Cinetreak Cinelive C1 Video Switcher Released – Affordable 4-Input Switcher

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by Jeff LochApril 6^th, 2023

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A new Chinese company called Cinetreak has just released its second standalone video switcher called the Cinelive C1. This switcher has four HDMI inputs, two HDMI outputs, a handy 5.5” LCD screen, and comes packed with many features like live streaming, external recording of the program output, chroma-keying, remote control, etc. So let’s take a closer look at this $499 video switcher!

Since the pandemic, live-streaming and multi-cam switching have become part of most filmmakers’ and content creators’ toolkits. Also, the advance in technology pushed by companies such as Blackmagic Design with its ATEM lineup of affordable switchers really helped put the tools in more hands.

If you’re in the market for an affordable 4-input switcher with a built-in screen, Cinetreak has released the Cinelive C1, which offers an impressive price/feature ratio.

Cinetreak Cinelive C1 – input and output ports

The Cinetreak Cinelive C1 is a relatively compact live video switcher that measures only 200x123x45mm for a 670g/1.47 lbs weight. Under the unit, you’ll find VESA 75×75 mounting points, as well as a 1/4″-20 mounting point on the front of the unit.

Like most live switchers, all the video input/output ports of the Cinelive C1 are at the back of the unit. You’ll find:

• Four HDMI input ports that can take signals up to 1080p60.
• Two HDMI output ports.
• One USB Type-C UVC output for live streaming to all major social media platforms, including Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and so on.
• One RJ45 LAN connector for live streaming, PTZ control, and remote control of the Cinelive C1.
• A 12V DC input connector.

On the left side of the Cinelive C1, you’ll find a 3.5mm headphone output, two Mic/Line 3.5mm audio inputs, one extended tally port, and a USB Type-A port to record the program output on a USB key or SSD. Finally, you’ll find a power switch on the right side of the Cinelive C1.

The front panel of the Cinetreak Cinelive C1 will probably remind you a little bit of the SPROLINK NeoLIVE R2. However, except for the T-bar and 5.5″ LCD screen, the Cinetreak features many more control buttons as it has more features.

Cinetreak Cinelive C1 features

The Cinelive C1 comes packed with a lot of handy features:

• PTZ camera control via the HDMI inputs and the VISCA protocol, so you can control the camera’s positions, focus, color, etc., via the PTZ jog.
• It supports the well-known A/B layer, PIP, and POP with adjustable size and position.
• There is a built-in chroma keyer for blue/green screen shoots. In addition, you can load background graphics via the USB port.
• You can add a logo on top of your program if needed. This is handy for corporate shoots.
• There is a dedicated Record button to record your program output to an external SSD or USB key.

As you can tell, for such a compact unit, not much is missing.

Pricing and availability

The Cinetreak Cinelive C1 will start shipping in two weeks for $499.

For more information, please visit Cinetreak’s website here.

What do you think about this affordable live video switcher? Do you often use a live video switcher? What feature do you use the most on a switcher? Don’t hesitate to let us know in the comments down below!