Layers and Channels with Epiphan Video

I recently worked on a project with the Epiphan Pearl 2, where I needed to record and stream four separate video outputs from one room, each with its own unique overlay. At first, I thought I could manage it with just layers, since they let you arrange video sources, text, and graphics. But I quickly realized layers only control how a single output looks. You can switch between layouts in a channel, but you’re still limited to one output. Layers don’t let you split video inputs for different recordings or streams.

The real solution was using channels. Channels let you create separate recordings and streams, each with its own settings and overlay. I set up four channels, so every output could be recorded or streamed separately at the same time.

If you’re using multiple outputs, use channels. For one output, use one channel with multiple layers.

For more detailed guidance, here’s a link to Epiphan’s support center where you can pick your product and access the user guides for step-by-step instructions: Epiphan Support.