Whenever we embed or encode captions or subtitles…
Whenever we embed or encode captions or subtitles into your video, we’ll need a master video, which requires certain specifications, as follows:
- The program must be ready to air
- Be sure to check the tape specifications
- Be aware that Metro Audio/Video clones/dubs your master straight across, thus we cannot be held responsible for off-spec masters.
- We urge you not to send us your original master. Make a clone or dub to send to us, so that you can protect yourself from potential damage or loss during shipping.
- Metro Audio/Video does not offer technical evaluations. If your presenting network does requires a competed technical evaluation form, you may include this form with your master, and we’ll forward it with the captioned master.
- We cannot fix off-spec masters, and will request fixed master if necessary.
- Have locked pictures, audio and supers
- Be sure the master is free of hits and distortion
- Supply bars and tone that match the program video and audio
- Provide SMPTE drop frame timecode if this is for broadcast. If your master is a NTSC non-drop frame, indicate this on the label
- Provide continuous LTC (longitudinal time code) on the timecode (address) track
- VITC on lines indicated by the network (generally 14 & 16 or 16 & 18)
Our Suggested Audio Mix
Mono Audio mix:
– Track 1 = primary program audio
– Track 2 = duplicate mono audio
Stereo audio mix:
– Track 1 = left channel stereo
– Track 2 = right channel stereo
Recommended Master Tape Formats
NTSC Standard Definition Formats:
- Digital Betacam
- Betacam SP
- DVCAM
- mniDV
- DVCPro
- DVCPro 50
ATSC High Definition Formats:
- DVCProHD – LP
- HDCAM
- HDCAM SR 4:2:2
- (we currently do not work with 4:4:4)
*Other formats may incur additional fees and time. Learn more by contact us directly.
How to ship your master videos
Ship to:
- Attention: Project Manager
Metro Audio & Video
240 85th St.
Brooklyn, NY 11209
For hard drive delivery, contact your project manager.
If you currently don’t have a project manager, request a quote from us now.