A dizzying array of HD-related products, announcements and discussion marked the recently concluded National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) convention in Las Vegas, generating much food for thought across all industry sectors, including ad agencies, production houses and the post community.
And while you could hear plenty at NAB heralding the digital revolution, including HDTV, there was but a relative whisper regarding those who may have a hard time staying connected. So while you’ve read a great deal in SHOOT about digital TV’s applications and implications for the industry in recent years, I thought it might be a good time to reflect on those households that might be passed by.
One in five U.S. households depends on a rooftop antenna or rabbit ears to get a TV picture. Without converter boxes, those TV set screens will for the most part go blank on Feb. 18, 2009 when federal law currently mandates that broadcast stations switch off analog signals and transmit exclusively in digital. Thus while most of us will have vastly sharper pictures and access to a wider range of multicasting channels provided by networks like NBC, ABC and PBS, a significant number of the country’s people who are already somewhat disenfranchised run the risk of becoming even less connected.
Households without cable or satellite service tend to have lower incomes and, according to research, ethnic minorities–African-Americans and Latinos in particular–are more likely than whites to receive only over-the-air TV.
Furthermore a poll found that more than 60 percent of respondents who rely on broadcast TV (not cable or a satellite service) aren’t even aware of the analog to digital transition. To help remedy this, TV networks, cable providers and consumer electronics companies plan to raise public awareness through website content and millions of dollars worth of airtime for PSAs starting in ’08.
The Department of Commerce also intends to give qualifying households a $40 coupon toward the purchase of a basic converter box, which would cover most of what such a box should cost. It remains to be seen, though, if enough coupons will be available to cover those households truly in need.
At the same time, however, further delaying the digital transition to help these needy households would also have far reaching negative repercussions for everyone in that once TV has successfully gone digital, it will open up the availability of analog airwaves for free to public safety organizations.
Among the recipients would be police and fire departments and emergency medical units whose communications systems would be markedly improved. As we’ve learned from 9/11 reports, one of the major flaws in the country’s emergency response mechanism is the lack of viable communications systems linking these live-saving professionals so that they can be more responsive to serious situations as they unfold.
So while it’s easy to get caught up in all the bells and whistles–and cool gadgetry–as we are at the doorstep of an exciting digital era, let’s not forget those who are in jeopardy of doing without as well as the importance of those who come to our aid in times of emergency. An inclusive, intelligent digital transition is in the best interest of us all.
Nominees Unveiled For Cinema Audio Society’s 61st Annual Awards
The Cinema Audio Society has unveiled its nominees in seven categories for the 61st Annual CAS Awards for Outstanding Achievement in Sound Mixing 2024.
The 61st CAS Awards will be held on Saturday, February 22, at the Beverly Hilton.
Nominated in the live action motion picture category were the audio teams behind A Complete Unknown, Deadpool & Wolverine, Dune: Part Two, Gladiator II and Wicked.
Animated motion picture nominees were the sound ensembles behind Inside Out 2, Moana 2, Mufasa: The Lion King, The Wild Robot and Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl.
As previously announced, multi-award-winning sound mixer Tod A. Maitland CAS (A Complete Unknown, West Side Story, Joker), will be honored with the CAS Career Achievement Award. In addition, visionary filmmaker Denis Villeneuve (Dune: Part Two, Blade Runner 2049, Arrival) will receive the Cinema Audio Society’s Filmmaker Award.
The CAS Award nominees highlight the outstanding contributions of sound mixers, recognizing excellence in the specialized craft of sound mixing for both film and television. Each year, accomplished CAS members—who possess extensive expertise in the art and science of sound—carefully review hundreds of projects to ensure the nominees truly reflect excellence in sound mixing in Motion Picture and Television entertainment.
“2024 was a year of remarkable achievements in the sound community, with exceptional talent on display across every category,” said CAS president Peter Kurland. “The innovation and artistry of these sound mixers continue to elevate the craft, and the upcoming awards will be a celebration of the outstanding contributions made this year. Congratulations to... Read More