Hi Colin

I use 2 different methods to switch for External2.

The 1st one is using a Midi Controller like the Akai Mini
Here's a demo video showing how to "double-switch" with it (for PGM and EXT2 going to big screen)
https://forums.vmix.com/....aspx?g=posts&t=9765

Solution #2 is to use vMixUTC, a third-party donationware controller for vMix. Though it was initially designed for title management, it anyway allows to switch inputs for any output and benefits from integrated NDI monitoring
UTC can be found here : https://forums.vmix.com/....aspx?g=posts&t=6468

I did many tutorials and demo videos here : https://forums.vmix.com/....aspx?g=posts&t=9393
This one shows how to switch specifically for EXT2: https://forums.vmix.com/...ts&m=34998#post34998
This one shows how to switch specifically for overlays inside multiviews aswell as using multiple layouts for a single multiview input (same thing as with the Akai Mini) : https://forums.vmix.com/...ts&m=34980#post34980

Regarding the use of transitions effects inside multiviews I have no solution

Best regards
Guillaume

HI guys,

Thanks for your comments, and I understand your positions. Although my status is a NEWBIE, I am ex BBC and the main dealer in the UK for vMix and have been installing and using vMix in the UK for a few years now. I do already install and use the 2 output thing at many shows and installations, using shortcuts on X-Keys mostly.

I understand the premise and use of PREVIEW of course, and used to use it. But, vMix also has the option to cut straight to the output, to any of the outputs, and we use this all the time at Soccer installations, for example. When a goal is scored, one button is pressed on an X-Keys and a VT goal animation is played, the home score is increased by one, the second output (for the separate scoreboard) plays a different animation in synch, and the it all cuts back to "normal" afterwards.

Although many/most people use vMix for streaming and vision mixing (as we do), this type of installation that I am talking about is for people who have probably never seen or heard of the preview and TX way of doing things. VMIX almost encourages this other way of working with the many options to send inputs straight to outputs. The mouse click option to send an input to an output for example, which we use on touch screens sometimes to allow a user to touch the image they want to go to main screen. Most non professionals like, and prefer, this way of working.

vMix is a very different set up of vision mixing compared to Tricaster and traditional mixers, and is capable of so much, that I am suggesting perhaps a version could be made where the PREVIEW window is clearly highlighted to show it is in DUAL OUTPUT MODE, for example (to avoid any confusion for traditional mixers), that would allow normal operators to easily control 2 separate outputs, with transitions.

I currently run two outputs this way already sometimes, as it is easy to set an X-Keys to send an input to either PREVIEW or MAIN TX out, and have an output set to PREVIEW. The only thing this second output does not have is transitions. I can even use OVERLAYS in the preview.

I have many clients, and know I will have many potential clients, who would happily pay a lot more for this option, so I am just asking/hoping it may be considered. Perhaps a new fork of vMix especially for this function.

I am happy to read all your comments and certainly am not suggesting a change to the traditional way of vMix operation :)

@ colintve

Your points are well taken and I believe that thinking outside the box should always be encouraged when it comes to finding new and better ways of doing things. There is obviously a want and a need for such functionality and I am not opposed to having more and better options within vMix. I think the “switcher within a switcher” idea will eventually come to pass since, as you state, there are already “use case” scenarios in place, and it has been a topic of discussion previously. The realist in me however, makes me believe, based on vMix’s current mode of operation, that it is not something that can be easily adjusted by Martin without doing a major re-write of the software (but then again, I’m not a programmer, so what do I know, he never ceases to amaze me), so while I agree that it would potentially be a great feature for those that have the need, it would also add more complexities for the average user if not introduced and applied properly. Since there are currently “workaround” options available, my expectations would not be to see something like this before vMix 21 or even vMix23 if the request garners traction (which I hope it does, so + 1 for that).
Just my thoughts.
It should also be mentioned that it’s not the first time that requests have been made to change the nature of the UI and the use of the Preview screen and it’s space (although, most of those are about screen estate and the perceived uselessness of that screen). It’s likely a tough balancing act trying to both appeal to the traditionalists and appease the next generation of enthusiasts.


Ice