Cromorama’s Orion-Convert algorithm uses a novel three-step approach to HDR <-> SDR conversion, with an intuitive set of user controls.
Bridge Technologies is set to showcase the integration of Cromorama’s cutting-edge colour management system, Orion-Convert, into their ST 2110 production probe, the VB440, at IBC 2024. This collaboration is set to streamline the process of ensuring consistent HDR and SDR grading across all cameras and productions within a broadcaster’s portfolio.
Orion-Convert uses a three-step algorithm for HDR to SDR conversion, offering an intuitive interface with a range of presets, including industry-standard options like NBCU and British TV, as well as ‘look’ presets such as HLG mild, HLG live, SLog3 mild and SLog3 live. The system enhances the traditional LUT workflow, making it more adaptable and user-friendly for live productions.
The integration of Orion-Convert will enable broadcasters to maintain consistent quality across different formats, using down-conversion to generate SDR from HDR signals, and up-conversion to simulate HDR from SDR. The algorithm allows for easy roundtrip conversion, which is especially beneficial for productions using specialised cameras that lack HDR capability.
The collaboration pairs Orion-Convert with Bridge Technologies’ VB440, an IP-based production probe that uses ST 2110 to provide access to a wide range of production tools. The VB440 allows camera operators, audio specialists and network engineers to access its features in real-time with almost zero latency through a standard HTML-5 web browser. This eliminates the need for multiple specialist devices like waveform monitors and audio controls, reducing costs, energy consumption and e-waste.
For years, the VB440 has enabled HDR previews on SDR monitors, supporting dual SDR/HDR productions without the need for specialised HDR equipment. The addition of ORION-CONVERT further cements the VB440’s position as a leading solution for live, remote and distributed productions, particularly for large-scale events broadcast globally in multiple formats and standards.
Speaking of the integration, Chairman of Bridge Technologies Simen Frostad, said: “The world of globalised, live sports production is complex indeed, but it is exactly this type of multifaceted production which the VB440 has been designed to support, and which will benefit so readily from this collaboration with Cromorama.”
He continued: “To take an example from a recent global sports event: there were a range of pipelines which all needed conversion. The main pipeline was in 4K, and the images needed to be converted from the cameras to SDR/HDR as required, along with converters to adapt the colourimetry to accommodate the format, look or style of the pre-, during- and post-game productions, as well as a differentiated look for day and night games. Hundreds of devices needed to be controlled. Now, through our recent Orion-Convert integration, this can all be monitored through the VB440 to ensure absolute reliability and consistency: a concern which is vital in the context of some of the most prestigious and recognised sports productions in the world.”
Commenting further on the integration, CEO/CTO for Cromorama, Pablo García Soriano, added: “Cromarama revolutionises the way that colour production is undertaken, whilst the VB440 revolutionises how production is undertaken more generally. Together, the match makes perfect sense and will deliver significant workflow benefits in fast-paced, live production environments. We’ll be very excited to demonstrate the full potential of this on Bridge’s booth (1.A71) at the upcoming IBC 2024.”
Stand 1.A71
