Convergent Design announced today that the Odyssey7Q monitor/recorder will add 4K video recording with Apple ProRes 422 HQ. 4K and Ultra HD video from cameras such as the Sony F55, Panasonic GH4, Vision Research Phantom Flex4K, and others can be converted to ProRes and recorded on the Odyssey7Q.  Because of the efficiency of the ProRes codec, users can enjoy hours of 4K video recording to the dual Convergent Design Odyssey SSDs. 4K ProRes recording capability will be available through a free firmware upgrade due later this month.

The Odyssey7Q supports 4K RAW from the Canon C500 and the Sony FS700 via record options. For owners of these record options, a record mode will be added soon for no additional cost. This mode will take the 4K RAW signal from the camera and convert it to ProRes 422 HQ at 4K resolution. This allows productions to take advantage of the full resolution capabilities of these cameras without the burdens on time and data storage capacity of a RAW workflow. An Odyssey7Q recording at 24p to two 512GB Odyssey SSDs can capture 194 minutes (3:14) of 4K material. This is more than three times the recording capacity of 4K RAW.

With the addition of 4K video, the Odyssey7Q becomes the lowest-priced, highest-value video analysis tool in the industry. The Odyssey7Q now also functions as a 4K waveform and histogram (both with RGB Parade). The Pixel Zoom function allows the 7.7”OLED display to function as a virtual window for accurate focus on an image equivalent to a 24” 4K monitor. The Odyssey7Q also functions as a format converter, transforming the 4K video input into multiple 1080p HD outputs for easy monitoring and video transmission around the set. Many 4K-capable cameras feature Log video recording for greater color correction range in post. The Odyssey7Q can process these Log signals while applying an appropriate LUT to its OLED panel and video outputs for proper monitoring.

The Odyssey7Q September Firmware Update, with 4K ProRes recording capability, is due later this month. As with all Convergent Design firmware updates, this is free for all Odyssey7Q owners, expanding the capabilities of their monitor/recorders.