More news from the eventful digital cinema segment with the announcement of a new alternate content processor from Calibre. Providing flexible connectivity and a compact 1U format, the 400DC alternate content processor has been designed to offer “stunning” image quality from a range of pro and consumer AV sources.
Specially optimised for use with SonyCineAlta SRX-320, SRX-210 and SRX-220 digital cinema projectors, the HQView-400DC alternate content processor can be used as both a routing switcher and a universal interface. Its range of inputs includes HD-SDI/SD-SDI, HDMI 1.3, DVI, VGA, component YPbPr/RGBS, composite and S-Video, with signal compatibility up to 1080p, WUXGA resolutions and built-in web browser remote control.
As with all other products in the HQView range, the 400DC alternate content processor incorporates Reon video processing from IDT and HQV algorithms, as well as hardware/firmware from Calibre.
Invited to consider the immediate future for digital cinema, Calibre UK chairman Tim Brooksbank told IE: “The digital cinema market has been held back by cinemas needing means of earning additional revenue from their investment in new equipment, but with the advent of 3D the need for digital cinema projectors has become more important and revenue positive. Revenue can be further boosted by showing alternate content such as live sports, gaming events, old movie special screenings and for corporate presentations, but to do so requires the use of an alternate content processor for projector compatibility and to ensure the resulting images are of a good enough standard. Most alternate content has not been mastered suitably for showing on such a large screen so needs powerful detail enhancement and noise reduction techniques [to be applied]; Calibre’s PVProHD-DC is a product that is able to do this real-time on a live or recorded alternate content feed from professional or consumer grade sources.”
MD Pauline Brooksbank added: “Europe certainly seems to be spearheading the use of alternate content material in its digital cinema markets as a means of creating additional revenue but also because the cinema experience has been revived and [is] becoming a big part of our leisure lifestyle.”
