AJA Io X3 Multi-Channel 2K/HD/SD Video I/O over Thunderbolt 3

The AJA Io X3 Multi-Channel 2K/HD/SD Video I/O over Thunderbolt 3 is an excellent choice for high-quality HDR or SDR video projects, supporting up to 60p HD/2K signals or files. It is compatible with all major NLE applications, as well as popular video software like OBS Studio, vMix, and Telestream Wirecast. With a single Thunderbolt 3 cable connection and an additional Thunderbolt connector for added flexibility, the compact and quiet design of the Io X3 makes it perfect for various settings such as on set, in the studio, at events, or in the editing suite.

The rear panel of the Io X3 offers a wide range of connectivity options for SD/HD/2K video workflows. Power can be supplied through a standard 4-pin XLR connector using the included AC adapter or battery power. Dual Thunderbolt 3 ports allow for easy host connectivity to laptops or desktops, with the second port enabling loop through to other Thunderbolt devices. RS-422 is included for machine control of external devices, ensuring synchronization for editing purposes. Analog audio is accessible through a DB-25 port, with all 8 channels configurable as inputs or outputs. HDMI in and out ports facilitate monitoring and video input sources, including HDR and SDR video. Reference input, LTC input, and output for timecode, along with 4 bidirectional 3G-SDI ports that can be configured as multi-channel inputs or outputs, provide extensive flexibility for various video applications.

The Io X3 Plus model features two Thunderbolt 3 ports, offering enhanced Thunderbolt flexibility. Thunderbolt 3 boasts double the speed of the previous Thunderbolt 2 standard, providing up to 40 Gbps of throughput. It utilizes the universal USB-C connection standard, simplifying connectivity with a single cable for leading Mac and PC workstations and laptops. This Thunderbolt 3 compatibility ensures seamless integration and high-speed data transfer capabilities for efficient video production workflows.

The Io X3 device offers support for High Dynamic Range (HDR) in your 2K and HD pipelines, allowing for a wider range of colors, brighter whites, and darker blacks compared to standard signals. This results in a more dynamic and lifelike visual experience for your audience. The software v16.2 includes HLG and HDR10 support with HDR Infoframe metadata, following the HDMI 2.0a/CTA-861.3 and HD standards.

With the AJA Control Room software and Io X3, you can capture HDR metadata from incoming SDI or HDMI signals. This metadata is embedded in the recorded .mov video file, ensuring that the file can be played back with its intended dynamic range. Additionally, the HDR Auto Playback Detection feature automatically sets the HDR format on connected monitors based on the embedded HDR metadata in the recorded .mov file.

The AJA Control Room software and Io X3 Plus also support file-based .mov HDR outputs with metadata from Adobe Premiere Pro / Adobe Media Encoder HDR files. This allows for a seamless and high-quality screening experience, where each frame is presented in its intended timing and with the correct HDR format automatically set. Furthermore, the v16.2 Desktop Software enables HDR input from HDMI, making it possible to capture HDR gaming content and more. The device also offers flexibility in audio options, supporting embedded SDI and HDMI audio, as well as analog audio inputs and outputs via a standard Tascam DB-25 connection. Stereo monitoring is also available through the front panel 3.5mm mini-TRS headphone jack.

The Io X3 device provides a multi-channel I/O feature, allowing users to display multiple sources on a single screen through the HDMI output port. This makes it convenient for users to monitor incoming and outgoing video feeds clearly. Io X3 is fully compatible with OBS Studio software, offering a multiview output option for seamless monitoring.

Io X3 can be synchronized with an external reference for seamless integration into larger production setups. Additionally, users can feed LTC in and out to ensure that the footage captured with Io X3 is accurately timestamped. The REF in port enables reference synchronization with other devices within a production facility, ensuring consistency across all synced devices.

With an RS-422 port, users can easily control tape decks for precise captures and layoffs. This feature allows for frame-accurate control, enhancing the overall efficiency and accuracy of the video production process. Io X3 provides a comprehensive solution for machine control, catering to the needs of professional users in the industry.

Key Features

• Supports 2K/HD/SD I/O up to 50/60p
  
• Features 4x bidirectional 3G-SDI BNC with 16-channel embedded audio
  
• Offers HDMI I/O with 8-channel embedded audio
  
• Equipped with two Thunderbolt 3 ports with loop through
  
• Provides multi-channel workflow support for OBS/Wirecast/vMix and other applications
  
• Supports YCbCr 4:2:2 10-bit up to 60p
  
• Supports RGB 4:4:4 12-bit up to 30p
  
• Includes VPID signaling for SDR/HDR Transfer Characteristics, Colorimetry, and Luminance via SDI
  
• Supports PQ, HLG, HDR10, HDR10+ and Dolby Vision
  
• Capable of HDR Metadata Capture and Auto Playback Detection
  
• Offers multiview output over HDMI, allowing up to 4-channels to be viewed on one screen
  
• Provides analog audio flexibility with a choice of 8-channel In or 8-channel Out or 4-channel In and 4-channel Out via a standard Tascam connection
  
• Features a front panel audio display
  
• Includes support for the Apple M1 chip and the latest OS versions
  
• Equipped with XLR 12V power for battery or AC use (AC adapter included)
  
• Includes a headphone jack and level control for mobile and live environments
  
• Offers RS-422 VTR control, Reference, LTC Input, and LTC Output.

Technical Specifications

Video Formats
(2K) 2048 x 1080p 23.98, 24, 25, 29.97, 30, 47.95, 48, 50, 59.94, 60
(2K) 2048 x 1080PsF 23.98, 24, 25
(HD) 1080p 23.98, 24, 25, 29.97, 30, 50, 59.94, 60
(HD) 1080PsF 23.98, 24, 25, 29.97, 30
(HD) 1080i 50, 59.94, 60
(HD) 720p 50, 59.94, 60
(SD) 625i 50
(SD) 525i 59.94
Note: High Frame Rate support is dependent on Thunderbolt speed and system performance. Not all host systems will support all frame rates.
Video Input Digital
3G-SDI, SMPTE 425
RGB 4:4:4 12-bit*, YCbCr 4:2:2 10-bit
1.5G-SDI, SMPTE 292M
Single Link HD-SDI YCbCr 4:2:2 10-bit
270 Mbps SDI, SMPTE 259M-C
YCbCr 4:2:2 10-bit, 8-bit
HDMI v1.4b
30/36-bits/pixel, RGB or YUV, 2.25 Gbps
2K, HD, and SD
*Bit depth support is application dependent. Check with your software manufacturer for compatibility.
Video Output Digital
3G-SDI, SMPTE 425
RGB 4:4:4 12-bit*, YCbCr 4:2:2 10-bit
1.5G-SDI, SMPTE 292M
Single Link HD-SDI YCbCr 4:2:2 10-bit
270 Mbps SDI, SMPTE 259M-C
YCbCr 4:2:2 10-bit, 8-bit
HDMI v1.4b
30/36-bits/pixel, RGB or YUV, 2.25 Gbps
2K, HD, and SD with HFR support up to 60p (4:2:2), 10-bit
*Bit depth support is application dependent. Check with your software manufacturer for compatibility.
HDR
SDI: VPID signaling for SDR/HDR Transfer Characteristics
HDMI: HDR10 Support - HDR Infoframe metadata, compatible with HDMI 2.0a/CTA-861.3
HDMI: HLG Support - compatible with HDMI 2.0b/CTA-861-G
Note: HDR support is application dependent. Check with your software manufacturer for compatibility.
Audio Input Digital
16-channel, 16 and 24-bit SMPTE-259 SDI embedded audio, 48 kHz sample rate, synchronous
8-channel, 16 and 24-bit HDMI embedded audio, 48 kHz sample rate, synchronous
Audio Output Digital
16-channel, 16 and 24-bit SMPTE-259 SDI embedded audio, 48 kHz sample rate, synchronous
8-channel, 16 and 24-bit HDMI embedded audio, 48 kHz sample rate, synchronous
Audio Input Analog
8-channel, 24 and 16-bit D/A analog audio, 48 kHz sample rate, balanced, using industry standard 8x XLR on DB-25 breakout cable (cable not included)
+24 dBu full scale digital (0 dBFS)
+/- 0.2 dB 20 to 20 kHz frequency response
Input supported across Ch 1-8, Ch 1-4, or Ch 5-8 depending on configuration chosen
Audio Output Analog
8-channel, 24-bit D/A analog audio, 48 kHz sample rate, balanced, using industry standard 8x XLR on DB-25 breakout cable (cable not included)
+24 dBu full scale digital (0 dBFS)
+/- 0.2 dB 20 to 20 kHz frequency response
Output supported across Ch 1-8, Ch 1-4, or Ch 5-8 depending on configuration chosen
2-channel, 18-bit D/A analog audio, 48 kHz sample rate, unbalanced, using standard 3.5mm jack
1.2V RMS full scale digital output level (0 dBFS)
Downstream Keyer
Supports graphics up to 2K/HD with alpha channel over video, matte or framebuffer, or framebuffer content over incoming video or matte
LTC
1x BNC LTC input (dedicated)
1x BNC LTC output (dedicated)
Reference
1x BNC (dedicated)
Analog Color Black (1V) or Composite Sync (2 or 4V)
Nonterminating
Electrical Interface
Thunderbolt 3 (2x)
Machine Control
RS-422, Sony 9-pin protocol
9-pin D-connector pinout
Shell
GND
Size (w x d x h)
8.74” x 7.09” x 1.65” (222.0 x 180.09 x 41.91 mm)
Weight
3.1 lbs. (1.5 kg)
Power
10-20V, 23W typical, 28W max
Environment
Safe Operating Temperature Range
0 to 35 C (32 to 95 F)
Safe Storage Temperature (Power OFF)
-40 to 60 C (-40 to 140 F)
Operating Relative Humidity
10-90% noncondensing
Operating Altitude
<3,000 meters (<10,000 feet)