UHD (4K) filming and binaural sound: a world first!

Efficiency and innovation

While the concert was broadcast live in HD on CultureBox, the filming and recording were in Ultra High Definition (3840x2160, 50P). This double application makes it possible to benefit from the dynamics of UHD sensors in HD. UHD improves the resolution four-fold, doubles the frequency, (50P instead of 50i) and records in sLOG (sampling over 12 bits, a colorimetric spectrum spread out in relation to the HD). Two of our vans took position in the paved courtyard of the Royal Chapel: van 10 and the Optimum 1 truck. Van 10 took care of all UHD operations: collecting and recording the UHD sources, down-conversation in HD, sending of the HD to the Optimum 1 truck and feedback on monitoring. A live display of the UHD recording of the Vespers was shown on a JVC 84 inch 50P screen. In the Optimum 1 van the live HD programme was sent live to CultureBox. These two vans thus allowed to separate the artistic from the UHD, and to thus guarantee optimal results for our clients. 

A daring camera set-up in UHD

On site, we had 8 SONY F55 cameras (UHD), that is, the entirety of our cameras. Amongst them:

• One was raised by crane with a PL HK 14.5-45 lens
• Two were on Towercam (one at 6 metres and one at 10 metres!) with FUJINON PL CABRIO 19-90 AND FUJINON PL HK 14.5-45 lenses
• One camera scanned over the orchestra choir filming the conductor with a FUJINON CABRIO 19-90 lens
• One camera on wheels with a CABRIO 19-90 lens
• Three heavy cameras on risers with a 2X ANGENIEUX PL 28-340 AND 1X OBJECTIF CANON PL 30-300 lens

Rare lenses which were able to be installed thanks to the close collaboration between the manufacturers. Moreover, by being able to feed the cameras with one single hybrid fibre (sector, video signal, data, programme coming from the van, tally and two-way intercom), and with camera units of the same weight as broadcast cameras, we can now use the majority of existing equipment.

Working towards a UHD workflow broadcast

While our expertise in UHD (4K) recording is expanding (Roland Garros, Disneyland Paris, etc.), our R&D department has reached new heights with the filming of Monteverdi's Vespers. For this event, we were able to give the green light to the Sony processing chain, by combining the F55 camera, the transmission of the signal by the CA4000-BPU4000 and recording on the PWS4400 server. An innovative workflow allowing recording in XAVC format, requiring four times less inflow (from 1To/hour to 256Go/h with the XAVC) and thus allowing to record all the cameras separately as well as the programme.

Combining UHD and binaural sound

3-dimension sound and image resolution which is 4 times better than High Definition? An unprecedented way of transporting the spectator right to the heart of the concert from their living room. Using several microphones placed in all directions above the orchestra, with several microphones installed directly on the cameras in order to transcribe the most accurate sound to the images, but also microphones installed on the heads of models in order to simulate what a spectator in the room would hear, the binaural sound creates a 360° listening experience for the listener, as if they were present at the performance. The combination of UHD with binaural sound, a true sensory experience!

If you too want to live this sensory experience (HD video), watch Monteverdi's Vespers in replay on CultureBox: http://culturebox.francetvinfo.fr/les-vepres-solenelles-de-la-vierge-marie-a-versailles-150337