AJA Video

AJA Video Systems today unveiled v3.0 firmware for its FS-HDR real-time HDR/WCG converter and frame synchronizer. The feature-rich update introduces enhanced coloring tools and support for multi-channel Dynamic LUTs, plus several other improvements for broadcast, on-set, post and proAV HDR production. 

“We continue to be impressed by the various ways that FS-HDR is being implemented in workflows around the world, and want to expand those possibilities by bringing customers meaningful updates,” shared Nick Rashby, President, AJA Video Systems. “FS-HDR v3.0 is a continuation of our efforts to bring new tools to professionals embracing HDR who may also still have SDR deliverables, and is packed with customer-requested features that align with evolving HDR standards and formats.”

A new integrated Colofront Engine™ Film Mode offers a dense and rich grading and look creation toolset with optional ACES colorspace, ASC Color Decision List (CDL) controls and built-in LOOK selection including film emulation looks as well as variable Output Mastering Nit Levels for PQ, HLG Extended, P3 color space clamp and more. The original Colorfront Engine Transform Mode has also been upgraded with new functionality and renamed Colorfront Engine Live Mode. FS-HDR v3.0 firmware includes other feature enhancements to Live Mode including variable Output Mastering Nit Levels for PQ, HLG Extended, P3 color space clamp and more, as well as new BBC HLG v1.3 LUTs. 

Previously introduced single-channel Dynamic LUTs support 4K resolutions, and v3.0 brings new support for multi-channel HD workflows, with integration support for Pomfort’s LiveGrade Pro and TVLogic’s WonderLookPro for continuous real-time LUT updates as grading is performed in third party software.

“Extending the integration of LiveGrade Pro and AJA FS-HDR is the result of a great collaboration,” said Patrick Renner, Product Manager, Pomfort. “With the new integration for the FS-HDR multi-channel mode, LiveGrade Pro can now control four independent channels in the device. The combination of FS-HDR and LiveGrade Pro is the ideal solution for customers looking for a compact, rack-mount solution for multi-camera and multi-monitor setups.”

Key FS-HDR v3.0 release highlights include:

• New Colorfront Engine™ Film Mode 
  • Input Dynamic Range and Gamut: Support for a broad range of selections including SDR, PQ, HLG, HLG Extended, Sony Slog3, ARRI Log C, Panasonic V-Log, Red Log3G10, Canon Log 2 and Log3, ACEScct and ACESLin
  • Output Dynamic Range and Gamut: Support for a variety of selections including SDR, PQ, HLG, HLG Extended, Sony Slog3, ARRI Log C and ACEScct
  • Nit Level Control for PQ Output: 
  • Variable adjustments from 48-4000 Nits
  • DCI P3 Colorspace Clamp for HDR Output 
  • SDR Preview for HDR Output
  • HDR Amount and Ambient Surround Compensation
  • LOOK: Look A Select, Look B Select and A/B Mix
  • Includes 23 different optional Looks including popular film emulation with Bleach, Ektachrome, Kodachrome, ARRI K1S1, FujiXD and more
  • Grading Colorspace Selection: 
  • LogC, ACESscct, and SLog3
  • ASC CDL Defined Parameters: 
  • Slope, Power, Offset, and Saturation 
  • Scene Referred Adjustments: 
  • Exposure, Color Temp and Tint
• Colorfront Engine Live Mode for Transforms with New Additions:
  • Input/Output Dynamic Range:
  • Support for HLG Extended 
  • Nit Level Control for PQ Output: 
  • Variable adjustments from 48-4000 Nits
  • DCI P3 Colorspace Clamp for HDR Output
• Updated BBC v1.3 LUTs: This update includes the latest improvements to the BBC’s licensed HLG conversion LUTs
• Single-channel and Four-channel Dynamic LUT Mode Integrates with:
  • Pomfort LiveGrade Pro
  • TV Logic WonderLookPro

Pricing and Availability
FS-HDR v3.0 will be available June as a free download from AJA’s website. FS-HDR is available now for $7995 US MSRP. For more information, visit: www.aja.com/products/fs-hdr.