This collaboration marks a significant achievement as U2 performs their inaugural shows at the venue, utilizing Matrox Video’s advanced technology to manage SMPTE ST 2110 signals for what is recognized as the most significant current live show.

Sphere’s Technological Marvel

Sphere features a groundbreaking interior with a 160,000-square-foot, 16K LED screen, boasting 256 million pixels, setting a new record for the largest and highest resolution LED display globally. For U2’s residency, titled “U2:UV Achtung Baby Live,” Fuse Technical Group was tasked with creating a video playback system that could handle 16K resolution and seamlessly integrate live inputs across this massive display, all operating on an SMPTE ST 2110 infrastructure.

Rapid Development Under Pressure

Ryan Middlemiss, Director of Media Servers at Fuse Technical Group, shared the intense timeline faced by the team. With only five months from initial contact to the first show, the team had to deliver a dependable solution while adapting to a new standard and workflow. This challenge was met with determination and resulted in a successful implementation of the envisioned workflow.

Core Components of the Workflow

The project utilized Matrox Video’s IP video products, which were instrumental in achieving the desired outcomes. Notably, Matrox ConvertIP devices were employed for SMPTE ST 2110 conversion, facilitating the delivery of high-resolution content to the venue’s LED screens. Additionally, Matrox ConductIP was used for routing and orchestrating the sources, while Matrox Extio™ 3 enabled remote operation and control, allowing technicians to manage the video show efficiently.

Partnership and Support

The success of the project was also attributed to the support and expertise provided by Matrox Video. Middlemiss highlighted the importance of trust and relationship with the vendor, emphasizing the responsive and supportive nature of Matrox Video’s team. This collaboration not only facilitated the technical achievements but also established a strong foundation for future projects.

The collaboration between Fuse Technical Group and Matrox Video has set a new benchmark for live entertainment video technology. The Sphere’s U2 shows demonstrate the potential of innovative video solutions to create unparalleled live entertainment experiences. Matrox Video’s commitment to innovation and customer support played a pivotal role in the project’s success, showcasing the power of video technology in transforming live events.

News source: https://video.matrox.com/en