New Version Works with Digital Vision Control Surfaces, Expands EXR Support

SGO released v8.2 of its Mistika software in the days leading up to IBC and previewed v8.4 on the show floor, focusing on support for 4K and Ultra HD, high frame rate (HFR) and high dynamic range (HDR).

One change to the previously announced product roadmap is that AAF support did not show up in version 8.2 as planned. Geoff Mills, director of global sales and operations, said SGO is still working with Avid to get all of the information it needs to integrate AAF in the Mistika workflow.

Mistika version 8.2 introduces a new set of tools for manipulating multilayer EXR sequences (previously) in powerful ways. Version 8.4 will expand support for OpenEXR 2.2, including SXR and MXR file formats, including optimization for faster playback, as well as support for Precision control surfaces as part of an OEM partnership with Digital Vision. The surfaces can be ordered now for delivery with the v8.4 software.

New storage options introduced at NAB — an HP Z820 workstation configuration with 12 internal 1 TB drives and another configuration using a Dot Hill AssuredSAN 4004 storage array supporting ATTO 16 Gb/sec fibre-channel host bus adapters and switches — are also available to order now.

Meanwhile, Mills noted that its Mamba FX 2.0 VFX software includes "most of" the features from Mistika 8.2 in Mamba's shot-based compositing environment.

Mills also said SGO's upgrade program targeting users of the discontinued Avid DS is being extended through the end of December. SGO is offering a new, lower price point for its Mistika Post software with a DVS Atomix video card, including a free Mamba FX license. More information on that is available at the SGO website.

SGO also announced that it is opening a new office next month in Paris, headed by Sergio Ochoa. "With numerous key studios and post companies from abroad also basaing their services in Paris, it is a great opportunity to be established here at such a vibrant and important time in the industry," Ochoa said in a prepared statement.