New Version of MASIs AudioTools Server Raises the Bar for Automated Loudne Control

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New Version of Minnetonka Audios AudioTools Server Raises the Bar for Automated Loudness Control

MINNETONKA, Minn. March 21, 2013 Minnetonka Audio Software, Inc. (MASI) today announced AudioTools Server (ATS) 2.5, the latest version of its flagship product designed to automate even the most sophisticated audio tasks. Along with complete, standards compliant loudness control, the new version adds features including load balancing, workflow failover, and support for additional codecs. It is the first system of its kind to include Dialogue Intelligence for dialog anchored loudness correction, which employs Minnetonka Audios proprietary p rPath algorithms for digital signal processing. ATS 2.5 is also first to offer improved short term and momentary limiting with p rPath loudness control.

ATS 2.5 is an enterprise software system for automated audio processing in file based workflows. ATS 2.5 conforms to the CALM Act, ATSC A/85, EBU R 128, ITU-R BS.1770, ARIB TR-B32, and OP-59, providing specialized workflows that apply loudness control optimized for different targets and platforms. Unlike existing digital or media asset management (DAM or MAM) systems, ATS 2.5 thoroughly addresses loudness control problems and automatically handles the audio essence without compromise. The result is easier administration, reduced manual loudness management, and greater peace of mind for engineers and executives during postproduction.

Before ATS, engineers relied on a combination of cumbersome, stand alone software tools and video centric asset processing that provided only a simplistic or incomplete audio approach. said Markus Hintz, Minnetonka Audios director of global sales and business development. ATS eliminates all of that and provides a universal automation platform addressing enterprise requirements for scalability, adaptability, interoperability, and redundancy. Now, version 2.5 makes that platform even more robust. ATS drops right in to existing infrastructures and adds exceptional capabilities without forklift upgrades or the need to rework existing workflows.

As the first product in the industry to offer Dialogue Intelligence for dialog anchored p rPath loudness correction, ATS 2.5 works in conjunction with the AudioTools Server WFC workflow control module to enable nonlinear, smart loudness correction based on the actual percentage of dialog in the material. Also new to version 2.5 is support for MPEG audio and AAC, critical for hybrid and mobile TV as well as radio applications.

Another industry first is ATS 2.5s improved short term and momentary limiting with p rPath loudness control. Recent research has led to a new methodology being added to the p rPath algorithm for handling material that contains extreme dynamic range. This content independent processing preserves the subjective dynamics of a mix the artistic intent without impacting dialogue levels or intelligibility. This novel approach for unattended automated loudness control is gaining traction in the European Broadcasting Union as a new recommended practice for loudness control.

Via SOAP and XML, AudioTools Server seamlessly integrates audio expertise into existing video infrastructures and interoperates with Aveco automation, Avid Interplay MAM, Grass Valley automation, IBM AREMA, Sony Media Backbone , Viz Ardome, and other DAM/MAM systems. The system is also a complete solution for managing and processing Dolby E, Dolby Digital , Dolby Digital Plus, mp2, mp3, AAC, and linear PCM content, as well as the audio essence within MXF and QuickTime containers.

With enhanced loudness control workflows, new business continuity features, and support for a wider range of codecs, AudioTools Server 2.5 is positioned to tackle new enterprise challenges. More information about AudioTools Server and other Minnetonka Audio products is available at www.minnetonkaaudio.com.

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