David Shulkin
Forum Replies Created
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Larry:
I have both used (currently have a 360 ImageServer 2000 in one of my headends/studio control and beta testing another from TRMS), installed, supported, and recommend both of those servers/companies. However, I do suggest taking a look at your critical needs as both of those server lines (whether HD or SD) have some significant differences depending on the model.
For example, 360 focused there servers as deck replacements – simple, reliable, cost-effective and basically you just pulled your deck out and shoved in the server, tweaked some serial controls/cabling and you were on your way.
TRMS is part of a larger automation system with serial and IP based protocols and a larger file codec supported playback options.Also on the lower-priced end is to look at Princeton servers from Televue or even Leightronix
https://www.telvue.com/
https://www.leightronix.comObviously many of us can recommend far more feature rich and expensive servers, but these are the few that come to mind in terms of good value for the buck.
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If you are on the less expensive side, take a look at Tightrope Media Systems
https://www.trms.comAlso take a look at 360 Systems
https://www.360systems.comWhile you may not be in SDI now, it may make a lot of sense to prep your infrastructure (cabling, routing, connections, etc.) for SDI and most important HD-SDI. Since you are looking at composite options, they are out there, but are becoming scarce. Consider taking a hard look at converting those signals rather than buying a server with a more limited life span (and less quality output). Of course it may not matter on those issues, but…
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Peter:
We convert to RGB and 10-bit color space (Quicktime) in MPEG Streamclip. Do any initial cleanup in AE of the files and fast import into Avid. Once done with the edit, we will CC in either Color or AE and reimport/relink (depending). This has been our most reliable workflow so far. Once conformed and completed we output in 709.This is working for us without many issues. Hope that helps.
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Since you will be visiting NAB, I suggest taking a look at TightRope Media Solution (TRMS) https://www.trms.com.
Excellent support and product for digtial signage and automation. Might not fit exactly what you are hoping for, but worth a look. -
Steve:
The 1505A is excellent cable and have it through-out my facilities along with sub-miniature 1855A. Whether it is Belden or Gepco or Canare, you’ll find solid cable performance.Is your need for plenum because you are putting it in the ceiling and is required?
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Scott:
Just to confirm, did you make sure you had the latest software from AJA and updated through the miniconfig software app? I had a similar problem when I first hooked it up and this solved the problem. Good Luck. -
Benji ^_^
If you are considering the budget range of the 16 input Panasonic, then you options increase tremendously. Having said that, the Panasonic is great for the conversion from composite to SDI without external boards. Again, if this is your budget range then you need to consider the total cost and look at Ross video’s Crossover line of switchers (Ross makes one under the JVC nameplate as well). Very nice and Ross support/product is excellent. You also need to consider the Broadcast pix line of products and see what might fit.Back to the NewTek product. Mark points out the Newtek Toaster – I thought they were replacing that product with their new HD Tricaster – just can’t remember if the Toaster is still available. I often forget they have that product in their toolbox. With the Newtek product line, if you get the Studio version, you will have composite inputs and no need to convert.
IF you decide on another solution that you will need to convert your analog signals into SDI, I’ve personally have used Ross Gear lite, AJA mini converters, and Blackmagic-Design mini-converters solutions. You can get a variety of options from these three without breaking the bank. I can recommend all three as they have performed well. The only issues I have had was some Ross Gear lite stuff in a 24/7/356 headend and the power supplies would fail. But they weren’t necessarily designed for that type of solution. Hope this helps.
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NAB show probably hasn’t updated yet. Keep in mind that Sony is a sponsor for the show. And on the interactive map they are located in the Central Hall C11001. I have always found that the exhibitor list is less than great at keeping up to date as to exhibitors. So Sony will be there in force.
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Outside of the used market, SDI is the standard for production switchers. If you are finding composite/component switchers on the used market – keep in mind that parts can be limited for repair.
I know Edirol has an 8-channel – but not sure on the other requirements.Since you are stuck on composite, you might want to seriously consider NewTek’s Tricaster – won’t give you all of the inputs (6), but if your inputs are other than live feed it will cover all of your other bases.
If budget is flexible, it may be worth converting your composite signals to SDI and then your switcher becomes increasingly easier (and future proof).
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Mike:
The first question to really answer is what do you want to away from your NAB experience? You do mention that you want to “push towards advance” in the editing and general post-production area. Based on that need (knowledge/skill need), taking the classes will be helpful. From my perspective please keep in mind that I have not been to the PPW classes for about 11 years (this is my 12 year I think) or more (it wasn’t Future Media running it then) but have sent staff to the classes for the last four years. And, most likely I may be participating this year in PPW for a couple of classes – if not for some new knowledge, but for experiencing it with our staff. My stuff aside, I think the classes may be perfect for you to at least compare your current skill-set/knowledge-base with others and further identify your strengths and weaknesses.
1) “…worth your time and money?” Based on your stated need, they may work great for you.2) “…time and prevent you from walking the exhibit floor?” This can be a real issue if you have appointments or limited time at the conference. For me this becomes a challenge as often times our staff need to meet with vendors to solve problems or demo new stuff. The classes have always gotten in the way of this. Manageable – sure, but if you have some serious shopping/problem solving to take care of on the show floor, you may have to compromise.
3) “…class schedule…” This will truly depend on your needs elsewhere. I just prioritize my needs and then make a plan with some flexibility to change during the week. Keep in mind that there are 10-12 mini-conferences occurring at NAB so if you want to attend NAB sessions, BEA, RTNDA, etc. Attempting to schedule all of this can be a nightmare especially when you probably won’t know the PPW classes or schedule until very close to the conference.
4)“…free, exhibit floor classes…” This, like the PPW classes may vary greatly. BUT, most of the floor “training” sessions are demonstrations of feature sets, etc. and not necessarily training. And if you have questions, often times many of these demos don’t provide much time or ability due to the fact that the next session is already behind schedule. Remember it is a sales floor not a training floor. Yes training occurs, but the PPW classes are much better suited for training. Definitely worth participating in, but not a substitute.
5) “…classes target…” As I haven’t taken one in a while, I can say that our staff has good and bad classes, some meet and exceed the course objectives, others fail miserably. This is to say that some say advanced level and our staff will say that it was barely advanced as it only talked about xyz.
In sum, I don’t think by any means that the classes will be a total waste of your time. Worth the cost? – Only you will know afterwards as the consistency level of the PPW can vary.
Hope that is somewhat helpful.