LAS VEGAS — Sound Devices (www.sounddevices.com) is showcasing the latest functionality of its Pix 260i production video recorders at NAB 2014. The 260i is designed to replace tape-based video decks in production and post production environments.
Multiple Pix 260i recorders can be networked together to build an expandable, cost-effective frame-synchronized system for multiple-camera recording and playback. This scalable solution addresses the multiple-camera recording needs of today’s productions. For applications with multiple, grouped units, Pix 260i recorders offer frame-synchronized control for record, play, stop and pause functions.
The 260i records QuickTime files in either Apple ProRes or Avid DNxHD video formats, or WAV format audio files. Files recorded in the Apple ProRes or Avid DNxHD format are ready for editing directly from the recorder, eliminating time-consuming transferring and transcoding. For color-critical applications, the Pix 260i supports Apple ProRes 4444 through its 12-bit, 4:4:4 3G-SDI I/O. Users can also play out files from the PIX 260i for real-time applications.
Files are recorded either simultaneously or sequentially on up to four separate 2.5-inch SSD storage devices via two front-panel Pix-Caddy slots and two rear-panel eSATAp connections. This redundancy in local, removable storage devices, coupled with standard, Ethernet-based file transfer features, further reduces steps in the production workflow. Recording to multiple drives offers immediate file backup, eliminating time-consuming post-record copying. Gigabit Ethernet network ports enable remote access to recorded files and the ability to transfer these files quickly into a post environment.
Continuing the company’s heritage in production sound, Sound Devices has infused the Pix 260i with 32-track audio recording and playback capabilities. In addition to 16 channels of embedded SDI audio and eight channels of HDMI audio, the PIX 260i also accepts eight channels of line-level analog I/O and eight channels of AES digital audio. Using Dante, the Pix 260i can accept and transmit up to 32 channels of audio over Ethernet.
The Pix 260i can also be controlled from browser-capable computers and tablets. When connected to a data network, transport controls and setup menu controls are available on PixNet, which offers control of one or multiple 260i recorders. Multiple units can be grouped for simultaneous control.