News: da Vinci Introduces Splice 2.4, Versatile Virtual Telecine That Enhances Workflow Efficiency

(Coral Springs, Florida--April 15, 2008) da Vinci Systems today announced the release of the latest version of Splice, the company's versatile post-production appliance. Originally developed to enable nonlinear, in-context color grading on the da Vinci 2K® or 2K Plus™, Splice 2.4 is now able to address additional functions to improve the post-production workflow.

These include operating in support of the Resolve® digital mastering suite by functioning as a standalone station to automate layoff of variously versioned deliverables or to ingest data from telecine or VTR. Splice 2.4 will also provide conform functions.

As a server-based front end for the 2K or 2K Plus, Splice 2.4 takes advantage of da Vinci's exclusive Transformer 2TM technology to provide real-time sizing and rotation at unparalleled image quality.

Splice 2.4 also incorporates the da Vinci ColorTrace™ tool for even tighter integration with 2K systems. Splice sessions are now automatically loaded and synchronized with 2K sessions while the video standard selected by the 2K remains completely independent of data resolution. In addition, Splice conform and editing tools will create or modify an in-context timeline from a client EDL in any order, and the timeline can be played out from up to 2k SMPTE data either as HD, SD, or HSDL to the 2K Plus for grading. All control is via the familiar 2K Plus colorist interface.

"Splice adds incredible value to a facility by giving existing creative devices more functionality and also by freeing those devices from some of the mundane processing tasks required in the post-production workflow, ultimately allowing facilities to become more productive," said Dean Lyon, director of marketing at da Vinci. "Originally developed as a front end for our 2K and 2K Plus systems, Splice is increasingly attracting broader appeal as a standalone device."

Splice's comprehensive stand-alone functions include conforming EDLs to create record-mode in-context timelines, with support for mixed resolutions on the same timeline; interactive creation or modification of a timeline with cuts, dissolves, and speed changes; side-by-side comparisons of conform and offline; EDL export; QC using data waveform displays; and batch playout of data files to VTR either in source or record mode.

Splice 2.4 is shipping now. See it demonstrated with a da Vinci 2K Plus at the 2008 National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) Show, today through April 17, at da Vinci's booth SL2620.

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