Documentation Center

Viz Vectar Plus User Guide

Version 1.3 | Published November 18, 2022 ©

Mix and Effect Modes

images/download/attachments/92972632/image2022-3-11_11-28-51.png

At first glance, an M/E panel in its default operating mode (mix, or transition) is scarcely distinguishable from the main Switcher. However, each M/E actually present two different operating modes:

  • Mix mode (default): A secondary switcher layout, with controls and options that are very similar to the main Switcher.

  • Effect mode: The M/E is configured for compositing or utility effects.

The M/E mode is automatically established based on the type of effect you load as its Background effect. Effect selection is done in the usual way using the Media Browser.

Click the + sign gadget that appears at upper right when the mouse is over the thumbnail icon for the Background effect.

images/download/thumbnails/92972632/image2022-3-11_11-29-8.png

For the most part, you initially see very little difference in the M/E panel when you change modes.

  • In either mode, source button rows labeled A through (B or D) are arranged at left.

  • The number of layers shown varies according the effect selection you make, from two effect layers to four.

  • At right are four KEY control groups. In most respects these are identical in appearance and practice to the DSK controls located in the main Switcher.

  • Even the central control group mimics the main Switcher, with its Transition controls and options, T-bar and so on.

Mix Mode

Really, an M/E in Mix mode is a switcher:

  • Input rows labeled A and B behave just like the main Switcher’s Program and Preview rows.

  • Transition controls work in the usual manner.

  • KEY channels stand-in for DSKs and behave similarly.

  • M/E output can be routed to primary outputs and Record module.

Effect Mode

images/download/thumbnails/92972632/image2022-3-11_11-30-12.png

Even casual scrutiny reveals some (outwardly) subtle differences in the M/E control configuration when a LiveSet is loaded as the Background effect selection, as follows:

  • The Take/Auto buttons located beneath the T-bar and Transition icon are replaced by a Position button.

  • As required, as many as four input rows (A, B, C, and D) may be shown in Effect mode.

  • Positioner controls may appear for these input layers.

Let’s consider the reasons behind these changes in the interface. An M/E in Effect mode allows preparation of a composite of two or more video sources, whether for direct output, or as a source for the main Switcher, or as an input for other downstream channels (including other M/Es).

Even in Mix mode, an M/E provides access to effects – including Position and transition effects and animating KEY layers via the Comps feature. In Effect mode, however, an M/E asserts its real-time compositing and effects prowess more aggressively.