Blackmagic Design UltraStudio Mini Recorder 12G

Capturing high-quality video from professional SDI sources into your computer can be a challenge without the right hardware. The Blackmagic Design UltraStudio Mini Recorder 12G solves this by providing a compact, Thunderbolt 3-powered capture solution that brings 12G-SDI video and embedded audio directly into your workflow. Whether you're working on live productions, color grading, or broadcast monitoring, this device ensures you get pristine 4K footage with low latency and reliable performance.

Who is it for

This capture device is ideal for video professionals, broadcast engineers, and content creators who need to ingest SDI signals into a laptop or desktop. It's perfect for on-set monitoring, live streaming, post-production, and any application where portability and high-quality capture are essential. If you work with cameras, switchers, or other SDI-equipped gear and need to bring that signal into software like DaVinci Resolve, OBS, or Final Cut Pro, the UltraStudio Mini Recorder 12G is a must-have tool.

Main features

• Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C) interface for ultra-fast data transfer and bus power
• Supports 12G-SDI input up to 2160p60 (DCI 4K / UHD 4K)
• Captures 16 channels of embedded SDI audio
• Compatible with SD, HD, 3G-SDI, 6G-SDI, and 12G-SDI standards
• 10-bit YUV and 12-bit RGB color precision with 4:2:2 and 4:4:4 sampling
• Supports REC 601, REC 709, and REC 2020 color spaces
• Bus-powered via Thunderbolt 3 – no external power adapter needed
• Includes DaVinci Resolve Lite, Media Express, and other Blackmagic software
• Firmware upgradeable via Thunderbolt connection
• Compact, portable form factor for field use

Specifications

• Host Interface: Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C)
• Video Input: 1 x 12G-SDI (BNC)
• Audio Input: 16 Channels Embedded SDI
• Max Video Resolution: 2160p60 (DCI 4K / UHD 4K)
• Supported SDI Standards: SD, HD, 3G-SDI, 6G-SDI, 12G-SDI
• Video Sampling: 4:2:2 YUV, 4:4:4 RGB
• Color Precision: 10-bit YUV, 12-bit RGB
• Color Space Support: REC 601, REC 709, REC 2020
• Operating System Compatibility: macOS 11.0+, Windows 10 (64-bit)+, Linux
• Power Source: Thunderbolt Bus Powered
• Form Factor: External, Portable
• Included Software: DaVinci Resolve Lite, Media Express, Disk Speed Test, LiveKey, Aurora, Blackmagic Desktop Video Utility and driver
• SDI Compliance: SMPTE 259M, 292M, 296M, 372M, 424M, 425M, 2081-1, 2082-1, 2082-10, 2082-12
• Real-time Effects: Supported
• Firmware: Upgradeable via Thunderbolt connection

Tips

To get the most out of your UltraStudio Mini Recorder 12G, ensure your computer has a Thunderbolt 3 port and the latest Blackmagic Desktop Video drivers installed. For live production, pair it with a compatible SDI source and use Media Express for simple capture or DaVinci Resolve for advanced editing and color grading. Since it's bus-powered, you can use it on location without worrying about power outlets—just connect it to your laptop and start capturing.