Phabrix, a broadcast test and measurement innovator, has announced the inclusion of a new Dolby E decoding and metadata analysis option in its latest release (V4.6) for its Qx and QxL Series rasterizers.
The latest addition to these advanced rasterizer ranges, the PHQXO-DOLBY option, allows users to decode a Dolby E or ED2 Dolby Atmos audio stream routinely used in live broadcast applications, and obtain a clear view of Dolby E metadata.
The new update heralds a host of additional benefits to customers working with Dolby E or ED2 audio streams. Chief amongst these is a Dolby E decoder and metadata analyser that allows users to check the correct timing of Dolby E packets in the audio signal of an SDI or ST 2022-6 broadcast chain. Providing a clear and accessible view of Dolby E metadata, the option also makes it possible to monitor Dolby audio from any of the SDI/2022-6 embedded audio, 2110-30 / -31 audio flows or AES inputs.
PHQXO-DOLBY also enables metering and monitoring of the decoded audio, along with the ability to separately measure the loudness of a 5.1 or stereo 2.0 decoded program. A new ‘Dolby view mode’ is provided for the Audio Meter window which displays the eight channels of decoded Dolby E audio together with a configurable stereo 2.0 downmix, whilst the Dolby program metadata facilitates automatic identification and configuration of the meter channels.
A status display of parameters presents Dolby E source, line positioning, dialogue level and downmix program source. Decoded audio may be routed to the AES Outputs for external monitoring.
Phabrix CEO, Phillip Adams, comments, “The story of our world-renowned Qx and QxL products is one characterised by refinements and additions, and that continues with this latest release geared towards broadcasters working with Dolby E or ED2 audio streams.
“With the V4.6 release they now have access to a host of decoding, metering and monitoring capabilities that will ensure their Dolby audio workflows can be managed and processed more easily and efficiently.”
