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Bridge Technologies to Unveil Enhanced Audio Panel for VB440 at IBC
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Epiphan Video Launches Enhanced Configuration Presets for Pearl
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Hitachi Kokusai Electric Comark Launches VHF E-Compact Transmitters
Discussing the latest technological news with our respected experts – Philip Grossman and Mary Ann Seidler. Don’t forget to give the program a like!
Maria Kholodova: Bridge Technologies will release an updated audio panel for their VB440 production probe. The enhancement offers comprehensive audio monitoring across unlimited flows, single channel isolation, and compatibility with all Dolby standards, optimizing audio broadcasts in diverse production settings.
So, Mary, tell me about this.
Mary: Well, this product is really useful for several reasons. First, from a practical standpoint, it eliminates the need for multiple equipment racks. We’re all running out of rack space, and this helps address that issue. But the main benefit is its single-channel isolation feature. For instance, you can pinpoint problems on one channel and ensure accurate monitoring. Some might argue that you can achieve this by just observing the metering, but the company’s president made an excellent point. You might see everything’s fine on the meter, but what if you’re broadcasting French commentary instead of English? You won’t catch that by just looking at the meters. This product also offers room metering and supports up to eight users simultaneously. So, not just technicians, but producers or other staff can monitor to ensure everything’s right. I recall an incident where we missed an entire audio channel and broadcast in the wrong language. This product would’ve prevented that, and I’d probably have fewer gray hairs.
Philip: In the video world where I work, it’s straightforward: you either have a clear picture or you don’t. But in audio, how many products are there that help with analysis? Like you mentioned, meters only show there’s sound, not necessarily if it’s good. I can judge a video by its quality. Are there many products like this in the industry?
Mary: This company is in a unique position. While there are products that allow single-channel listening, they aren’t primarily designed for that. Accessing such features often requires navigating through multiple menus, and they might not always have the metering. This product combines both needs, and I haven’t come across anyone else offering what they do.
Maria: Thanks. Moving on, Epiphan Video has announced the release of Pearl Firmware 4.20. This introduces major upgrades to Configuration Presets. Now, users can load presets directly from a USB drive, making setup easier in new locations without needing peripherals or network access. The update also rebrands to Epiphan Edge, offers enhanced video file size support, and improves the user experience. Philip, what’s your take on this?
Philip: It’s intriguing to see more companies offering this kind of streaming tech, especially to the professional sector of Corporate America. The addition of USB functionality indicates their ambition to become a major player in the market. We’ve seen brands like Atem and BlackMagic, and now there’s a new contender. I anticipate more entrants in this space, especially with the rebranding and preparations for IBC. It’ll be interesting to track their progress.
Maria: Mary, I know you’re more into audio, but any thoughts on this?
Mary: I’d rather defer to Philip on this topic.
Maria: Switching gears to Hitachi. Hitachi Kokusai Electric Comark has rolled out the EC600 VHF Compact series. These are high-efficiency, air-cooled DTV transmitters boasting up to 4.6kW output. They come equipped with the EXACT-V2 digital TV exciter, have 40% efficiency amplifiers, and are fine-tuned for the current and looming ATSC 3.0 SFN systems. Philip, that was a mouthful. Can you break that down a bit?
Hitachi Kokusai Electric Comark Announces NEW VHF E-Compact High-Power Air-Cooled Transmitters
Philip: Of course. It’s fascinating to see how manufacturers, especially with the ongoing mandate for over-the-air broadcasts in the US and, I believe, in Europe too, are zeroing in on efficiency. Part of this drive is undoubtedly environmental, but let’s be real: electricity isn’t cheap. This is about cutting down operational costs in an era where budgets are tightening and commercial revenues aren’t what they used to be. Every penny saved counts. And with the industry shifting towards ATSC 3.0, innovations like this are going to be even more crucial.
Maria: That’s all the time we have today. Many thanks to our experts – Philip and Mary! And don’t forget to comment on the news we’ve discussed. See you next Monday at the same time! Goodbye!
Hosts: Philip Grossman, Mary Ann Seidler, and Maria Kholodova.
The live broadcast took place on August 14, 2023. Production – TKT1957 LLC.
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