DVCPro HD EX ?

Question

DVCPro HD EX ?

Hi

We're thinking of replacing one of our AJ-HDX400s with a AJ-HDX900.

Can anyone tell me clearly what the new DVCPro HD Ex codec is. I know it enables you to record more information onto a tape - How does it do this ?
Is it similar to LP modes on DV camcorders - does it reduce the quality.

Do you need to use special tapes or stock ?

Is the format compatible with current DVCPro HD codecs in FCP ?

Can someone give some technical details on the format e.g Data Throughput, Clour Sampling etc

Thanks in advance

Jonny

Quad 2.5GHZ PowerPC G5, Mac OS X (10.4.5), Black Magic Multibridge

Posted on Sep 12, 2006 3:33 AM

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Answer 1

Sep 12, 2006 5:39 AM in response to Jonathan_at_sightline

I just looked at the brochure for this camera, and don't see any mention of this recording mode... can you point at a link that discusses this?

Jerry

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Answer 2

Sep 12, 2006 7:09 AM in response to Jerry Hofmann

Sure Jerry - no problem, cheers for taking the time to help me out with this.

As you can see on the link below the logo at the top of the page next to the camera is for DVCPro HD EX

https://eww.pavc.panasonic.co.jp/pro-av/sales_o/02products/products/aj-hdx900/aj -hdx900.html

This is from another Panasonic article that mentions it -

"DVCPRO HD extended-record (EX) format VTR provides extended recording times, superior slow motion and low-tape costs for high definition program production. The VTR records for up to 126 minutes of 1080-line interlace or 720-line progressive-scan high definition video on a single XL size DVCPRO HD cassette, and offers eight channels of uncompressed digital audio to accommodate 5.1 surround sound plus a stereo sound mix, SAP or multi-language programming."

and another

"DVCPRO HD EX series
DVCPRO HD EX products record and play HD digital video signal (1080i/720P) and linear PCM digital sound up to 8 channels using 1/4 inch (6.35 mm)-metal tapes in HD digital VTR format.
The technology makes it possible to record in high definition of 9μm for twice as long time as those of our existing equipment, and dramatically reduce tape running cost as HD recording VTR. Compact tape cassette realizes highly maneuverable HD recording.
Additionally, the products are the world's first broadcasting HD VTR that can transfer HD digital signals to personal computer based non-linear editing system via IEEE1394 for setting up of high definition editing environment at low cost."

Here are the links to those articles -

http://www.panasonic.com/business/provideo/news/news04nab15.asp

https://eww.pavc.panasonic.co.jp/pro-av/saleso/news_info/news06/06003.html

Cheers again Jerry

Jonny

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Answer 3

Sep 12, 2006 7:25 AM in response to Jonathan_at_sightline

From the specs... it records the same format as before, but in some sort of tape speed or tape type, they've lengthed the recording time... don't think they'd be silly enough to change the format entirely, and the specs all say it records the same formats as Panny has been recording all along... i.e. I don't see where there's a difference other than that... so it still records DVCPRO100 formats. 4:2:2 colorspace etc...

I'd certainly talk to your local Panasonic rep about the EX thing... but I'll bet dollars to doughnuts it's totally compatible with FCP. The rep can be found through your local Panasonic Pro dealer... a VAR will give you a phone number.

I have a feeling this is a tape change, and not a codec at all. Same codecs, different tape or tape speed.

Jerry

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Answer 4

Sep 12, 2006 7:31 AM in response to Jerry Hofmann

Cheers Jerry -

Thanks for the help and advice.

I've already contacted our Panasonic Rep - he's coming in next week to do a demo of the kit for us, but my curiosity and impatience got the better of me so I posted on the forum to you knowledgable souls.
Also I just wanted to be prepared - I'd like to at least be able to pretend to know what i'm talking about. Helps the old price negotiations ya know 😉

All the best

Jonny

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Answer 5

Sep 12, 2006 7:33 AM in response to Jonathan_at_sightline

Hey, REPORT BACK about this when you get the actual scoop!

Jerry

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