Video News

Focus Enhancements today announced their new DTE recorder, the FS-5. Essentially it’s a 100 gigabyte portable harddrive recorder that connects to your DV or HDV camcorder via Firewire. When you press the record button on your camcorder, the video goes to tape, but it’s also captured to the hard drive as well. This allows you to connect the DTE directly to your computer for editing  (DTE actually stands for Direct to Edit) instantly, and have a tape back-up archive as well. So you get the best of both worlds, the longevity and security of tape, with the instant access capabilities of a hard drive camcorder.

The most novel feature of the FS-5 release is the ability to use a wireless device, such as a laptop or PDA, to add metadata to the video clip as it’s being recorded. For example while the camera man is shooting, the director could mark each take good/no good, quick comments on an interview, or location and wardrobe notes.  This metadata is saved with the individual video files, and is available when their imported back into the computer.

From a Focus Enhancements Press Release:

Focus Enhancements Announces Availability of Fifth Generation DTE Recorder

New FS-5 Direct To Edit Recorder introduces groundbreaking wireless metadata technology

Campbell, Calif. – July 1, 2008 — Focus Enhancements Inc (NASDAQ: FCSE), a worldwide leader in media management and ultra wideband (UWB) wireless technology, today announced the general availability of the FS-5 Direct To EditÆ (DTE) recorder, the fifth generation in the company’s award-winning line of DTE recorders.

First announced at NAB 2008, the ultra-portable FS-5 introduces the groundbreaking ability to wirelessly log custom metadata in the field while shooting – enabling a new real-time metadata-based workflow for broadcast and video professionals and ensuring the seamless continuity of metadata through all phases of production and post-production for easier identification and management of media.

With a wireless (or wired) mobile device or laptop, users can access the FS-5 via a web browser, define metadata, and assign it to the video while recording. As a result, clips are labeled, categorized, and organized as soon as the shoot is over – eliminating the need to tag footage at a later time. Additionally, Focus Enhancements’ Universal Metadata Engine™ (UME) ensures that metadata is compatible with Final Cut Pro and the ProxSysÆ Media Asset Management product line.

“Since its launch at NAB, the FS-5 and our new metadata-based workflow have generated tremendous interest among video and media professionals,” said Matt McEwen, Director of Product Alliances for Focus Enhancements. “Our Direct To Edit technology helped spark the tapeless revolution in broadcast and other video production markets. And now, the ability to wirelessly log metadata brings a new level of efficiency to the tapeless end-to-end workflow.”

“We’ve relied on Focus Enhancements’ DTE recorders for many years and have been eagerly anticipating the new advancements introduced in the FS-5,” said Brian Critchlow, partner and CTO of Digital Media Factory. “During our beta deployments, we’ve been impressed by the ease of use of the FS-5’s wireless metadata functionality. This key innovation will save us significant time and improve the way we manage our media assets in post-production. In addition, the FS-5’s Universal Disk Format (UDF) file format support further increases our productivity when dealing with multiple clips in Final Cut.”

Along with its unprecedented metadata capabilities, the FS-5 features the following key enhancements:
–  Increased Direct To Edit file format support with the addition of MXF HDV 720p30 and 1080i
50/60 to give Avid editors the ability to work natively with HDV files using the Avid Media Tool
–  25% weight reduction and a 60% reduction in size when compared to the entry level FS-4
model
–  1.8” internal disk drive which features a very rugged, ultra-portable, and shock resistant design
–  Fanless design for very quiet operations
–  Support for UDF to enable recording up to 1.5 hours in a single DV/HDV file
–  Newly designed user interface with new scroll wheel and color LCD
–  USB 2.0 computer interface to provide flexible file transfers to the computer

The FS-5 100 GB model is priced at $2,195 MSRP US and is immediately available through Focus Enhancements’ worldwide dealer and distributor network. FS-5 customers will receive a free camera mount with their order. For more information, please visit www.focusinfo.com.

HP announced today its xw4550 workstation. It sports a Quad Core AMD processor and an ATI Radeon X1250 integrated graphics card, as well as a 4GB memory capacity. The line has plenty of configurable options so you can customize just the workstation you need.

The price point is certainly attractive, starting at $600, you can get a full HP workstation (3 year warranty, etc.) for the price of an off the shelf PC. The quad core capability will certainly come in handy in editing those heavily compressed HD formats such as AVCHD, and HDV. That power will also help decrease DVD rendering times and motion graphics work.

More information below:

From an HP press release:

HP Debuts AMD Quad-core Workstation Performance
at PC Price

PALO ALTO, Calif., July 1, 2008 – HP today announced the immediate availability of a new AMD processor-based quad-core workstation offering the performance of a workstation at a PC price.

The HP xw4550 Workstation includes the highly anticipated Quad-Core AMD Opteron™ processor for entry workstation applications such as engineering, digital content creation and power office. At a starting list price of U.S. $599,(1) the HP xw4550 is ideal for customers in the government and education sectors.

“HP continues to delight our customers by delivering first-to-market advancements such as the new quad-core AMD processors.” said Jeff Wood, director of product marketing, Workstations, HP. “The HP xw4550 makes it easier for anyone wishing to tap the power of a workstation to afford to have one under their desk.”

Features
The HP xw4550 offers the engineering advantages of HP’s highly tuned workstations, plus new features from the AMD Opteron processor line, such as enhanced power management and virtualization capabilities, and the overall system efficiency and flexibility of AMD’s Direct Connect Architecture.  All models of the HP xw4550 include an integrated ATI RadeonTM X1250 graphics card with the new error correcting memory capability.

Demonstrating HP’s environmental leadership, the HP xw4550 is registered as an Electronic Products Environmental Assessment Tool (EPEAT™) Gold product, the highest rating available. All HP workstations are more than 90 percent recyclable by weight and incorporate a tool-less chassis design for quick and easy upgrades by hand. Each workstation includes an 80 PLUS power supply, which is substantially more efficient than a standard power supply, reducing both overall energy usage and the amount of waste heat released into the environment.

In August, Sony will debut the HDR-CX12 camcorder. It’s a Handycam format camcorder, that records to Sony’s memory stick technology in 1920×1080 HD video, and also takes a pretty astounding 10 megapixel still photo.

It features a new technology called “Smile Shutter” that can analyze when a person in the frame smiles, and snaps a photo automatically at the same time you’re recording video.

From A Sony Press Release:

SONY INTRODUCES THE WORLD’S FIRST CAMCORDER
WITH SMILE SHUTTER TECHNOLOGY

SAN DIEGO, June 18, 2008 – Sony is taking the lead in the camcorder industry by introducing the first high-definition camcorder with both Smile Shutter™ and face detection technologies.

The HDR-CX12 Memory Stick® Handycam® camcorder can record full 1920 x 1080 HD video and 10-megapixel photos on Sony Memory Stick PRO Duo™ media and any Memory Stick PRO Duo (Mark2) media cards. Roughly the size of a soda can (2.8-inches wide by 5.3-inches tall by 2.8-inches deep), this ultra-compact model will allow for easy transfer of video and stills from media cards to a compatible PC to share via email, uploading to the Internet or burning to disc.

With Sony’s unique Smile Shutter technology you can capture smiling photos and record video at the same time. When activated the technology will detect and automatically take a photo when your subject smiles − without having to switch to photo mode or press the photo button.

It also features child and adult prioritization so you can capture photos when your intended subject group smiles. This camcorder can even detect and capture a smile while in standby mode – just aim the camcorder and you’ll capture smiling moments.

“Advanced technologies such as ‘smile shutter’ make memory capture automatic so you can relax and enjoy the moment at hand,” said Kelly Davis, director of camcorder marketing at Sony Electronics. “Leveraging these key technologies across multiple product lines is another example of Sony’s commitment to anticipate consumer needs by making video capture more seamless, easy and fun.”

Advanced Features and Performance
In addition to face detection technology, the camcorder is packed with powerful features such as ClearVid® CMOS sensor with Exmor™-derived technology for stunning video detail and clarity, a BIONZ™ imaging processor, an advanced Carl Zeiss® Vario-Sonnar® T* 12x optical zoom lens and Super SteadyShot® optical image stabilization for smooth video and clear photos.

The model has a 2.7-inch Clear Photo LCD Plus™ screen, Dolby® Digital 5.1-channel surround sound recording and a built-in zoom microphone to record clear dialogue. It has an assignable dial that can be customized to manually control focus, brightness and white balance.

The camcorder will ship with a supplied 4GB Memory Stick PRO Duo (Mark2) media card so that you are ready to start recording almost straight out of the box. A supplied Handycam Station™ cradle makes for easy DVD creation with its One Touch Disc Burn button. Also bundled is Picture Motion Browser software to easily view, organize and store video and photos on a compatible PC.

Price and Availability
The HDR-CX12 camcorder will be in stores early August for about $900. It will be available at Sony Style® retail stores, online through sonystyle.com and at authorized dealers nationwide. Pre-order sales will begin online on June 20th and at sonystyle.com on June 22nd.

(edited to add specs on camcorders, and new pricing information from Panasonic)

Panasonic sent around a press release today announcing two new HD camcorders, the HDC-SD100, and the HDC-HS100. Recording AVCHD to memory card, (and to hard drive in the SD100 model) they use 3MOS sensors. What’s the difference between MOS and CMOS you might be asking yourself? Well so are we, they seem to be functionally the same technology. CMOS stands for complementary-symmetry metal–oxide–semiconductor, while MOS is the same thing, just dropping the complementary-symmetry part. But I digress…

One really promising feature of these camcorders are the attention paid to manual controls. Yes, finally a manufacturer realizes the demand for manual control of zoom, focus, iris, shutter speed and white balance in a small camcorder format. It’s got mic and headphone jacks to boot. We’re not sure if these manual controls are accessed through a buttons, or with real switches, knobs, and rings, but it looks like Panasonic could be onto a winner here. You’ll have to wait until September 08 to find out though, when the camcorders are released. We’ll definitely want to get our hands on one of these to test out. More details can be found below-

From a Panasonic Press Release:

PANASONIC ADDS TWO NEW HD CAMCORDERS TO ITS LINE –WORLD’S FIRST AVCHD MODELS WITH A 3MOS SYSTEM

New High Definition Camcorders Offer Increased Manual Functions for More Creative Use and Intelligent Auto Mode to Make Shooting More Intuitive

Secaucus, NJ (June 18, 2008) – Panasonic today expanded its High Definition (HD) suite of products, with the announcement of two new full-HD camcorders, the HDC-SD100 and HDC-HS100, the world’s first* AVCHD camcorders with a 3MOS system which provides superb video image quality.  The HDC-SD100 records to SD Memory Card, while the hybrid HDC-HS100 records to both SD Memory Card and to its internal 60 GB* hard drive.  Both models include manual functions for the user wanting more precise control over zoom, focus, iris, shutter speed and white balance.  The models also include Panasonic’s new Intelligent Auto (iA) mode, an intuitive set of technologies that automatically activate, making video shooting an easy, seamless process.

“The camcorder market is moving swiftly to High Definition and superior image quality is now a must-have feature.  Moreover, many consumers are also demanding higher-level features, and the ability to be more creative,” said Zoe Susice, Group Manager, Imaging, Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company.  “For these users, we introduce two new full-HD 3MOS models – the HDC-SD100 and HDC-HS100 – with manual functions that give users the power to create dramatic, artistic images.  At the same time, we also have our Intelligent Auto mode, which activates several technologies automatically, so the user doesn’t need to make any adjustments, and shooting video is an easy and enjoyable experience.”

The world’s first AVCHD camcorders with a 3MOS system are newly developed by Panasonic and based on the company’s 3CCD technology, an already-established and renowned system that provides excellent color reproduction. With their expanded light-receiving areas, the MOS sensors also significantly improve image quality, even in low lighting.  The three MOS sensors process the red, green, and blue components of incoming light separately, so color reproduction is superb. These sensors also have about double** the light-receiving area of CCD sensors, so image quality when shooting in low light is much higher. Compared with a conventional 1MOS, Panasonic’s new 3MOS system captures more vibrant, true-to-life colors, greater detail and richer gradation. This high-precision imaging element is first in the world*** to shoot in lighting as low as 2 lux and helps the SD100 and HS100 capture exceptionally clear, bright images.

Adding to the 3MOS sensor, Panasonic HD Advanced Pure Color Engine and a new Leica**** Dicomar lens – helps the SD100 and HS100 deliver the outstanding images in full-HD 1920 x 1080 recording*****.  Full-HD recording, with its total of 2,070,000 pixels, provides exceptional image details and rich colors.  The Leica Dicomer lens system used in camcorders comprise 12 lenses in 9 groups, including aspherical lenses to improve resolution and contrast and an LD (low-dispersion) lens to help prevent color bleeding. Also, a special multi-coating process is applied to all lens elements to minimize chromatic aberration, so images are crisp, clear, and free of flare and ghosting. The use of a highly-refractive lens also made it possible to have both 12x zoom power and a compact body.

To maximize the capabilities of the new HD-level 3MOS sensor featured in the SD100 and HS100, Panasonic further enhanced the company’s renowned Advanced Pure Color Engine image processor with the introduction of the new HD Advanced Pure Color Engine. A noise reduction circuit combines with the Intelligent Contrast Control circuit to boost image quality while reducing power consumption. The dynamic range is also about twice that in previous Panasonic models, which helps prevent blown highlights and blocked shadows and allows more natural color expression. Offering both higher image quality and longer battery life, the HD Advanced Pure Color Engine takes camcorder performance to new heights.

Panasonic’s iA mode, automatically activates several convenient shooting functions at once, so the user does not have to manually change any settings.  These include:

·         Advanced O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilization) detects hand-shake and then triggers the lens to shift to correctly align the optical axis, helping to ensure videos are sharp and reduce blur. This happens at a rate of 4,000 times per second.

·         Face Detection automatically adjusts the exposure, contrast, skin complexion effect, and focus so that faces are always clear. Face Detection can detect up to 15 faces in a frame.

·         Intelligent Contrast Control continually measures the ambient light intensity and adjusts the contrast as it changes, helping to prevent a washed-out look in bring parts of an image and black-outs in parts with shadows.

·         Intelligent Scene Selection which determines the shooting environment and automatically selects the appropriate scene setting for optimal results.

Both camcorders come packaged with HD Writer 2.6 software for Windows, and also support iMovie ‘08 for Apple, which let users directly edit the high-quality full-HD moving pictures they capture with their camcorders.  The SD100 and HS100 are compatible with Panasonic’s VIERA Link^TM, allowing users to connect the camcorder to a VIERA HDTV via an HDMI cable, and operate the camcorder using the TV remote control, and following on-screen prompts. Furthermore, users can also take the SD Memory Cards from the camcorders and slip it into the SD card slot on a Panasonic PZ850 series VIERA HDTV, or a Panasonic BD50 or BD30 Blu-ray Disc^TM Player, and enjoy easy, instant large-screen viewing of stunning HD video. 

Users can also copy their video content to DVDs for quick, convenient playback. A Panasonic VW-BN1 DVD Burner (optional) can be used to burn HD images onto a DVD disc in the original AVCHD format; no need to use a PC. The copied DVD discs can then be easily played with the VW-BN1 and sent via the SD100 or HS100 to a HDTV.

Other features of both the HDC-SD100 and HDC-HS100 include:

·         Quick Power-On ensures the camcorders are in recording standby and can shoot in just 1.9 seconds, making it easy to catch spur-of-the-moment shots, while being conservative of the battery. 

·         Digital Cinema Color mode automatically switches the camcorder to the optimum setting for the Digital Cinema Color mode, available on Panasonic’s VIERA Plasma HDTVs, providing a theater-like viewing experience.

·         Intelligent Shooting Selection Playback automatically detects scenes that have serious flaws – such as images that are completely out of focus or shots of the ground taken inadvertently – and automatically skips them during playback. Viewers see only high-quality, mistake-free moving images.

·         5-Microphone, 5.1-Channel Surround Sound System allows users to feel surrounded by clear, detailed sound during playback on a 5.1-channel home cinema. A Zoom Mic function links the microphone’s capabilities to connect to what the camcorder is recording.  A Focus Mic function picks up the sounds from sources in the area in front of the camcorder, regardless of whether the lens is focusing on a near or distant object.

·         Mic Input and Headphone Jack allows the camcorders to connect to an external mic or headphones. 

·         High-Speed Burst Shooting lets the camcorders snap up to 24 consecutive 2.1 MB resolution still images in a second, or up to approximately 72 consecutive shots in 3 seconds.

·         Pre-Rec enables the camcorder to continuously record three seconds (while in the Pre-Rec mode) internal buffer memory. Then, when the Record button is actually pressed, the three seconds immediately prior are added at the beginning of the clip.

·         Wide-Viewing-Angle LCD has 300,000 dots and a 170-degree viewing angle both vertically and horizontally.  This LCD provides extended viewing from both high and low angles. 

Both Panasonic models will be available in September 2008 The HDC-SD100 will have an MSRP of $1,099.95 and the HDC-HS100 will have an MSRP of $1,299.95.  The SD100 will also come standard with an 8GB SDHC memory card. For more information, please visit www.panasonic.com.

# # #

HDC-SD100 Specifications

Power source
DC 72 V / 9.3 V
Power consumption
3.5 W (EVF) / 3.7 W (LCD)
Signal system
1080 lines, 60 fields
Weight (w/o Battery)
320 g
Dimensions (W x H x D)
65 x 72 x 138 mm
Media
SD Memory Card, SDHC Memory Card
Image sensor
1/6-inch MOS x 3 (610 k x 3 pixels, Total / 520 k x 3 (16:9) (Motion /Still Picture)
Lens
Auto iris, 12x power zoom
F 1..8 (WIDE) / F2.8 (TELE)
35mm equivalent
Motion picture: 42.1 to 505.0 mm (16:9)
Still picture: 42.1 to 505.0 mm (16:9)
Focal length
3.0 – 30.0 mm
Lens brand
Leica Dicomar
Filter diameter
37 mm
Zoom
12x optical zoom, 30/120x digital zoom
Monitor
2.7’’ wide LCD monitor (approx. 300,252 dots)
Viewfinder
0.44” wide EVF
Microphone
5.1-ch surround sound, Zoom Microphone, Focus Microphone
Speaker
Dynamic type
White balance adjustment
Auto / White Set / Daylight / Cloudy / Indoor1 / Indoor2 / Halogen
Standard illumination
1,400 lux
Minimum required illumination
2 lux (shutter speed 1/30, low light mode) (1 lux in MagicPix® mode)
Focus
AF / Manual
High-speed shutter
(Motion Picture/ Still Picture)
[60i] Auto slow shutter ON : 1/30 – 1/8000
Auto slow shutter OFF: 1/60 – 1/8000
[24p] Auto slow shutter ON : 1/24 – 1/8000
Auto slow shutter OFF: 1/48 – 1/8000
Iris
Auto / Manual
USB
Card reader / writer function ( No copyright protection support)
High-Speed USB (USB2.0) (miniAB)
Pict Bridge-compliant, Host function (for DVD Burner)
Flash
Available flash range: approx. 1m to 2.5m
Standard accessories
8GB SDHC Memory Card, AC Adaptor, Battery Pack, IR Remote Controller, USB Cable, Component Cable, AV-Cable, CD-ROM (HD Writer Ver2.6)

Motion pictures
Compression
MPEG4-AVC/H.264 (AVCHD standard compliant)
Transfer rate
HA: approx. 17Mbps (VBR)/ HG: approx. 13 Mbps (VBR)/
HX: approx. 9 Mbps (VBR)/ HE: approx. 6 Mbps (VBR)
Picture size
HA/HG: 1920 x 1080(60i/24p), HX: 1920 x 1080(60i)/
HE: 1440 x 1080(60i)
Audio compression
Dolby Digital (Dolby AC3)/ 5.1-ch(Internal Mic), 2-ch (External Mic)

Still pictures
Compression
JPEG (DCF/Exif2.2 compliant)
Picture size
1920 x 1080 / 2.1MEGA (16:9)

HDC-HS100 Specifications

Power source
DC 7.2 V / 9.3 V
Power consumption
3.9 W (EVF) / 4.1 W (LCD)
Signal system
1080 lines, 60 fields
Weight (w/o Battery)
420 g
Dimensions (W x H x D)
74 x 76 x 138 mm
Media
60GB HDD/ SD Memory Card, SDHC Memory Card
Image sensor
1/6-inch MOS x 3 (610 k x 3 pixels, Total / 520 k x 3 (16:9) (Motion /Still Picture)
Lens
Auto iris, 12x power zoom
F 1..8 (WIDE) / F2.8 (TELE)
35mm equivalent
Motion picture: 42.1 to 505.0 mm (16:9)
Still picture: 42.1 to 505.0 mm (16:9)
Focal length
3.0 – 30.0 mm
Lens brand
Leica Dicomar
Filter diameter
37 mm
Zoom
12x optical zoom, 30/120x digital zoom
Monitor
2.7’’ wide LCD monitor (approx. 300,252 dots)
Microphone
5.1-ch surround sound, Zoom Microphone, Focus Microphone
Speaker
Dynamic type
White balance adjustment
Auto / White Set / Daylight / Cloudy / Indoor1 / Indoor2 / Halogen
Standard illumination
1,400 lux
Minimum required illumination
2 lux (shutter speed 1/30, low light mode) (1 lux in MagicPix® mode)
Focus
AF / Manual
High-speed shutter
(Motion Picture/ Still Picture)
[60i] Auto slow shutter ON : 1/30 – 1/8000
Auto slow shutter OFF: 1/60 – 1/8000
[24p] Auto slow shutter ON : 1/24 – 1/8000
Auto slow shutter OFF: 1/48 – 1/8000
Iris
Auto / Manual
USB
Card reader / writer function ( No copyright protection support)
High-Speed USB (USB2.0) (miniAB)
Pict Bridge-compliant, Host function (for DVD Burner)
Flash
Available flash range: approx. 1m to 2.5m
Standard accessories
AC Adaptor, Battery Pack, IR Remote Controller, USB Cable, Component Cable, AV-Cable, CD-ROM (HD Writer Ver2.6)

Motion pictures
Compression
MPEG4-AVC/H.264 (AVCHD standard compliant)
Transfer rate
HA: approx. 17Mbps (VBR)/ HG: approx. 13 Mbps (VBR)/
HX: approx. 9 Mbps (VBR)/ HE: approx. 6 Mbps (VBR)
Picture size
HA/HG: 1920 x 1080(60i/24p), HX: 1920 x 1080(60i)/
HE: 1440 x 1080(60i)
Audio compression
Dolby Digital (Dolby AC3)/ 5.1-ch(Internal Mic), 2-ch (External Mic)

Still pictures
Compression
JPEG (DCF/Exif2.2 compliant)
Picture size
1920 x 1080 / 2.1MEGA (16:9)

Maybe I’m showing my age, but I still can’t wrap my head around a one terabyte portable bus-powered hard drive. I remember when 9 gig drives were the standard high capacity drive, and honestly it wasn’t that long ago. So for those who need massive portable storage, like editing in the field with a laptop, check out the details of LaCie’s 1TB Little Big Disk below.

From a LaCie Press Release:

Little Big Disk Quadra 1TB: Small, Mighty and Full of Capacity

• Powerful, handheld storage device available up to 1TB
• Burst transfer speeds of up to 110MB/s via e-SATA or 80MB/s over FireWire 800*
• Quadruple interface for flexibility; FireWire bus-power for true mobility
• Sturdy, aluminum heat sink design with amazingly quiet operation

PORTLAND, OR (June 2008) – LaCie today announced the Little Big Disk Quadra 1TB, the
industry’s largest capacity, most powerful mobile storage solution to fit comfortably into the palm
of your hand. Joining already shipping 500GB and 400GB (7200 RPM) versions, the portable
Little Big Disk is LaCie’s workflow answer for speed- and capacity-demanding applications and
digital content creation.

This extremely fast, mobile device includes two 2.5-inch hard disks that work together in a built-in
RAID 0 configuration to enable up to 110MB/s burst transfer rates when using eSATA or up to
80MB/s if using FireWire 800*. With one eSATA 3Gbits, two FireWire 800 (FireWire 400
compatible with included adaptor), and one USB 2.0 interface, the Little Big Disk allows universal
connectivity for true cross-platform compatibility.

Featuring the well-known LaCie d2 heat sink design, developed by Neil Poulton, the Little Big
Disk is entirely fanless, which allows it to operate flawlessly without posing as a noise distraction
when editing content. The sturdy Little Big Disk is 100 percent bus-powered by the FireWire
interface, in spite of the two 2.5-inch disks inside, and weighs in at a little over 1.4 pounds. Up to
60 percent lighter than conventional desktop drives, this device is a great solution for users
needing versatile on-the-go storage for high-intensity computing applications.

“The Little Big Disk is suitable for multiple in-the-field applications. A professional photographer
will take thousands of RAW photos in one photo shoot, while a videographer needs tremendous
capacity and transfer rates to edit their footage,” said Arnaud Prezelin, LaCie Product Manager
for Creative Pro solutions. “Powerful yet portable, the Little Big Disk Quadra is an essential tool
for meeting a professional’s mobile needs. While traveling, users no longer need to carry heavy
devices and power cables to operate a high-capacity 1TB external hard drive.”

Fully plug and play with Mac® OS X 10.5 Leopard (including Time Machine) and Windows®
Vista™, the Little Big Disk Quadra comes preloaded with the LaCie Setup Assistant, a utility that
optimizes the drive according to your needs (Mac, Windows, or cross-platform environments).
The unit comes bundled with advanced backup and restore software EMC® Retrospect Express
for Mac and Windows. It can also be daisy-chained using one of the two FireWire interfaces with
other LaCie hard disks or DVD±RW drives.

Availability
The 1TB LaCie Little Big Disk Quadra is available now from LaCie direct and widely available via
LaCie’s specialized dealer network at the suggested retail price starting at $659.99. For more
information, visit www.lacie.com.

JVC has announced 3 new HD camcorders to their lineup, the GZ HD40 and 30, and the GZ HD10. Of special interest in these releases is the hybrid codec for the GZ HD 40 and GZ HD 30. JVC allows you to choose between AVCHD and MPEG2 codecs on these models, depending on your needs. As editing software manufacturers are having a tough time bringing usable AVCHD editing to the table, the ability to shoot in NLE friendly MPEG 2 is a great feature for compatibility and ease of use.

More details can be found below:

From a JVC Press Release:

WAYNE, NJ, June 16, 2008 – JVC has added three new high definition camcorders to its HD Everio line, including a pair of dual-format models, one of which records up to 50 hours of AVCHD Full HD video.

Two new models, the GZ-HD40 and GZ-HD30, are the world’s first AVCHD / MPEG-2 dual-format camcorders, allowing access to the superior long time compression afforded by AVCHD, as well as MPEG-2’s superior editing and post-production environment. Both offer 1920 x 1080 Full HD recording in both formats to a 120GB (GZ-HD40) or 80GB (GZ-HD30) internal hard disk drive. The third new model, the GZ-HD10, offers 1440 x 1080 recording in the AVCHD format to a 40GB hard drive.

Technologies behind the scenes include new CMOS imaging chips with interpolation technology, the HD Gigabrid Duo chip that includes codecs for AVCHD in all camcorders and MPEG-2 in the GZ-HD40 and GZ-HD30 as well as noise reduction technology, and 1920 x 1080/60P output for all camcorders via HDMI™ (V.1.3 with x.v.Color). Ease of use innovations include Intelligent Grouping, which sorts and groups together similar themed scenes for easier access, and Digest Playback, which creates a video montage of scenes, much like a “coming attractions” clip, when they’re burned to a DVD.

JVC designed the GZ-HD30 to meet the needs of a broad segment of people who shoot video, including family users. More compact than the GZ-HD40, it offers all of the performance and nearly all of the features of that model, except it has a slim 80GB internal hard disk for a maximum 33 hours of Full HD recording, and does not come with a docking station. As of June 2008, it is the world’s smallest Full HD camcorder with 1.8″ HDD.

JVC provided the GZ-HD40 with a 120GB hard disk drive for up to 50 hours of AVCHD Full HD video recording, and a docking station to meet the requirements of the prosumer or high-end enthusiast.

JVC designed the small sized HD Everio GZ-HD10 thinking of the needs of budget-conscious users, yet it offers a high quality KONICA MINOLTA HD LENS and a 40GB hard disk that provides up to 16 hours of high-definition recording. The GZ-HD10’s 1440×1080 AVCHD recordings are also up converted for playback at 1920 x 1080/60P via HDMI.

All three of the new HD Everio camcorders can connect to the optionally available CU-VD50 Everio SHARE STATION with stand alone playback. The new HD Everios can also connect to the JVC CU-VD3 SHARE STATION to offer an even more cost-efficient archiving and playback solution. The combinations offer the world’s first PC-less solution for AVCHD and MPEG-2 burning and playback, with AVCHD DVD discs that can be shared with commonly available AVCHD compatible Blu-Ray players.

1920 x 1080 Full HD Recording
The GZ-HD40 and GZ-HD30 both have three AVCHD recording modes that all record Full HD 1920 x 1080 video. The only difference among modes is the bit rate, and while using the highest bit rate yields

the highest quality results, the image quality is remarkable even using the lowest bit rate EP mode. And since 1920 x 1080 is truly native HDTV resolution, it requires no conversion on the part of the display device to show high definition images.

The GZ-HD40 and GZ-HD30 also have the FHD mode for recording Full HD 1920 x 1080 MPEG-2 Transport Stream video with MPEG-1 Layer 2 audio. The GZ-HD10 records solely in 1440 x 1080 AVCHD format.

*For HDV compatible stream via i.LINK
Continuous shooting time and typical shooting time are approximate. To record video, a microSDHC card with Class 4 or higher performance is required. microSD memory cards (256MB to 2GB) and microSDHC memory cards (4GB and 8GB) have been tested for the following brands: Panasonic, Toshiba, SanDisk, ATP. Note that using other media may result in recording failure or data loss.

New CMOS Chips with Interpolation Technology
The image sensors used in the new HD Everio line are newly developed small size but high resolution 1/3″ and 1/4.5″ CMOS chips. This CMOS uses proprietary interpolation technology based on what JVC developed for its 3CCD cameras. This algorithm makes it possible to generate virtual pixel data from the red, green and blue physical pixels, thereby providing image information that actually surpasses what’s required for 1920 x 1080 Full HD imaging, or for 1440 x 1080 imaging in the GZ-HD10.

HD Gigabrid Duo Engine
JVC’s HD Gigabrid video engine, which processes in full 1920 x 1080 progressive video, was the result of years of experience in signal-processing technology, and uses five digital noise-reduction algorithms as well as signal processing to improve horizontal scan resolution by approximately 20 percent over JVC’s previous interlace technology, for an extremely clear and sharp image.

New this year with the HD Gigabrid Duo engine is its further advanced integration, adding the AVCHD codec (GZ-HD40/30/10), and incorporating all functions of the previous HD Gigabrid engine (including MPEG-2 codec for GZ-HD40/30), as well as the USB Host controller function for use with an Everio SHARE STATION.

1080p 60 Frame per second Progressive Output Function
Enabling output of a 1080p 60 fps progressive signal on all three models allows recordings to be enjoyed on high-end displays. Using the same high power Genessa technology as in JVC advanced displays, conversion to 1920 x 1080p at 60 fps provides seamless natural video, free of motion judder during fast action activities, jaggy lines on angles, and moiré patterns on fine detail when zooming. 1920 x 1080 HD discs played back from CU-VD50 SHARE STATION or via the camera from CU-VD3 SHARE STATION are also converted to 60 fps progressive.

HDMI™ (V.1.3. with x.v.Color™)
The new JVC HD Everio camcorders record using x.v.Color™ technology. The universal standard xvYCC, known as x.v.Color, provides more accurate color reproduction with more detail and shades that look more natural to the human eye. It can display 100 percent of the colors that the human eye is capable of perceiving, whereas the traditional sRGB system can only display approximately 55 percent. The difference in color reproduction performance is especially noticeable in greens and yellows. These new HD Everio camcorders output to televisions directly using HDMI™ (V.1.3. with x.v.Color).

Extremely Quick Response, Designed for High Quality Shooting
JVC’s new HD Everio models minimize the risk of missing an important shot with faster response time for many operations. For instance, the time lag from pressing the trigger to the start of recording is only 0.08 seconds (trigger sound set to off). That is nearly instantaneous, and a great improvement over the more common 0.6 second delay. Likewise, the time it takes to power-on the unit has been reduced to 0.6 seconds, whereas competitive models may take over 1.5 seconds. And to play footage, it takes only 3.5 seconds to display the playback picture, which is about half the time required for other manufacturers’ products. These improvements can mean the difference between capturing a crucial shot or missing it.

In addition, JVC HD Everio camcorders include other functions that enhance convenience and quality:
* Hybrid HDD and MicroSD Recording;
* Auto Light;
* Focus Assist and Manual settings;
* Simultaneous to Video Progressive Still Shooting;
* Quick power off;
* 2.8″/ (2.7″ for GZ-HD10) Clear wide LCD with Auto Backlight Brightness;
* Mic input and Accessory Shoe;
* Direct Backup button;
* In Camera File Editing (AVCHD).

Innovations in Ease of Use
JVC has equipped its new HD Everio models with new functions to enhance usability. First is the “Intelligent Grouping” function that at the touch of a button rapidly sorts through and categorizes the recordings stored on the camcorder’s hard disk into different groups. Up to 1,000 scenes can be grouped in three seconds or less. With scenes categorized, users will have faster and easier access to desired scenes, a real convenience as the hard drive fills up.

As an extension of this technology, “Digest Playback” automatically generates a video montage of just the highlight scenes when HD Everio recordings are copied to a DVD. This digest version of the disc contents, looking much like a coming-attractions clip, will help the viewer get a general idea of what the disc is about, saving precious time.

PC-less Archiving Using Exclusive DVD Burners
By connecting the GZ-HD40/HD30/HD10 directly to an optional CU-VD50 or CU-VD3 HD Everio SHARE STATION via USB, the user can burn 12cm AVCHD discs from all cameras, or MPEG-2 data discs from the GZ-HD40 and 30 to make backups and permanent archives of selected scenes in any desired order with just a few simple steps.

There are several options for selecting clips to be burned to disc — all clips, manually specified clips, clip files not yet copied, by date, video playlists created in-camera and comprised of multiple user-selected clips, or by event type for those clips that have been tagged with an icon representing an event category (e.g. birthday, baby, graduation, vacation, etc.).

Created AVCHD discs can be played on AVCHD compatible Blu-ray players. The CU-VD50 can also be used as an external DVD drive/burner when connected to a PC. The CU-VD50 plays back on a TV via HDMI in 1920 x 1080 60p and with x.v.Color, analog component and as well in standard definition video. The slim CU-VD3 offers the same burning features, but with playback via the camcorder.

Full Complement of Interfaces
All three models are equipped with USB2.0 and HDMI digital interfaces on the camcorder. The Docking Station supplied with the GZ-HD40 is equipped with USB2.0 and i.LINK (IEEE 1394).

USB is primarily for file saving, HDMI for digital viewing on large screen displays, and i.LINK streams high definition video in full resolution or the 1440CBR mode. High definition video streamed by i.LINK in the 1440CBR mode is HDV-compatible and allows footage to be edited using HDV-compatible software (functionality might be limited with some applications). HD recorded material is down-converted for output in DV over i.LINK, or in standard definition via the analog component/ composite output.

High Value Software Supplied
For editing and archiving via PC, the new HD Everio models come with the CyberLink BD Solution software suite for Windows. This includes “PowerDirector™ 6 NE” for HD video editing, “PowerProducer™ 4 NE” for authoring high definition Blu-ray discs, AVCHD discs and DVD-Video discs, “PowerCinema™ NE for Everio” for HD file management and playback, and “PowerDVD™ 7 NE” for playback of AVCHD discs.

The GZ-HD40/HD30 also come with a plug-in that allows HD Everio’s MPEG-2 files to be used with Apple iMovie HD 6 and Final Cut Pro 5 or 6 video software for the Macintosh. For all camcorders, AVCHD files can be used with Apple’s AVCHD applicable software without a plug-in for the Macintosh.

Today Rode announced a new shotgun mic model, the NTG-3. An interesting feature on this mic is the moisture-proof design, allowing the use of this shotgun mic in humid and rainy field conditions without having to worry about condensation building up on the diaphragm. We should probably point out that this does not make the mic waterproof (you still don’t want to get it wet)

More details on Rode’s offering below:

From A Rode Press Release:

Introducing the new NTG-3 - a precision, broadcast-grade shotgun microphone from RØDE Microphones.

The NTG-3 is the result of years of development by RØDE engineers, providing the professional broadcast and film industries with an affordable yet uncompromising microphone.

Using a technology known as RF-bias the RØDE NTG-3 is almost completely resistant to moisture, making it the only option when recording in any demanding environments where condensation is an issue. Be it in a tropical rainforest, arid desert or sub-zero snowstorm the NTG-3 can be relied on to faithfully record audio where traditional condenser microphones would fail.

In addition to its robust properties the NTG-3 combines very low weight (163g), a durable anti-glare finish and
incredibly low handling and self-noise (13dBA) to become RØDE’s premier A/V microphone.

When not in use the NTG-3 can be stored away in the included weather resistant aluminium storage cylinder, providing additional protection when travelling and storing the microphone.

“The new NTG-3 is one of RØDE’s most exciting microphones.” commented Peter Freedman, President of RØDE Microphones. “I am confident that the robustness afforded by RF bias technology, combined with incredibly low self-noise and handling noise make the NTG-3 a clear market leader in the broadcast-grade shotgun microphone category.”

Australian sound recording guru, Ric Creaser (60 Minutes, Survivor, Australian Idol), was given the opportunity to field test the NTG-3 as a part of RØDE’s thorough product development. “The NTG-3 has amazingly low handling noise, which will make it a boom operator’s dream mic” observed Ric.

“The audio quality is exceptional; providing the full bodied, robust, punchy audio I have come to expect from only the most expensive high-end broadcast shotgun microphones.”

“Also the off axis capability is a little wider than a 416, therefore more forgiving when trying to capture two spaced sources; a real bonus. I plan to use the RØDE NTG-3 as my main microphone from now on - it is outstanding.”

Key features:
• Designed to withstand adverse environmental conditions
• 50% less self-noise than the majority of shotgun mics
• True condenser (externally RF biased)
• Extremely low handling noise
• High level of immunity to radio frequency interference
• High sensitivity
• Superior broadcast sound quality
• Weather resistant aluminium storage cylinder included
• Designed and manufactured in Australia
• 10 year warranty (online registration required)

For more information on the NTG-3 please visit www.rodemic.com/ntg3

Avid released a new version of it’s flagship software, Media Composer 3.0, as well as most of it’s editing line up. Of note, the new price of Media Composer 3.0 software of $2,495 is half the cost of the previous version, making high end Avid editing a bit more accessible to independent videographers.

From an Avid Press Release:

Tewksbury, Mass., June 9, 2008 — Avid Technology, Inc. (Nasdaq: AVID) today announced the worldwide availability of its new HD editing systems and VideoRAID® solutions. The new lineup, which delivers on a commitment to customers of improved quality, value and performance, includes next-generation versions of Avid® Media Composer® (v3.0), NewsCutter® (v7.0), and Symphony™ (v3.0) software, as well as new hardware configurations, Avid Mojo® DX and Nitris® DX. The products are designed to deliver the ultimate HD editing experience to media professionals by offering greater speed, responsiveness and reliability. On the heels of this availability, Avid is rolling out aggressive pricing on support packages for its new editing products and existing DS Nitris product line. Additionally, the company is announcing upgrades to its Avid Unity™ MediaNetwork, Unity ISIS® and Interplay® product lines.

To see and hear customer reaction to the new products from Avid, see “Customers React to New Products” press release issued today.

Pricing and Configuration of Next-Generation Editing Systems
Avid’s new lineup of HD editing systems offers customers flexible software and hardware configurations designed to meet a range of professional production needs. All Media Composer and NewsCutter systems offer the same software toolset across their respective configurations – with further capabilities coming from different hardware options.

In addition to the previously-announced features, Avid has added a timestamp export tool for Broadcast WAV (BWF) that is available on all Media Composer and NewsCutter configurations. The timestamp export feature enables customers to insert sequence timecode based on the project type when exporting the timeline audio tracks as BWF, providing fast and easy sync reference.

New editing and storage configurations available today include:

Media Composer software – priced at $2,495 USMSRP.
Media Composer Mojo DX - priced at $9,995 USMSRP.
Media Composer Nitris DX – priced at $14,995 USMSRP (also available with an 8-core MacPro or HP xw8600 workstation starting at $21,995 USMSRP).
Symphony Nitris DX – priced at $35,995 USMSRP including an 8-core MacPro or HP XW8600 workstation.
NewsCutter software – priced at $4,995 USMSRP.
NewsCutter Mojo DX – priced at $19,995 USMSRP including an 8-core HP xw8600 workstation.
NewsCutter Nitris DX – priced at $24,995 USMSRP including an 8-core HP xw8600 workstation.
VideoRAID ST and VideoRAID SR - pricing begins at $4,795 USMSRP for 2.5TB configurations.
New Support Pricing
Avid is now offering aggressive new support pricing on all of its next-generation HD editing systems as well as its DS Nitris system. The new support packages are designed to deliver greater value to customers with the addition of new features such as technical alerts, monthly quicktips and advanced parts replacement on hardware. Further, customers who purchase a support contract when they purchase any new Media Composer, NewsCutter, Symphony or DS Nitris product will receive a 15% savings on the price of the contract. To be eligible, contracts must range from one to three years and be purchased between June 1 and December 31, 2008. Avid has also designed a number of specially-priced support packages for educational institutions, which begin as low as $99 USMSRP, per year. For more information on support packages and pricing, contact Avid sales or a local reseller.

“The new pricing has certainly helped Avid put their products into the reach of more professionals and aspiring professionals,” said Avid customer Kevin Tate, creative director of Mossy Oak Productions. “However, the customer support from Avid is always the deciding factor in my purchase decisions, and has been our lifeline far too many times to count. We turn out more than 100 original episodes of TV a year and have for many years now. We couldn’t do what we do, where we do it, the way we do it, without Avid products and support.”

Avid Unity and Interplay Upgrades
In addition to the new editing lineup and VideoRAID offerings, Avid has also announced as upgrades to the following systems:

Avid Unity MediaNetwork v5.1 which now delivers greater capacity to customers with 1TB drive support and additional add-on chassis support (from 5 to 8), increasing the overall capacity to 128TB. Now shipping on Microsoft Windows Vista, Windows XP and Mac OS X 10.5 Leopard;
Avid Unity ISIS v1.5 which now offers higher client bandwidths up to DNxHD 220 and is now shipping on Microsoft Windows Vista, Windows XP and Mac OS X 10.5 “Leopard”; and
Avid Interplay 1.4 which now offers a full-screen media player window and increased metadata capabilities such as customized drop down menus as well as a new 64 bit Media Indexer for higher performance indexing.
For additional information, please visit www.avid.com or contact your local Avid salesperson or reseller.

About Avid Technology, Inc.
Avid is a worldwide leader in tools for film, video, audio, 3D animation, gaming and broadcast professionals – as well as for home audio and video enthusiasts. Avid professional and consumer brands include Avid, Digidesign®, M-Audio®, Pinnacle Systems®, Sibelius®, Softimage® and Sundance Digital®. The vast majority of primetime television shows, feature films, commercials and chart-topping music hits are made using one or more Avid products. Whether used by seasoned professionals or beginning students, Avid’s products and services enable customers to work more efficiently, productively and creatively. Avid received an Oscar® statuette representing the 1998 Scientific and Technical Award for the concept, design, and engineering of the Avid Film Composer® system for motion picture editing. For more information about the company’s Oscar, Grammy® and Emmy® award-winning products and services, visit www.avid.com, del.icio.us, Flickr, technorati and twitter; or connect with Avid on Facebook.

reprinted from a ProDAD press release:

IMMENDINGEN, GERMANY, June 2, 2008 – proDAD GmbH, a popular maker of video effects plug-ins for the professional video editing market announced the availability of its Mercalli video stabilization plug-in for popular Windows-based Non-Linear Editing (NLE) software applications. The Mercalli plug-in provides an elegant solution to the common problem of shaky video shot in the field where it’s not always possible to use a tripod or monopod to capture a scene. Mercalli differs from other post-production video stabilization tools as it does not require the user to struggle with baffling mathematical theory in determining the most appropriate settings to correct shaky video. The user simply selects the video to be stabilized on the timeline within the NLE software, selects a profile for correction, and Mercalli does the rest. The user can see the effects in real-time and make fine tuning adjustments on the fly.

“Every event videographer and video editing professional has experienced the pain of trying to correct shaky video” said Andreas Huber, General Manager of proDAD GmbH. “Mercalli is a breakthrough solution as it’s intuitive to use, fully automated, and produces spectacular results. And if that wasn’t enough, Mercalli integrates seamlessly into your NLE as with other proDAD plug-ins,” Mr. Huber added.
Mercalli is offered in two distinct versions. Mercalli Lite is offered for stabilizing Standard Definition (SD) and Digital Video (DV). Mercalli Expert will stabilize High Definition (HD) and High Definition Television (HDTV) video in addition to SD/DV. Mercalli also includes a bonus “Video Shaker” plug-in that allows the user to add shake to video when it’s desired.
Mercalli is compatible with the following Windows-based NLE Applications:
Adobe Premier Pro/Elements
Adobe After Effects
AVID Liquid
Canopus Edius & Neo
Sony Vegas/Vegas Pro

Pricing and Availability
Mercalli Lite retails for $59.00 and Mercalli Expert retails for $119.00; both products are currently available from the proDAD webstore located at www.prodad.com

On a brief stopover from our Portland Conference (which went very well, by the way, thanks for asking) we stopped by the storage providers LaCie to take a look at some of their new products. While the company headquarters is in France; the US operation, where they run tech support, sales, and still have a factory that assembles their product is located in Hillsboro Oregon.

We sat down to take a look at some of their video related products, and first off was the Biggest S2S, a 5 bay tower system that in full striped mode can handle uncompressed HD video. This tower comes with it’s own interface card, and is available in 2.5TB, or 5TB models.

On the opposite side of the size spectrum was the Little Big Disk Quadra. A tiny bus-powered RAID 0 array of two 2.5 inch hard drives, in capacities of 400GB, and 500GB. Perfect for editing with a laptop on location.

Right smack dab in the middle was the 2big Triple. A medium sized case holding two removable bays, with a Firewire 400, 800, and USB 2.0 interface. It changes between RAID1, o, or JBOD configurations, and comes in 1TB, 1.5TB, and 2 TB capacities.

Although well known as a storage comapny, LaCie also makes some very interesting displays. One model that will be of interest to video editors is the LaCie 324. It’s a 24 inch LCD panel, that incorporates a Faroudja video signal processor that is specifically designed to display video, handling scaling and color information for viewing various HD and SD frame rates and sizes accurately. Most other LCD displays are made to with computers in mind only, so it’s refreshing to see a manufacturer designing products with video editing specifically in mind.

We ended the tour with a walk through of the assembly area and warehouse. As the tour was progressing, I looked around at the multiple petabytes of storage lining the shelves, and I wondered at all the video and photo data that would eventually end up on these drives. I also wondered how many hours of irreplaceable footage in the future would be lost forever due to poor data management, or even hard drive failure. LaCie, of course is a big proponent of back-ups (preferably using another LaCie drive), and it is a necessity in todays digital acquisition environment, where tape is starting to fade away. What I think the video production community really needs though, is a digital equivalent of the shoe-box full of tapes in the closet. A product between the multi-million dollar content management servers of major studios, and more robust than simply another hard drive. An affordable digital server that’s not just for storage, but for archiving as well.