Tyrell CCT, a leading supplier of digital media solutions, today announced that it has delivered two new Avid Media Composer Nitris DX systems to Atlantic Productions, one of the world’s leading factual production companies. The investment in new Avid hardware provides Atlantic Productions with the capability to work in a complete HD environment across the Avid Unity network in all of their edit suites which is critical for both 2D and 3D projects.

Atlantic Productions has worked with Avid editing systems for many years as a platform to create the high-end documentaries that they are renowned for. In 2010 Atlantic moved into the world of 3D production with the groundbreaking ‘Flying Monsters 3D with David Attenborough’, which looked into how giant pterosaurs took to the skies 220 million years ago. Through this and other projects they are recognised as major 3D pioneers in the UK and they remain focused on staying ahead in this market and its associated technologies. The production company has recently announced another major project using groundbreaking 3D technology; ‘Penguins 3D’ in collaboration with Sky 3D and Sir David Attenborough, which will provide a dramatic look into the world of king penguins on the spectacular and uninhabited island of South Georgia.

The new stereoscopic features in Avid Media Composer enable editing in stereoscopic 3D (S3D) direct from the timeline, without the need for specialised 3D editorial tools. The Media Composer Nitris DX hardware also provides stereo 3D monitoring whilst the editor/director can edit and preview in 2D. These new systems provide Atlantic Productions with high-quality DNxHD offline pictures, resulting in much improved storage efficiency and the highest quality picture playback. The production company also invested in the powerful HP Z800 workstations to further accelerate their 3D workflows.

“We have already been challenging the new machines with several demanding tasks, and getting great feedback from the editors using them. The responsiveness is great, even when working on highly complex sequences with multiple streams of HD media”, commented Matt Pearson, Facilities Manager, Atlantic Productions. “Rendering effects is much quicker, and the new tools available in version 5 are really useful, allowing for quicker actions and higher levels of customisation in the user settings.”

“The Stereoscopic 3D TV market has expanded rapidly since the introduction of Sky 3D and demand for S3D content is greater than ever,” states Mark Lynn, Managing Director, Tyrell CCT UK. “Atlantic Productions is leading the field with innovative home-grown S3D projects. Tyrell CCT consulted on Atlantic’s move into S3D post-production and we continue to provide advice and technology that enable them to deliver compelling stories and outstanding production values.”

www.atlanticproductions.co.uk
www.tyrell.ie