Convergent Design has announced Apollo, a portable HD multicamera recorder/switcher that can simultaneously record up to four HD video signals, along with a fifth channel of either a live-switch between the four or a quad-split reference view.  The ability to function as a four-channel live switcher while simultaneously recording the four isolated HD video signals keeps cameras in perfect sync with matching timecode, and a single SSD contains all of the multicamera media, dramatically reducing turnaround time for post.  There are two SSD slots on Apollo, allowing for twice the record time or mirror recording for safety backup.  Apollo utilizes industry-standard 2.5” SSD media, either manufactured by Convergent Design or qualified 3rd party models.

Additional functions are planned for release in the first quarter of 2016, including two-channel 4K/UHD video recording, DNxHD recording, and cascade interconnect between up to three Apollos for up to twelve HD channel or six 4K/UHD channel simultaneous recording.  These and other additional functions will be made available via a free firmware update.  A remote keypad control unit will be offered along with a rack mount and other accessories.

Apollo is scheduled for release in December 2015 with an MSRP of $3995, including an SSD to USB3 adapter, a 5-pack of SSD mounting handles, and a universal AC power supply included.  Owners of the Convergent Design Odyssey7Q and Odyssey7Q+ will be able to purchase an Apollo Option for their devices as an upgrade for $1795.

Specs:

Recording

• HD video recording, up to four signals simultaneously
• 1080p24 / 1080p30 / 1080i60 / 720p60 (60hz territories)
• 1080p25 / 1080i50/720p50 (50hz territories)
• Apple ProRes HQ/422/LT
• Record four HD signals and one quad-split view
• Record four HD signals and one live switch
• Up to four SDI inputs or three SDI & one HDMI
• Embedded audio or analog input
• Loss of any signal does not interrupt recording of other channels
• Apollo Media Manager App outputs four separate files or one master multi-camera QuickTime for simplified post
• Dual SSDs allow spanning (long record time) or mirroring (simultaneous backup)
• 3.5 hours recording time at highest quality [2TB of 4x HD signals & live switch, 1080p30, Apple ProRes 422(HQ); 8.5 hours in Apple ProRes 422(LT)]

Switching/Monitoring

• No Genlock required
• Touchscreen interface
• Monitor outputs for switched or quad view
• Two SDI outputs, one HDMI output
• Preset or Custom Monitoring LUTs
• Image Analysis tools: False Color, Focus Assist, Histogram, Pixel Zoom, Spot Meter, Vectorscope, Waveform, and Zebra
• 7.7” OLED panel for true blacks and accurate colors

Other Specs

• 7.9”x6.1”x1” / 20×15.5×2.5 cm
• 1.2lbs. / 560g
• Under 20w power draw, 6.5-34v with battery mounts available
• Two 2.5” SSD slots (Convergent Design SSDs or qualified 3rd party models)
• Magnesium case / Gorilla Glass cover / stick-on/peel-off screen protector
• No fans or vents

Additional features in free firmware update (Early 2016)

• Dual 4K/UHD recording (Apple ProRes in 24p, 25p, 30p)
• DNxHD recording
• Record XML file Edit Decision List from Live Switch
• Remote keyboard control pad
• Audio delay
• On-screen source naming
• Cascade interconnect for 12-channel HD / 6-channel 4K recording

More Information

For additional information about Apollo, please visit the Apollo microsite at Convergent-design.com/apollo