Tascam VSR-265 – 4K UHD Stand-Alone Video Encoder/Decoder for Live Streaming

Product Overview

The TASCAM VSR-265 is a standalone 4K UHD hardware video encoder/decoder built for commercial AV installations, houses of worship, broadcast facilities, and live event productions that require stable long-duration streaming without PC-based encoding overhead. It supports H.264 and H.265 (HEVC) codecs, streams simultaneously to up to three RTMP destinations (YouTube, Twitch, Facebook, and similar), and records locally to SD card as a simultaneous backup. A RESTful API enables integration with control systems such as Crestron, AMX, and Extron for automated streaming management in installed environments.

Product Description

The VSR-265 encodes and decodes 4K UHD video (up to 3840×2160) using H.265/HEVC, which delivers equivalent H.264 video quality at roughly half the bit rate — reducing bandwidth demand on venue networks while maintaining 4K image quality. It also supports H.264 for compatibility with existing infrastructure and streaming platforms. Up to three RTMP streams can run simultaneously for multi-platform distribution, with a total of eight simultaneous streams supported across all output types. RTMP, RTSP, and HLS streaming protocols are all compatible. Unicast and multicast streaming are both supported for internal distribution environments. Audio I/O includes balanced analog Euroblock connectors and unbalanced 3.5mm stereo jacks, as well as HDMI-embedded digital audio for embedding and de-embedding audio in and out of the video signal. De-embedded audio can drive networked ceiling speaker systems. The VSR-265 records to SD card for simultaneous local backup independent of the network stream. Real-world deployments include the band Del Castillo, which used the VSR-265 for live global streaming across multiple camera feeds since 2020, and TBS Radio for broadcast streaming applications. The VSR-265 is available at Creation Networks.

Key Features

• 4K UHD Hardware Encoding/Decoding — H.265/HEVC and H.264 encoding up to 3840×2160, delivering 4K streaming at reduced bandwidth compared to H.264-only units.
• 3 Simultaneous RTMP Streams — Streams to up to three platforms (YouTube, Twitch, Facebook, etc.) simultaneously from a single unit, up to 8 total simultaneous streams.
• Local SD Card Backup Recording — Records locally to SD card as a simultaneous backup independent of network stream status.
• RESTful API for Control System Integration — Enables automation via Crestron, AMX, Extron, and other control systems for commercial AV installations.
• RTMP, RTSP, and HLS Protocol Support — Compatible with all major streaming protocols and platforms.
• Balanced and Unbalanced Audio I/O — Euroblock balanced connectors and 3.5mm unbalanced jacks for flexible audio source connection.
• HDMI Audio Embed/De-Embed — Embeds analog audio into HDMI output; de-embeds HDMI audio for routing to ceiling speaker systems.
• Unicast and Multicast Support — Distributes streams internally across a LAN for digital signage, IPTV, and multi-room AV distribution.

Typical Applications

• House of worship live streaming to web platforms
• Conference room and all-hands room live broadcast
• Auditorium and performing arts center streaming
• Broadcast studio remote encoding and distribution
• Government and legislative chamber webcast
• Multi-purpose room live event production

Technical Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between the VSR-265 and VSR-264?

The VSR-265 encodes and decodes 4K UHD (3840×2160) video using H.265/HEVC and H.264, operating over Gigabit Ethernet. The VSR-264 is Full HD only (1920×1080) using H.264 at up to 30 Mbps, compatible with 100Mbps and 1Gbps networks. Both support 3 simultaneous RTMP streams and RESTful API control.

Can the VSR-265 stream to YouTube, Twitch, and Facebook simultaneously?

Yes. The VSR-265 supports up to three simultaneous RTMP streams, enabling multi-platform distribution to YouTube, Twitch, Facebook Live, and any RTMP-compatible endpoint in a single pass.

Does the VSR-265 support control system integration?

Yes. A RESTful API enables integration with Crestron, AMX, Extron, and other commercial AV control systems for automated start/stop and stream management.

Can the VSR-265 stream internally to a venue without going to the internet?

Yes. Unicast and multicast streaming distribute the video stream over a local LAN for internal digital signage, IPTV, and multi-room AV distribution without an internet connection.

What warranty applies to the VSR-265?

TASCAM products purchased through authorized dealers including Creation Networks carry TASCAM's standard limited warranty. Contact Creation Networks for support.