Use the "Top" buttons to trigger vMix Macros. For example:
Before we focus on the "Top" aspect, let’s define the hardware. A UTC controller is a USB-based hardware control surface specifically designed for video mixing software. Unlike generic MIDI controllers (like the X-Touch Mini) that require complex mapping, true UTC controllers are natively recognized by vMix as a standard input device.
These devices typically feature:
Popular examples include the Skaarhoj PTZ vMix, the Elgato Stream Deck + (configured as a UTC), and dedicated Chinese OEM units sold under brands like AK-UC300. However, a "True UTC Top" unit usually refers to the 28-key or 36-key dedicated broadcast-style panels.
The "Top" tier of UTC controllers always integrates the PTZ joystick seamlessly. You don't need to toggle a mode switch. The top configuration ensures the right stick controls the selected camera instantly. vmix utc controller top
In the top configuration, you want your joystick to control the preview camera (not the live camera) so the audience doesn't see you adjusting.
| Scenario | Benefit | |----------|---------| | Live news at top of hour | Intro video starts automatically at 18:00:00.000 UTC | | Simultaneous replay triggers | Multiple camera ISO replays cued at same global time for sync analysis | | Ad break automation | Precisely cut to black + start ad playback server at 19:15:00 UTC | | Multi-studio handover | Studio A’s vMix stops recording, Studio B starts recording at UTC 20:30:00 | | Remote production | Cloud vMix instance starts/stops stream based on show schedule without operator | Use the "Top" buttons to trigger vMix Macros
Purchasing the controller is only half the battle. You must configure vMix to recognize the "Top" mapping correctly. Here is a step-by-step workflow.
If budget is no object and you want the actual top of the line, Skaarhoj (often used by ESPN and BBC) is the answer. Popular examples include the Skaarhoj PTZ vMix ,
The Elgato Stream Deck Plus has quickly become the gold standard for vMix UTC control.