Q.C. SERVICES
Audio Evaluation and Reporting
Complete & accurate QC prevents delays with deliverables and avoids rejects from distributors.
NT's audio evaluation suites feature Genelec 5.1 surround sound monitoring with an 85dB monitoring level.
QC is all about time—saving time and money
One of the main reasons to perform a QC on audio deliverables is to ensure the masters being delivered or received, are acceptable in technical aspects as well as meeting current standards and requirements.
It is also important to perform this type of QC prior to archiving any masters.
In addition, an accurate and complete QC session with early detection pinpointing potential issues can prevent delays with deliverables before shipment to distributors.
Audio deliverables QC is normally done on the following types of masters:
- 5.1 Printmaster
- LT/RT Printmaster
- 5.1 M&E Master
- Stereo DME
- Final Mix Stems (Dialog, Music, Effects, Background, Foley, etc)
NT engineers evaluate the masters on various levels
During the mixing and printmastering phases, it is common for various anomalies to develop and go unnoticed, becoming part of the final audio deliverables. NT QC engineers are experienced in detecting and identifying any anomalies that could cause a problem for either theatrical or DVD distribution. If an anomaly warranting a rejection is found, it is noted for client review.
Visual inspection for:
- missing audio tracks
- accurate track labels
- all necessary files present and arranged in industry acceptable configurations
- If necessary, NT QC engineers can reformat tracks.
Audible inspection for:
- snaps, ticks, pops, dropouts
- sync issues
- distortion
- missing or unfilled content
NT engineers can also extend the QC process to include:
- Stems: dialog, music, effects, background Foley, group, optionals
- Stereo DME
- Mono DME
QC reports are generated with ratings for each anomaly found:
- (1) Minimal (2) Marginal (3) Rejected
At the client's request, many of the fixes needed to address rejections can be performed by NT engineers avoiding time consuming steps returning the masters to the mix stage for corrections.
Optimum Quality Control Environment
NT has created QC suites with an optimal audio monitoring environment – ideal acoustics for nearfield and theatrical evaluations.
Suites feature Genelec 5.1 surround sound monitoring with an 85dB monitoring level. In addition, suites have video monitors for reference against client supplied picture.