Blackmagic Design UltraStudio Express Recorder 3G

Compact USB4 SDI and HDMI Video Capture Interface

Blackmagic Design UltraStudio Express Recorder 3G is a pocket-sized video capture and streaming interface for broadcast teams, content creators, AV technicians, and post-production professionals. It connects cameras and other SDI or HDMI video sources to a computer for recording, streaming, editing, and archiving.

The recorder features 3G-SDI and HDMI inputs and supports YUV and RGB video at resolutions up to 1080p60. Its high-speed USB4 computer connection supports professional video formats including Apple ProRes, Avid DNxHD, and 10-bit uncompressed video.

UltraStudio Express Recorder 3G receives power through its USB-C connector, allowing it to operate from the attached computer without a separate power supply. This compact design makes it practical for desktop edit stations, portable capture kits, live streaming systems, and space-conscious AV installations.

This model replaces the earlier Thunderbolt 3 version because a component used in the previous model became obsolete. The updated recorder uses USB4 while remaining otherwise functionally the same as the earlier version.

Key Features

• Compact video capture and streaming interface
• 3G-SDI and HDMI video inputs
• High-speed USB4 computer connection
• Supports YUV and RGB video up to 1080p60
• Supports Apple ProRes, Avid DNxHD, and 10-bit uncompressed video
• USB-C powered operation without a separate power supply

Professional Applications

• Capturing video from professional SDI cameras
• Recording HDMI camera and video sources
• Live streaming from SDI or HDMI equipment
• Ingesting footage into computer-based editing systems
• Archiving video from professional production sources

System Integration

UltraStudio Express Recorder 3G connects an SDI or HDMI source to a USB4-equipped computer, creating a compact bridge between production equipment and recording, streaming, or post-production software. Its portable enclosure and USB-C powered design allow it to fit easily into desktop workstations, mobile production kits, broadcast environments, and professional AV systems.

Broadcast Workflow Benefits

By combining professional 3G-SDI and widely used HDMI connectivity in one portable recorder, UltraStudio Express Recorder 3G reduces the need for separate capture devices or an internally installed capture card. Support for video up to 1080p60 and established professional formats makes it suitable for high-quality capture, live streaming, editorial ingest, and archive workflows.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does UltraStudio Express Recorder 3G do?

It captures or streams video from a camera or other 3G-SDI or HDMI source through a connected computer.

What video resolution does it support?

UltraStudio Express Recorder 3G supports YUV and RGB video at resolutions up to 1080p60.

How does the recorder connect to a computer?

It uses a high-speed USB4 connection through its USB-C connector.

How is this model different from the older version?

The updated model uses USB4 instead of the Thunderbolt 3 connection found on the earlier version. It replaces the previous model because an older component became obsolete and is otherwise functionally the same.

Does it require a separate power supply?

No. The recorder draws power from the attached computer through its USB-C connection.

Related Equipment and Workflow Compatibility

UltraStudio Express Recorder 3G is designed for workflows using cameras and other video equipment with 3G-SDI or HDMI outputs. It connects these sources to a USB4 computer for video capture, streaming, recording, editing, or archiving.

Its support for Apple ProRes, Avid DNxHD, and 10-bit uncompressed video makes it relevant to professional broadcast and post-production environments using established acquisition and editing formats.

Why Professionals Use This Type of Product

• Adds SDI and HDMI video capture to a computer
• Supports professional video resolutions up to 1080p60
• Provides a portable alternative to an internal capture card
• Draws power directly from the connected computer
• Supports capture, streaming, ingest, and archiving workflows

Additional Compatibility Information

This compact USB4 video capture interface is suited to professional workflows requiring 3G-SDI capture, HDMI recording, 1080p60 video ingest, live streaming, Apple ProRes support, Avid DNxHD support, or 10-bit uncompressed video capture.