IBC 2011: NHK's Super Hi-Vision 8k technology

Posted By Sam Johnson on September 12, 2011 06:52 am | Permalink
The conference award this year was awarded to NHK's Super HI-Vision, and apparently a must see. Super Hi-Vision is an 8K (7,680 x 4,320) camera and display technology developed by NHK and the BBC. Along with 8K video technologies, 3D surround sound is also incorporated.

I received my ticket from the lovely NHK crew and was shuffled into a dimly-lit room that consisted of a pair of massive projectors, a 20-foot screen, a few chairs and walls and ceilings that were peppered with Bose speakers. The demonstration started off with brief introduction to the technology followed by comparisons of SD, HD and then 8K Super-Hi Vision. Revealed was a simply breathtaking bird's eye view of a cityscape. We then were taken to BBC's White City were an Ikegami 8K camera was feeding a live broadcast to Amsterdam. 

From there we were introduced to the sound element of Super-Hi Vision. Like the picture comparisons, we first listened to a stereo mix, then a 5.1, they Super-Hi Vision 22.2 Surround Sound. I had never been so immersed in picture and sound before.

They then discussed the future of 8K and are hoping to utilize it during the London 2012 Olympic Games and further down the line incorporating it into a domestic market. They then finally ended the demo with Copa America highlights. Super-Hi Vision really came into its own. The 22.2 surround sound really gave a sense of what it would be like to be in the stadium, whilst the 8K image gave real depth - a 3D-like image (without the strain) that made the whole experience unbelievably immersive and unforgettable. 

A deserved winner!

For more information on NHK's Super Hi-Vision visit http://www.nhk.or.jp/digital/en/superhivision/.

Sam Johnson got his start as a runner in Soho, learning the ropes on Avid systems and working his way up the ladder. He is now a Production/Post-Production Engineer for the LAB, AMV BBDO's post facility, and specializes in Apple Pro Applications & Xsan Environments. He also provides consultancy to the TV department. Learn more about AMV BBDO at http://www.amvlab.com.