Imagineer Systems, the U.K.-based developer of mokey and monet visual effects tools, announced the immediate availability of monet 1.5. Aimed at the broadcast, film and video post-production markets, monet is a vital tool offering a start to finish solution for replacing elements in film and video and is being used frequently for product placement. It is available in two versions monet software and monet extreme, both of which will be on display at NAB 2005 (booth #SL253).
monet 1.5 further enhances the original feature-set, featuring a host of new tools and optimizations that increase its already impressive price/performance ratio. New features include the ability to work with proxies and dynamically switch between different proxy resolutions; the export of tracking data to Avid DS; support for working with material with 3:2 pull-down; the ability to place an element in 3D space; support for color highlight and shadow passes; and a completely new tool for the extrapolation of tracks to handle shots where an object disappears from the frame.
Optimization improvements include better performance when working with HD and film clips; improved overlays; improved keyframe controls; and enhanced tracking data export to Shake.
The extreme version of monet 1.5, includes specified hardware, an Aspex Accelera hardware card and an optional SD/HD/2K video I/O by DVS Centaurus and has been designed as a start-to-finish solution for product placement in film and television. Based on Imagineer's unique element replacement technology, the system enables product placement of high quality to be delivered in an efficient and cost effective way as a post-production service. This creates new sources of revenue, adds flexibility and provides an alternative to the conventional 30-second spot now challenged by Personal Video Recorders.
"With monet 1.5 we're taking another great step forward in productivity," comments Allan Jaenicke, md, Imagineer Systems. "We continually come across companies unable to complete tracks to their satisfaction using other, often extremely costly systems. They then find they can complete the same tracks in a matter of hours or even minutes using monet and our unique 2D planar tracker. monet 1.5 will let them do even more even faster, ensuring that they continue to meet deadlines and keep their clients happy as expectations rise. If you have to track on a regular basis, it's invaluable."
Both versions of monet 1.5 are available immediately through authorized partners. The software only version starts at £6,000. Due to individual company requirements, monet extreme prices are available from Imagineer Systems Ltd.
Imagineer Systems Ltd. (www.imagineersystems.com) focuses on research, development and marketing of productivity enhancing visual effects solutions for film, video and broadcast post production. The company was founded in 2000 and is based in Guildford.
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