The College of Journalism and Mass Communications has completed an upgrade to its podcast studio, expanding its capabilities beyond audio to include professional-quality video recording and live production tools. With new cameras, advanced switching hardware and simplified workflows, the studio now offers students and faculty more ways to bring their stories to life and share them with the world.
The most visible change is the addition of four OBSBOT Tiny2 pan-tilt-zoom (PTZ) cameras, each positioned near a studio microphone to capture high-quality video from multiple angles. Controlled by individual wireless remotes, the cameras offer flexibility for interview-style podcasts, roundtable discussions and multi-host setups. They join the two original PTZ cameras, which remain in place and fully functional.
At the heart of the upgrade is a new Blackmagic ATEM Mini Extreme, a video switcher that replaces the previous four-input model with an eight-input system. The new switcher supports more camera angles and includes a SuperSource function that allows up to four video feeds to appear on screen at the same time. Podcasters can now create split-screen or picture-in-picture layouts live, without needing to edit in postproduction.
The switcher also connects to other production spaces across the college. One input feeds directly from Room 226, allowing the studio to send or receive content from 90.3 KRNU, the Meier Studio, the Pepsi Lab, Room 15, LNKTV or the SMART Lab. Another input is dedicated to any external HDMI source, enabling users to bring in a laptop, tablet or other device during their recording.
To streamline the process further, the new Blackmagic HyperDeck Mini allows users to record video directly to an SD card. This eliminates the need to use the iMac and OBS software, making the recording process faster and more intuitive.
“These updates make it possible to create a polished, multi-camera video podcast in a single session,” said Jamie Wenz, technical director for the college. “The studio is easier to use and far more powerful. It’s a great opportunity for anyone who wants to explore audio or video storytelling.”
The podcast studio is available to all CoJMC students, faculty and staff. Training documentation is available, and reservations can be made here.
Whether you are producing a class assignment, launching a new series or bringing research to a wider audience, the updated podcast studio is ready to help you make it happen.
