IBC 2016: TV Skyline commits to Grass Valley LDX 86 cameras
TV Skyline GmbH has built a reputation as one of the most innovative service providers for television and broadcasting in the region. Its fleet of HD OB vans is equipped with the latest, highest-quality broadcast technology to support sport, entertainment, and event productions. Now, with the addition of 21 new cameras from Grass Valley, a Belden Brand, TV Skyline’s newest truck, OB8, is ready to provide uncompromised 4K/UHD or HD production as needed.
TV Skyline is investing in Grass Valley LDX 86 cameras.
The company evaluated camera options from a number of suppliers and determined that the LDX Series was the best fit for the features and functionality it needed. Included in the package are 12 LDX 86N 4K cameras, including HDR and 3x Universe options for high-speed applications; seven LDX C80 Compact Première cameras for remote and robotic applications; and two LDX 80 Première cameras for wireless applications.
“4K capability was an important part of what we were looking for, but we also needed cameras that would give us superb image quality in HD for all the other projects we’ll be doing until 4K really takes off for everyone,” says Robert Kis, GM, TV Skyline. “The fact that the LDX 86N 4K cameras give us native HD as well makes them more versatile and valuable for our operation.”
Last year, TV Skyline purchased and installed an NVISION 8576 hybrid router and a large Kaleido-Modular and Kaleido-MX high-quality, preconfigured multiviewer for the same truck, so the cameras will integrate easily into the mobile environment.
The seven LDX C80 Compact Première cameras have already been used in several projects, including the Rio 2016 canoeing and rowing competitions, for which they were installed on innovative OB boats and remotely controlled. Before this, the cameras were used during the prestigious Wagner Festspiele in Bayreuth in Bavaria, mounted on robotic heads in the “Shell,” the area where the orchestra sits and no camera operators are allowed.
“We already have 4K projects scheduled for the new LDX 86N 4K cameras, including matches in the UEFA Champions League this fall, as well as a few operas, shows, and other sporting events,” says Kis. “Our operators are excited about the new technology and the quality we’ll be able to deliver. Grass Valley has been an important partner for us and a big part of our success over the years.”
The LDX 86N 4K provides traditional native HD/3G acquisition, as well as native 4K/UHD capture. It also offers the ability to upgrade to LDX 86N Universe functionality with 6X HD and 3X HD/3G high-frame-rate capture on a one-day, seven-day, or perpetual basis with the GV-eLicense.
The LDX C80 Compact Première is a switchable format (1080i and 720p) compact camera with superior imaging, processing, and performance. The LDX 80 Première can also be upgraded with GV-eLicenses to support 1080p formats and provides the Contour Equalizer, which allows tweaking the crispness in the shadows, mid tones, and highlights independently.
“With more customers looking to add 4K but needing to maintain the highest level of HD performance, the LDX 86N 4K camera is an ideal solution,” notes Jan-Pieter van Welsem, VP, sales and marketing, EMEA, Grass Valley. “TV Skyline has outfitted its newest truck with the right mix of cameras to provide the services its customers need now and into the future.”