Features

The Blackmagic Design UltraStudio Mini Replay 12G is a professional Thunderbolt 4 capture and playback interface specifically developed for live replay , broadcast graphics , and real-time video processing . Unlike traditional capture devices, this model supports simultaneous video capture and output, allowing a single computer to process live video footage and send it back directly to a production switcher.

The UltraStudio Mini Replay 12G is based entirely on 12G-SDI and supports SD, HD, and Ultra HD formats up to 2160p60 via a single compact Thunderbolt 4 connection. Thanks to the two independent Fill & Key outputs , graphics, replay footage, and animations with transparency can be inserted directly into a live production. Additionally, the device features a separate 12G-SDI monitor output, allowing operators to continuously prepare the next segment without affecting the live broadcast.

Key features

• Thunderbolt 4 capture and playback interface

• Simultaneous video recording and video output

• 12G-SDI input up to UHD 2160p60

• Two independent 12G-SDI Fill & Key outputs

• Separate 12G-SDI monitor output

• Support for SD, HD and Ultra HD

• Compatible with DaVinci Resolve Replay

• Hardware RGBA to YUV 4:2:2:4 conversion

• Support for HDR workflows

• Very compact and portable housing

• Compatible with macOS, Windows, and Linux via Desktop Video software.

Operation

The UltraStudio Mini Replay 12G acts as a bidirectional video interface between a Thunderbolt 4 computer and a professional SDI production environment.

The incoming 12G-SDI signal is sent directly to the computer for recording, video editing, AI processing, or live replay. Simultaneously, the same computer can send a video signal back to the SDI outputs for immediate broadcasting.

Whereas traditional capture cards exclusively record or play back, the Replay 12G combines both functions simultaneously. This allows, for example, a sports match to be recorded live while a slow-motion replay with an animated transition is broadcast immediately afterwards without additional hardware.

For live productions, the Replay 12G features two fully independent Fill & Key outputs . One SDI signal is used for the video images (Fill) and the second SDI signal for the alpha channel (Key). Broadcast switchers such as the ATEM Constellation can combine both signals so that graphics, titles, and replay images are seamlessly superimposed over the live video signal with transparency.

A third SDI output remains permanently active as a monitor output. This allows an operator to prepare the next replay in advance while the current broadcast continues uninterrupted. This is particularly valuable during sports matches, news broadcasts, and live events where speed is essential.

Internally, the UltraStudio Mini Replay 12G supports both RGBA and YUVA framebuffers . RGB graphics are automatically converted to a professional 10-bit YUV 4:2:2:4 output, preserving transparency without additional software conversion.

Application

The UltraStudio Mini Replay 12G is designed for professional applications such as:

• Live sports productions

• Instant replay

• Broadcast graphics

• Virtual graphics

• Live news productions

• Esports

• Concert recordings

• Studio broadcasts

• AI video processing

• Virtual production

• Video editing

• Color correction

• Post-production

The device connects directly to software such as DaVinci Resolve Replay , where operators can play back slow-motion replays, highlights, and animated transitions at the touch of a button. At the same time, the same computer can be used for real-time AI processing or graphic overlays.

In addition to DaVinci Resolve, the UltraStudio Mini Replay 12G also supports other professional software that uses the Blackmagic Desktop Video drivers and SDK, including Adobe Premiere Pro, Avid Media Composer, Fusion, and various broadcast solutions.

Limits

Although the UltraStudio Mini Replay 12G is very versatile, there are a few points to consider:

• The device features only 12G-SDI and has no HDMI connections.

• There are no analog video or audio inputs available.

• A computer with Thunderbolt 4 is required for use.

• The Replay functionality is optimized for DaVinci Resolve Replay ; other software may not offer the same integrated replay workflow.

• The device contains no internal recorder or storage; all video is processed via the connected computer.

• There are no built-in encoder functions for streaming protocols such as RTMP, SRT, or NDI.

• The Fill & Key outputs are intended for compatible broadcast switchers that support external key signals.