How We Replaced EVS with vMix for PokerStars

PokerStars needed a robust system to:
✔ Delay multiple feeds by 30 minutes (program cuts, wide shots, a fruit and 8 different audio feeds).
✔ Build highlights and handle VT playout.
✔ Maintain broadcast-quality and improve on cost of traditional broadcast kit

Traditionally, this would require EVS replay systems—reliable but expensive. Our goal? Replicate the functionality using vMix at a fraction of the cost.

The Solution: vMix, Thunderbolt, and Creative Hacking

1. The Delay Setup: 3 Machines, 0 Compromises

We deployed:

• vMix Machine #1:

  • 4 inputs, 2 outputs.

  • Delayed the main program feed (with 4 audio channels: English, mix-minus), plus the fruit delay with director TB, producer TB & timecode

• vMix Machine #2:

  • Building highlights with on a 6 in / 2 out system, plus all the VTs from break content to GVs

• High Specification vMix Laptop:

  • Delayed the wide camera and acted as a failover.

Key Hack: Using Bitfocus Companion allowed us to create various buttons as well as triggers on based on variables.

2. Bonus: 9:16 Vertical Streams

EVS can’t do this — we did. We also integrated 9:16 specific graphics keys/fills, we delivered:

• A YouTube/Instagram-optimized stream (no post-production cropping).

• Same broadcast quality, just vertical.

3. Progressive Replays (Where EVS Falls Short)

vMix’s replay system offers:
✔ Support for progressive formats EVS only works with interlaced formats.
✔ Instant highlights capturing big wins, folds and all the action!
✔ Cost savings that could buy a mid-tier poker table.

Why This Matters for Your Event

1. Budgets Aren’t Limits—They’re Creative Briefs

We proved that “broadcast-grade” isn’t always about gear—it’s about:

• Ingenuity (repurposing vMix for delays).

• Efficiency (using Bitfocus Companion can interface with multiple bits of kit and has various shortcuts as well as triggers can be a game changer)

2. Audiences Want Vertical Video

If you’re not delivering 9:16 streams, you’re ignoring TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube Shorts viewers. Our workflow built it live, no extra crew.

3. The Flexibility Factor

This approach isn’t poker-specific. The same principles work for:

• Esports (delaying streams for integrity)

• Corporate events (where you might need multilingual interpretation across 8 different audio tracks)

• Niche sports (where traditional OB trucks are overkill)

Need a Cost-Effective Production Solution?

Whether it’s:

• Delayed feeds for compliance.

• Vertical streams for social.

• Custom replay systems without EVS prices.

Let’s build it! Contact us here