What Softron Media Services does

Softron Media Services (legal entity: Softron Microcomputing S.A./N.V.) is a privately held Belgian software company founded in 1982 in Brussels that has spent more than four decades developing broadcast video and audio applications exclusively for macOS. The company's portfolio is organized into three workflow pillars: Record (MovieRecorder, MovieRecorder Express, Multicam Logger, and the M|Replay instant-replay application), Stream (Streaming Pack), and Play (OnTheAir Video, OnTheAir Video Express, OnTheAir CG, OnTheAir WebLink, AMP Server, OnTheAir MOS Gateway, and OnTheAir Flow). Core technologies span SD-to-8K multi-channel ingest, 24/7 automated playout, MOS newsroom integration, AMP-based automation control, SMPTE ST 2110 IP workflows, NDI, Apple Immersive Video, and hardware controllers, all built natively against the Apple ProRes media engine and validated against capture cards from Blackmagic Design, AJA, Deltacast, and Macnica SmartNICs.

The company sells primarily through perpetual one-time software licenses priced per channel (typically $995–$2,495, with bundles such as the S|80 at $10,495 and the new OnTheAir Flow at $19,495), distributed via a direct online store and a global reseller network, supplemented by hardware sales (GPICommander, SerialCommander, Deltacast cards, M|8i bundles) and extended warranty options (M|Care). Customers include 100+ TV stations, sports production companies, live event producers, newsrooms, educational broadcasters such as ASU's Cronkite School, and houses of worship; named reference users include the University of Cincinnati (ESPN+), NHRA, SC Heerenveen, and Deuro Broadcast. North American operations are run through a wholly owned subsidiary, Intelligent Broadcasting Systems (IBS), established in 1996 in Henderson, Nevada.

Name

Softron Media Services

Legal name

Softron Microcomputing S.A./N.V.

Website

https://softron.tv

Company type

Private

Founded year

1982

Operating status

Operating

Headcount range

11–50 employees

Short description

Softron Media Services develops Mac-only broadcast software for multichannel video recording, automated playout, instant replay, and newsroom automation, serving TV stations, sports producers, and broadcast professionals worldwide.

Ownership category

akta.pro rank

Product category

Broadcast Video Software

NAICS

Software Publishers (5132), Media Streaming Distribution Services, Social Networks, and Other Media Networks and Content Providers (5162)

SIC

Services-Computer Programming Services (7371)

akta.pro primary industry

Video Player SDKs & Playback Apps (Web/Mobile/CTV) (MPAHAJAD)

akta.pro secondary industries

Media Transport & Contribution (SRT/RIST, Satellite/IP, Fiber) (MPAHAKAD), Live Streaming & Low-Latency OTT Orchestration (LL-HLS, DASH, WebRTC) (MPAHAJAK), Playout Infrastructure & Hardware (Servers, Storage, SDI/IP Gateways) (MPAHAKAJ), Media Processing at the Edge (Transcoding, Packaging, DRM at Edge) (HDABAGAD)

Keywords

• Mac broadcast software
• Video ingest recording
• Video playout automation
• Instant replay software
• Live production tools

Headquarters

HQ city

Brussels

HQ country

Belgium

HQ region

Europe

Offices2 records

Markets served

GTM type

B2B

Offering type

Software

Cost components

Personnel, Technology or R&D, Operations, Marketing or Sales, Infrastructure

Revenue model

1. Software Licenses (Permanent): Softron sells permanent (one-time) software licenses rather than subscriptions. One license is required per channel/source. Licenses are available as serial numbers (requires periodic internet for activation) or dongles (hardware-based, works offline). Support is included at no additional cost. The company also offers modular pricing where advanced features (High Frame Rate, Streaming Pack, Dynamic Graphics Overlay, Closed Captioning) are sold as paid add-on options.
2. Software Bundles (Hardware + Software): Bundles such as the M|Family (now largely unavailable due to chip shortages) and S|Family combine multiple software licenses on a single dongle or serial number at discounted rates. Bundles like S|80 (8x MovieRecorder), S|40 (4x MovieRecorder), S|4R (4x M|Replay), and S|80R (combined MR + M|Replay) offer per-channel cost savings vs. individual license purchases.
3. Hardware Sales (GPICommander, SerialCommander, Deltacast Cards): Hardware devices including GPICommander 3 (USB-to-GPI converter, $795), SerialCommander (RS-422 controller, $1,295), Deltacast video cards, and M|8i bundles (hardware + software, $14,500) are sold as separate products.
4. Professional Services / Add-on Support Options: M|Care 5-year Enhanced Warranty and similar extended service options provide additional revenue from existing customers seeking longer warranty coverage and support beyond standard terms.

Pricing tiers

Go-to-market motion3 records

Distribution channels4 records

Marketing channels9 records

Core offering

Softron Media Services develops and sells Mac-only software for professional video broadcast workflows, including multichannel video ingest (MovieRecorder), 24/7 broadcast playout and scheduling (OnTheAir Video), instant replay (M|Replay), character generation (OnTheAir CG), newsroom MOS integration, AMP-based automation bridging, and streaming. Products are sold as perpetual per-channel licenses, supplemented by hardware controllers (GPICommander 3, SerialCommander, Deltacast cards) and bundles. All software is built exclusively for macOS with deep Apple Silicon optimization.

Product overview

Softron Media Services offers a comprehensive Mac-based broadcast software portfolio spanning three core workflow categories: Record (ingest), Play (playout), and Stream. The record portfolio includes MovieRecorder (multichannel recording with edit-while-ingest from SD to 8K) and MovieRecorder Express (simplified recording), alongside Multicam Logger for post-production logging. The playout portfolio centers on OnTheAir Video (professional 24/7 broadcast scheduling and playout) and OnTheAir Video Express (entry-level playout), complemented by OnTheAir CG for character generation, AMP Server for automation system integration via AMP protocol, OnTheAir MOS Gateway for NRCS/newsroom integration via MOS protocol, OnTheAir WebLink for web content playback, and OnTheAir Flow for automatic media segmentation. Instant replay is handled by M|Replay supporting formats up to 8K100. Hardware solutions include GPICommander 3 (USB-to-GPI converter) and SerialCommander (RS-422 controller). Bundled solutions are offered through S|Family (software-only) and M|Family (software + hardware, currently unavailable) packages. All products are exclusively designed for macOS.

Differentiator

Problem solved

Functional benefit

Products and services

• MovieRecorder Professional multichannel video ingest and recording software for macOS supporting SD to 8K with edit-while-ingest (growing files), multiple codec support, SMPTE ST 2110 workflows, router control, HDR, and NDI, targeted at broadcasters, sports producers, and live-event capture.
• MovieRecorder Express Simplified lower-cost recording solution for macOS that captures video from SDI, HDMI, or NDI sources with edit-while-ingest and scheduled recordings, targeted at small broadcasters, houses of worship, and budget-conscious users.
• Multicam Logger Logging software for macOS that enables quick annotation and organization of multi-camera footage, facilitating post-production workflows for sports and event production teams.
• M|Replay Instant video replay software for macOS that delivers live instant replay, variable playback speed, clip creation and markers, hardware controller support (SKAARHOJ XC8, Stream Deck), and High Frame Rate camera support up to 8K100, used for sports adjudication and live production.
• OnTheAir Video Professional video playout application for macOS supporting 24/7 automated broadcast scheduling, SMPTE ST 2110, multi-channel playout, dynamic graphics overlay, MOS newsroom integration, closed captioning, and mix-and-match codecs for TV stations and live newsrooms.
• OnTheAir Video Express Affordable entry-level playout solution for macOS that enables broadcast video playback with basic scheduling and format support, targeted at smaller stations, houses of worship, and budget-conscious broadcasters.
• OnTheAir Video Suite Bundled playout offering that combines OnTheAir Video with advanced options including dynamic graphics overlay and closed captioning support on a single dongle, targeted at broadcast stations needing an all-in-one playout solution.
• OnTheAir WebLink Software that plays web-based content including HTML pages, web videos, or live streams directly within broadcast workflows, enabling stations to incorporate internet content into on-air playout.
• OnTheAir CG Character generator application for macOS with an intuitive interface for creating graphics overlays, crawls, and animated sequences for live and broadcast operations, supporting up to 8 UHD output channels on a single Mac Pro.
• OnTheAir CG Companion Companion application for OnTheAir CG that provides additional graphics management features for broadcast graphics workflows.
• AMP Server Server application that enables remote control of OnTheAir Video and OnTheAir CG using the AMP (Advanced Media Protocol) from Grass Valley, allowing integration with third-party automation systems from Sony, Ross, and Grass Valley.
• OnTheAir MOS Gateway Newsroom integration solution for macOS that connects NRCS platforms (e.g., AP ENPS) to Softron's playout and ingest systems via the MOS protocol, enabling automated rundown-driven control of broadcast workflows with cached media files and thumbnails.
• OnTheAir Flow Automatic segmentation tool that automates processing and delivery of syndicated television programs by retrieving content from providers (Extreme Reach, PitchBlue, OnSpot Media), automatically segmenting based on BXF instructions, and preparing content for playout without transcoding, targeted at cable operators and content distributors.
• OnTheAir Switch Application to control video routers, with built-in integration with Blackmagic Videohub or Ross video routers through IP, enabling router automation for ingest and playout workflows.
• Streaming Pack Streaming add-on enabling RTMP, SRT, and HLS streaming destinations for MovieRecorder and OnTheAir Video applications, allowing broadcasters to stream to platforms like Facebook, YouTube, and custom RTMP endpoints with low latency and multiple channels.
• GPICommander 3 USB-to-GPI converter hardware with 24 open-collector inputs and 8 independent relay outputs for GPI triggering and software integration with Softron's broadcast applications.
• SerialCommander RS-422 to USB converter providing 4 ports for controlling Sony 9-pin equipped decks, enabling automated ingest workflows from legacy VTRs.
• S|Family Bundles Software-only bundle family including S|40 (4x MovieRecorder), S|80 (8x MovieRecorder), S|4R (4x M|Replay), S|8R (8x M|Replay), and S|80R (8x MovieRecorder + 8x M|Replay) on a single serial or dongle, offering per-channel cost savings versus individual license purchases.
• M|Family Bundles Hardware and software bundles (currently unavailable due to global chip shortage) including M|80 (8-channel ingest), M|62 (6 inputs + 2 outputs), and M|44 (4 inputs + 4 outputs) with Deltacast cards, targeted at portable multi-channel ingest deployments.
• M|8i Bundle Hardware and software bundle comprising 8 MovieRecorder licenses, a Deltacast 12G-elp-h card with 8 configurable in/out connectors, high profile bracket, and BNC cables, priced at $14,500 for high-density multi-channel ingest.

Quantifiable outcome

• 24 channels of 4K60p recordable on a single Mac Pro using MovieRecorder
• +4 more outcomes

Named customers8 records

Segments8 records

Ideal customer profiles5 records

Technology focussed Yes

API detail

Has API

Yes

API docs

API detail

Core technology

AI maturity

App detail

Integration27 records

Feature10 records

Partnerships

Eleven partnerships are on record, tiered core and strategic.

• MacnicacoreTechnology or Integration · 16 April 2026Macnica provides SMPTE ST 2110 network interface hardware (MEP25 SmartNIC for 25GbE, MEP100 for 100G) that enables Macnica-optimized Mac systems to receive multiple 4K video channels over IP. Softron's MovieRecorder supports SMPTE ST 2110-20 (uncompressed) and ST 2110-22 (ProRes compressed) via Macnica devices. Macnica was highlighted as a key partner in enabling Apple Immersive workflows over IP.
• ApplecoreTechnology or Integration · 5 June 2023Apple highlighted Softron in the Mac Pro with Apple Silicon announcement, showcasing that the new M2 Ultra Mac Pro could record 24 channels of 4K60p and 6 channels of 8K using MovieRecorder. Softron has been collaborating with Apple for over 40 years, optimizing software for Apple Silicon ProRes media engines and supporting Apple Immersive Video workflows. Apple Silicon unified memory architecture has enabled dramatic capability expansions in Softron's software.
• Blackmagic DesigncoreOEM/ Whitelabel/ Licensing Partner · 1 January 2001Softron was the first developer to integrate Blackmagic Design's DeckLink video card in 2001, beginning a longstanding OEM partnership. Blackmagic Design recognized Softron with the 2023 OEM & Developer Award at IBC. All current Softron applications support Blackmagic Design video capture/playback devices. The partnership has enabled features like router control of Blackmagic Videohub and HFR capture with Blackmagic hardware.
• AJA Video SystemscoreTechnology or IntegrationSoftron's products support video capture and output devices from AJA. MovieRecorder supports AJA devices as video input sources. AJA is one of three hardware vendors (alongside Blackmagic Design and Deltacast) whose devices are compatible with Softron's ingest and playout software.
• DeltacastcoreTechnology or IntegrationDeltacast video cards are supported by Softron's software and are also bundled by Softron as part of the M|8i hardware+software bundle. The Deltacast 12G/2C card provides 2 channels of configurable 12G/6G or 8 channels of 3G input/output. Softron validates Deltacast drivers for macOS compatibility before distribution.
• Vizrt NDI ABcoreTechnology or IntegrationNDI (Network Device Interface) is an open, low-latency video-over-IP protocol developed by Vizrt NDI AB. Softron's software supports NDI sources (NDI|HB, NDI|HX2, and NDI|HX3), enabling HD and 4K video transfer over standard Ethernet without SDI cables. NDI support was added across all applicable applications in 2017.
• Ross VideostrategicTechnology or IntegrationAMP Server enables integration with RossVideo automation systems using the AMP protocol. Softron's OnTheAir Video can also be controlled by Ross production switchers. Ross is one of the automation system partners mentioned for integration.
• Grass ValleystrategicTechnology or IntegrationAMP Server uses the Advanced Media Protocol (AMP) developed by Grass Valley as a broadcast-industry standard for video control. AMP Server allows professional switcher solutions to control Softron's playout, and this partnership positions Softron alongside Grass Valley's automation ecosystem.
• SonystrategicTechnology or IntegrationSony automation systems are integrated via AMP Server, allowing Sony switchers to control OnTheAir Video playout. Sony is referenced alongside Ross and Grass Valley as automation partners for the AMP protocol ecosystem.
• Associated Press (ENPS)coreTechnology or IntegrationOnTheAir MOS Gateway integrates with AP ENPS (electronic news production system), the world's most widely used NRCS. ENPS allows journalists and producers to create scripts, manage assignments, build rundowns, and coordinate live broadcasts. Softron's MOS Gateway was the first NRCS-compatible integration for the product.
• Wide OrbitstrategicTechnology or IntegrationOnTheAir Video includes a Traffic option for integration with Wide Orbit traffic software, enabling efficient scheduling and management of playout operations by importing Wide Orbit traffic playlists into OnTheAir Video.

Scale indicators7 records

Recent moves7 records

Expansion highlights5 records

Direct peers

• vMix: vMix is live video production and streaming software that competes head-to-head with Softron's MovieRecorder/OnTheAir/M|Replay on price-performance for sports, houses of worship, and small broadcasters. Although Windows-only, it is the closest functional analog to Softron's integrated record/play/stream stack.
• PlayBox Technology: PlayBox is one of the closest direct competitors to Softron's OnTheAir Video, providing channel-in-a-box broadcast playout automation used by hundreds of TV stations worldwide. The overlap in customer base (24/7 broadcasters) and product (scheduled playout) is direct.
• NewTek (Vizrt Group): NewTek's TriCaster line is a direct competitor to Softron's live production and playout portfolio, targeting sports production, broadcasters, and live events. While Windows-based rather than Mac-based, both companies serve the same live multi-camera ingest/instant-replay workflows.
• Telestream (Wirecast): Telestream's Wirecast is a leading live streaming and production software, competing with Softron's Streaming Pack and playout products for the same streaming-first broadcaster and live-event use cases. Both target professional multi-camera capture with live encoding.

Broad incumbents

• Ross Video: Ross Video's OverDrive automation, Tria newsroom playout, and production switchers overlap with Softron's playout and AMP-integration play. Ross is a strategic automation partner (Softron integrates with Ross via AMP) but also a competitor for end-to-end broadcast contracts.
• Grass Valley: Grass Valley's iTX and AMP ecosystem compete with Softron's AMP Server and OnTheAir Video in master control automation. As a tier-1 incumbent, Grass Valley bundles playout, automation, and switchers into enterprise contracts where Softron is typically a complementary component.
• Telos Alliance: Telos Alliance provides broadcast audio and workflow solutions (including Linear Acoustic and Omnia) that overlap with Softron's broadcast customer base and IP-audio integration support (Dante/MADI). It is a broader incumbent rather than a direct product-line competitor.
• Vizrt Group: Vizrt owns both NewTek and the NDI IP-video standard that Softron supports. Vizrt's TriCaster, Viz Mosart, and graphics/automation portfolio competes broadly with Softron's recording, playout, and newsroom integration product lines for high-end broadcasters.
• EVS (LiveCeption / Neuron): EVS is the dominant vendor in live sports replay (LiveCeption/XtraMotion) and broadcast infrastructure. Softron's M|Replay competes at the lower-cost end of sports replay and ingest workflows, while EVS owns the premium tier.

Emerging players

• CasparCG: CasparCG is an open-source playout engine widely used in broadcast graphics and channel-in-a-box workflows. It competes with OnTheAir Video on price for budget-conscious broadcasters and provides an alternative path for in-house engineering teams that Softron's commercial offering targets.

Market position

Strengths5 records

Weaknesses5 records

Competitive moat5 records

Key risks7 records

Key highlights7 records

Customer concentration

• YouTubeyoutube.com/c/softronmedia
• Facebookfacebook.com/softronmedia
• LinkedInlinkedin.com/company/softron-media-services
• Instagraminstagram.com/softronmedia
• Xx.com/SoftronMedia

Revenue estimate

Valuation estimate

Number of profiles

Profiles1 record

Subsidiaries1 record

Funding overview

Funding rounds

Investors

Funding detail is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

M&A

Investments

M&A and investment is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

Frequently asked questions about Softron Media Services