Download latest release: Black Syphon r4
Additional information can be found on the Black Syphon documentation page.
This simple, free utility makes it possible for any Syphon enabled software to efficiently send and receive video streams to and from Blackmagic Design hardware devices such as the Intensity Pro, Intensity Shuttle, DeckLink series, MiniMonitor / MiniRecorder, and UltraStudio 4k.
While VDMX already directly takes advantage of native access to Blackmagic hardware for video inputs and outputs, not all video applications have this feature, and we thought it'd be useful to share our existing implementation as a free standalone app that anyone could use alongside programming environments like Processing, Quartz Composer, and Max/MSP, as well as any VJ or projection mapping software that supports Syphon feeds.
MiniMonitor and two DeckLink duo cards in Black Syphon connected by Syphon with Simple Server and Simple Client apps respectively.
Using Black Syphon is easy – each available Blackmagic device connected to your Mac is listed as an Input, Output, or both depending on its capabilities. Clicking on a device in either list will reveal the settings currently in use for connecting to the device, including the Video Mode (resolution and framerate) and Video Source (for outputs only, which Syphon server to send to the device). Published inputs will be available as sources in other software.
Questions about Black Syphon? Here are some answers.
1. I'm a VDMX user – how does this utility help me?
If you're already using VDMX, Blackmagic hardware is already natively supported. Sorry there's nothing new to see here!
2. I use video Application X – how does this utility help me?
The Black Syphon utility interfaces natively with Blackmagic hardware and may use less CPU power than standard QuickTime / AVFoundation for capture.
3. Are multiple simultaneous inputs and outputs possible?
Yes, the Black Syphon utility can work with as many devices and feeds as your Mac can handle.
It is important to note that while some Blackmagic devices (eg. Intensity Pro) are capable of both input and output, they can only operate in one direction at a time for each set of paired ports.
4. What should I do if something goes wrong?
If you have any further questions, problems, or suggestions regarding Black Syphon please send us an email: support@vidvox.net
5. Where can I find old releases of Black Syphon?
Old releases can be found on the Black Syphon documentation page.