Panasonic Introduces AV-HS6000 2 M/E Live Switcher with Advances in Operation, Functionality and Style

34 Inputs, 16 Outputs and Four DVEs per M/E; Intuitive User Interface Design

NEWARK, NJ (February 27, 2014) – Panasonic has announced availability of the new AV-HS6000, a powerful, cost-effective 2 M/E switcher with 32 HD-SDI plus two DVI-D inputs, 16 HD-SDI outputs, 16 keyers, four independent MultiViewers, expandable clip storage, a Web server and many other advanced features.

The new switcher is configurable to match an expanded slate of production needs through options including a touch-screen menu panel, extra Primatte®* chroma keyers, expandable clip storage, and an SDK for development of a virtually limitless range of customized plug-ins to suit emerging production workflow needs. Easily customizable for diverse workflows, the HS6000 is a great tool for advanced production in house of worship, sports, broadcast, staging, and education.

With a 3U compact design, the HS6000’s main chassis features a generous range of inputs and outputs to facilitate system integration. With its four DVEs per M/E, 16 keyers and 16 Aux busses, the HS6000 is easily able to handle creative projects requiring a fast, flexible response.

The HS6000’s sleek design is enhanced by an ergonomic button layout with OLED source labeling, active thumbnail touch buttons for intuitive clip access, and many other technical director-friendly features. This newly designed, easy-to-use graphical control feature supports an accurate, intuitive workflow; with quick access for each M/E to wipe patterns, shot memories, event memories and other important functions. An optional 10.1-inch, touch-screen menu panel (AV-HS60C3) can also display video, MultiViewer, waveform, and vectorscope information. A separate monitor output is provided, as standard equipment, for non-interactive display of this same information. A standard Web server function will also allow the switcher to be set up by Browser via an Ethernet connection.

The HS6000 supports HD and SD multi-format signals, with upconversion available on four inputs, and downconversion on two outputs, as well as color correction on eight inputs and four outputs. The live switcher’s system frequency is also changeable between 59.94 Hz, 50 Hz, and 24 Hz (or 23.98Hz), enabling worldwide operation and digital cinema production.

The HS6000 features real-time, high-quality chroma keying employing the powerful Primatte®* algorithm. One chroma keyer is provided as standard on each M/E, optionally upgradeable to four channels per M/E. In the standard configuration, the switcher supports four channels of PinP and four channels of keying per M/E, as well as four channels of upstream and four of downstream keying.

Extensive shot memory, event memory, and macro functionalities allow operators to easily preset, sequence, and recall frequently used effects, content and settings. Up to four channels of video clips and four of still images can be stored as standard, with expansion up to 81 clips of 30 second content available using an optional storage module (AV-HS60D1).

Both single and redundant power supply models of control panel and main frame chassis are available. Up to three control panels may be connected via IP and managed via PC in a single system, with up to two panels active at the same time.

The AV-HS6000 will be available in March in several configurations, with suggested list prices for complete systems starting at $39,000. Some of the functions described above will be included in a free V2 firmware upgrade, available in July.

*Primatte® is a registered trademark of IMAGICA DIGIX Inc.