
( Brand: Aja ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: 107347-R0 ), ( Part Type: Video Frame Faceplate )
The **AJA 107347-R0 FS2 Frame Dual-Channel Video & Audio Sync Faceplate** is a high-performance, professional-grade synchronization solution designed to seamlessly integrate with AJA s FS2 frame grabber and capture cards, ensuring precise timing and coordination between video and audio signals in broadcast, post-production, and live production environments. Engineered with AJA s signature reliability and low-latency performance, this faceplate serves as a critical interface for synchronizing dual-channel video and audio streams, eliminating phase drift and ensuring flawless alignment for critical applications such as live broadcasts, multi-camera setups, and high-end editing workflows. Its robust construction features a rugged metal enclosure with a clean, modular design that complements AJA s professional hardware ecosystem, offering both flexibility and durability for demanding production environments. The faceplate supports dual-channel HDMI or SDI inputs, allowing for the synchronization of two independent video streams alongside their corresponding audio channels, all while maintaining synchronization with the host system s clock source. This ensures that even in complex setups involving multiple cameras, generators, or playback devices, the audio and video remain perfectly in sync, minimizing the risk of lip-sync errors or timing inconsistencies. Built with AJA s proprietary synchronization technology, the faceplate leverages the FS2 s high-precision timing engine to deliver sub-frame accuracy, making it ideal for applications where timing is paramount, such as sports broadcasting, news production, or professional video editing. Additionally, its compact form factor and easy-to-use controls including LED indicators for signal presence, synchronization status, and clock source selection provide operators with immediate feedback, simplifying setup and troubleshooting. Whether deployed in a studio, on a remote production truck, or in a post-production facility, this faceplate ensures that video and audio workflows operate with the precision and reliability expected in professional environments, ultimately enhancing the quality and consistency of the final output.
### **Pros and Cons of buying a AJA Kona 4 (107347-R0 FS2 Frame Dual-Channel Video/Audio Sync Faceplate)**
#### **Pros**
1. **High-Quality Video and Audio Capture**
The AJA Kona 4 is a professional-grade capture card designed for high-end video production. It supports **4K/2K/HD video capture and playback** with minimal latency, making it ideal for post-production, live streaming, and broadcast workflows. The dual-channel audio input ensures clean, high-fidelity sound capture, which is crucial for professional audio-visual projects.
2. **Low Latency and Real-Time Performance**
AJA devices are known for their **ultra-low latency**, which is essential for live production, editing, and real-time monitoring. The FS2 frame (FS2 stands for "FrameSync 2") further enhances synchronization between video and audio streams, reducing lip-sync issues in post-production.
3. **Comprehensive Connectivity Options**
The Kona 4 supports a wide range of video inputs, including **HDMI, SDI, and analog (composite/S-Video)**, as well as **ProRes and DNxHD/DNxHR encoding**. This versatility makes it suitable for various workflows, from DSLRs and camcorders to professional broadcast cameras.
4. **ProRes and DNxHD/DNxHR Support**
The ability to capture and output in **Apple ProRes and Avid DNxHD/DNxHR** formats ensures compatibility with major editing software (Final Cut Pro, Premiere Pro, Avid Media Composer). This is a significant advantage for editors who rely on these codecs for efficient workflows.
5. **Reliability and Durability**
AJA is a well-established brand in the professional video industry, known for building **robust, long-lasting hardware**. The Kona 4 is built to handle demanding workflows without frequent failures, making it a solid long-term investment.
6. **Software Integration**
AJA provides **AJA System Control Panel** for configuration, as well as **AJA Video Tools** for monitoring and analysis. Additionally, it integrates seamlessly with **Final Cut Pro X** (via AJA s ProRes support) and other professional editing suites.
7. **Dual-Channel Audio Sync**
The inclusion of a **dual-channel audio sync faceplate** ensures precise synchronization between video and audio, which is critical for post-production editing. This feature helps avoid common issues like desync in final cuts.
8. **Future-Proofing**
The Kona 4 supports **upcoming video standards** (such as higher bitrates and resolutions) due to its robust architecture, making it a future-proof choice for growing production needs.
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#### **Cons**
1. **High Cost**
The AJA Kona 4 is an **expensive piece of hardware**, especially compared to consumer-grade capture cards. The price point may be prohibitive for small studios, freelancers, or hobbyists on a tight budget. The **FS2 frame upgrade** adds to the cost, making it even more expensive than basic AJA models.
2. **Complexity for Beginners**
While AJA devices are powerful, their **advanced features and settings** can be overwhelming for beginners or users unfamiliar with professional video workflows. Proper configuration requires some technical knowledge, which may add a learning curve.
3. **Limited Consumer-Grade Features**
Unlike some budget capture cards (e.g., Elgato, Blackmagic Design s cheaper models), the Kona 4 lacks **consumer-friendly features** such as built-in streaming software, easy plug-and-play functionality, or simplified presets. It is **primarily a professional tool**, not a plug-and-shoot solution.
4. **Power and Cooling Requirements**
The Kona 4 generates **significant heat** during heavy use, requiring adequate ventilation. It may need a **dedicated power supply** or cooling solution in some setups, adding to the overall system complexity.
5. **No Built-in Networking (for Some Models)**
While the Kona 4 supports **SDI and HDMI**, it does not include **built-in Ethernet or Thunderbolt 3 (in some configurations)**, which could limit its use in certain networked workflows. Users may need additional adapters or cables.
6. **Software Dependency**
Some advanced features (e.g., ProRes encoding, AJA-specific tools) require **compatible software**, which may not be available on all platforms. Users on Windows may find fewer native integrations compared to macOS users.
7. **Size and Portability**
The Kona 4 is a **larger, more cumbersome device** compared to compact USB capture cards. This makes it less ideal for **on-the-go filming or portable setups**, where size and weight matter.
8. **Potential for Driver Issues**
Like many professional-grade devices, AJA hardware occasionally faces **driver compatibility issues**, particularly with newer operating systems. Users may need to manually update drivers or troubleshoot connectivity problems.
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### **Conclusion**
The **AJA Kona 4 (107347-R0 FS2 Frame Dual-Channel Video/Audio Sync Faceplate)** is a **high-end professional capture card** designed for **serious video producers, editors, and broadcasters** who demand **low latency, high-quality capture, and precise synchronization**. Its strengths lie in **reliability, video/audio performance, and compatibility with professional workflows**, making it an excellent choice for **post-production studios, live production, and broadcast environments**.
However, its **high cost, complexity, and lack of consumer-friendly features** make it **unnecessary for casual users, YouTubers, or small-scale content creators**. If budget is a concern, alternatives like **Blackmagic Design s DeckLink or Intensity Shuttle** (though less feature-rich) or **consumer-grade capture cards** (e.g., Elgato 4K60 Pro, Matrox Solo) may be more suitable.
### **Recommendation**
**Buy the AJA Kona 4 if:**- You are a **professional video editor, broadcast professional, or live production team** working with **4K/HD video and ProRes/DNxHR**.
- You require **ultra-low latency, dual-channel audio sync, and SDI/HDMI flexibility**.
- You prioritize **long-term reliability and industry-standard performance** over cost.
- Your workflow involves **complex post-production or live streaming with high-end cameras**.
**Avoid the AJA Kona 4 if:**- You are a **hobbyist, YouTuber, or small-scale creator** working within a tight budget.
- You need a **simple, plug-and-play solution** without advanced features.
- You primarily work with **lower resolutions (1080p or below)** and do not require ProRes/DNxHR encoding.
- You prefer **portable, compact, or consumer-friendly capture cards**.
For most **professional users**, the Kona 4 remains a **top-tier investment** worth the cost. For others, exploring **mid-range alternatives** (such as Blackmagic Design s cheaper models or Matrox solutions) may provide a better balance of performance and affordability.
They do NOT have the front Faceplate. Condition: Good Used condition. AJA FS2 Frame Shift 2 Dual Channel Video Audio Sync - No Faceplate. These were spare units for a large company, and do not appear to have been used.