Where does HD come from (1 Viewer)

[Jon Sciabica]

What format do networks such as HBO and Showtime get their HD Movies on? Do they do their out transfers?

Obviously not on DVD, maybe DVHS, probably not.

 

[Adam Lenhardt]

probably the high-def masters, which are on tape, but not D-VHS copies, a totally different format altogether.

Somebody please correct me if I'm wrong.

 

[Jeff Kleist]

Yes, D-5 tape. Before you ask, these decks are close to 6 figures

 

[Wayne Bundrick]

Yep. In some parts of the country you can buy a house for less than a D5 deck. And let's not even start about the rest of the equipment at a HD facility.

 

[gregstaten]

To answer the rest of the question, both HBO and Showtime have their own in-house telecine departments and do most of their own film-to-tape transfers. Though Panasonic's D5-HD is the most common mastering format, much of the work at the two movie networks has been done to Sony's HDCAM.

BTW - the D5 has gotten a bit less expensive. Panasonic now sells a model with both the 1080 24P and 720P penthouse tops built in. It takes up a LOT less space in the rack now too!