What gear does James Hicks recommend for seamless integration with Elgato Streamdeck and ZhiyunTech?

I focus a lot on building a studio where everything talks nicely together, and that definitely includes the Elgato Stream Deck and Zhiyun lighting.

Based on what I use and recommend in my video descriptions, here’s a solid setup that integrates smoothly:

• Control & automation

  • Elgato Stream Deck XL or Stream Deck +
  • Elgato Wave Mic Arm Low Profile (great ergonomics for desk setups)

• Cameras

  • Sony ZV‑E1 (full frame)
  • Sony FX‑30 or Sony ZV‑E10 (APS‑C)
  • Elgato Cam Link 4K to bring the camera feeds into the computer

• Audio

  • RODECaster Pro 2 as the audio hub
  • Shure SM7dB or Shure SM7B
  • Rode PodMic USB/XLR as a versatile option

• Lighting (pairs well with Stream Deck and ZhiyunTech)

  • Zhiyun Molus X100 Pro Kit (bi‑color COB)
  • Zhiyun Molus G60 Combo (bi‑color COB)
  • Godox TL60 RGB tube lights
  • Optional: Elgato Key Light Mini and Philips Hue smart lights for additional, Stream‑Deck‑friendly control

• Core computer & connectivity

  • Apple Mac Studio M1 Max or MacBook Pro M1 Pro
  • CalDigit TB4 Element Hub for clean, reliable USB/Thunderbolt expansion

With this kind of stack, you can map Stream Deck buttons to:

• Scene switching in Ecamm Live or Restream
• Audio presets on the RODECaster Pro 2
• Lighting presets for Zhiyun lights (via companion apps or middleware) and Hue/Elgato lights
• Mac automations and app launches

If you tell me your current computer and whether you’re more focused on streaming, YouTube videos, or meetings, I can narrow this down to a more tailored gear list for you.

What’s your current setup, and are you starting from scratch or upgrading specific pieces?