the same position relative to those within the frame. For example, if part of your sky is overexposed you will see it in the same horizontal position on the waveform display as it appears in the frame. Depending on your footage, your waveform will look different. If you are monitoring video which is high contrast, you might not see any values in the mid grays. However if your video levels are low, you might see most of the waveform down the bottom of the scope. You could increase gain and watch the waveform rise up towards the top of the scope.

Vectorscope

The vectorscope display allows you to see the intensity of colors in a video signal at 100% SDI reference levels. Vectorscope is great for checking color levels from older, analog videotape where you need to adjust chroma levels. Just play back the color bar segment of the videotape, and then adjust the chroma and hue settings to set the colors of the video within the square boxes in the graticule. Vectorscope display is also perfect for color grading, as you can easily see if your video is correctly white balanced or if there is a color tint. If your video has a color tint, you will see the blacks move off center in the scope so it becomes easy to adjust color to remove the tint.