SECAUCUS, NJ - Panasonic (www.panasonic.com/hdworld) is continuing to develop its D-5 HD format with an enhanced version of its multiformat/multi-standard mastering VTR, the AJ-HD3700B. The unit can record and playback 625 PAL and 525 NTSC D-5 cassettes, as well as D-5 tapes from all previous versions of the machine.
The AJ-HD3700B provides full-bandwidth 4:2:2 digital 10-bit component recording with 74.25 MHz (Y) and 37.125 MHz (Pb/Pr) sampling in HD formats to assure the high picture quality. Eight channels of audio are standard in all formats.
New timecode and format conversion enhancements offered include conversion from 24 frames to 30 frames progressive timecode and the ability to display the original 25 frame timecode output when playing back footage in 24 frame mode.
In addition, new filter sections have been added to improve image conversions. This enhances the user's ability to control the downconverted output quality for applications such as DVD mastering and standard definition masters for TV distribution.
The AJ-HD3700B can record and play back 1080/23.98p and 1080/24p HD formats. The unit records up to 124 minutes in 1080/59.94i, 720/59.94p and 480/59.94i. Recording times up to 149 minutes in 1080/50i, 1080/25p and 112 minutes in 625/50i are possible, as well as 155 minutes in 24p.
Priced at $99,000, the VTR now includes the AJ-UDC3700 Format Converter Card eliminating the need to add options. Owners of existing VTRs can upgrade to the new features via an option kit.