News roundup: disguise, Godox, Artlist, MAGIX, Sony, and Ross Video

This week in our round up we look at news from disguise, Godox, Artlist, MAGIX, Sony, and Ross video.

disguise Partners with 4Wall and ZeroSpace in NYC

4Wall Entertainment, a full-service lighting, video and rigging company, and ZeroSpace, a next-gen production and creative studio specializing in the integration of virtual and live content, are partnering with disguise to bring the disguise Virtual Production Accelerator training program to the heart of New York City. 

The Virtual Production Accelerator is planned to provide an immersive and comprehensive on-set learning experience to participants of all skill levels. Leveraging the expertise and facilities of 4Wall and ZeroSpace, the program will combine classroom training with practical principal photography, enabling trainees to gain hands-on experience and an accurate simulation of the demands faced on real film sets.

"Our goal is to revolutionize virtual production and equip the next generation of filmmakers with the necessary expertise to harness its full potential," says Addy Ghani, Vice President of Virtual Production at disguise, who spearheads the program. "Currently, finding experienced professionals in this field is a challenge. We are confident that, with our in-depth understanding of the technology and studio workflows, we can empower participants to become proficient in virtual production."

Photo credit disguise

Godox Virso / Virso S 2.4GHz Wireless Microphone System

Godox has released its new Virso / Virso S 2.4GHz Wireless Microphone System. It offers users an affordable, cableless wireless audio system that has an ultra-long battery life that can be used for interviews, vlogs, documentaries, etc.

What makes the Virso S different from other options on the market is that the RX unit features an innovative hotshoe mount that can slide directly onto the Multi Interface shoe of Sony cameras. This allows users to have a completely cable-less solution while not tying up the 3.5mm input. The Virso S has built-in microphones in both the transmitter and receiver so you need no extra transmitter.

If you are not using Sony cameras, you just need to get the standard version Virso. This offers all of the same features and functionality, apart from the ability to use the Sony Multi Shoe Interface.

There doesn’t seem to be any indication currently about availability, but pricing is below:

• Virso M1: $179.00
• Virso M2 (with charging case): $249.00
• Virso SRX: $149.00
• Virso S M1: $209.00
• Virso S M2: $299.00

Artlist AI-powered stock footage search launched

Artlist has launched a new AI-engineered footage search engine. This subscription-based licensing platform Artlist offers library music, sound effects, stock footage, app templates, plug-ins, and apps. Artlist says it streamlines the search process more advanced than traditional keyword matching as it can understand the ‘nuances of human language'. Users will see results based on the search cues they enter and contextual information that the language system has learned over time. This means that the search engine has a more sophisticated understanding of what is typed into it. Try this here.

Artlist will provide AI search for its other libraries such as Artlist Max, an all-in-one bundle of music, sound effects, stock footage, templates, plugins, and editing software. This will hopefully save time when looking for example background music for videos.

MAGIX introduces Samplitude Pro X8

MAGIX Software has a new update to its recording, restoration and mastering platform with the launch of Samplitude Pro X8 and the Pro X8 Suite. Samplitude Pro X delivers professional capabilities at all stages of production, empowering musicians and audio engineers of any skill level to complete an entire production from recording and mixing to exporting the final master files.

Features:

• Object-oriented Effects: Virtual effects can be applied non-destructively on different objects within a single clip. This industry-unique feature makes it possible to use different effect chains on the same track - a massive time saver;
• Spectral Processing: Automatically cleans the audio signal from unwanted background noise, with the option to search for similar audio material in the project to speed up the cleaning process;
• Loudness Visualization: Machine-learning-based representation of loudness and volume, helping users to control the perception of sound by the human ear. Includes special presets for broadcasting - perfect for radio stations;
• Wave Form Coloring: Clearly shows harmonic and inharmonic frequency content, making it easy to differentiate between noise and tones, and simplifying the identification and correction of any issues;
• Monitoring Panel: Helps users to optimize for any quality of speaker, so they can confidently mix and master their tracks accordingly.
  

Samplitude Pro X8 and Samplitude Pro X8 Suite are available immediately as either a perpetual license, or as a subscription. Samplitude Pro X8 license is $399.

Photo credit MAGICX

Sony adds new HXC-FZ90 to simplified 4K live production line-up

Key features:

• Single-chip 2/3” 4K CMOS sensor with B4 mount enabling 2000 TVL resolution
• 4K license available on a weekly or monthly basis or as a permanent feature
• HLG and S-Log3 built-in support for SR Live workflow
• ARIA Function: Automatic Picture optimization according to lens characteristics[1]

• Simple integration with CNA-2 web RCP Control allowing advanced monitoring
• Simplified cabling with Prompter or PTZ cameras (ILME-FR7 for e.g.) by Network Trunk (Ethernet)

• Stereo mini jack connector for simple headset connection
• Simple camera operation from the front panel of the new CCU HXCU-FZ90 with functionalities such as IRIS and paint control

• Advanced focus assist feature

The HXC-FZ90 will be shipping during Winter 2023.

Ross Video Launches Quorum: The Next Generation Meeting Control System

Quorum  is a new meeting control system from Ross Video. Users gain the power to choose the most visually appealing angle, granting them unparalleled control over their broadcasting experience.  Combined with broadcast quality graphics and switching Quorum allows anyone to level up their meetings production.

Key features of Quorum:

• Thumbnail-based Camera Selection: By merely selecting a thumbnail image of a meeting participant, Quorum allows users to prepare and utilize up to three camera shots concurrently.
• Intelligent Graphics Integration: Integration with relevant graphics and overlays for compelling information.
• Simplified Controls: Easy navigation through the system, choosing the optimal angle that suits their preferences and delivers the most impactful visual representation.
• Intuitive Web Interface: Intuitive web interface enables experts to take control of meetings from anywhere.
• Seamless Integration: Integration with the most extensive device library in the industry, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of broadcasting equipment.