Make a Logo on FiverrI’m always looking for tools to add to my streaming rig that not only alleviate my system from overworking, but also give me tools to record and stream. That’s what I’m hoping the ZowieTek ZowieBox can do — give me a compact yet powerful device that promises to deliver seamless 4K […] The post Unbox and Setup of ZowieBox for 4K Recording or Streaming! appeared first on Geekazine.
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I’m always looking for tools to add to my streaming rig that not only alleviate my system from overworking, but also give me tools to record and stream. That’s what I’m hoping the ZowieTek ZowieBox can do — give me a compact yet powerful device that promises to deliver seamless 4K streaming and recording while supporting multiple streaming protocols like NDI, SRT, and RTMP.
What Is the ZowieBox?
The ZowieTek ZowieBox is a versatile 4K HDMI encoder/decoder designed to fit into a variety of content creation setups. Whether you’re a gamer streaming on Twitch, a videographer capturing live events, or an educator hosting virtual webinars, ZowieBox is built to handle it all. With features like remote control via mobile devices, multi-camera support, and POE+ compatibility, this device aims to simplify the most complex workflows.
And it can stream or record in 4K. That can allow me to use my older – yet still relevant cameras to in my workflow.
Get the ZowieBox here ($189)
Unboxing and First Impressions
The unboxing experience is straightforward, with no unnecessary frills—just the essentials. Inside the box, you’ll find:
* The ZowieBox
* A 5V/3A power adapter
* A USB-C cable
* A quick-start guide
It’s small and unobtrusive, which is perfect for your bag, or to put into a portable system (just make sure not to block the vents). The unit looks durable, and the simple layout of ports ensures that even those new to streaming hardware won’t be overwhelmed.
On the front, there’s an LCD display that provides real-time feedback like IP address and CPU temperature. The back is either a Tally light, or fun LED for gamers (changed in settings).
It’s definitely clear that ZowieTek designed this device with ease of use and efficiency in mind.
Key Features of the ZowieBox
Here is what ZowieBox brings to the table:
* 4K HDMI Encoding/Decoding: Whether you’re streaming or recording, the ZowieBox can handle 4K resolution
* NDI HX3 and SRT Support: This is a big deal for creators using network-based video workflows. NDI compatibility allows for seamless integration with other hardware, while SRT ensures low-latency video transmission even over less-than-ideal internet connections.
* Mobile Control: You can remotely control the ZowieBox from your smartphone, tablet, or desktop, using the IP based interface
* UVC Support: For those using UVC-enabled webcams, this device allows you to plug them in for another camera option to your system
* POE+ Support: If you have a POE+ switch, just plug in an Ethernet cable and you’re good to go.
Setting Up the ZowieBox and How I’m Going to Use it.
One of the ZowieBox’s biggest strengths is its ease of setup. Once connected to power and your HDMI source,
I’m always looking for tools to add to my streaming rig that not only alleviate my system from overworking, but also give me tools to record and stream. That’s what I’m hoping the ZowieTek ZowieBox can do — give me a compact yet powerful device that promises to deliver seamless 4K streaming and recording while supporting multiple streaming protocols like NDI, SRT, and RTMP.
The ZowieTek ZowieBox is a versatile 4K HDMI encoder/decoder designed to fit into a variety of content creation setups. Whether you’re a gamer streaming on Twitch, a videographer capturing live events, or an educator hosting virtual webinars, ZowieBox is built to handle it all. With features like remote control via mobile devices, multi-camera support, and POE+ compatibility, this device aims to simplify the most complex workflows.
And it can stream or record in 4K. That can allow me to use my older – yet still relevant cameras to in my workflow.
Get the ZowieBox here ($189)The unboxing experience is straightforward, with no unnecessary frills—just the essentials. Inside the box, you’ll find:
It’s small and unobtrusive, which is perfect for your bag, or to put into a portable system (just make sure not to block the vents). The unit looks durable, and the simple layout of ports ensures that even those new to streaming hardware won’t be overwhelmed.
On the front, there’s an LCD display that provides real-time feedback like IP address and CPU temperature. The back is either a Tally light, or fun LED for gamers (changed in settings).
It’s definitely clear that ZowieTek designed this device with ease of use and efficiency in mind.
Here is what ZowieBox brings to the table:
One of the ZowieBox’s biggest strengths is its ease of setup. Once connected to power and your HDMI source, the device displays an IP address on its front panel, which you can use to access its control panel via a web browser. The interface is clean and intuitive, allowing you to adjust stream resolution, bitrates, and audio settings with ease.
During the tests, I connected a computer running vMix, which sent a live stream of 4 cameras to Zowie Box and recorded and streamed in 4K. I also passed the video through the HDMI out to another computer running vMix. I was then able to separate the 4 videos feeds and add them with 4 other cameras for a multi-angle shoot.
The device recorded the video for backup, and allowed me to switch for a live experience. ZowieBox delivered a smooth, high-quality video without any noticeable lag or dropped frames.
With the recording, I can take the videos back to edit for the web – getting better angles of shots, fixing mixing issues, and possibly making extra content with all the data I collected.
When it comes to performance, the Zowie Box didn’t disappoint. It does have a limitation to 4K/30fps, so if you are sending 4K/60, you have to adjust or the box will knock it down to 1080p/60.
Limitations in bitrate could hamper the quality of your overall recording or stream – so don’t expect ProRes 4444 XQ out of it. But you can record in MP4 or MOV formats.
Storage can be added via micro-SD card or USB drive. But the interface also allows you to download videos if you not at the box.
Inside is an On-Screen Display (OSD)feature, allowing you to add graphics and a scoreboard to your video. If your streaming out a sporting event, this can give you some added features so fans are up to date on the score.
The box settles in at about 100 Fahrenheit, so it will stay cool in the right environment. Once again, don’t block the fans.
The ZowieTek Zowie Box is priced around $190 (Get ZowieBox Here). I am finding it a reliable and versatile tool for what I want to do with it. I love the idea I can take my older Sony AX700 and give it ability to stream directly from the source.
I am always a fan of a POE device, keeping the cabling down to a minimum. allows my rigs to look cleaner.
Bottom Line: For content creators, streamers, and event producers looking for a robust 4K solution, the ZowieTek ZowieBox delivers everything you need in one compact package. It’s easy to use, reliable, and packed with features that make it a must-have for anyone serious about live production.
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