Sony’s new Live Production switcher XVS-G1 matches affordability with versatility

Media Advisory

Modern and feature rich compact entry level switcher will be powered by CPU, FPGA and GPU engines

Asia Pacific, 25 March 2021 – Sony today introduces the newest addition to its long-standing switcher family, the XVS-G1. This new entry-level compact live production switcher, developed as a next-generation platform, combines the power of a new video processing engine with a modern architecture design.

Designed for live production needs including sports, news or entertainment programs, the XVS-G1 system is a perfect fit for small to mid-size studio, outside broadcast vehicle, and fly-away production units. With many options, this switcher offers its versatility to various production environments.

“Sony’s switchers have a long history and reputation for their reliability and robustness,” said Takuma Wada, Head of Content Creation Solutions Marketing, Professional Solutions Company (PSAP), Sony Corporation of Hong Kong Limited. “The new XVS-G1 is built on that legacy in a small compact and modular form and adds some must-have future-proof features such as a clip player, HDR conversion and capability amongst many others.”

One of the distinguishing features is its hybrid structure which pulls together a central processing unit (CPU), with a graphics processing unit (GPU), and a field-programmable gate array (FPGA). This combination delivers both highest performance and reliability, with no compromise on visual processing enhancements.

FPGA hardware enables real-time processing in high resolution 4K(UHD), wide colour gamut, high-dynamic range (HDR) imaging and ultra-low latency. High-density, high-resolution video processing using the latest software technology provides versatility and expandability. These powerful specifications future proof the XVS-G1 system and boost creative possibilities.

Key features include:

• A creative and high-potential platform thanks to a modular software structure

The graphics processing engine enables multiple creative functions as it is enhanced with features like a built-in clip player and 3D digital multi-effects. The enhanced multi-viewer enables the display of multiple types of information such as the audio level meter, and multi-layer captions overlay.

Multiple HDR format conversion options are available as well as compatibility with the Sony SR live workflow.

• Built-in clip player

The XVS-G1 system comes with an optional clip player for the first time in a Sony live production switcher. Four channels are available in HD and two channels in 4K(UHD) with each channel having the ability to playback clips of up to 60 minutes in duration. Widely available AVC codec files in MOV or MP4 container format are supported and back-up storage of all clips is available on the internal SDD.

Media files are easily and instantly loaded into the internal SSD storage device directly from a menu display on a PC or tablet device.

• Sophisticated operation perfectly matched to News, Sports, and Entertainment program production

The user menu is based on a newly designed web application. Quick access to desired item is achieved by an optimised menu structure to reflect live operation workflow and setup. Wireless operation can be achieved via Wi-Fi and a PC or tablet device, and the structure allows quick access to the desired menu.

A range of four control panels derived from Sony’s user-friendly ICP-X7000 series ensures simple, easy, and fast operation. The switcher inherits many features from Sony’s XVS high-end switchers and shares the same benefit of system status recognition, confidence in button-push accuracy, and speed in mission-critical live production scenes.

New intuitive design menu

The XVS-G1 will be available in Asia Pacific from Q3 of calendar year 2021 onwards.